February 26, 2008
Missoula Realtors undermining compromise on renters' safety
I’m writing to express my frustration with the self interested parties who are opposing renter’s safety, particularly the Missoula Organizations of Realtors. It was disappointing that the REALTORS were unwilling to offer any kind of constructive alternative at the committee hearing Wednesday night. They were invited to sit on the subcommittee, but refused to participate. Now at the last minute they are trying to derail the hard work and compromise that has gone into crafting this ordinance. The subcommittee was made up of a wide variety of individuals representing many different view points, including our friends in the property management community. Even the University Homeowners Association supports the idea. Though we did not always agree we treated each other with civility and respect. This ordinance is a product of that compromise and cooperation.
Unfortunately some members of the public were not as congenial, and instead were openly aggressive, unwilling to compromise, and monopolized the comment time preventing others from having the opportunity to speak. ASUM is always open to suggestions and willing to hear alternatives to the proposed language, but the students will not be bullied by an entrenched special interest that views itself as above the law. Students help fund local government through the payment of rent, and they have a right to participate just like everybody else.
Tara Ness
Vice President, ASUM
