I’ve been troubled by an issue since I had to evict renters for non-payment of rent. This is only the third time I have had to evict in the last 30 years or so. The duplex is one I built in the early ‘80s and is immaculate.

It normally attracts good tenants and is probably the reason for my low eviction rate.  However, I had to evict renters after trying to work with them and they rewarded me by trashing my property. They stayed until actually forced out by the police and what a mess they left. The officer witnessed and walked through it. Actual garbage, food, etc. was strewn about and everything they didn’t want was left behind, including a garage full of mattresses, washers, dryers, TVs, etc.

It was so overwhelming and just doesn’t seem right. Why should a tenant get away with leaving trash in and around my property but they can be fined for littering elsewhere?

After they leave, they can be difficult to find and even if you do, serving and collecting on judgments are futile. With the police officer there, the tenant could be cited on the spot, like in my case, or called in to observe the condition.

I’m not looking for money but it could be a money maker for the city. Maybe the citation could be attached to their driver’s licenses. I have taken this suggestion to the Washington Apartment Association, our state association. It was suggested we deal with it locally. I have spoken with a police representative as well, who suggested working through the City Council.

I hope the Council can help with this. I’m sure every rental owner in the city would be supportive.

Connie Christman

former president

Puget Rental Owners Association