Perris council advances local "just cause" discussion, asks staff for ordinance and cost analysis

The Perris City Council on Oct. 14 heard hours of public comment and a staff briefing on a proposed local “just cause” eviction ordinance under state law AB 1482, then directed staff to return with a draft ordinance and a staffing and budget analysis.

The item, introduced by Michelle Ogawa, Director of Economic Development and Workforce, was described as “a local just cause ordinance pursuant to AB 1482,” and placed before the council after study by the council’s Ways and Means Committee.

Why it matters: The ordinance would create locally enforceable standards for when landlords can terminate tenancies and require relocation assistance in some no-fault evictions. Supporters called the ordinance a needed protection for low‑income families; landlords’ representatives warned of added costs and regulatory complexity.

What staff and speakers said Michelle Ogawa, Director of Economic Development and Workforce, summarized the Ways and Means Committee’s work and the key differences cities can adopt locally from AB 1482 and its amendment SB 567. Ogawa said the committee recommended largely to “mimic AB 1482” on applicability, exemptions and tenant protections but to consider minor local changes such…