Myerstown Council Approved Residential Rental Licensing Ordinance
Written by Jake Keiter and featured in our September 27th Print Edition
The Myerstown Borough Council Public Forum
The Myerstown Borough Council held a public forum on September 12th to discuss the updated Residential Rental Licensing Ordinance, drawing a packed auditorium filled with concerned homeowners and residents. The community members had the opportunity to voice their opinions on several key points within the proposed ordinance.
Property Inspections and Privacy Concerns
One major concern voiced by residents was the necessity of routine property inspections conducted by the borough’s zoning officer. Many questioned the need for such inspections and worried about their privacy. Under the proposed ordinance, the zoning officer would use a checklist to determine a property’s suitability for renting.
Annual Licensing Fee Increase
Another point of contention was the proposed increase in the annual licensing fee to $75 per unit, more than doubling the previous cost. The council emphasized that this increase was not intended for profit but rather to cover office administration and zoning-related expenses.
Concerns About Tenant-Related Fines
One of the most significant concerns expressed by residents was the possibility of being fined due to a troublesome tenant. Many feared that they would be unfairly penalized for actions beyond their control. The council clarified that fines would only be imposed if issues with a tenant were repeatedly ignored and disregarded.
Despite the opposition, the Myerstown Borough Council ultimately voted to approve the ordinance, with the only dissenting vote coming from council member Kathy Yang. The ordinance aims to strike a balance between preserving neighborhood quality and protecting landlords’ and tenants’ rights, as the borough continues to evolve.
