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18632 | Approved Minutes January 24, 2017 RRAC decisions to be binding for tenant-initiated non-exempt unit cases Add language to Section 6.58-75 (D) that states a rent increase request is considered closed and withdrawn from the RRAC process when the Program Administrator receives an agreement between a tenant and landlord concerning the amount of the rent increase. 7.b. PUBLIC COMMENT Erick Strimling: Speaker stated that he has never seen the mediation process work at a Committee meeting. He noted that many tenants and landlords are exhausted by the process. He explained that mediation is a well-defined term and should be facilitated by a professional prior to the Committee meeting. He stated many tenants feel pressure to sign rent increase agreements. He noted that tenants are often hesitant to submit requests for rent increase reviews before RRAC because they do not want to risk the relationship with their landlord. He suggested that staff always explain options to each tenant and landlord in separate meetings prior to any mediation. He stated that tenants should not be penalized for selecting a month-to-month option. Additionally, he emphasized that data is needed and the terms of agreements for all cases submitted to the Program Administrator should be public information. Toni Grimm: Speaker stated that she appreciates the time and thoughtfulness of the Committee. She expressed disappointment that the Hearing Officer's criteria was not added to the Committee's criteria. She stated that the same criteria should be applied to each case. Ed Paul: Speaker thanked the Committee for their work. He stated that the Committee process appears to be working. He noted that the process seems to be addressing the situation when an excessive rent increase is reported. Motion and second for the following recommendations (Schrader and Griffiths). Approved by unanimous consent. Mediation be offered and encouraged prior to the RRAC meeting RRAC decisions to be binding for tenant-initiated cases with non-exempt units Add language to Section 5.58-75 (D) that if the Program Administrator receives an agreement between a tenant and landlord regarding a rent increase, then the case is considered closed and withdrawn from the RRAC process. Staff clarified that these recommendations will be sent to the City Attorney and will be presented to City Council. Motion and second for Chair Sullivan-SariƱana to present the Committee's recommendations at the City Council meeting. (Griffiths and Schrader). Approved by unanimous consent. 8. MATTERS INITIATED Page 6 of 7 |