Cape landlords voice concern at public forum

CAPE GIRARDEAU, MO (KRCU) - The tension was palpable at a public forum over a possible rental inspection ordinance Thursday night.

The ordinance would create a system of mandatory inspections and licensing for those who either own or operate rental properties within the city.

The forum was attended mostly by local Cape Girardeau landlords, many of whom were restless and relentless in voicing their concerns with the possible ordinance.

Throughout the presentation and subsequent question and answer period many said that they felt there were already adequate regulations in place.

Many also felt that they are the ones who need protection against bad and destructive tenants.

Mayor Harry Rediger was at the forum and felt that it will serve as a useful tool to help the city to find the right course of action.

“That was loud and clear to us and um… well be studying it as we move ahead. As I told the audience before the left this is in the public input stage and this is just one part of the process,” Rediger said.

The forum was held at the Osage Center and scheduled to start at seven p.m. but was delayed so that more chairs could be brought in to accommodate the unexpectedly large assembly.

The city claims that the rental inspection program was the third most popular citizens’ initiative from two-thousand seven.

Tim Filla, KRCU

Posted in: Harry Rediger,rental inspections,Tim Filla