What is the role of a code enforcement officer during the investigation period?

The role of a code enforcement officer during the investigation period is primarily to respond to and investigate alleged violations. This process involves gathering evidence, inspecting properties, and assessing whether there are any breaches of local codes or ordinances. It is critical for code enforcement officers to conduct thorough investigations to ensure that any findings are accurate and well-documented, which will support any potential enforcement actions or subsequent legal processes.

Investigating alleged violations helps maintain public safety and ensure compliance with established regulations. By focusing on this investigatory responsibility, code enforcement officers can identify issues that require remediation and work towards resolving them through appropriate channels, whether that be through education, collaboration with property owners, or initiating formal enforcement actions if necessary.

Other options provided do not align as closely with the primary responsibilities during the investigation phase. For instance, issuing immediate penalties may not allow for a fair assessment of the situation, while consulting with law enforcement may be necessary later for enforcement actions but is not the primary focus of the initial investigation. Lastly, representing the board in hearings pertains to a different aspect of the enforcement process that typically occurs after the investigation and determination of violations.