CONCORD CITY COUNCIL PASSES RENT CONTROL ORDINANCE

Overnight Wednesday, Concord city leaders approved an ordinance that places a cap on annual rent increases, affecting tens of thousands of renters and property owners within the city. The decision was divisive, with the council and attendees at City Hall split on the issue. The atmosphere became so contentious that some individuals were asked to leave the meeting due to unruly behavior. Under the ordinance, annual rent increases will be capped at 3%, or 60% of the consumer price index. These changes will specifically apply to multi-family complexes constructed before February 1, 1995. Prior to the council's decision, both tenants and property owners gathered outside City Hall to express their perspectives, recognizing that the outcome could significantly alter the city's landscape.

Additionally, the council voted on a "just cause" eviction ordinance, which would mandate landlords to cover certain moving expenses for "no fault" evictions in specific cases. Vice Mayor Carolyn Obringer highlighted the impact of the ordinance on single-family home rentals, noting that many individuals affected by this decision were still coming to terms with its implications. During the meeting, council members deliberated the merits of the ordinance, with Vice Mayor Obringer suggesting the possibility of placing it on the ballot in November. However, this proposal failed to gain support from the council.

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