2005-02-15_Agenda - Laserfiche WebLink

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Bennett outlined the proposed priorities as the same as supported by the HRA in 2004. Motion: Member Millasovich moved, seconded by Member Marks, to accept, by Resolution, the Ramsey County HRA housing priorities and direct staff to forward the recommendation to the Ramsey County HRA and Roseville City Council. Ayes: 6 Nays: 0 Motion carried. 7. Information, Reports and Other Business a.Review of a Neighborhood Enhancement Program (HF0025) Executive Director Bennett reviewed the approved Neighborhood Enhancement Program process with the HRA and introduced the guest speakers from Shoreview, Kathleen Nordine and St. Louis Park, Brian Hoffman to provide a summary of their community’s programs. Kathleen Nordine explained the Shoreview Rental licensing ordinance of 2003. Licenses were issued for 2004 for 1,400 units. License renewals were just completed for 2005. She explained the age of the housing stock and the need to provide more maintenance (1970’s housing) for rental housing. In addition, she mentioned that there was a trend observed that single family properties were being purchased for investment. The neighborhood preservation issues were a concern as well as the conduct issues within the multi-family projects. The Shoreview rental license is issued annually. There are two types of licenses: general dwelling (single family or duplex); multi-family buildings (with 11 or more units). The single family units are inspected annually. The multi-family units are inspected every 2 - 3 years. The ordinance also addresses tenant conduct. Violations include a notice process, except for conduct violations in which case the property owner must submit a plan for mitigation. There is also a suspension and revocation process for the licenses. The City planners and the building inspectors administer the program with no additional staff at this point. Fees are $50 for single family dwellings and $100 plus $7.50/unit which can be reduced to $5.00 with members in the Crime Free Association for multi-family projects. The process includes a 30-day notice period. If re-inspection is needed an additional fee is charged. The “conduct” issues have proved significant and record keeping essential. Member Marks asked about staffing. Shoreview requested an additional ½ employee for the program implementation which was cut from the budget. Therefore, they had to shift inspection services from building inspections. The process is time consuming; Shoreview only has one inspector and a supervisor who is now spending more of the time inspecting. Member Kelsey asked if there was overlap with other organizations. Shoreview noted that they do work with other departments and coordinate efforts with the Fire Department when needed. The City has one metro HRA building which is included in the inspection process. Member Kelsey asked for details of revenue and expenses. Shoreview noted that the revenue does not fully cover the administrative costs of the program. Member Kelsey also detail on the denial process? In Shoreview, they had five denial issues due mostly to utility payment issues or conduct issues. Most rental properties complete the maintenance issues when requested. 6