CITY HALL — In addition to a proposed sales tax measure, Santa Monica voters may also be asked to amend the City Charter and grant more protections to renters.
The City Council, with a 6-1 vote, ordered city staff to draft a proposed ballot initiative that would give tenants more time to respond to minor violations before they are served with a three-day notice of eviction. The measure would also protect seniors, the disabled and terminally ill tenants from owner-occupancy evictions.
The Rent Control Board asked council to consider the added protections after hearing from several tenants who, because of their age or physical condition, could not adequately respond to complaints or violations.
Renter Kate Wechsler told the council that she was forced to move out of her rent-control apartment of 26 years at a time when she had recently lost her husband, mother and brother.
She said she was evicted because her landlord took pictures of stacks of newspapers, saying she was a hoarder and created a safety hazard.
“They hit me when I was completely down and almost out for the count,” she said. “They gave me a three-day notice. I didn’t even know what that meant.”
Councilman Bob Holbrook voted against the order because he felt the protections could be granted by drafting a new law and that going to the voters would create a bitter, divisive campaign that could drag down the sales tax measure.
Other members of the council were concerned that an ordinance would not provide enough stability because it could be eliminated by a new council majority.
“I think in the pursuit of stability there is a compelling argument going for a charter amendment given that all councils are temporary,” said Councilman Kevin McKeown.
A draft ballot measure is expected to be considered by the council next week during a special meeting.
kevinh@www.smdp.com
