Code Enforcement Officer Bill Killian
Know Your Neighbors
By Kassidy Ravina
There was a time when Mahanoy City was a nice looking, friendly little town. If you took a ride around Mahanoy City today, however, you’d see why having a code enforcement officer is very important to our community.
Although many people try their best to keep their properties clean and presentable looking, there are others who neglect the upkeep or cleanliness of their environment.
The job of a code enforcement officer is not always as easy as some might think it is. There are many different responsibilities to take care of on a daily basis. The job is never done. The code enforcement officer is on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week, if necessary.
Code Enforcement Officer William Killian.
Mr. Bill Killian is the code enforcement officer for the Borough of Mahanoy City. He says he enjoys his job and tries his best to help Mahanoy City become a well-maintained place to live once again. Mr. Killian is a lifelong resident of the borough, and has always had pride in his hometown. He says he wishes others would have this same feeling.
A typical workday for Mr. Killian involves daily patrols to see what problems need to be addressed. He spends a majority of his time fielding and investigating complaints. He helps to protect the citizens of Mahanoy City by ensuring that buildings and land are in accordance with housing ordinances.
Mr. Killian does not have the power to arrest someone, but he does have the authority to issue citations. If necessary, he can make a case for the police to make an arrest. The case will then go to the magistrate, who will determine what punishment will be given to the offender.
The most frequent complaint Mr. Killian hears is about trash and debris on porches, he says. He also deals with many properties that have smashed windows, no water, and leaking roofs.
Mr. Killian says he wants people to know that sometimes his “hands are tied.” Due to loopholes and certain laws, there are times where he is legally unable to enforce certain codes. But, he adds, his goal is to “definitely always enforce all codes all the time.”
If you would like to contact Mr. Killian, call 570-773-2150 ext. 212 between 8:30 am and 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday.