In the past members of City Council and I have advocated for improved methods and procedures to better manage illegal housing, code violations and other housing issues. One major step taken recently by the City Council was the establishment of a City Housing Unit to begin to effectively target the many housing issues that plague so many areas of the city. After its initiation, I will propose increasing fines for unscrupulous property owners who consider the current fines “the cost of doing business.” This proactive approach will increase public safety and reduce the financial burden on City residents.