Local landlords urge pause on Ann Arbor's green rental ordinance for comprehensive review

During the recent Ann Arbor City Council meeting on May 5, 2025, significant discussions emerged surrounding the proposed green rental ordinance, which aims to enhance energy efficiency in rental properties. The ordinance has sparked considerable debate among local landlords and property managers, highlighting concerns about its potential impact on affordable housing and the feasibility of compliance.

One of the key voices at the meeting was a local landlord who urged the council to postpone the vote on the ordinance. They argued for a more collaborative approach, emphasizing the need for comprehensive data, particularly the HERS (Home Energy Rating System) scores from pilot properties. This information is crucial for understanding the financial implications of compliance, especially for older rental units that constitute a significant portion of the city's housing stock. The landlord expressed concern that the ordinance could disproportionately burden smaller landlords, who may lack the resources to meet the stringent requirements, potentially leading to a loss of affordable rental units.

The speaker also pointed out that the ordinance could inadvertently favor larger corporations that own newer properties, which are better equipped to comply with the new regulations. They called for the city to provide clearer financial guidance and support for landlords, suggesting the use of millage funds to assist with utility costs and to fund educational resources for property owners. The need for a transparent assessment of compliance costs was emphasized, as many landlords currently lack a clear understanding of the financial support available to them.

Another speaker, Nancy Bauerback, echoed these sentiments, criticizing the complexity of the ordinance and advocating for more stakeholder involvement in its development. She expressed concern that the current version of the ordinance might overlook the needs of individual property owners, particularly those managing single-family rentals.

In addition to discussions about the green rental ordinance, the meeting also touched on the city administrator's return-to-office mandate. A resident raised concerns about the necessity of this policy, arguing that remote work can be just as effective for many city employees, particularly those whose roles do not require a physical presence in the office. This point was framed within the context of the city’s broader goals for sustainability and reducing carbon emissions.

Overall, the meeting underscored the tension between environmental goals and the practical realities faced by landlords in Ann Arbor. As the council considers the feedback from residents and property owners, the future of the green rental ordinance remains uncertain, with calls for further evaluation and collaboration before any final decisions are made. The discussions highlighted the importance of balancing climate action with the preservation of affordable housing, a critical issue for the community.