Rising Sun adopts rental‑inspection ordinance after code‑enforcement presentation documenting mold, structural hazards

After a photo-driven presentation documenting recurring hazards in local rental housing — including mold growing up interior walls, rotted joists, unsafe electrical outlets and collapsing stairs — the Mayor and Commissioners adopted Ordinance 2022‑03 to establish a rental-inspection program.

Town Administrator described multiple examples where enforcement or tenant complaints led to remediation only after repeated contact and sometimes court action, which he said can be costly and inefficient for the town. He framed the matter as one of business responsibility: landlords who collect rent are operating a business and should maintain properties to protect tenants and the community. The transcript includes the administrator’s statement: "When you are operating as a landlord ... you are opening a business in the town of Rising Sun." An unidentified participant interjected the remark, "Wawa bags will fix anything," during the presentation.

The ordinance had previously been read into the record at an earlier meeting, the administrator said; the board then moved and seconded adoption of Ordinance 2022‑03. The transcript records voice approval ('Aye') and passage; it does not list individual roll-call totals.

Officials said the program will give the town tools to inspect rental units, require repairs for health and safety issues and pursue licensing or registration where appropriate. The transcript and staff comments indicate the town will return with administrative details and draft enforcement procedures for future meetings.