Marquette orders staff study of renter protections after residents raise health and safety concerns

The Marquette City Commission voted unanimously to direct city staff to prepare an analysis of current renter-protection measures and related ordinances and to provide a list of options, if any, the city may legally pursue to protect the health and safety of renters.

Commissioner Mayer moved the directive, saying he had heard an uptick in renter concerns and wanted the city to examine whether the municipality could do more. Mayer said the city’s rental inspections and enforcement tools should be summarized for commissioners so the board can respond to residents’ questions.

City Attorney (speaking for staff) described limits on municipal action in private landlord–tenant disputes and explained that the city’s rental-safety program requires inspections every three years for units that hold a current certificate. The attorney said the rental inspector had inspected the property at issue within the last three years and that courts, not the city, resolve many private disputes when both sides present conflicting claims.

City staff told commissioners they could prepare a high-level memo and an educational presentation for the commission; a fuller analysis could take longer. Staff estimated a short-term presentation and memo would be feasible and suggested a more detailed study could require 4–6 months depending on the scope and available resources. Commissioners asked staff to include the city’s rental-inspection checklist, staffing capacity, and a clear delineation of county and state roles.

Next steps: staff will prepare a high‑level memo and a presentation outlining current renter‑safety rules, inspection frequency and responsible agencies, with an option for a more in‑depth analysis if commissioners request one.