As reported last month , on April 5, 2000 the Overland Park city staff presented its enhanced codes compliance proposal to the Community Development Committee in a public hearing format. With the exception of only a few small landlords and neighborhood activists, the proposal received overwhelming acceptance. The second reading will occur on Wednesday, May 3, 2000.

In Missouri, SB 771 (inclusive of sprinkler bill SB 882 concept sponsored by Sen. Clay), which was referred back to committee in March, was replaced by HCS SCS SB 842, requiring all buildings of more than 75 feet in height in the state without automatic fire sprinklers to retro-fit with fire sprinklers over a phase-in period not to exceed twelve (12) years. While the measure has a great deal of public support, especially on the east side of the state, the bill is generally opposed by the state’s business and real estate interests, including a strong Kansas City condominium  associations advocacy. With limited time left in this legislative session, we should remain vigilant; as it appears that this proposal has received a great deal of impetus from various segments of organized labor who view this as a good long term job creating opportunity.

In Missouri HB 1305, sponsored by Henry Rizzo of Kansas City, calls for state-wide registration of all rental properties. The proposal requires a registered agent in addition to imposing a $25.00 per property annual registration fee. The most onerous aspect of this proposal is that local jurisdictions would have the discretion to request as much private information on an owner’s property as they might deem appropriate. Personal contact with your elected officials is encouraged (see letter sent to the members of the Senate Standing Committee on Local Government and Economic Development).