Landau Closes Housing Code Loophole
At the February 20, 2007 meeting of the City Council, a motion was adopted that will improve housing code enforcement. This matter was initiated by Joel Landau via a letter sent to the RUCO Board. Prior to this change, delinquent landlords were able to postpone needed repairs by transferring property, often to a family member. This delaying tactic was used by a few to put off action for months or even years. As a result of Council’s adoption of Landau’s suggestion, the City can now prevent this delaying tactic.
Landau commented that “We’ve closed a major loophole in housing code enforcement. As a result tenants will no longer have to live in substandard, or unsafe conditions while a delinquent landlord plays regulatory games to avoid making needed repairs. The vast majority of our landlords are responsible, law-abiding members of our community and are not affected by this. But for the few bad apples this is aimed at, Inspectors will now find it easier to maintain minimum housing standards. It’s a good day for all who believe people deserve safe, decent housing."
