Editor:
The six percent increase passed by the Rent Control Board is, ironically, tied to the rate of inflation. I say ironically because, for those on fixed incomes - including elderly, retired and disabled Santa Monica residents - this historic increase is not a stand-alone thing. It adds to the pressure that already exists in the form of higher prices for just about everything.
Folks on fixed incomes are not getting richer. Some are, in fact, saying that being forced to live with a six percent rental increase might well mean being forced to choose between eating and keeping a roof over their heads.
If a solution to the problem exists, then it is incumbent upon the Rent Control Board to figure it out and implement it without delay.
Joan Walston, Santa Monica
