Petition to the Providence City Council: Oppose the Proposed “Student Impact / Special use Permit Fee” and Other Student Housing Ordinance Changes

We, the undersigned students and residents of Providence, strongly oppose the proposed $300 per student annual “Student Impact / Special Use Permit Fee", new licensing and registry requirements on landlords who rent to students, as well as any discriminatory zoning that would prevent students from living where the owner of the property mutually accepts them. We object to any further additional ordinances which will increase the expense and availability of off-campus housing. 

Why We Oppose These Measures:
1. Students Already Contribute to the City’s Economy
College students are vital members of the Providence community. We support local businesses, attend community events, volunteer, and work in the city. Many of us pay rent, utilities, and tuition without outside assistance. Adding an additional fee simply for being a student tenant is unjust and places an unnecessary financial burden on an already financially stretched population.

2. Increased Rental Costs and Risk of Displacement
New regulations and fees on landlords who rent to students will almost certainly be passed down to tenants, resulting in higher rents in the community at large. More concerning is the risk of license suspensions that could suddenly displace students from their housing, creating instability and hardship. These students could disperse throughout the city, occupying the already scarce housing stock that can better suit other residents' needs. 

3. Reduced Housing Access for Students and Residents Alike
These measures will likely reduce the availability of student housing and further strain the city’s already tight rental market, driving up prices for everyone—not just students. Additionally, these ordinances may create unintended discrimination towards younger residents of the city who may be perceived to possibly be students. 

4. Off-Campus Living Provides Critical Flexibility
Living off campus offers many students more affordable, flexible housing options than dormitories, which often close during academic breaks and require students to travel home. This independence is essential for students who work, intern, or remain in Providence year-round. Lower income, international, and minority students will suffer most under these regulations.

Our Request to the City Council:

• Reject the proposed Student Impact Fee and Other Student Housing ordinance changes that unfairly target students and student housing.
• Abstain from further introductions of city ordinances that increase the cost and reduce the availability of off-campus housing or housing options for all.

We urge the City Council to listen to the students and residents who call Providence home, and to pursue solutions that support housing access and affordability for all.

Thank you for your time and consideration.