COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Chenin Dow, Director of Community Development
DATE: October 6, 2026
SUBJECT: Proclamation Proclaiming October 11 through 17, 2026, as “Code Enforcement Officer Appreciation Week”
Description:
The City Council will present a Proclamation proclaiming October 11 through 17, 2026, as “Code Enforcement Officer Appreciation Week" in the City of Santa Maria.
BACKGROUND:
In September 2018, the California State Legislature designated the second week of October as Code Enforcement Officer Appreciation Week. Since that time, local jurisdictions throughout California have been encouraged to recognize Code Enforcement Officers and their contributions to their communities through a formal proclamation.
Code Enforcement Officers play an important role in protecting the quality of life within our communities. Through education, outreach, voluntary compliance, and enforcement, Code Enforcement professionals work to address property maintenance concerns, promote compliance with local regulations, and help prevent conditions that can negatively impact neighborhoods and businesses.
DISCUSSION:
The City of Santa Maria’s Code Enforcement Division is comprised of a Code Enforcement Manager and Supervisor who lead a team of four Code Enforcement Officers and one Code Enforcement Technician. Collectively, the Division addresses a wide range of issues involving building and zoning regulations, property maintenance, and health and safety violations.
Code Enforcement Officers serve an important and highly visible role in the community.
Their work includes responding to service requests and concerns submitted by residents and businesses, conducting inspections and investigations, providing education regarding local regulations, and proactively identifying conditions that may negatively impact neighborhoods and the community.
The Division works closely with other City departments and Federal, State, County, and local agencies to address complex issues and develop appropriate solutions. Through a combination of service-request driven enforcement, proactive enforcement, community 2 outreach, education, and voluntary compliance efforts, Code Enforcement works to prevent neighborhood deterioration, promote safe and well-maintained properties, and enhance the overall quality of life for Santa Maria residents and businesses.
Code Enforcement work often occurs behind the scenes and can involve challenging circumstances requiring professionalism, patience, sound judgment, and commitment to public service. Officers regularly interact with property owners, tenants, business owners, residents, and other public agencies while working to resolve violations and achieve compliance with applicable regulations.
Recognizing the dedication and contributions of Code Enforcement professionals provides an opportunity to acknowledge the important work they perform each day on behalf of the community. Therefore, it is recommended that the Mayor and City Council recognize October 11–17, 2026, as “Code Enforcement Officer Appreciation Week” in the City of Santa Maria.
ATTACHMENT(S)
Proclamation - 2026 Code Enforcement Week