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Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 17, 2012 Page 18 Mr. Trudgeon noted that the problem is that the City could not access any units un- der current code, with the current system only for external problems. Councilmember McGehee, in addressing Mayor Roe's concerns, noted the number of HRA programs to help single-family, first-time homeowners; and if an egregious situation was found, a bridge be used so tenants are not forced onto the streets. Ms. Kelsey noted a current law, not being utilized by most communities, the Tenant Remediation Act, allowing for a process when a property owner has not fixed a sit- uation after some time and causing occupancy discomfort, the court system would move into place the property under receivership and have it taken over temporarily to bring it up to standard, with costs abated to the property owner and taken back af- ter brought up to code. However, Ms. Kelsey noted that this legislative action had only been utilized to a limited extent to-date. Lisa Palen, TITLE, MN Multi-Housing Association Ms. Palen thanked the City and HRA staff for reaching out to their Association; noting their attendance at previous HRA meetings. In response to a registered list of tenants, Ms. Palen advised that some cities re- quired property owners to keep a list,but owners were not willing to turn it over un- less an emergency occurred. Regarding criminal background checks, Ms. Palen addressed the pros and cons, in- cluding past history often indicating future behavior. However, since an unprotect- ed class, Ms. Palen noted there was the potential for a landlord or property owner to not rent based on someone's felony conviction in the past five (5) years and not al- lowing them a second chance. Councilmember Pust noted that, just because someone had a criminal background did not mean they had necessarily been incarcerated. Ms. Palen advised that their Association encouraged background checks for those on leases, as well as those occupying units but not on a lease (e.g. future significant others). However, Ms. Palen noted that no management tool could be all-inclusive and address all concerns in one document. Regarding "move in- move out" forms as suggested by Councilmember Johnson, Ms. Palen advised that many property owners used them; however, if mandated, property owners may have a problem. Ms. Palen again thanked the City for working with their Association, and expressed her interest in continuing to work with the HRA as they moved forward; and to have further discussion as applicable. Mayor Roe thanked staff for the presentation.