Landlords of Black Hawk, Inc. Founder & Charter Member of Landlords of Iowa, Inc. PO Box 742, Waterloo IA

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1 Landlords of Black Hawk, Inc. Founder & Charter Member of Landlords of Iowa, Inc. PO Box 742, Waterloo IA GENERAL MEETING Thursday, Jan 16, 2014 Elk s Club 6:00-Social 6:30-Dinner 7:00 -Program ANNUAL MEETING & CELEBRATION Please join us one & all for the annual meeting and celebration on January 16, 2014 at 6:00 pm at the Elk s Club. Dinner will be served at 6:30 pm with dessert! There is no charge for Members. Door prizes will be awarded. Dinner Reservations are due by Monday at 5pm, Please RSVP to Mark Pregler at or BlackHawkLandlord@gmail.com No charge for dinner for members with reservations this month. Dinner is served at 6:30 pm, no charge to attend program, please be there by 7pm for program only.

2 LANDLORDS OF BLACK HAWK BOARD POSITIONS POSITION: NAME: PH. NUMBER: President Wally Parrish Vice President Mark Pregler Secretary Rachel Page Treasurer Sue Schauls Membership Sue Schauls Newsletter Sue Schauls Programs Tony Miller Publicity Chase Keller Vendors Mark Pregler Hospitality Gary Olmstead Legislative Mark Pregler Legal Wally Parrish Website Jane Young Vendor Board Member Tony Miller LLBH Board Meetings - 1st Thursday of each month at Noon at the Elk s Club. All members are welcome to attend.

3 P AGE 3 Harvard study flags severe affordability problems for renters More Americans are renting today, but affording a place to live is more difficult as half of all renters 21.1 million households pay 30 percent or more of their income towards rent, according to a new report from the Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies. That figure compares with 38 percent of renters that were housing cost burdened a decade ago. Twothirds of the increase in cost burdened renters occurred among fully-employed householders. Rising rents combined with stagnant or declining income is squeezing renters, particularly low-income households, to cut back on food, healthcare, and savings just to keep up. For many low-income families, the rental housing affordability crisis is like a game of musical chairs in which there is never a chair left for them, said Chris Herbert, Research Director at the Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies. The shortfall in the number of units affordable to extremely low-income renters in the U.S. (those earning no more than 30 percent of the area median) more than doubled from 1.9 million in 2001 to 4.9 million in The situation just keeps getting worse. According to the bienneal rental housing report, renters with $15,000 in annual income would have to find housing that costs no more than $375 a month to meet the 30-percent-of-income affordability standard. By comparison, the 2011 median monthly cost for housing built within the previous four years was more than $1,000. Less than 34 percent of these new units rented for less than $800, and only 5 percent for less than $400. The share of Americans renting increased to 35 percent in 2012 from 31 percent in A portion of that surge was homeowners who lost their houses through foreclosure or financial hardship. Consequently, competition from higher income households further limited the supply of affordable rentals available to low-income households. Of the units that extremely low-income renters could afford in 2011, households with higher incomes occupied more than a third. For every 100 extremely low-income renters, only 36 units were both affordable and available.

4 P AGE 4 Landlords of Black Hawk Program Calendar HAPPY NEW YEAR! January 16, 2014 Annual Meeting & Holiday Celebration There will be 2 choices that need to be made at the time of reservation: Bourbon Beef Tips over Garlic Mashed Potatoes with caramelized carrots OR Chicken Cordon Blue with Garlic Mashed Potatoes with caramelized carrots, tossed salad and choice of Chocolate Mouse w/whipped topping or Pumpkin Bread Puddings w/ a caramel sauce for dessert. There will be drinks available until 7pm in the Park Ave Bar. RSVP to Mark at or BlackHawkLandlord@gmail.com February 20, 2014 Green Iowa Benefits of Weatherization March 20, 2014 Platinum Pest Control Preventive Measures for Pest Control April 17, 2014 Waterloo Housing Authority Section 8 How to work with Section 8 for the Best Results May 15, 2014 Leah Morrison presents New Landlord Tax Rules for Repairs vs Improvements June 19, 2014 TBA July 17, 2014 TBA August 21, 2014 TBA September 18, 2014 Candidates Forum October 16, 2014 Eviction Training November 20, 2014 Vendor Fair

