San Pablo Tenant Advocates Submit Rent Control Ballot Measure Signatures

Tenant advocates in San Pablo, California have submitted over 1,500 signatures to the city in an effort to place a rent control measure on the November 2024 ballot. The proposed measure aims to cap annual rent increases at 60% of the inflation rate, with a maximum increase of 3% to 5%, depending on the city.

In addition to the rent caps, the measure would strengthen enforcement of existing renter protections and introduce rules against tenant harassment. The rent caps would not apply to single-family homes, condos, or apartments built after 1995. Landlords would still be permitted to charge market-rate rent to new tenants, and in certain cases, property owners could petition for increases beyond the local limits.

Why this matters: The San Pablo rent control ballot measure is part of a broader trend of tenant groups pushing for rent control measures across the Bay Area, as the region confronts high housing costs and the expiration of pandemic-era eviction moratoriums and rental assistance programs. The outcome of this measure could have significant implications for renters and landlords in San Pablo and potentially set a precedent for similar initiatives in other Bay Area cities.

The submission of signatures for the San Pablo rent control measure comes amid a housing affordability crisis in the Bay Area. With the expiration of pandemic-related eviction moratoriums and rental assistance programs, many renters are facing the prospect of steep rent increases and potential displacement.

Tenant advocates argue that the proposed measure is necessary to protect renters from excessive rent hikes and to ensure that they can remain in their homes. "We need to take action to keep our communities intact and prevent displacement," said Maria Hernandez, a member of the San Pablo Tenants Union. "This measure is a critical step in addressing the housing affordability crisis and protecting the rights of renters."

Opponents of the measure, including some landlords and property owners, argue that the rent caps could discourage investment in rental properties and lead to a decrease in the supply of affordable housing. They also contend that the measure could result in higher costs for property maintenance and repairs, which could ultimately be passed on to tenants.

The San Pablo City Clerk's office will now verify the submitted signatures to determine if the measure qualifies for the November ballot. If the measure is approved by voters, it would make San Pablo the latest Bay Area city to adopt rent control measures in response to the region's ongoing housing affordability crisis.

Key Takeaways

• Tenant advocates in San Pablo, CA submitted 1,500+ signatures for rent control ballot.
• Proposed measure aims to cap annual rent increases at 60% of inflation, max 3-5%.
• Measure would strengthen renter protections and ban tenant harassment.
• Opponents argue rent caps could discourage investment and reduce affordable housing.
• Measure could set precedent for rent control initiatives in other Bay Area cities.