It sounds like an almost impossible job.

The West Columbia Code Compliance Department has responded to an average of 244 incidents a month so far this year.

These include accumulation of weeds, derelict vehicles and other nuisance violations.

The city selected Officer Jeff Phillips to lead the Code Compliance Department.

Phillips was introduced as code compliance manager at the West Columbia City Council meeting, Sept. 4.

Phillips plans to attend homeowners association meetings, church groups and civic and commercial organization meetings to:

• Learn about the kinds of complaints they have.

• Explain the complexities and challenges of absentee land owners and issues that are not just a one-time fix.

“Jeff will do a fantastic job,” said Mayor Bobby Horton. “His experience, background as a uniformed police officer, and kind personality combined with his no-nonsense approach will serve the community well.”

“It has been a pleasure serving as a police officer for the city for the last 15 years. I am looking forward to serving the city in my new role for many years to come,” Phillips said.

Phillips has served in law enforcement for 25 years, and before that was in the US Army.