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Committee reenacts emergency ordinance prohibiting utility shutoffs tied to construction
Summary
The committee voted to reenact an emergency ordinance temporarily banning construction or building work that suspends water or utilities to residential units without providing alternatives, continuing protections enacted in August 2020 for an additional period and forwarding the measure to the full Board.
The Land Use and Transportation Committee on March 1 reenacted an emergency ordinance that prohibits construction activity or building work that requires suspension of water or other utility service to residential tenants unless alternative services are provided.
Sponsor Supervisor Aaron Peskin said the measure revives the emergency ordinance the Board passed in August 2020 and is intended to address a small number of abusive cases in which tenants experienced repeated water or electricity shutoffs that could verge on harassment or constructive eviction during the pandemic. Peskin said the reenactment gives DBI an enforcement tool in those isolated but serious situations.
Supporters on the committee and in public comment described tenant relief and a reduction in constituent complaints after the ordinance's earlier passage. Callers including Linda Chapman recounted personal difficulties with alleged DBI inaction and sought broader protections for residents in non‑rental residential settings.
The committee voted to forward the reenacted ordinance to the full Board with a positive recommendation; Supervisors Peskin, Preston and Melgar voted "aye." The sponsor noted the Building Inspection Commission had reported unanimously in favor of reenactment.
