pages: CityCouncil/2016-02-16.pdf, 31
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CityCouncil | 2016-02-16 | 31 | Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft stated there is nothing preventing the parties from working out an agreement between themselves. Mayor Spencer stated the language is just clarification and is not a substantive change. Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft Section 6.58-90D on parties failure to appear for the hearing; should allow an agent or a designee to attend the hearing; many of the smaller landlords are elderly or live out of town; someone with authority should attend the RRAC meeting to bind the owner to what the RRAC recommends. Mayor Spencer stated that she wants someone with ownership interest. Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft stated Council agreed to change the requirement; the penalty would be if someone attends with no authority to make a decision, then the rent increase is null and void. Mayor Spencer stated the decision was to have someone with ownership interest; if there is a hardship, then someone else could attend; the default is that it be someone with ownership interest. Vice Mayor Matarrese stated if something prevents the person with ownership interest from attending, they must send someone who has the authority to act. Mayor Spencer agreed; stated the default is someone with ownership interest. Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft stated a property owner could attend who has no knowledge of the day to day operations of the property; questioned what is gained by requiring the owner attend. Councilmember Oddie stated the intent is to have larger corporation landlords, who want the 20% rent increases attend the hearing. Mayor Spencer agreed; stated she is fine with leaving ownership interest. Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft stated to be fair and balanced for both sides, making someone get on a plane for a 6% rent increase is not justified. Councilmember Oddie stated the corporate landlords who want to increase the rent should come justify it; an elderly mom and pop landlord wanting to send their child to represent them is understandable. Mayor Spencer stated that she agrees; if the landlords are elderly or have an issue, it is okay to send someone; the default would be to have as many owners show up as possible. Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft recommended including the disabled as well. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 29 February 16, 2016 | CityCouncil/2016-02-16.pdf |