South Pasadena Needs Increased Renter Protections During This New Housing Crisis

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

South Pasadena City Hall (Photo – ColoradoBlvd.net)

The City of South Pasadena must act immediately to implement a rent freeze in response to the housing crisis from the fires.

Casey Dukes on behalf of South Pasadena Tenants Union

A rent freeze is a simple, effective measure that could be enacted without delay.

We also need an eviction moratorium to prevent landlords from displacing tenants. No-fault evictions are only guaranteed one month’s rent for relocation. If residents are forced out of their homes, how will they survive on one month’s rent? Where are they expected to go?

Tens of thousands of people are newly homeless, and many who have lost income are at risk of joining them. South Pasadena must implement robust homelessness prevention measures now. The community cannot wait months for debate or inaction.

We urge the City to protect our residents with a rent freeze, an eviction moratorium, and increased relocation fees without delay. The community is counting on our leaders in this critical moment.

Casey Dukes is a graphic designer and housing advocate in South Pasadena