Report Prepared by: Craig J. Cornwell, City Attorney
Title
SUBJECT: The First Reading of an Ordinance Adding a New Chapter 8.53 of the Merced Municipal Code to Create a Repeat Housing Code Violators Program
REPORT IN BRIEF
This Ordinance proposes a new Chapter 8.53 of the Merced Municipal Code to Create a Repeat Housing Code Violators Program to establish standards and procedures to penalize rental property owners who demonstrate a pattern of neglect, unresolved violations, or unsafe conditions for tenants to preserve rental housing supply within the City of Merced.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion:
A. Introducing and approving the first reading of Ordinance 2591, an Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Merced, California, Adding Chapter 8.53 of the Merced Municipal Code to create a Repeat Housing Code Violators Program; and,
B. Setting the Ordinance for a second reading and adoption.
Body
ALTERNATIVES
1. Introduce and approve first reading of the Ordinance as recommended by staff; or,
2. Provide direction on specific revisions to the Ordinance; or,
3. Request additional information; or
4. Continue the matter to a date certain; or
5. Decline to act.
AUTHORITY
Charter of the City of Merced, Section 200.
CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES
As provided for in the 2025-26 Adopted Budget.
DISCUSSION
Ordinance 2591 reflects the City of Merced's ("City) authority to regulate code violations, nuisances and property maintenance for public health, safety, and welfare reasons, aligning with applicable state law. These changes came about after discussion at the subcommittee level and then an agendized informational session at a City Council of the City of Merced ("Council") scheduled meeting wherein initial input was sought from the entire Council and the public.
The Council recognizes that the maintenance and preservation of existing rental housing properties is of tremendous importance. Rental housing provides needed affordable housing for...
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