From The Desk Of Jackson Mayor Jennifer Kuhn
Dear Residents,
Illegal rental properties have been a problem in Jackson for years. Unfortunately, past mayors and previous administrations failed to address this issue. When I became mayor five months ago, I made a clear commitment that my administration would not ignore it any longer and we are taking action.
We established Jackson’s first Rental Safety Bureau, hired dedicated inspectors, adopted a new ordinance requiring annual inspections, and immediately got to work. Our goal is to conduct an average of 50 in-person inspections each week. Monday, March 16 marked our first official day in the field, and inspections are already continuing this week.
From day one, the results have confirmed what many residents have been reporting for years. We are seeing evidence of illegal, overcrowded, and unsafe rental conditions. Inspectors have identified homes converted into boarding houses, overcrowded living situations, and construction performed without proper permits, including unsafe electrical, fire, and plumbing work. We are also seeing conditions that raise serious concerns about sanitation and overall safety.
This initiative is not just about identifying rental violations; it is about protecting public safety. On the very first day of inspections, our team uncovered and reported criminal activity at a rental property. That matter is currently under investigation by local law enforcement. While I cannot provide further details at this time, it underscores the importance of the work we are doing.
For years, residents have voiced concerns about illegal rentals and the impact they have on neighborhoods. Those concerns have been heard. My administration is taking a proactive approach to prevent a tragedy before it happens. We have seen what can occur in other communities when these issues go unchecked, and we are committed to ensuring that does not happen here in Jackson.
Any violations identified will result in escalating fines and, if necessary, court action. We will also continue working closely with our local, county, and state partners including fire officials, the Board of Health, and the Department of Community Affairs to address unsafe rentals and shut down illegal and unlicensed boarding homes.
Our priority is simple: to ensure that all rental housing in Jackson is safe, compliant, and respectful of the quality of life our residents deserve.
We are just getting started, and we will continue to keep you informed as this effort moves forward.
For more updates, follow along on Instagram @MayorJenniferKuhn and Facebook @JenniferKuhn.
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