Renters Commission urges city to explore municipally run rental-listing service, flags data concerns about Citywise

The Ann Arbor Renters Commission on Feb. 20 recommended that the City of Ann Arbor explore a municipally managed rental-listing platform rather than immediately partnering with a private vendor after commissioners raised concerns about data privacy, potential market consolidation and accuracy of affordability claims.

The recommendation, approved by a majority of voting commissioners, asks the city council and city administrator to study a public alternative and to ensure public oversight and accountability for any rental-listing system the city supports. The motion passed following extended discussion and a failed attempt to postpone the measure until the March meeting.

Commission Chair Rosanita (Chair, Renters Commission) led a months-long discussion after staff introduced Citywise, a private rental-listing company, at a council work session. Chair…