Program trains landlords to stay trouble-free

LYNN-City officials say there’s more to being a landlord than owning property, which is why the local Health Division is joining forces with the state Executive Office of Public Safety to train landlords and real estate managers in how to keep illegal activities off their rental properties.The Landlord Training Program scheduled for June 5 and 6 is a follow-up to four similar sessions hosted since June 2006. It will be held both days at the Lynn Housing Authority and Neighborhood Development, 10 Church St., in the Community Room from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.According to MaryAnn O’Connor, director of the Health Division, a branch within the city’s Department of Inspectional Services, more than 70 landlords representing 2,500 rental units in Lynn attended the previous training.”Of those who attended, 70 percent stated that as a result of the training they definitely plan to make changes in the way they manage property,” she said, noting that another 28 percent claimed that as a result of the training they would likely make changes. Overall 79 percent of the attendees rated the program as excellent.The free program is made possible through a Byrne Grant from the Executive Office of Public Safety.”Reactions from landlords who complete the course are consistently strong and positive,” said O’Connor, explaining that landlords and managers overwhelmingly agree the training increases their confidence in screening rental applicants and their ability to recognize warning signs of drug activity.As a problem-solving tool, the training has proven an important part of reclaiming and protecting residential neighbors, she said.In addition to the training, representatives from the Northeast Housing Court will discuss how to navigate and mediate the Housing Court system. Judge David Kerman, presiding justice of the Northeast Housing Court, and housing specialist P.J. McDonough, will share their views and answer questions.Although the training is open to the public, space is limited so advance registration is requested by calling the Community Resource Office at 781-595-0450 or email at [email protected].