5 P AGE 5 Reported January 2, 2014 Credit Debit 12/5/ Elk's Club $ $6, /13/2013 epay Sue Schauls (newsletter) $30.00 $6, /1/2014 Deposit Interest earned $1.15 $6, /2/2014 deposit Dues $ $6, Petty Cash $ Legal Fund In reserve for legal $1, Credit Debit Balance

6 P AGE Energy Code Brings Key Changes for Remodelers By Achilles Karagiozis, Ph.D. Global Director Building Sciences Group Owens Corning As more states and municipalities adopt the 2012 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), builders and remodelers are finding that the requirements are increasing the amount of high-performing insulation needed in each home. In addition, homeowners are well informed today via their own research and are examining these long-term cost centers to ensure their contractors are providing state-of-the-art designs. A key provision requires a higher performing envelope through continuous exterior insulation, which means insulation that blankets the structural members and can eliminate thermal bridging. Another standard upgrades wall-insulation requirements in most climate zones, to the point that builders and remodelers in northern climate zones will opt to provide an exterior insulation assembly to meet requirements. These changes will provide long-term benefits to homeowners, including lower energy bills, less noise penetration, lessened worries about moisture penetration, and no drafts or cold spots near walls. But they also will require Don t miss the contractors to re-examine their building techniques and possibly change or add to the materials they use. These new February Program: requirements can be met in a variety of ways, some of which will be more easily adapted depending on each GREEN builder s own systems. Changes may also impact other materials and systems that also will have to be reviewed. Higher insulation levels, for instance, equipment required to heat and cool the IOWA AMERICORP may reduce the amount of HVAC home. As part of the new standards, each home also must pass a blower-door test, to ensure an air-leakage rate below a specified number of air exchanges per hour based on the climate zone. Written reports are required to verify test results. However, as the home becomes more airtight, the need to provide mechanical air exchanges to improve indoor air quality becomes more important although the IECC code doesn t require such equipment, the 2012 IRC does include requirements for mechanical ventilation. As builders and remodelers know, many states and local code adopters are slow to bring their own requirements in line with the latest standards. Many have yet to adopt the 2009 code (although they may skip it and advance to the most recent when they do upgrade). Even so, learning the specifics of the insulation/energy requirements early provides more time to find the most cost-effective approach to meeting those needs on a regular basis with the least disruption or cost. Forward-thinking builders can gain a step on competitors by working to meet the new codes and market that difference to their customers. This not only differentiates their houses but ensures they re ready when the new code is enacted in their area and it will be. READ THE STORY

7 EPA cracks down on lead paint rules P AGE 7 The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently announced 16 enforcement actions for violations of the lead-based paint Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule (RRP). A priority for EPA s enforcement program is to protect children, and others, from exposure to lead dust that can cause lead poisoning by ensuring that renovators follow the RRP and other lead rules, EPA says. News Releases issued by the Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Lead exposure can cause a range of adverse health effects, from behavioral disorders and learning disabilities to seizures and death, putting young children at the greatest risk because nervous systems are still developing. At least 4 million households with children have lead paint, and over a half million children have elevated levels of lead in their blood. But lead exposure is preventable when you know what to look for and what to do, said Cynthia Giles, assistant administrator for EPA s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. These settlements serve as an important reminder of the importance of using lead-safe practices to protect the health of our children and prevent lead poisoning. Sign up for training now see page 12 The RRP rule requires that contractors that work on pre dwellings and child-occupied facilities be trained and certified to use lead-safe work practices. This ensures that common renovation and repair activities like sanding, cutting and replacing windows are done in ways that minimize dangerous lead dust. EPA finalized the RRP rule in 2008 and the rule took effect on April 22, READ THE STORY

