HomeMy WebLinkAbout08-10-20 Public Comment - D. Collins - Accountability for Retailiation of Landlords against Tenants proposed legislationFrom:Chris Mehl
To:Agenda
Subject:FW: Accountability for Retailiation of Landlords against Tenants proposed legislation
Date:Monday, August 10, 2020 2:08:07 PM
Chris Mehl
Mayor, City of Bozemancmehl@bozeman.net406.581.4992________________________________________From: GLAM DN Collins [dncollins09@gmail.com]Sent: Monday, August 10, 2020 1:04 PMTo: Chris Mehl; Michael Wallner; Cyndy Andrus; I-Ho PomeroyCc: Kevin ThaneSubject: Accountability for Retailiation of Landlords against Tenants proposed legislation
Hello All,
As part of your request for citizen input for Bozeman's 2021 Legislative Agenda I wanted to submit this proposal.
As you all know Bozeman's affordable housing market is in crisis, whether for purchases or rentals. I believe thatpart of working towards a solution is understanding the cause of the problem. One of which is absolutely noaccountability on the part of landlord behavior, resulting in evictions and a flood of homelessness in Bozeman. Yes,we have laws on the books regarding evictions and for non-payment of rent but not for retaliation towards tenant bya landlord/property manager.
The Montana Landlord Association code of conduct specifically states that they discourage landlord retaliation,while encouraging tenants to file complaints regarding landlord behavior. However, the risk in Bozeman of a tenantfor filing a complaint is eviction, plain and simple. And, without any accountability, such as a fine or jail time forsaid landlord/property manager.
I am talking about landlord retaliation and harassment towards tenants for many reasons, including and most often;submitting a maintenance request, personality issues. Bozeman Landlords and Property Managers have significantpower over tenants, tenants having no power or rights other than to move from the premises. HRDC as well as localattorneys have a host of casel circumstances they can share.
Certainly, there are some fabulous and considerate landlords in Bozeman. However, there are those who are aconsistent problem evidenced by tenant turnover and court cases in Gallatin County.
Therefore, I propose that we speak and partner with our local Legislators as well as the MT Landlord Association'slocal contact to develop an accountability bill for landlords. It's my understanding that Billings, Great Falls andMissoula are also renters are experiencing this issue.
Please let me know your thoughts.
Thank you for your time and attention in reviewing my request.
Enjoy your day!
Dulaney Collins