City Owned Steps but Private Repair?

[Teri B.]

Hello.  Wanted to bounce this off someone as a first step, please.

Rental property has about 6 concrete stairs (carriage walk) going from the street to the sidewalk.  Steep grassy hill in front, so hard to get from street to sidewalk without steps for neighbors.  We have a corner lot, so tenant could walk to corner and use the sidewalk.  Less convenient, but doable.  Tenant likely uses stairs just as much.

A few of these stairs have some damage to 'treads' - few hours and some patch needed.  Also, just noticed that the metal handrail fell off and tenant didn't mention!  That's a more expensive repair.

Called zoning to ask who they belong to.  First answer was 'city property' and 'here are two people to call for repair'.  One person finally called back today - City Engineer.  He said they are city property, but the city won't fix them.  I have to come in, get a permit, and repair.  Other person (Street Dept) never bothered to call back.

If you eyeballed it standing on the street, our side property line and the neighbors... just about divides the stairs in half.  I called the neighbor homeowners who are meticulous.  Polite but not as interested in me, perhaps.  Mentioned the City should repair.

Very picky insurance inspector came out a few months back and also didn't mention, although the handrail was still up then.  Any insight on what I should do next?   Thank you.