linsal - 5/25/2018 05:46 I am involved in a variety of revitalization efforts in my local town (pop 5000). We have a number of buildings in the downtown area which are not being utilized (doors are locked, buildings are sitting empty). From the conversations I have had with aspiring business owners, the owners of the buildings want big city rental rates (the owners of the buildings do not live in the area). Is there a way, through city ordinances, to force the building owners to rent these buildings out? (e.g., fines after 360 days if the building is not open) This goes against my belief in free market systems, but I don't know of another way to get these buildings open for retail or other suitable businesses. The building owners appear to be content to pay taxes, perform minimal upkeep, etc. I should note that most of the buildings in question are mixed use (retail on the first floor, apartments on the second and third floor---the apartments are being rented out). Occupancy rate on rental properties is very high in the city. The aspiring small business owners need to pay realistic rents to have a chance. Any examples of ordinances? Are there other ideas? Thanks.