Lower Fees and End Predatory Fines

Why This Matters

Too often a minor violation turns into years of debt. Excessive fees penalties and collections do not improve safety or compliance. They punish people for being unable to pay.

A city should not rely on fines as a revenue source.

The Policy

This policy caps late fees expands payment options and ends practices that turn small violations into lifelong debt.

Key Reforms

Late fees will be capped and will never exceed the original fine.
Payment plans will be income aware interest free and accessible.
Minor violations will not trigger license suspensions collections or escalating penalties.
Third party profit driven enforcement and collections will be ended.

The Result

Higher compliance
Less debt
Lower administrative costs
More trust in City Hall

Bottom Line

Punishment should fit the violation.

Lowering fees and ending predatory fines keeps people working housed and engaged while holding everyone fairly accountable.

That is how Schenectady starts Chenecting a city that works for its residents.