Kansas City is looking at new protections for people who rent in the city. The goal is to hold landlords responsible for unhealthy living conditions by requiring them to pay permit fees.
Kansas City city council's housing committee is considering a Rental Inspection ordinance, which would create a new fee and permitting structure for rental houses.
Nicole Davis is a Kansas City renter. She moved into her Kansas City rental house in February of 2016. Two months ago she says the roof in her kitchen fell in.
"I'm kinda trying to move out. But it's financially hard right now so I'm bearing it," said Davis.
The Health Department laid out a number of hazards for people living in subpar housing, including fire hazards and mold.
Meanwhile, dozens of landlords sat in the council chambers wearing yellow tape.
Michelle Lewis Russell says she and her husband own 7 rental properties in Kansas City.
"Why would you just choose landlords. If this is a concern about health and crime why wouldn't you just choose anyone's house," said Lewis Russell.
Wednesday's meeting went longer than expected, three hours. Committee members delayed their vote on whether or not the ordinance should go before voters in November.
They will revisit the ordinance next Wednesday at noon.
