pages: CityCouncil/2016-01-05.pdf, 24
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CityCouncil | 2016-01-05 | 24 | The City Attorney noted the threshold pertains to a RRAC hearing and is not a rent cap. Councilmember Oddie stated that he thought the threshold is the trigger for binding arbitration. The Community Development Director responded in the negative; stated landlords would be required to notify the Housing Authority and RRAC that they intend to raise the rents above 5%, which is a landlord driven way to go to the RRAC for mediation; then, if the RRAC makes a recommendation that a party does not like, the matter would go to binding arbitration. Mayor Spencer stated that she raised the suggestion because tenants have indicated that they are afraid to go to the RRAC; she is suggesting shifting the burden to the landlord, which addresses retaliation; there would not be a cap; instead, landlords would be required to attend the RRAC meeting to explain why they want an increase above 5%. Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft stated the further protection would be that the matter can go onto binding arbitration; there would be an incentive to resolve the matter at the RRAC knowing there is an extra step which is binding. Councilmember Oddie inquired whether there is a possibility that every increase above 5% sent to the RRAC could end up with none of the cases being mediated and all could end up being arbitrated, to which the Community Development Director responded in the affirmative. Councilmember Oddie stated a database should track every increase to determine if everyone is receiving a 4.99% increase. Mayor Spencer stated that she would like to resolve whether everyone agrees 5% should be the trigger point; everything above 5% would require the landlord to take the matter to the RRAC. The City Attorney clarified all increases over 5% would require the landlord to take the case to the RRAC; however, the only cases which could move up to binding arbitration are units subject to Costa Hawkins. The Community Development Director stated staff has heard consensus on the approach to rent increases; inquired whether landlords should be required to initially offer a one year lease, which is included in Ordinance 1. Mayor Spencer responded that she agrees; inquired whether everyone is on board. Councilmember Oddie inquired whether one year leases would be offered subsequently. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 24 January 5, 2016 | CityCouncil/2016-01-05.pdf |