For 40 years I have lived next to a rental property. During that time I have prodded former landlords to take care of exterior defects that allowed rodents to roam and left open foundation areas dangerous to children. For years the house was badly in need of paint and repair. Construction equipment and unlicensed farm trucks were allowed to stand around on the property.
This past year a new landlord purchased the property and promptly made all the external repairs necessary, trimmed trees, painted the house, even giving attention to highlighting trim pieces with contrasting color. He assisted the tenant in removing brush and doing necessary grading work to provide better drainage, as well as interior work.
It is important that the Willmar City Council, with appointed committees, is looking into ways to improve ordinances that will prevent neighborhood blight. However, good landlords take the responsibility to provide safe, well-kept properties that enhance their neighborhoods. My appreciation goes to landlord Mitch Schwitters for upgrading our neighborhood. Thanks also to tenant Lynn Saulsbury for her colorful flower gardens.
George Barr
Willmar
