Support for Tenant Protection Ordinance

Read the policy letter in pdf form here.

Dear Mayor Gloria, Council President Sean Elo-Rivera and Councilmembers:

On behalf of the YIMBY Democrats of San Diego County, please accept this letter of support for the proposed Residential Tenant Protections Ordinance. 

The YIMBY Democrats of San Diego County believe tenants have a right to live in their home without fear of displacement if they are abiding by their lease terms. Strengthening tenant protections is a critical step the City can take to address San Diego’s housing and homelessness crises.

The City of San Diego is behind when it comes to protecting its tenants. The City is abiding by a 2004 ordinance that grants few protections to those who are renting their homes. In 2019, California Assembly Bill 1482 strengthened eviction protections statewide, but the bill does not apply in San Diego because of a provision that limits its applicability to jurisdictions without just-cause ordinances, like San Diego’s 2004 ordinance.

Mayor Todd Gloria and Council President Sean Elo-Rivera have proposed a new tenant protection law to bring San Diego up to the standards set by AB 1482, and in some areas exceed it. For instance, this proposed ordinance would provide:

• Protections on the first day of the lease, with a narrow exemption for short term leases;

• Financial assistance when a tenant’s lease is terminated through no-fault of their own (as of right now financial assistance is not required);

• Stronger safeguards for when a landlord wants to significantly remodel or upgrade a renter’s home;

• Educational materials and resources from the City when tenants move-in; and

• Accountability measures to ensure all landlords and property managers abide with the new regulations.

  That is why we support Mayor Todd Gloria's and Council President Sean Elo-Rivera’s proposed ordinance to better protect San Diegans. It is time for the City of San Diego to take measures to prevent displacement and homelessness. Thank you for your time and consideration.

  Sincerely,

  Angeli Hoyos

  President, YIMBY Democrats of San Diego County