Ward 4 Alderman, Tony Lafuente has submitted a Board of Alderman Order that would dramatically increase fines to Absentee Landlords when their properties become a nuisance or are identified as problem properties, such as illegal activity and disrepair. The measure would also call for police details – paid for by the landlords of problem units – at properties that continue to cause problems for neighbors.

The cities of Boston, Quincy and Woburn have implemented similar laws.

“We need to look at being proactive as apposed to being reactive when dealing with irresponsible and absentee landlords who are not mindful of neighbors, the community and the city,” said Lafuente. Other aldermen have already signed on to the order and it will go to the Committee on Legislative Matters in the New Year. “I look forward to have this new law passed and implemented as soon as possible so that we can begin to protect our neighbors and residents in a more proactive way,” added Lafuente.