Costa Mesa City Council convened on September 9, 2025, to address pressing issues surrounding tenant rights and housing stability, particularly focusing on the need for a rental registry to track evictions and rent increases. The discussions highlighted a significant gap in data regarding compliance with state laws governing rent increases and evictions, which has left many residents vulnerable to unlawful practices.

City officials acknowledged the lack of comprehensive data on evictions, noting that the Superior Court does not release aggregate information, making it challenging to assess the scale of the issue. Anecdotal evidence suggests that illegal evictions occur frequently, with many tenants unaware of their rights or how to seek assistance. Council members reported receiving numerous inquiries from residents questioning the legality of their rent increases, with many landlords reportedly unaware of the laws governing such actions.

The council discussed the potential benefits of establishing a rental registry, which would allow the city to monitor rental practices and provide better support for tenants facing eviction. Public comments during the meeting echoed this sentiment, with community advocates emphasizing that a registry could enhance transparency and accountability among landlords, ultimately protecting vulnerable renters.

Several speakers urged the council to consider the implications of ongoing unlawful evictions, particularly within immigrant communities, where fear of retaliation may prevent tenants from seeking help. They argued that a rental registry could serve as a vital tool for tracking evictions and ensuring compliance with tenant protection laws.

The council's deliberations also touched on the effectiveness of the existing Tenant Protection Ordinance (TPO), which has reportedly reduced the number of no-fault evictions since its implementation. However, officials recognized that more needs to be done to educate landlords about their obligations and to ensure that tenants are aware of their rights.

As the meeting concluded, the council expressed a commitment to exploring the establishment of a rental registry and improving outreach efforts to inform residents about their rights. The discussions underscored the urgent need for actionable data to guide housing policy and protect the rights of renters in Costa Mesa.