07 Aug Renters in Pittsburg, San Pablo Demand Passage of Rent Stabilization Ordinances

(City of San Pablo via Bay City News)

By Bay City News

Contra Costa County renters in the cities of Pittsburg and San Pablo plan to rally at City Council meetings this week for stronger tenant protections to be passed.

On Monday, Aug. 7, renters will attend the San Pablo and Pittsburg City Council meetings to urge local policymakers to pass rent stabilization ordinances.

If passed, this legislation would lower the allowable yearly rent increase from 5% plus Consumer Price Index — which can total up to a 10% increase — to a set 3% increase cap.

The Alliance of Californians for Community Empowerment Action, which is the organization leading the effort, argues that the passage of a rent stabilization ordinance would protect people from the economic hardship of rising rent costs and could prevent evictions and homelessness.

“I just want the rent to be affordable and to live without this stress, all this extra stress is making me feel sick”, said ACCE member Nicole Arrington, who added that she relies on Social Security and disability funds, but still struggles to make ends meet in lower-income housing due to the cost.

“No one should have to give everything they own to keep a roof over their head especially for a place that is for low-income,” she said.

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