2005-08-16_Agenda - Laserfiche WebLink

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implemented to address both owner occupied single family code deficiencies as well as single family rental housing issues to include the City Council adoption of a housing maintenance code, City Council implementation of a single family rental licensing program and increased HRA communication with neighborhoods and new residents. Recommend Adoption of a Housing Maintenance Code such as the International Property Maintenance Code as recommended by the Roseville Code Enforcement staff and by the I35W Corridor Cities.housing A new maintenance code would target maintenance issues of owner occupied and rental properties for exterior condition of the home. The current nuisance code does not affectively address many of the neighborhood issues observed through the neighborhood meetings and by codes staff. Implement a Rental Licensing Program for Single Family homes, Duplexes and Fourplexes. This would address code deficiencies for rental properties with the ability to annually inspect both the interior and exterior of rental properties. When the inspection results in compliance, the property is issued a license and ability to rent the home. If there are code violations, they must be fixed prior to issuance of a license. Renting the home without a license can result in an administrative fine and hinder the owner’s ability to rent the home. The specifics of the program will be more fully evaluated by the Council and HRA over the next few months. However, the following is a basic summary of the proposed program, estimated costs and suggested fees. Many of the communities that surround Roseville have implemented rental licensing programs. Each program has its variation as seen in the attached chart which provides a summary of the programs, associated fees and how the program is funded. Assuming the Council decides to have the HRA implement this program, the chart and comparisons will provide the HRA with an estimate of typical inspection fees that are charged in the metro area. With the current work load of the existing code enforcement staff, it is estimated that a part time inspector and a quarter time clerical position would be necessary to support the additional compliance issues associated with the housing maintenance code and rental inspections. It is estimated that to fund the position $60,000 - $80,000 annually would be required and administrative expenses, . Staff has also requested estimates to contract for this service through the Housing Resource Center as an alternative to hiring new staff. Staff estimates these contract costs may be up to 40-50% less. The cost of the new program will be partially offset by fees paid by rental owners. Using Ramsey County data for single family non-homestead properties, plus duplexes, triplexes and four plexes, there are an estimated 350 units subject to annual licensing. Using the average fee per unit charged by other communities of $50 per unit, a total of $17,500 could be collected in fees. The maximum charged by the communities evaluated was $75 per unit which would generate $26,250 in annual fees. At best, this revenue can support 40 to 50% of the estimated costs.