During a recent borough council meeting, officials addressed ongoing concerns regarding illegal student rentals in the community, particularly focusing on a property on Darlington Street. Council members expressed frustration over the lack of action taken against properties that violate rental regulations, highlighting a growing issue of unapproved student housing that is affecting neighborhood stability.

One council member noted that despite previous communications, the situation remains unresolved, prompting a call for more proactive measures. The borough has sent a letter to the property owner, who has 30 days to respond and prove that the allegations of illegal student rentals are unfounded. If the owner fails to comply, the borough plans to issue a citation and may pursue legal action, although the process could take several months.

The discussion revealed that the borough's code enforcement capabilities are limited, with only one officer available to handle complaints. This officer is not trained for surveillance, which complicates efforts to monitor illegal rentals effectively. Council members acknowledged that many students may unknowingly rent illegal housing, often trusting landlords without understanding the local rental regulations.

Concerns were raised about the broader implications of illegal rentals, with estimates suggesting that there could be around 1,000 additional students living in unapproved accommodations. This situation not only impacts the students but also the residents of the borough, who are affected by the disruptive behavior often associated with these illegal rentals.

Council members proposed that stricter penalties be imposed on property owners who knowingly rent to students without the necessary licenses. Suggestions included automatic revocation of rental licenses for violations, aiming to deter landlords from exploiting the housing situation.

The meeting underscored the need for a comprehensive strategy to address the illegal rental issue, as council members recognized that the current approach may not be sufficient to protect both students and the community at large. The conversation highlighted the complexities of managing student housing in the borough and the urgent need for effective policy solutions.