Henderson lets offenders clean up vacant properties to work off fines

The city of Henderson has implemented an innovative program that allows offenders to work off Municipal Court fines by cleaning up foreclosed or vacant properties.

City officials said improving the "curb appeal" of these yards and homes discourages vandalism and helps keep the property values up.

Properties selected for the program have been served notice of code violations. Most of the violations involve problems such as weeds, litter and dead landscaping.

According to information released in late October, participants in the Alternative Sentencing Work Program have cleaned up 27 properties. The program allows offenders with financial hardships to earn $10 an hour on various beautification projects throughout Henderson.

Before the program was implemented, the city used outside contractors to clean up each property. The program has saved the city more than $9,600 in labor costs.

Contact reporter Carri Geer Thevenot at cgeer@reviewjournal.com or 702-384-8710.