Advocating for a Rent Stabilization Ordinance

SPACE RENTS NEED TO BE CONTROLLED

Is it easy to convince elected officials or voters that a rent stabilization ordinance is needed? Yes/No/Maybe

The correct answer is Maybe. If either government officials or the voters are to be persuaded that a rent stabilization ordinance is necessary, they must first be convinced that rents need to be controlled. Where rents are indeed high, there should be no shortage of residents who can give compelling testimony.

RENT RAISES

Will elected officials or voters want to know the history of space rent increases? Yes/No/Maybe

The correct answer is Yes. Homeowners should be prepared to offer evidence of the rent increases which they have received for the last several years. A chart or graph which clearly illustrates the progression of rent raises is a good idea. 

COMPARISON TO CPI

Should space rent increases be compared to the Consumer Price Index? Yes/No/Maybe

The correct answer is Yes. Homeowners should be ready to compare the increases which they have received with increases in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) or Social Security Income during the same period, and with the prices charged in neighboring communities for comparable housing.

MOBILEHOME INVESTMENT

Do elected officials or voters care about the investment by homeowners? Yes/No/Maybe

The correct answer is Yes. They should also talk about the substantial investment which they hold in their homes, and what will happen to that investment if rents are not controlled.

Source: The GSMOL Mobilehome Rent Stabilization Ordinance Handbook, Second Edition: Guidelines for Drafting and Enacting a Mobilehome Rent Stabilization Ordinance.

Prepared by: Bruce Stanton, Esq., Corporate Counsel

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