Long Beach advocates push for eviction protection and renovation loophole reform

Long Beach City Council members are facing increasing pressure to address housing and homelessness issues following a recent meeting where community advocates highlighted critical gaps in tenant protections and support for vulnerable populations.

During the April 1, 2025, meeting, a speaker emphasized the urgent need to close the substantial renovation loophole that allows landlords to evict tenants under the pretext of renovations. This loophole has been linked to rising homelessness, particularly as over 60% of Long Beach residents are renters. The speaker pointed out that the Los Angeles City Council had recently passed an interim ordinance to remove renovation work as a basis for eviction, urging Long Beach to follow suit. They argued that better rental protections could serve as a low-cost solution to the city’s budget shortfall while preventing further displacement of tenants.

The discussion also touched on the intersection of homelessness and substance use, with another community member, a substance use disorder counselor, sharing insights on the ongoing crisis. Despite a reported 2.1% decrease in homelessness from 2023 to 2024, the counselor noted that many individuals still face overwhelming barriers to recovery, including limited access to treatment and the cyclical nature of addiction and homelessness. They highlighted the dire conditions faced by homeless individuals, including exposure to violence and illness, and called for more comprehensive support systems.

The meeting underscored the community's demand for immediate action on housing rights and support for marginalized groups, including the transgender community, which faces high rates of homelessness. Advocates are calling for the council to implement stronger protections against eviction and to recognize the urgent need for affordable housing solutions.

As Long Beach grapples with these pressing issues, the council's response will be crucial in shaping the future of housing stability and support for its residents. The community is looking for decisive action to ensure that the rights of tenants are upheld and that vulnerable populations receive the assistance they need.