Salinas Forum addresses tenant and landlord’s rights

Renting a home on the Central Coast can be expensive but local leaders are at least trying to educate people about their rights.

It was the idea behind a meeting Thursday for renters and landlords.

The meeting was a way to not just help everyone know their rights but really getting a conversation between landlords and tenants going. Organizers say, the truth is, both sides face serious issues.

“Housing discrimination of any of the protected classes such as race religion,” Emily Garnica an Echo Housing Counselor.

It’s an issue experts say many aren’t talking about, but they should.

“Tenants have rights, whether you are illegal or legal you have rights as a tenant,” Garnica said.

“I’ve seen some fear, some hesitation because you know, we have a number of undocumented folks, they’ll pay the rent but they’re afraid to say anything,” said Salinas city council member Tony Barrera.

Barrera helped put together the forum not just to help tenants, but landlords as well.

“The goal here is for both sides of the coin to get information and education so that they can work more harmoniously with each other,” said C.J. Valenzuela, Community Development Analyst with the City of Salinas.

A foundation he hopes will last for future generations.

“I’ve been hearing now high school students worried about the rent because they hear mom and dad, they should be concerned about their schooling but they hear mom and dad complaining about [them] not having enough,” Barrera said.

Local leaders say, it all starts with speaking up.

“Don’t be scared to talk about the issues that you’re facing because someone else may be facing them as well,” Garnica said, “Your voice can help that other person come forward.”

More forums like Thursday’s are planned to find out more click here.