PORT RICHEY, Fla. -- People who live in Port Richey can make complaints about homes in their neighborhoods in need of repair.

• Ordinance would lay out requirements for home maintenance
• Some say the standards for ordinance are too subjective
• Vote scheduled for next week

But there's no law that gives code officials the power to do anything about them.

There is now an ordinance that could change that. The ordinance being considered by the city council aims to lay out requirements for such home maintenance in an effort to prevent blight.

"I think this is one of the most significant pieces of legislation that's come across city council," said Port Richey resident Bill Columbo. "It is very broad in scope."

Columbo, a former councilman, is one of several neighbors who want the city to slow down. He questions how enforceable it is when it comes to indoor regulations like keeping stairs in good shape.

A code compliance officer with the city told Spectrum Bay News 9 that when it comes to code enforcement, it's usually going to be what's on the outside that counts for owner occupied homes.

The officer says the parts of the ordinance that talk about indoor violations will mainly be to benefit tenants whose landlords aren't keeping up properties.

People who live here say they also worry standards for the outside of homes are too subjective.

"What constitutes when a house needs to be painted?" Columbo said. "What constitutes when a driveway or a sidewalk needs to be pressure washed?"

Columbo and others say they're frustrated the city didn't give the public a chance to weigh in on the plan.

With a council vote expected next week, they say they doubt they'll get that chance.

Councilman Richard Bloom proposed establishing the standards. They are similar to those already in effect in Pasco County and New Port Richey and can help increase property values.

The council is expected to vote on the ordinance at its meeting Tuesday.