Posted on 12/04/2023
ONE BIG THING: RENT CONTROL ADJUSTMENT APPROVED BY CITY COUNCIL
What Happened
On Tuesday, City Council approved the ordinance that will lower the maximum allowable rent increase for rent controlled units to 4% as opposed to the previously scheduled 7% limit.
This came after we introduced a motion with Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez to delay the rent hike entirely for an additional six months as we wait for an evidence-based report from the Housing Department about how to fix our city’s rent control system. Unfortunately, that motion did not pass, but we were able to avoid the catastrophic 7% rent hike that was originally scheduled to hit tenants in February.
What It Means
Here’s the maximum acceptable rent increase starting in February depending on what type of unit you live in. Click here to learn how to see if you live in a rent controlled unit and what year your building was built.
Why It Matters
We are in the midst of an eviction tsunami. Earlier this month, CD13 received over 400 Three Day Notices in one week - the most we’ve ever seen. That adds up to over 7,500 eviction notices since February.
This Sunday at 1pm, we are door knocking in East Hollywood to help prevent evictions and to make sure that renters know their rights. We heard from folks potentially facing homelessness because of illegal eviction notices, so when we intervene, we can truly keep families off the streets and in their homes.
Three More Quick Hits!
1. Independent Redistricting Headed to 2024 Ballot
A year ago, our city was rocked by the leaked racist tapes of corrupt politicians conspiring to rig the redistricting maps and disenfranchise Black Angelenos. We need to ensure that can’t happen again.
It shouldn’t be controversial to say that voters should pick their councilmembers instead of the other way around. So in November 2024, voters will decide if LA should set up our first ever truly independent redistricting commission so our residents can all have a voice in how the city is run.
2. Expansion of Unarmed Response Program Approved
In this year’s budget, we were able to more than double the city’s funding for trained unarmed responders to handle 911 calls related to homelessness, mental health, wellness checks, and more.
This week, council approved a motion that will expand the CIRCLE unarmed response program, which has been successful in areas of CD13 like Hollywood and Echo Park, to more areas of the city. Stay tuned for more updates about what neighborhoods these new teams will cover!
3. Microenterprise Grants
The city is currently awarding funding for small businesses that lost income during the COVID pandemic!
Grants of up to $5,000 will be awarded to eligible businesses, prioritizing businesses that have yet to receive assistance. Funds can be used for operating expenses, including payroll, lease payments, insurance, inventory, and more.