Local landlords spoke up about fees and codes enforcement at Monday night’s Muhlenberg Township Board of Commissioners meeting, the first in the new township building.
Muhlenberg resident and landlord Chuck Smith addressed his concerns over the $150 rental unit inspection fee. “We are constantly being bombarded with fees and fees and fees,” he said.
The fee is charged per unit for a mandatory safety and codes inspection, and all fees are due within 30 days.
There are currently approximately 2200 rental units in Muhlenberg Township, and each unit is inspected on a schedule every three years.
Smith argued that the fee is excessive and that it is unreasonable to require it within 30 days of the inspection, particularly now in the middle of winter when heating bills are high.
Commissioner John Imhoff suggested to the board that they should extend the payment period.
The board unanimously agreed. “I do agree that the deadline is aggressive,” board president Michael Malinowski agreed.
No official resolution was reeached to change the payment requirements at Monday night's meeting but the change is pending.
To Smith’s argument that the fees are too high, the board explained that a Code Enforcement Officer position has been created to ensure safe living conditions for all residents and to address code violation issues throughout the township in an effort to clean up the area.
“People have been complaining to us about the looks of the neighborhoods […], hopefully this is going to turn some things around,” Commissioner Steven Wolfinger said.
Tony Lupia, another resident and landlord, also questioned the fees imposed on rental property owners and spoke to the state of many of the properties in the township.
“I think the township should be stronger in enforcing these quality of life laws.
Maybe they can lighten this burden on responsible landlords who try to keep up with their properties.”
Commissioner Kevin Lerch explained that processes have been in place to improve enforcement and clean up the area, but that the changes are going to take time.
“I think the board is working very hard to make Muhlenberg the community it can be. We ask for your patience while we ask for your input.”
In other board news, long time Township Manager and Secretary Steve Landis announced his retirement.
Landis has worked for the township for over 40 years. “My heart is and will be with Muhlenberg, but after 40 years I think it’s time to relax and do something else,” Landis said.
He will remain active with the board for several more months fulfilling transitional duties.
The board also announced it will be holding an open house on April 20, 2015 prior to its regular meeting for residents to tour the new township building.
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