25-2044 : Halton-Pope-Council Review of Property Manager License Renewals and Improving the Application Process(Exc Res

This resolution addresses the renewal of property manager licenses in Buffalo and proposes improvements to the application process. The City Code requires property managers to be licensed annually, with renewals due by November 30th. The Council notes that a recent application period saw only one new application, potentially leaving many property managers operating without a license, which is a violation of Chapter 265.

To improve transparency and accountability, the Council has passed a resolution with three key directives:

1. Outreach to Unlicensed Managers: The Department of Permit and Inspection Services is directed to actively contact and bring unlicensed property managers into compliance.
2. Application Amendment: Corporation Counsel is tasked with approving an ordinance amendment that requires new information on the property manager license application. This amendment, proposed by Councilmember Halton-Pope, will require applicants to list the names and duties of all individuals performing property management tasks under their supervision. This aims to ensure the City is aware of all individuals actively managing properties.
3. Notification: The City Clerk will send copies of this resolution to the Mayor's Office, Department of Permit and Inspection Services, Buffalo Police Department, and Corporation Counsel.

The proposed ordinance amendment, attached to the resolution, details the new information required, including the names and duties of employees performing property management tasks. The amendment also clarifies that a New York State real estate broker's license is required if the applicant collects rents or negotiates rentals, with specific provisions for associate brokers and salespersons. If an applicant is strictly performing maintenance and not handling rents or negotiations, a broker's license is not required. The amendment will take effect once ratified.