In-kind and Rental Property

I wanted to update you on two items I have promised action on, rental property reform and in-kind policy.

If you are a regular reader of my Blog you will be aware of the vigorous discussion regarding rental properties in r1 and r2 zones as a result of a few reforms I proposed last year. The housing market slow down has caused even more single family homes to be converted into rental properties. This can be of great concern to a city's long term health. We have begun work on city policy and ordinance to regulate this practice. The final outcome has to be approved by Council but I am working for a rental property registry. This would mandate yearly inspections by the City's inspection department paid for by a nominal fee charged to the rental property. The registry would give us a handle for the first time of the amount of rental properties in our city. We must maintain a proper balance between rental and home owner occupied units.

We have also seen more properties being converted into multiple rental units out of a single family home. This is a practice that must stop. It violates zoning and building codes.

The in-kind policy will be a first for our City as well. I had asked this be addressed last year and the Council approved its development by unanimous vote at the end of 2006. The policy will cover all gifts by the City of Isanti to all organizations and events. The policy will cover direct payments, staff time, equipment time and other city resources. Isanti spends tens of thousands of dollars on community events and organizations. We must have a clear accounting of this activity so we know how tax payer money is being spent. This does not mean the money is being spent irresponsibly but we must know the true cost of this activity.

The policy will also bring greater discipline to the process. The proposed policy will make groups requesting any city resource follow the budgeting process. This means if your group needs city staff time or public work help or a direct payment you will need to make the request this year for 2008. The specific time table is being determined but will follow the city's general budgeting schedule.

My hope is that the Council will see the full cost of our activities and be able to make good decisions in using City resources. I also believe it is important for the public to have a transparent view of how all City expenses. Lastly in those areas in which the Council wishes to support activities we can market our good work.

Any questions please let me know..... george@georgewimmer.com or 763-444-7158