City wants to invade privacy of landlords

Staff

Published Friday, July 11, 2008

The Albert Lea City Council will be voting on an ordinance to have all landlords licensed in the city. This ordinance if passed, requires all landlords to turn over names and phone numbers of all tenants with no just cause. These city officials will go into your dwelling and take pictures of all rooms without your consent. The landlords have to allow the city officials access to the premises or be charged with a misdemeanor. The fine would be 90 days in jail and/or $1,000 fine. How can landlords like myself stop this invasion of privacy? If you as a renter have any concerns about your dwelling, you can already contact the Building Inspection Department.

Did you also know that if the police are called to your home three times landlords may be asked by the city of Albert Lea to evict you, even though you are a good tenant? Examples of this could be barking dog, loud music, and a verbal disagreement taking place in your home.

The city of Albert Lea feels that they have your best interest at hand.

The Inspection Department could make more than $75,000 with the initial startup of the program paid by landlords. If you feel rent is high now, wait till the ordinance passes. Now is this truly in the best interest for renters or a money maker for the city?

The Responsible Landlord Association has been told the city they just wants to pass the ordinance without everything spelled out in black and white. They want to figure it out as they go. Who makes rules as they go?

The citizens of Albert Lea need to voice their concerns and contact their City Council member.

Marcia Ranum

landlord

Albert Lea

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