RI S2401

Authorizes Cranston's city council to establish a housing division within its municipal court with jurisdiction over zoning ordinances, minimum housing standards, housing maintenance codes, subdivision of land regulations, and state building codes

Empowers the housing division to impose sentences up to 30 days in jail and fines up to $500, administer oaths, compel witness attendance, and punish contempt

Grants the housing division equitable powers to restrain or enjoin violations, order repair/vacation/demolition of dwellings in violation, and place properties into receivership

Allows the city council to appoint a judge and clerk for the housing division, who may be the same individuals serving the municipal court

Provides aggrieved parties 20 days to appeal housing division decisions to superior court for a trial de novo