8 P AGE 8 A political action committee (PAC) is an organization that campaigns for political candidates or legislation. The mission of the Iowa Rental Property Owners PAC, or IARPO-PAC is to educate lawmakers on the important issues confronted by rental property owners. This PAC, in its mission statement, pledges to be a non-partisan PAC. Support will be given to those legislators and candidates who demonstrate an understanding of and support for issues important to our membership. How do politicians use PAC money? Politicians rely on money contributed by individuals and PACs for campaign funds. PAC contributions are used to pay for campaign staff, commercials, signs, handouts, etc. Campaign money is heavily regulated by the Iowa Ethics Campaign and Disclosure Board. Please send your contribution to: IARPO-PAC, PO Box 354, Mason City, IA Name: Address: YES! I want to contribute to IARPO-PAC. I have included my Individual or noncorporate business (such as an LLCs) check donation for: $100 $250 $500 $1000 other amount of $

9 Waterloo Landlord Licensing & Rental Registration P AGE 9 An Ordinance amending the city RENTAL HOUSING code in Title 9, Chapter 7 has been amended with feedback from the Landlords of Black Hawk and a neighborhood representative. The new draft will be distributed for review as soon as possible AND may go before the council for the first reading as early as Tuesday, January 21, The first reading is the opportunity for PUBLIC COMMENTS. Landlord of Black Hawk members are encourages to read the PROPOSED ORDINANCE AT: or check your inbox! The top 10 issues addressed: 1) There is no system for registration in place. The city will populate the system with all rental addresses. 2) The City has not issued inspection certificates. The city will look in to adding information for units that have been inspected in the last 3-5 years plus all Section 8 units as a way of weeding out those units that DO NOT require immediate inspection. This should help to pick up the units that have never been inspected or have not been inspected in a recent timeframe. 3) The city should provide zoning information. The city will look in to this especially for single family units. 4) The new rule does not state the fee structure. The fee will be $25 per Landlord (once initially) and $25 per unit annually. 5) The new rule does address how Tenant violation of occupancy rules will be addressed. By providing Tenant information, code enforcement will be able to write city violation notices to the Tenant which can be searched online at Iowa Court Online using a prefix code. Once in place a summary of how to use this tools as a screening criteria will be made available by LLBH. 6) The new rule must compel the city police force to notify the Landlord of every incident at the property that is deemed in violation of the Crime Free Addendum. Not addressed. 7) The new rule must compel City Code Enforcement to cite and fine Tenants for code violations. See #5 8) The rule implies that the Landlord or the housing structure is somehow responsible for the criminal behavior of a prior Tenant. See #5 9) Who will be fined for violation of the Crime Free Lease Addendum? How will such fine will be levied? Landlords will be fined for not having a Crime Free addendum in the lease. Tenants should be evicted for ongoing criminal behavior through the Nuisance Ordinance. 10) If City Council wants Landlords to evict criminals from rental units then city police must make Tenants criminals by arresting and convicting them for criminal behavior that can be used in court to evict. See #9 This will be one topic of discussion at the Annual Meeting on January 16, 2014, 6pm at the Elk s Club. Also being discussed will be recent information received affecting Cedar Falls Landlords. Don t miss the Holiday Party and this valuable networking experience. CITY OF WATERLOO REMOVAL OF SNOW POLICY The City of Waterloo would like to remind residents and snow removal companies of the rules regarding placement of snow, and sidewalk snow removal. It is against City Ordinance to plow snow across a street or alley or to snow blow or plow snow into the street. The first offense penalty for these actions is a $ citation. Sidewalks in residential areas must be cleared within 72 hours of the end of a snowfall. Sidewalks in high traffic areas such as schools and hospitals should be cleared within 24 hours of the end of a snowfall. If the adjacent property owner does not clear sidewalks, the City will have them cleared and the cost for doing so will be billed to the property owner.

