The Town of Smiths Falls is proposing a by-law requiring landlords to obtain a municipal licence before evicting tenants to carry out major renovations that require a rental unit to be vacant.
Mayor Shawn Pankow says renovictions are far too commonplace, and they displace people seemingly overnight.
Pankow is also Chair of the Smiths Falls For All Committee, which crafted the proposed by-law.
The by-law would implement safeguards to ensure any renovations done on properties are legitimate, and renters are notified well in advance, as well as the opportunity to return.
It received support from council and will come forth later with a staff report and potential adoption.
Story by Grant Deme