This has got to be one of the most idiotic solutions ever devised by a government official. 

South Council Member Michael P. Kearns will introduce a bill at today’s Common Council meeting that encourages the city and Erie County to work on a joint offensive. He cites a program in Rochester that requires some irresponsible landlords and problem tenants to undergo training in order to continue participating in social services programs.

This is a typical response for a politician.  A program isn’t working as intended so we need to throw more money at it and create another government program to address it.  It is only a matter of time before there is no money left to take for more failed government programs.

He thinks many neighborhoods would see improved conditions if problem landlords were required to attend sessions that focus on screening tenants, recognizing signs of drug activity and the eviction process.

In order protect both landlords and tenants, Kearns said there should be inspections before renters move into dwellings. Kearns said Buffalo could snare state funding to help offset some program costs, just as Rochester did.

Another component would be the creation of what Kearns calls a neighborhood accountability board. He said the panel could help track housing problems and would involve block clubs, inspectors, law enforcers and other parties.

There are already building codes that can be used to deal with landlords who do not maintain their property.  The problems described in the article stem from the fact that landlords and tenants relying on government funding have no personal stake in the living conditions because the money is not coming out of their pockets.

If the proposed plan is approved it just brings us one step closer to complete socialism.  This is just another program that will help keep people trapped in the poverty lifestyle.  End the wasteful social programs that are a drain on economic capital and eradicates the concept of personal responsibility.  The money forcefully taken from people for redistribution of wealth programs would fund economic growth that would provide the availability of many more jobs and enable people to take care of themselves.  The few who truly have circumstances that prohibit them from being self-sufficient would be cared for through voluntary charitable organizations.  Thanks to Michelle for pointing out this article.  I agree there is a problem but the solution is less government spending, not more.  That would benefit everyone, not just a select few.

Source: Buffalo News - Taking aim at problem tenants, landlords