December 11, 2008 Update
In This Issue:

• Aurora Considering Vacant Property Registration Ordinance
• Federal Heights Looks at Rental Property Inspection Ordinance
• Down Zoning Marches on in Denver
• Transit Alliance Citizen’s Academy Taking Applications

 

Aurora Considering Vacant Property Registration Ordinance      

The City of Aurora is considering a proposed ordinance that requires registration of vacant properties by the beneficiary/owner/holder of deed or trust. It also would set minimum maintenance standards comparable to what is considered the neighborhood standard. The proposal specifically instructs corporate/out of area owners to provide maintenance or contract with a local property management/property preservation company to meet these standards.

 

For some time, sentiment has existed in the city to try and address the growing foreclosure/vacant property problem within city limits. Aurora seems to be hit more severely by the housing market downturn than other metro Denver areas. This proposal is the result of numerous meetings and work sessions by a variety of interests with the intention of supporting neighborhood property values and aesthetics by addressing the blight that often results from vacant properties falling into disrepair. The Aurora Association of REALTORS® is continuing to work with the city as the ordinance develops, highlighting the possible extra liabilities and responsibilities that may be placed on owners and real estate professionals if the ordinance passed. It will next be considered at a study session on December 15^th, when council members will decide whether or not to bring it to the floor.

 

Federal Heights Looks at Rental Property Inspection Ordinance

Federal Heights is proposing an ordinance that would provide minimum standards for rental properties (though it exempts owner –occupied properties and duplexes). It also would authorize the city to inspect these properties based on a routine inspection schedule or probable cause.

 

The city is working hard to shed themselves of a perceived stigma about the housing stock/living conditions around the city. After what they cite as numerous complaints, they’re attempting to pass an ordinance that would allow for inspections of rental properties and require minimum standards for rental properties. The North Metro Denver REALTOR® Association is monitoring this ordinance closely, and has serious concerns about the proposal. As written, the ordinance would give search authority to the city that seems to be too far reaching. Additionally, there is a concern that the minimum standards for the rental property conditions are already addressed by last year’s Landlord/Tenant legislation passed by the Colorado General Assembly. This ordinance has been delayed until March of 2009, but remains a serious topic of discussion around the real estate community.

 

Down Zoning Marches on in Denver

Next up for the City of Denver’s ongoing adjustment of zoning is the neighborhood of West Washington Park. The final vote is schedule for December 15^th by City Council, and it seems to be a done deal. This down zoning will classify the neighborhood as all single family residential (R1 zoning) and eliminate the designation for multi family housing (R2).

 

The Denver Board of REALTORS® has expressed ongoing opposition in each of the neighborhoods where involuntary down zoning has been proposed, including West Washington Park. DBR contends that Denver should be excited about the growing trend of families choosing to live in attached housing, because it's sustainable, environmentally-friendly, and will attract families with kids who can enroll in the city's public schools. Additionally, during a downtown in the market there's no need for legislative action to slow development. The market dictates what can be built.

 

Transit Alliance Citizen’s Academy Taking Applications

The Transit Alliance is now taking applications for its 2009 Citizen’s Academy. This seven week program is designed to discuss the complexities of combining transportation and community development to support the regional success of Transit Oriented Development (TOD) in the metro Denver area.

 

The Citizen’s Academy will be a class of 50 participants who demonstrate leadership ability and a commitment to make future contributions to transportation, community development, healthy living, and improving quality of life in metro Denver, with particular emphasis on development taking place around transit stations both existing and future.

 

More information about the Transit Alliance, the Academy, and the application process can be found at www.transitalliance.org/Academy. Applications are due for this prestigious opportunity on February 9^th, 2009.