pages: CityCouncil/2015-01-20.pdf, 14
This data as json
body | date | page | text | path |
---|---|---|---|---|
CityCouncil | 2015-01-20 | 14 | and practical support to renters to help them become more educated consumers; it would be helpful if City staff comes back with recommendations to make a stronger Rent Review Advisory Committee (RRAC); it is important to work together cooperatively to decrease the exorbitant rent increases. In response to Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft's inquiry, Mr. Lindsey stated retaliation is not legal and renters should not keep a rent increase a secret; renters should go to the RRAC, the owner, ECHO Housing, or City Council to have a rent issue resolved; encouraged owners to stay involved; stated peer pressure also works. In response to Councilmember Oddie's inquiry, the Community Development Director explained the RRAC process; stated a rent increase complaint form is available on the Housing Authority website; the RRAC meets once a month and meetings are scheduled as cases arise; the tenant and property owner are invited to the meeting to present their side of the story; the RRAC makes suggestions; often times, the recommendations are accepted; the RRAC does not deal with maintenance or fair housing issues, only rent increases. Councilmember Oddie inquired what happens if the issue is not resolved by the RRAC. The Community Development Director responded there is an opportunity for either party to come before the Council; the Council is asked to write a letter to the owner to uphold the RRAC recommendation; letters are not typically complied with; the tenant can resort to other remedies. In response to Councilmember Oddie's inquiry, Mr. Cambra stated approximately 12 to 14 tenants came forward with rent increases; that he does not have the statistical data on the percent of increase. Stated the RRAC supports the request; reviewed the RRAC membership: David Perry and Royal Roberts, RRAC. Stated that he is a landlord of 366 units; reviewed increasing costs to maintain buildings: Erik Johnson. Stated the issue arises whenever there is a market surge; urged the measures be implemented: Garfield Kincross, ARC. Discussed reasons for rental increases: Doyle Saylor, ARC. Stated 10% is too great an increase for most renters; the RRAC should have increased enforcement: Jason Buckley, Alameda. Submitted information; discussed rental increases: John Sullivan, San Leandro. Discussed construction costs; expressed concern over rent control: Ken Gutleben, Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 13 January 20, 2015 | CityCouncil/2015-01-20.pdf |