08/04/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 8/3/026
City of Cortland Secures Largest Code Enforcement Judgment in Department History
CORTLAND, NY – The City of Cortland has achieved what is believed to be the largest court decision in the history of the City of Cortland Code Enforcement Office, marking a significant milestone in the City's ongoing efforts to address dangerous, neglected, and nuisance properties. In a decision issued by Cortland City Court, Purr Fect World, Inc. was found guilty of violating the 2020 New York State Property Maintenance Code and the City of Cortland Code of Ordinances after failing to remedy cited violations and failing to appear before the court. The Court imposed a total fine of $53,250, consisting primarily of daily penalties assessed over a 266-day period, reflecting the seriousness and duration of the violations.
The property has been a chronic nuisance within the City since 2012, requiring repeated enforcement actions and appearances in Cortland City Court over many years. "This is a tremendous victory for the residents of the City of Cortland," said Code Enforcement Captain Roy Everett. "Property owners and managers who allow vacant or neglected buildings to deteriorate should view this decision as clear notice that the City will aggressively pursue all available legal remedies to protect our neighborhoods and hold irresponsible property owners accountable."
The judgment pertains to the remaining structure on the parcel. The property's front house was previously determined to be unsafe and was ordered demolished by the Cortland Common Council on March 28, 2025, leaving the remaining building as the subject of this enforcement action.
City officials credited the outcome to the strengthened partnership between the City Code Enforcement Office and Corporation Counsel Randall Lewis. Through regular weekly strategy meetings, detailed case preparation, and comprehensive quality review of court documents before filing, the city has significantly enhanced the effectiveness of its code enforcement litigation. "This decision demonstrates what can be accomplished through teamwork, preparation, and a commitment to protecting the public," Everett stated. "The collaboration between Corporation Counsel and Code Enforcement staff has resulted in stronger cases, greater consistency, and increased success in court."
The City of Cortland remains committed to eliminating unsafe and blighted properties, preserving neighborhood quality, and ensuring that all property owners meet their legal responsibilities. This continues the vision set forth by Mayor Scott Steve and the Common Council, whose continued support of the Code office and the City of Cortland Fire Department echo this commitment.
Contact Information:
Roy Everett
[email protected]
(607)753-1741
