Council gives first reading to multifamily rental-dwelling inspection ordinance after members call it urgent

The Stonecrest City Council on May 29 gave first reading to a proposed ordinance amending Chapter 15 of the city code to add licensing and inspection requirements for multifamily rental dwellings.

Councilwoman Tammy Grimes introduced the measure, saying repeated inspections are needed because several rental properties have significant code violations. Grimes said the city has 27 apartment properties, of which staff told the council 11 are in compliance; members cited problems including mold, structural hazards and other conditions affecting children and vulnerable tenants. Grimes said, “this is not something that I want to continue to talk about. This is it — it's time to take action.”

The city clerk read the ordinance language, which would add restrictions and inspection duties under Article 13 for multifamily rental dwellings. Council members discussed enforcement mechanisms and a fee/fine framework. Staff advised the council that if a fee is adopted as part of the ordinance, state law and city procedure require a 45-day notice period before fees can be implemented; council may adopt ordinance text while scheduling fee implementation to comply with notice requirements.

The measure completed its first reading; staff indicated further legal review and checklist completion before a second reading and final adoption. Council requested staff confirm whether the ordinance will include a fee change and noted the city must follow the timeline for fee adoption if applicable.