The California Apartment Association is exploring its options after the El Cerrito City Council on Tuesday granted preliminary approval to a “just cause” for eviction ordinance on a 3-2 vote.
Council members Janet Abelson and Gabe Quinto voted against the ordinance. A proposal to create a rent registry also won approval on a 4-1 vote, with Quinto dissenting.
The council must formalize approval of the measures with a second vote, expected on May 21. In the meantime, CAA is evaluating all avenues for a reconsideration.
The path leading to this week’s preliminary approval of just cause began with a series of meetings initiated in August 2018. For each of the meetings, CAA Contra Costa mobilized El Cerrito rental property owners and operators to send letters, pack the council chambers, and speak against the harmful and costly proposals.
CAA Contra Costa appreciates members and local stakeholders for responding to email alerts, postcards and regular housing briefings. For Tuesday’s important vote, the city did not conduct direct outreach to housing providers.
While the majority of the City Council expressed opposition to rent control or any moratorium on rent increases, a just cause eviction policy gained favor, seen as a compromise to help the city’s renters.
It is commonly known that just cause makes it more difficult to evict problem tenants, which has a negative impact on good renters living in the same community.
CAA Contra Costa is reviewing the ordinance and developing compliance materials for members.
Tuesday night’s split vote underscores the importance of engaging in local elections. CAA’s political action committee will engage in the November 2020 El Cerrito council race, helping ensure the election of candidates who understand the issues facing rental housing providers.