Landlord association

Cape Girardeau city leaders held a meeting at the Osage Centre this summer to discuss the possibility of implementing a rental inspection program. The proposal would have required landlords to obtain an annual certificate of compliance for each of their rental units. The cost was said to be $25 to $35 per unit, though hospital, nursing home, dorm and hotel rooms were excluded.

The response from property owners was largely negative, and the city has put the proposal on hold for now. However, to help address this issue, local landlords have joined together to form the Cape Area Landlord Association. Jason Coalter, the association's president, said the group wants to work with the city to address concerns over blighted properties. Additionally the group looks to be a resource for landlords, helping them understand important industry issues through presentations by police, attorneys, fire department representatives and insurance agents.

Having ample housing options in Cape Girardeau -- ones that are well kept and enhance the community's beauty and charm -- is important. Most landlords understand this and maintain their properties. However, some do not. The collaboration between the association and city will be an important step in improving those units.

There's another side to the rental housing story. Some tenants are not responsible. One of the goals for the association is to educate rental property owners on how to better screen tenants and proceed, when necessary, with eviction.

The effort the association is making to work with the city on this important issue is commendable. We hope the initiative the group has taken will address any concerns and continue to benefit all parties going forward.