ESSEX JUNCTION, Vt. (WCAX) – The city of Essex Junction is discussing a rental registry and inspection program.
Other areas across the state have registries – but landlords in Essex Junction – don’t see the need for one in their city.
The Essex Junction City Council meeting Wednesday night was packed with landlords – and concerned renters.
All coming together to debate the city’s proposition of starting a rental registry and inspection.
The city says the plan is in response to the increase of rental housing in Essex Junction, and the desire to keep existing rentals in good condition.
But the city does cite several complaints from tenants that the health officer received – some of which the city believes would be solved with a rental registry.
“We’ve heard from very few tenants, and we’ve heard a lot of anecdotes about issues with landlords,” City Councilor Elaine Haney said.
Landlords would be required to register their rental units with the municipality, and pay $120 a year per apartment.
The registry would also call for inspections at least every five years, with some more frequently if deemed necessary.
Most concerns were from landlords who feel the registry is not necessary, and is too expensive.
“It’s just another fee that you guys are throwing atop of people to make things more unaffordable,” Landlord Ted Liomas said.
“I don’t think you guys realize what this is going to do to people who are on Section 8, families on one income – or on a fixed income – and people who live paycheck to paycheck.” Essex Junction resident Lisa Johnson said.
While others expressed their support of the registry.
“I think this is a good thing for tenants, and a good thing for property owners to know that their properties are safe, and healthy for the tenants that are there,” one speaker said.
“I rise in support – I sit in support for a rental registry in Essex Junction – there are several reasons I do that, number one is tenant safety,” Essex Junction resident Bryan Sheldon said.
The Essex Junction Fire Department would also be a part of the program.
They would have information about how many people live in each building – and who the property managers are – so they’d know who to contact when they get sent there on a call.
“More data to be put in there, more date for us to have available when we respond to these locations,” Essex Junction Fire Chief Chris Gaboriault said.
The city council did not make any decisions at the meeting – saying they wanted to keep hearing from residents before moving forward.