Page 47 - AAGLA-MAY 2022

Local Advocacy Update
Continued from page 44
to be brought before the City Council in 60 days which would amend the City’s Health and Safety Code requiring electrification of certain categories of new construction including new multifamily residential buildings with more than 3 units. The City Council also discussed future expansion of electrification requirements to single family homes and accessory dwelling units (ADU’s). At this time, the proposal being advanced is not applicable to existing multifamily residential buildings. It is anticipated that the issue and draft ordinance will be presented to the Council at the end of May.
West Hollywood City Council Contemplates a Vacancy Tax For the November 2022 Ballot
At the April 4th City Council meeting, the Council directed staff to conduct analysis of residential and commercial vacancy taxes with the ultimate objective of considering placing a vacancy tax on the November 2022 ballot. The analysis will include polling and community outreach to stakeholders. The issue was advanced on consent with minimal discussion. Council Member Horvath voted in opposition noting that a vacancy tax would have unintended ramifications and would result in increased costs of residential and commercial rentals. The Association is strongly opposed to vacancies taxes and will continue to monitor this issue as it develops.
West Hollywood City Council Delays Discussion on Establishing End to City’s Rent Increase Freeze
At the March 21st City Council meeting, the Council discussed modifications and recissions of orders, ordinances, and related policies that had been put in place due the COVID-19 pandemic. One such ordinance is the City’s rent increase freeze which was adopted in April 2020 and is currently set to expire 60 days following the expiration of the City’s local emergency, a date which remains unknown. The rent increase freeze bans rent increases on all rent stabilized units regardless of whether or not the renter has been financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Council postponed further discussion and a determination on this matter and directed staff to return in June following the release of updated Consumer Price Index information. We will continue to monitor the issue, advocate for our members interests, and provide updates.
This article is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions regarding your property or specific tenancies and the requirements of any local law changes described herein, please consult with an attorney.
DonateToday@ https://aagla.org/candidatespac/
Please make checks payable to: AAGLA PAC c/o Reed & Davidson, LLP 515 S Figueroa Street, Suite 1110 Los Angeles, California 90071 Attention: Cary Davidson, Treasurer
APARTMENT AGE • MAY 2022 47