Enforcement of city codes and ordinances is now the responsibility of the City of Brookhaven’s newly-installed Code Enforcement Officer.

Shardae Oatis, who stepped into the newly-created role Aug. 1, previously was a certified officer with the Brookhaven Police Department. In addition to code enforcement, Oatis also serves as a bailiff in Municipal Court and will maintain certification as a reserve deputy with the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office.

In the code enforcement role, Oatis will oversee and enforce local building codes, zoning laws and city ordinances. The office is part of the Public Works department, headed by director Keith Lewis.

The main responsibilities given to the officer are in regard to structures that need to come down; lots where grass needs to be cut; abandoned or junk vehicles; and any other lot cleanup issues.

Specific fines for violations have not yet been determined. A committee of Aldermen Andre Spiller, Jeff Herring and Shannon Moore was formed at the board’s most recent meeting to determine those amounts.