Blighted Property Program

City of Baker Blight Program

Keba Coleman - Blighted Property Program Manager

Keba Coleman – Program Manager

The City of Baker Blight Program is a collaborative initiative designed to improve the safety, appearance, and overall quality of life within our community. This program is a joint effort between the Blight Department, the Prosecutor’s Office, and the Blight Court Judge, all working together to address violations of the City of Baker Code of Ordinances. These ordinances, which can be reviewed in detail on Municode.com, outline the standards for property maintenance and public safety within the city. 

Blight refers to properties that are dilapidated, vacant, abandoned, or exhibit visual conditions that pose a threat to public health, safety, and the economic growth of the area. Common signs of blight include overgrown vegetation, accumulation of debris, deteriorating structures, and other conditions that negatively impact surrounding properties and the community’s well-being.

Residents play a crucial role in identifying and reporting blight. If you observe a property that may be in violation of the city’s ordinances, you are encouraged to report it by calling the City of Baker at 225-778-0300. Once a report is received, the information is forwarded to the Code Enforcement Department, which initiates an investigation into the potential violation.

A Code Enforcement Officer will visit the property to assess its condition and document the findings through photographs. These images are taken at various stages of the investigation to track the progress of the case. The documentation continues until the violation is resolved or the case is officially closed. This process ensures transparency and accountability while working toward the goal of eliminating blight and revitalizing our neighborhoods.

The Blight Program is a key component of the City of Baker’s commitment to fostering a clean, safe, and thriving environment for all residents. By addressing neglected properties and enforcing city codes, we aim to preserve property values, enhance community pride, and support sustainable development.

Blight Administrative Hearing Dates for 2026

Payment Arrangement Guidelines

We encourage you to set your minimum biweekly and/ or monthly payment to an amount that you will be able to pay during that time. We suggest payments of 35% of your balance or more if it fits into your budget. You always have the option of making greater payments or paying your balance in full at any time. You will not be allowed to appeal the judgment once the payment arrangement has been established.

The ONLY payment methods that will be accepted are money orders or cashier’s checks. There will be NO CASH or Credit or Debit cards accepted.

Payment Fee Scale              

Judgment Due Time/ Amount to Pay
$0 – $250$50/ biweekly
$275 – $400 $90/biweekly
$450 – $650$150/ biweekly
 $700 – $1,000$240/ biweekly
$1,000 – $1,500$350/ biweekly

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who do I contact to start a payment arrangement?

A: The Prosecutors Office at 225-778-1717 during business hours Monday through Thursday     7am- 5:30pm.

Q: Do I qualify for a payment arrangement if I am on a fixed income (i.e. Social Security, Disability benefits, etc.)?

A: Yes, we have options available for those that are on a fixed income, please contact the Prosecutors Office for assistance at 225-778-1717.

Q: I am enrolled in a payment arrangement; however, I cannot make my payment of the upcoming due date, can I get an extension?

A: Yes, we require that you contact us at least 3 days prior to your scheduled payment date and we will process your extension request.

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The City of Baker welcomes you! Baker is located in the northern portion of East Baton Rouge Parish in Louisiana. Baker is a friendly town–perfect for raising a family or retiring. We are a progressive city that promotes harmony, invigorating activity and many opportunities to contribute to excellence through neighborhood involvement.

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