Slumlord in Targets

The Health Department might take over six properties from an unresponsive landlord who owns some pretty sketchy buildings in the city.

The city is asking a judge to take the properties. A receiver would operate the property, collect rent, and pour some of that money into improvements.

This is a great get-tough move for the city. Not only does it offer a solution to a problem, but it should also be a warning shot to similar owners in the city. In fact, the city should mail a copy of the story or the legal documents to other owners with the implicit message that they're next.