Columbus is facing a significant housing crisis as the city experiences rapid growth, with an average of 44 new residents moving in daily. This influx has led to a pressing need for more housing, but the current stock is insufficient, resulting in increased homelessness and displacement of residents. City officials highlighted alarming cases of landlord neglect, particularly at Latitude 525 and Colonial Village, where residents faced unsafe living conditions and abrupt evictions.

In response to these challenges, the Columbus City Council is considering new relocation code legislation aimed at holding property owners accountable for providing safe housing. Deputy Director Hannah Jones from the Department of Development presented the proposed legislation, which mandates that landlords cover relocation costs for tenants displaced due to emergency vacate orders caused by the owners' negligence. This includes temporary housing costs or a cash payment equivalent to three times the monthly fair market rent if the unit is uninhabitable.

The city has already incurred substantial costs assisting displaced residents, with approximately $6 million allocated for Colonial Village alone and an additional $1.5 million for Latitude 525. These figures underscore the financial burden on the city and the urgent need for a proactive approach to housing stability.

The proposed code aims to create a clear expectation for property owners and deter neglectful practices, ensuring that residents have access to safe and stable housing. City officials emphasized the importance of fostering partnerships with responsible property owners while addressing the exploitation faced by vulnerable families in a constrained housing market. The council's efforts reflect a commitment to treating housing as a human right and ensuring that all residents can live without the threat of displacement.