Sometimes it takes a fresh set of eyes to point out the problems in a community. That was almost the situation at Morenci’s city council meeting Monday, but not exactly.

The two audience members pointing out problems in the town certainly aren’t new community members, nor are they natives of Morenci. Maybe those of us who grew up here more easily become blind to problems. It’s just the way it is and no longer notice.

As one visitor pointed out, the steps at the stately Rupp house on Main Street were once in such disrepair that mail carriers refused to make deliveries. Did the city order the steps to be repaired? No, instead mailboxes were set in the front lawn—a poor solution to an ugly and dangerous problem.

In 2003 the city adopted the International Property Maintenance Code to address issues such as those steps. That’s the important first step. The obvious followup move is to enforce the code, and that’s easier said than done.

There’s often some hesitation in telling someone what to do with their property. Enforcement generally leads to unpleasant disputes and some strong dislike for city hall.

Mayor Russ Sutherland said to the visitors Monday, “You’ve got us stirred up.” He knows that action is needed. Let’s see if he gets city council’s support to move ahead.