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News for rental housing owners & managers ~ October 14, 2022

_{The Richfield Apartment Manager’s Association (RAMA) is a collaborative effort between the City of Richfield and rental housing management and owners to create and maintain quality apartment communities. The RAMA Reporter is published quarterly to provide information and resources for furthering this mission.}

Fire Safety Reminders Fire Prevention Week was October 9 - 15, and it's a good time to remember these important fire safety tips: - Keep those fire doors closed!  The doors can greatly slow the spread of a fire - but only if they're closed.  - Keep the hallways clear of rugs and other items.  - Keep smoke and carbon monoxide detectors operational. Take time to put in fresh batteries every October.

Fees for Re-inspections Increasing in 2023

Your annual rental licensing fee includes two visits: the initial inspection and a second inspection to confirm all identified items have been corrected. If an inspector has to visit your property more than these two times, a re-inspection fee is charged and added to your next license renewal fee. These fees are increasing in 2023. Help us all avoid multiple visits by:

• Informing your tenants when inspectors are scheduled to visit, letting them know what to expect, and making sure they contain any pets.
• Having keys to all your units. 
• Getting the list of correction items from the inspector and making sure to address all the items before they return to re-inspect. If you have a question about any of the items, contact the inspector - they're here to help!

Request Police Data Online

If you're looking for any type of police data, requests are now made online. Whether you need a copy of a police report, RPO statistics, an accident report, or body-worn camera footage, our Data Practices Request Center makes the process of requesting data quick and easy. Visit the City of Richfield website and click on the "Request Data" link at the top of the page. If you receive an email regarding police calls for service for your rental property, and you have questions regarding an incident, please call our Crime Prevention Unit at 612-861-9845. If you need help navigating the Request Center, don't have internet access, or have general questions, please call 612-861-9800.

Improved Recycling = Lower Trash Costs

Improving your recycling program can help save you money on trash disposal costs. Free educational materials and on-site assistance is available for property owners, managers or associations. If you would like more individualized help, you can email rlindholm@richfieldmn.gov. See what's available and order free resources. Sign up to receive the Apartments Recycle newsletter as new resources become available. Hennepin County requires multifamily properties to offer recycling. Browse the "how to comply guide" (PDF) for step-by-step instructions. More information (including grant opportunities) is available at Apartment Recycling.

Tenant Resources

$1 Transit Passes for Tenants Help tenants who have limited incomes stretch their dollars. They can ride the bus for $1 with a reduced transit pass. Transit Assistance Program

Richfield Winter Market  Saturdays: November 19, December 3, December 17, 11:00 am-3:00 pm Wheel Fun Malt Shop Building (next to the Vets Park Shelter), 6335 Portland Ave The outdoor market ends for the season on Saturday, October 15, so we’re taking it inside for three special winter markets! For the latest news, including updated vendor lists, follow the Richfield Market on Facebook or sign up online for the e-newsletter.

Cold-weather Tips from the Housing Inspectors

• It's getting cold outside, and pests are going to be looking for places to keep warm. Take a look around your property and seal up those areas where pests can find easy entrance.
• Call to schedule an energy audit, offered free through a partnership between CenterPoint Energy and Excel Energy: 844-545-7455.

Rental Renewals Coming Soon!

Watch your mailbox for your rental renewal form. Submit the form and fee before the end of the year to avoid a late penalty. Thank you for your prompt attention!  Any questions or need to report a change in address, e-mail Natalie at nstanton@richfieldmn.gov.