By Bonnie Culverhouse

City of Minden’s new Administrative Court kicked off with seven properties on its first docket April 20.

City Court Clerk Ashlee Drake told members of the Minden City Council that one of the property owners cleaned his yard before his court appearance, therefore, that case was dismissed.”

“Six of the property owners were present; one did not receive his notice,” Drake said.

Four of the property owners attempted to clean their property prior to court, however, “…they did not fully clean them up to the standards that we wanted them.”

Drake said those the standards were discussed with the owners, and if they clean their properties and can show proof to the court during their next meeting, their citations will be dismissed.

“But,” she said. “They must come to court on that date. They can’t just skip court because they cleaned their yards.

“They were fined, with the fine suspended until the next court date,” she added.

Drake said fines issued were between $50 and $400.

“We are not trying to make money on this (court),” she said. “We are just trying to keep our city beautiful.”

District E Councilman Andy Pendergrass requested the same notices mailed to property owners also be sent to the council, so they would be aware in advance.

“So, when we get those phone calls, we will know how to respond,” he said.

Administrative Court will be held the third Monday of every month, providing there is a docket. It will meet again May 18.