The Pasadena Rental Housing Board decided on Thursday not to recommend a position to the City Council regarding Proposition 33, which seeks to repeal the Costa-Hawkins Rental Housing Act. This followed a heated debate among Board members and passionate public comments.
If passed, the proposition would allow local governments to expand rent control, covering single-family homes and newer buildings that are currently exempt under Costa-Hawkins.
“I don’t think we should get involved in endorsing or even recommending City Council endorse this,” said Board Member Brandon Lamar. “When it comes to us hearing cases later, I don’t want someone presuming we’re biased.”
The Board discussed possible outcomes if Prop 33 passes, such as regulating rents between tenancies and extending rent stabilization to currently exempt units. They noted that the City’s rent stabilization amendment already anticipates Costa-Hawkins’ repeal, allowing flexibility in enforcement.
Tenant advocates voiced support for the measure, claiming it would offer necessary protections. This was the Board’s third discussion on the issue, reflecting ongoing tensions as they continue implementing Pasadena’s rent stabilization ordinance passed in 2022.
Board Chair Ryan Bell argued in favor of considering the proposition, stating: “Our role isn’t to protect landlords but to protect tenants while ensuring landlords still get a fair return on their investments.”
After much debate, the Board voted on a motion to take no stance. The result was 5 in favor, 2 against, and 2 abstentions—falling short of the 6 votes needed to pass, leaving no action taken.
During public comments, several landlords expressed concern over the potential impact.
Property owner Peggy Names said, “If we lose vacancy control protection, that’s going to be a dealbreaker for me. Every time a tenant leaves, I have to refinish the floors and replace appliances.”
