Mountain View residents propose rent control reforms to combat unsustainable increases

The Rental Housing Committee meeting on December 12, 2024, in Mountain View focused on urgent concerns regarding the effectiveness of the city's mobile home rent control ordinance. Residents expressed frustration over high rent increases, questioning the rationale behind paying market or above-market rates despite living under rent control for many years.

One resident highlighted the disparity between rent control in Mountain View and other cities, such as New York, where rent increases are more manageable. They argued that the current ordinance is failing to protect tenants, as evidenced by two families in their mobile home park being forced to leave due to unaffordable rent hikes. The resident proposed a new ordinance allowing rent increases of 60% of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) or 3%, whichever is lower, with no minimum increase, referred to as the "3 60 0" model. This contrasts with the existing "5 102" regime, which they believe is inadequate.

The resident criticized the staff's recommendation to maintain a 5% cap on rent increases, arguing that Mountain View's rental market is unique and cannot be compared to other jurisdictions. They pointed out that under the current cap, rents could escalate dramatically over time, making housing increasingly unaffordable for seniors and low-income residents. The resident emphasized the need for a more sustainable approach to rent control that reflects the realities faced by tenants in Mountain View.

The meeting underscored the growing urgency for reform in the city's rental policies, as residents seek solutions to combat rising housing costs and ensure long-term affordability. The committee's next steps will likely involve further discussions on the proposed changes to the rent control ordinance.