Burbank leaders call for rent freeze and eviction moratorium amid wildfire housing crisis

The Burbank City Council meeting on January 14, 2025, focused on urgent responses to the recent devastating wildfires that have displaced thousands of residents. Mayor Perez and Vice Mayor Takahashi emphasized the need for community solidarity during this crisis, highlighting the efforts of first responders and local businesses in supporting affected individuals.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussions about housing security for those displaced by the fires. Multiple speakers, including members of the Burbank Tenants Union, called for an emergency rent freeze and a moratorium on evictions. They expressed concerns over price gouging by landlords taking advantage of the situation, urging the council to prioritize tenant protections. The urgency of these measures was underscored by the fact that over 14,000 structures were destroyed, leaving many residents in search of affordable housing.

David Donahue, a local business owner, praised the volunteer efforts at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center, which has been housing evacuated horses and coordinating support for them. He urged the city to assist these efforts, reflecting the community's spirit of cooperation in the face of adversity.

Council members acknowledged the pressing need for housing solutions and discussed potential collaborations with state officials to disseminate information about available housing options. They also addressed the importance of creating a citizens commission to improve communication between city departments regarding tree management and other community issues.

In response to the public's concerns, the city manager assured residents that the council is committed to addressing the housing crisis and will explore options for enhancing tenant protections. The city attorney noted existing state laws against price gouging and encouraged residents to report any violations.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further discuss the proposed measures and to ensure that the needs of displaced residents are met as the community begins to recover from the fires. The council's next steps will include evaluating the implementation of a rent freeze and eviction moratorium, as well as enhancing communication and support for affected residents.