Fargo – Mayor Josh Boschee unveiled the Mayor’s Advisory Council on Rental Housing, a group of more than 20 community members tasked with advising the City Commission on ways to improve rental housing conditions for the city’s majority renter population.

Council composition and goals

The council, co‑chaired by City Commissioner John Strand and council member Josh Hoper, includes renters of various ages and family situations, landlords, property managers, attorneys representing each side, and representatives from local nonprofits. Boschee emphasized that the council is not meant to pit renters against landlords but to foster productive dialogue and find practical solutions.

Why Fargo needs a focus on rentals

Between 54% and 56% of Fargo residents rent apartments, homes or condos, a rate higher than neighboring and peer cities. Hoper noted that a younger demographic often drives higher rental demand. The city also trails peer cities in home‑ownership rates.

Economic pressure is evident: 66% of financially burdened households are renters, many paying over 30% of their income for rent and utilities. Median rent sits around $900 per month, and moving costs can push renters into even higher expenses, increasing the risk of missed payments and eviction.

Key focus areas

The advisory council will concentrate on three priorities: reducing rental evictions, strengthening renter‑landlord relationships through mediation or streamlined eviction court processes, and establishing a formal rental registry to clarify rights and responsibilities. Fargo currently operates an informal registry, but the council hopes to adopt a more structured system similar to those in other communities.

Looking ahead

The council’s first meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 4, with subsequent meetings set for the second Wednesday of each month. Boschee expects the council to hold five or six meetings before concluding its work, though the recommendations could be continued by community groups or nonprofits.

Mayor Boschee, who loves living in Fargo, stressed the importance of stability and affordability in housing for all residents. “I want this to be productive and to find a solution,” he said, underscoring the city’s commitment to supporting families, seniors and younger renters alike.

Original reporting: InForum (Fargo section) — read the source article.