Columbus is considering creating a registry of rental properties in the city.
Councilman Nick Bankston said a rental registry would give the city a better understanding of of how many residential rental units are in Columbus. He said the registry will also keep landlords accountable and help gauge the need for financial support for renters, "ensuring not only that folks are able to afford their rent, but ensuring the health and safety of those units as well."
The city already has a registry for vacant properties, which Bankston said is in operation. He said that initiative and the possible rental registry are part of the city's Housing for All package.
"The goal here is really to get a better handle and understanding on our housing stock and on what the availability and what the condition of that housing stock is," Bankston said.
If council does create a rental registry, it would be for traditional residential properties. Short-term rentals and hotels, which are licensed in other ways, would not be included on the list.
Bankston said the city would work with rental owners and property managers to make sure they were in compliance. There could be penalties for those who don't register, but Bankston said those details are still being worked out. He has not yet written official draft legislation for the registry.
Columbus City Council is currently looking for feedback from residents and property owners who have questions or concerns. The council will hold a public meeting for the rental registry at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday at council chambers on West Broad Street.
Bankston said he will schedule additional public meetings in the future.
"We've been doing a lot of work behind the scenes from a legality standpoint that has gotten us to this point (so) that we can do more public-facing engagement," Bankston said. "We expect to have at least another series of hearings once we actually have draft legislation, and then we'll determine a time for passing."
