Kennett council tables decision on landlord’s request to improve 97 rental properties amid tenant-safety concerns

Kennett City Council postponed action on a request from property owner Riley Cook to improve and retain rental licenses for dozens of units after council members voiced concerns about unsafe housing, unclear recent property transfers and limited emergency housing for displaced tenants.

The item was presented as a follow-up to earlier enforcement under Ordinance 3099; staff told the council that a memorandum with Cook’s request to improve rental properties was submitted on Aug. 8. A city recorder document provided that day showed 97 properties newly recorded in Cook’s name while 58 remained listed in the name of Eddie Flores, a previous owner. Council members said the ownership changes complicate enforcement and eligibility for licensing.

The debate centered on two competing concerns: council members’…