Galesburg Alderman Monday night again tabled a new rental licensing program and minimum housing standards.With two council members absent, Jeremy Karlin and Wayne Dennis, council decided to table the measures after Mayor John Pritchard they would need four votes for it to pass with only five council members present.
At least Alderman Russell Fleming was a clear no vote on both programs, listing a litany of objections to both measures.
Council member Angela Bastian objected to violations being reported by anyone other than an actual tenant, even though currently complaints can be received by anyone.
She also objects to stricter standards for rental properties than other housing.
City Manager Todd Thompson says that the city can’t enter a property without the owner’s consent or a warrant issued by a judge.
Alderman Peter Schwartzman said it may be necessary for a third party to make a complaint such as an older person who has difficulty making a complaint.
“When we get complaints our response to them is going to be somewhat measured and limited based on the amount of information the person can provide and their willingness to stand up and make the complaint,” Thompson says.
The item can be expected to be brought back at the City Council meeting on June 18.
