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After 500 tenants were forced out of their homes due to residential code violations by their landlords, Omaha Together One Community (OTOC) leaders launched a campaign to ensure decent living standards for renters.
OTOC research actions on code violations revealed that the vast majority of violations occurred in low-income, predominantly minority communities with disproportionate numbers of elderly and refugee residents -- many of whom are reluctant to complain. OTOC leaders are now pushing for local changes including required registration of all residential rental property and proactive inspections by the City of Omaha.
At a recent press conference, Dennis Walsh of OTOC argued, "Registration and inspection creates a healthier market not a more expensive market.”
Having helped shape Legislative Bill 85, which would require cities like Omaha to implement these reforms, Walsh and other OTOC leaders are mobilizing at the state level to ensure dignified housing.
Midland Voices (Oped): Omaha Needs to Provide Effective, Affordable Reform of Rental Oversight, Omaha World-Herald
Beckas Beat: Do We Live In a Perfect World?, FOX 42 News
Woman, Daughter Homeless After Rental House Inspection Notes Imminent Danger, KETV 7
#wedontslum Calls Attention to Omaha Slumlords, KMTV News
New Website 'We Don't Slum' Aims to Put Pressure on Problem Landlords, Omaha World-Herald
New Website Launches to Spread Awareness About Slumlords, KETV 7 News
Omaha City Council gives owner time to fix properties before voting on his TIF application, KETV 7 News
Landlords, renters clash over idea of rental inspections in Omaha and Lincoln, Omaha World-Herald
OTOC Fact Sheet on LB 85, OTOC
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