10 Concerns delay landlord licensing plan December 10, 2013 WATERLOO Plans for a new rental housing inspection program have been put on hold again. Waterloo City Council members voted unanimously Monday to table action on the proposed ordinance until Jan. 21 to address several concerns raised by local landlords. "It seems like we're fairly close," said Councilman Steve Schmitt. "We don't get all the right people in the room for the discussion to begin with." Councilwoman Carolyn Cole, who proposed the delay, said rental property owners and city staff should iron out the details and come back next month ready for a vote. "We've been trying to get this ordinance passed for 15 years," Cole said. "On a highly emotional and controversial (measure) I think you're going to have people who disagree with you." Major issues of contention include a proposed fee increase and a perception by landlords that the ordinance would hold them responsible for criminal behavior of tenants. The measure would require anyone owning rental property to get a landlord license while also registering each of their rental units at $25 per year. Landlords now pay only $25 per unit at inspection time, which is once every five years. The proposed ordinance also would move to a three-year inspection cycle and drop the inspection fees. Representatives of Landlords of Black Hawk said they did not believe their input was heard in developing the ordinance and questioned whether the city was equipped to begin handling the registration of an estimated 8,000 rental units. "I think we can all work together on a program, an online registration, I just think it's really not ready," said landlord Sue Schauls. Property manager Mark Pregler voiced concern about a "crime-free lease addendum" the city would require as part of any lease. "Holding a landlord responsible for the actions of a tenant is illegal," Pregler said. "It's not right and is a violation of due process." Building Official Craig Clark said landlords would not be fined if a tenant commits a crime. The proposed ordinance requirement would fine landlords who do not include the crime free addendum in the leases. Resident Cheryl Christiansen presented a letter contesting the new fees, noting people nationwide are struggling economically with depressed wages, higher poverty and unemployment and increasing costs. "I ask that you have a funeral service and bury this licensing fee for landlords and all citizens of Waterloo," she said. READ THE STORY

11 P AGE 11 Call to order 1:09 PM by President Wallace Parrish Board Meeting Elk s Club Notes December 5, 2013 Roll Call Wallace Parrish, Mark Pregler, Sue Schauls, Tony Miller; In attendance, John & Sue Dutcher, Kris Pregler; Treasurer s Report Motion by Mark Pregler to accept, second by Tony Miller, passed; Holiday program and door prizes discussed. Will call on vendors for donations, otherwise Tony volunteered to acquire gifts; Reviewed the election process for Annual Meeting; Discussed at length the Landlord Licensing / Rental Registration ordinance proposed by the City of Waterloo. Mark, Sue & Tony attended the workshop with Craig Clarke, Reverend Loggins, Marty Stoakes. Going through the outline of concerns as drafted by Sue Schauls, we appeared to have made an impression with Craig Clarke, who verbally committed to addressing the topics with the proper city officials to work together towards most of our suggestions. Next meeting scheduled for Tuesday, January 7. Next meeting after that will be Thursday, January 16. Many new questions to ask about this ordinance: Commercial application? Review the previously printed outline of requested topics as posted on our web site?? Briefly discussed the differences between our Iowa Landlords Association lease agreements as compared to the Iowa Bar Associations version. It was discussed by a local magistrate during our state convention that the Bar s lease was considered legal, and the LL Associations was not. Suggested by President Parrish to Pre-Register for a Study Bill at the Iowa Legislature to codify Landlord Rights and Responsibilities vis-à-vis Tenants and Cities. Mr. Parrish is proofing a draft to be sent tour state association, as well as Joe Kelly and possibly other regional landlord associations. The idea is to promote parity at the state level to minimize what local communities can dictate through home rule ordinances, thus making enforceable rules and potential court issues more fair to all, especially landlords. Mark Pregler briefed the board on a conversation regarding a call to our LL Association from the City of Cedar Falls regarding a suggested variance in safety features involving two new rental buildings being constructed in Cedar Falls. General consensus was we are NOT in favor of the requested variance. Would not be fair to all others who have complied with the city s codes to date. It was discussed that we ask to meet with Waterloo and Cedar Falls officials on a monthly basis to keep open the lines of communication regarding topics that involve landlords and communities. Opening the line of communication before an issue arises has the potential to prevent issues from becoming heated, misunderstood or mis-communicated. Meeting adjourned at 1:25 PM Respectfully submitted by Mark Pregler for Rachel Page LLBH Secretary On the Ballot: Board of Directors Officer Elections will be held at the Annual Meeting on January 16, 2014 President Mark Pregler Vice President Sue Schauls Secretary Rachel Page Treasurer Tony Miller

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