The council voted unanimously to pass the ordinance, which had been on the agenda for several meetings.

Mayor Brian Olguin said previously that the earlier law had a problem that would make it hard to enforce, particularly with residents who leave out a lot of trash.

The law prohibits residents from dumping trash inside city limits, except for approved collection places and times. Residents must keep their property free of vermin, such as rodents and insects.

The law outlines what constitutes a nuisance premises, such as properties that violate town zoning rules, state law and animal control regulations, among other regulations.

The council passed the ordinance following a brief public hearing on the matter.

Councilor Joseph Romero said it was important to get a nuisance ordinance in place because there are some problem areas in the town that need addressing.

"It kind of adds teeth," Romero said said.

In other business, the council:

• Heard from Municipal Judge Louis Burkhard, who named David Young as an alternate judge in the event of his absence.

The judge said Young had undergone training necessary to be a judge.

"He has a great deal of integrity," Burkhard said, adding that Young has a background in law enforcement.

• Heard from construction manager Chico Orona, who announced that the renovation of the new town hall on Molina Avenue is complete. He said there has been a final walk through.

He thanked the town for allowing him to work on the project, and praised the job done by local contractors.

"You've written the first page in the history of Peralta," Orona said.

The renovated town hall has been under construction for several months.

The council and municipal court have yet to move into the new building.

• Approved precinct board members for the March 2 Municipal Election. Councilors Leon Otero and Joseph Romero are up for reelection.