During a recent government meeting, residents voiced urgent concerns regarding rising rent prices and the need for rent control, particularly for vulnerable populations such as seniors, veterans, and low-income families.

One senior resident passionately advocated for rent control measures that would benefit all seniors, not just those in mobile homes. She highlighted the struggles of living on a fixed income, stating that recent rent increases and added utility costs threaten her ability to remain housed. \"If I get priced out, I'm going to be a homeless person,\" she warned, emphasizing the dire consequences of inaction.

Another speaker, Jose Sanchez, urged the city council to consider a city-wide approach to rent control, rather than focusing solely on mobile home parks. He referenced a toolkit from the County of Los Angeles that could guide the establishment of a tenant protection ordinance, and he requested a meeting with council members to discuss potential solutions. Sanchez also noted that many residents are facing significant rent hikes, with some experiencing increases as high as 8.4%.

Nelson Sanchez shared his personal experience of a 50% rent increase, which he described as retaliation from landlords. He called for immediate action to freeze rents until a stabilization plan is implemented, warning that many residents could face homelessness if the situation continues unchecked.

Maribel Hernandez highlighted the broader implications of rising rents, noting that many families are forced to choose between paying rent and affording basic necessities. She advocated for the passage of Proposition 33, which aims to expand rent control laws and provide greater protections for tenants.

The meeting underscored a growing urgency among residents for effective rent control measures to prevent displacement and ensure housing stability for the community's most vulnerable members. As discussions continue, the call for action remains clear: immediate steps are needed to address the housing crisis and protect residents from escalating costs.