reports, Jean?s two-family house has four doorbells and four electricity meters. Both signs could indicate an illegal dwelling, and the tax hike the landlord faces is substantial. Last year Jean paid about $4,500 in school taxes. With the increase, he faces paying just under $24,000.

Jean claims the county selectively enforces the laws. He says the houses with too many white families are getting away with it, whereas black families are targeted. Only 13 homes will be affected by the crackdown this year. The assessor?s office promised wider enforcement in the years to come.