City of Salinas receives report addressing rent stabilization and tenant protection

SALINAS, Calif. (KION-TV)- The City of Salinas is looking to tackle current housing issues in the community. On Tuesday night, council received a report on the current housing market status during what they call a “housing affordability gap”.

“I hear from a lot of residents as to how can we do better. It's not just supply, it's also making sure that renters and owners have the right information when making decisions and taking action," Salinas District 3 Councilmember Steve McShane said.

The city said some strategies could include a tenant protection ordinance, a rent stabilization ordinance and tenant education programs. Many who came to the meeting were very passionate about the issue.

“We've seen this demand for housing multiply over time. And we are now in this critical point where we, you know, we need to stop the bleeding. And rent stabilization is, is one step in that direction," Luis Xago Juarez with Building Healthy Communities said.

Still, there was also some worries from landlords and property managers.

“The need to act is clear, however I’m concerned about some of the potential ramifications of over regulating the rental industry," Adam Pinterits with the Monterey County Association of Realtors.

Others during public comment brought up their personal stories dealing with high housing costs. Ultimately, the council took no action but did accept the report.

While there was no action the council voted on, many members did express interest in exploring this topic further. Mayor Kimbley Craig also said she would like to see the pros and cons of rent stabilization in Salinas.

The city’s report states that the proposed local strategies would be on top of existing state laws surrounding rental housing and tenant protection.