Rosenberg’s so-called “salvage yard” ordinance has been changed after police said one of the regulations was making it difficult for them to detect criminal activity within the salvage facilities.
The ordinance, which was originally adopted last summer, requires a solid entrance gate in accordance with fencing requirements.
Assistant Police Chief Dallis Warren, however, reported in recent months there has been an increase in break-ins at some of the city’s salvage yards, automobile repair shops and storage facilities.
In his July 28 presentation to city council, Warren reported that with the current standard of a solid entrance gate, police officers are having a difficult time observing anyone inside fenced areas of the business establishments. He also suggesting amending the ordinance to allow gates which “would provide for visual observation of the internal areas” to improve the ability of Rosenberg officers to monitor the areas for criminal activity.
After reviewing Warren’s recommendation, council members approved changes to the ordinance to allow gates with an unobstructed view of the internal lot.
In the ordinance, local businesses impacted by the change will be given 180 days to conform to the new requirements.
Businesses asking for an extension to the 180-day period will be asked to provide reasonable justification for the extension request.
