Saratoga Springs and its police form new civil court

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Justice is getting a new home in Saratoga Springs.

The city of Saratoga Springs and the city's police department have formed an Administrative Code Enforcement Hearing Court, after approval by the City Council.

The civil court will hear cases related to city ordinances, such as animals running at large or excessive weed growth, etc., said Saratoga Springs Police Cpl. Aaron Rosen.

These cases were formally classified as "criminal" in nature and had to be heard by the Saratoga Springs City Justice Court. But now they can be heard by an administrative law judge. That judge can impose fines and/or sanctions without the resident worrying about a criminal record, Rosen said.

The city prosecutor can transfer cases between the two courts if needed.

The city will be appointing an administrative law judge in the next several days and then the city will proceed with final approval for the court, Rosen said.

— Sara Israelsen-Hartley