Poll: Should Cheyenne Approve Administrative Warrants For Building Inspections?

The Cheyenne City Council earlier this week postponed a final decision on an ordinance that would allow for administrative warrants to be issued for building inspections,

The ordinance would allow municipal judges to issue warrants to allow city officials to inspect buildings for safety, building code and health violations. City officials would have to ask for the warrant, either after being denied entry to the property or when "consent would frustrate the inspection purpose."

Supporters of the measure say it's an important tool to ensure public safety.. The main impetus for the measure comes from city officials who want to investigate the cause of a fire or who are looking for building code violations and similar safety issues. Supporters say the ordinance is a matter of public safety and that the ordinance can be implemented in a way that respects constitutional rights.

The proposal has generated a fair amount of opposition from residents who say it's an infringement on property rights and personal privacy. Some opponents also say that issuing such warrants should be a decision for a district court judge. A meeting earlier this month drew strong opposition from some members of the public and questions from some members of the council as well. At Monday's council meeting, several opponents spoke against the issue. They included Wyoming House District 43 Representative Ann Lucas, who said current law already allows officials to deal with emergency situations.

Proposal May Be Changed Ahead Of Final Vote

It's important to mention that the proposal will go before the council's Public Services Committee for possible changes before it comes back to the full council.

So what do you think of the basic concept behind the ordinance, understanding it may change before a final decision is made? Are you for it or against it? Or do you want to reserve judgement until you see what changes are made? Take our poll and give us your opinion!