Note from the president...

As you may know, the Kansas City market has been under attack by tenants’ rights organizations that wish to regulate housing.  The local association has been actively advocating for housing providers and the multifamily industry as they have discussed best practices with council and city staff regarding a proposed housing ordinance that would add significant regulation.  AAKC had a significant impact on Ordinance 231019 by simply being a voice for the industry and sharing their stories to level the playing field.  Originally, these discussions were very one sided towards the tenants’ rights groups.  The first draft of the ordinance would have taken away the right for housing providers to use adverse credit reports, lack of credit history, prior evictions, property damage, and prior convictions or arrests, to solely refuse to rent to a tenant.  Some of these same issues are being discussed by our city council right here in Springfield. 

While the KC bill ultimately passed, through intense negotiations, the association won several victories in making key changes to the initial ordinance.  Be advised, this discussion is coming to our backyard.  It will take tremendous effort on the part of SAHA and its membership to advocate and educate decision makers in hopes that our market won’t be affected by unnecessary and unfair regulation.

Springfield Apartment and Housing Association will work with other city, state, and national organizations to keep you informed of what is happening and what we can do to protect our business here at home.