Rowlett proposes rule barring rentals to registered offenders near places children gather

City staff proposed adding a paragraph to the code of ordinances (section 34-71) to prevent property owners from leasing to individuals who are prohibited by federal or state law from residing within 1,000 feet of locations where children commonly gather. The mayor read the proposed enforcement language during the session: "So it's unlawful to let, sublet, rent any place, structure, or part thereof... if that place structure... is located within 1,000 feet from a premise where children commonly gather," the mayor said, reading staff-prepared wording.

Council and staff discussed enforcement mechanics. Victoria, the city attorney, said the city typically provides landlords 30 to 45 days to pursue eviction under landlord-tenant law for long-term rentals before issuing a city violation; for short-term rentals the approach differs because of the transient occupancy. Council members supported the objective of keeping locations serving children protected and asked staff to return with clear notice-and-enforcement procedures.