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Hilltop Neighborhood Goal Four: Add Tenant Screening
Responsibility for the condition of rental properties in Hilltop oscillates between absentee landlords who try to maximize revenue from the property while investing very little and the tenants themselves some of whom are a nuisance to neighbors and leave properties in seriously damaged condition upon their departure. Most landlords interviewed during this process indicated that they use a tenant screening process but that no procedure is foolproof. Some cities have initiated programs that require a rental unit to be inspected by the city before it can be released. In theory, this should protect both the lessee and the lessor; but landlords seldom support this type of effort. These problems are not unique to Hilltop and, as such, the opportunity for partnerships with other neighborhoods in the city could lead to a more dynamic and powerful response to this issue.
Recommended Action
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Work with other neighborhoods to strengthen city-wide standards for tenant screening.
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Consider stronger legislation to penalize problem landlords.
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Partner with local media to publicize/expose landlords that pose a threat to Wichita's neighborhoods.
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Partner with other neighborhoods to prepare database of problems (tenants, landlords, properties, etc.)
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Partner with other neighborhoods to develop a campaign to promote the characteristics of different neighborhoods; program could also be used as a first source for locating in a neighborhood providing a service matching tenants to available units, in effect, a "city living information clearinghouse."
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Partner with landlords to share information and concerns; request notification of new tenant move-ins and share information regarding rental inquiries.
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Establish "welcome wagon" committee to meet new tenants, encourage involvement, and share neighborhood goals.
Partners
City of Wichita, Wichita Independent Neighborhoods, Code Enforcement Officers, Block Captains, Other Neighborhoods, Hilltop Neighborhood Association, Hilltop Improvement Alliance
Hilltop Neighborhood Goal Five: Add More Park and Street Lights
A poor perception of safety in the Hilltop Neighborhood is compounded by less-than-adequate street lighting. In addition, the absence of any lights in Friendship Park limit its use particularly in the Fall and Winter. This infrastructure must be provided in order for residents to feel more comfortable and secure in their neighborhood.
Recommended Action
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Prepare an inventory of existing street lights and highlight deficiencies.
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Work with the city to prioritize spending for new lights.
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Work with the city to identify grant opportunities for assistance in purchasing and installing new lights.
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Develop program to provide special house or yard lights.
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Related to Hilltop Neighborhood Revitalization Plan |
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