We have been hearing about this problem for quite some time and enough is finally enough!
Recently a police raid uncovered what was said to be 2000 baggies of crack cocaine in one of the most notorious parts of town for cut-ups. Places where landlords divide up the property (usually beyond what is allowed by code) into as many units as possible to maximize their income. Some are legal, but often many are illegal and contain code violations which put their residents in harms way.
I know the current administration has stated that it is going to make illegal rentals a priority, but it is time for the City Council to help make them stick by raising the fines for illegal rentals and driving those who have them out of business.
We need to attack the problem with a rising pyramid of fines and penalties. First violation should be a small fine and a short amount of time to fix the situation, Second a $10,000 fine, 3rd a $50,000 fine. The City should actively seek to put a lean on these properties and take control of them if necessary.
A good offense is always a good defense. By going on the offense these slumlords would be forced to fix the problems, sell or force losing their investments.
It is time to do something about it ....... NOW!
