The Revere City Council meeting on September 29, 2025, focused on the enforcement of the rooming house ordinance, with discussions led by Michael Wells, the director of municipal inspections. The meeting highlighted the challenges faced by city officials in identifying and regulating illegal rooming houses, which have been reported to cause disturbances in neighborhoods.

Wells, along with Building Commissioner Louis Carignaro and Vincent Argenzio from the short-term rental office, outlined the difficulties in enforcing regulations. Carignaro noted that complaints about disruptive rooming houses often lead to a lengthy process of sending multiple letters before officials can gain access to investigate. He explained that if residents are all on the same lease, it complicates enforcement, as the city cannot easily determine if individuals are related or if they are living there illegally.

Argenzio added that their current software primarily targets short-term rentals but is being adjusted to identify potential rooming houses, defined as properties housing multiple unrelated individuals. He reported that recent efforts have led to the identification of approximately 20 to 30 potential rooming houses in the city, although the exact number remains uncertain.

Councilor McKenna raised concerns about a specific rooming house near his residence, which reportedly houses 31 individuals. He emphasized the issue of tenants living in the property without leases, highlighting the complexities of enforcement when leases are involved.

The discussions underscored the city's ongoing efforts to address the challenges posed by rooming houses and the need for effective enforcement mechanisms. As the city continues to refine its approach, officials aim to better manage the impact of these properties on local neighborhoods.