Santa Barbara council adopts temporary rent‑increase moratorium, 4–3

The Santa Barbara City Council on Jan. 27, 2026 approved a temporary moratorium on rent increases and additional tenant-protection measures while the city develops a permanent rent‑stabilization program.

The ordinance, adopted by a 4–3 vote, was presented to the council as a temporary measure to preserve existing housing stability during preparation, consideration and adoption of a longer-term policy. Councilmember Armón moved to adopt the staff recommendation; the motion passed 4–3, with councilmembers Ross, Freeman and Mikey Jordan voting no.

Why it matters: supporters said a short-term moratorium would prevent landlords from imposing large rent hikes before a permanent stabilization ordinance takes effect, protecting tenants from displacement during the policy-development period. Opponents, including Betty Hepsen, president of the Santa Barbara Rental Association, warned the measure could create legal exposure for the city and landlords and quoted federal precedent, arguing a moratorium could amount to a compensable taking.

What the ordinance does: staff read multiple related code changes and a title-only ordinance that would (as described by staff) enact a temporary pause on certain rent increases and add procedural protections tied to a future stabilization program. Staff and council discussed exemptions for certain unit types and ownership categories; staff noted typical exemptions include units built after 1995 and some single‑family and duplex configurations, while acknowledging some ADU situations require case-by-case review.

Public comment and council debate: the council heard more than a dozen public speakers. Resident Lorna Charles described unauthorized entries to her apartment and urged stronger tenant protections. Advocate Ana urged the council to adopt a freeze and stronger anti‑eviction protections while the permanent ordinance is developed. Amanda Green urged targeted exemptions for privately provided naturally affordable units rented at or below 120% of area median income. Betty Hepsen said the ordinance language could constitute a taking under the U.S. Constitution and referenced recent federal litigation in support of that view: "La moratoria reduce los valores de las propiedades..." (her words).

Staff commitments and next steps: city staff and the City Attorney’s Office told councilmembers they will prepare public FAQs, identify a single point of contact within the rental housing program for questions, and coordinate with mediation services and outside legal advisers as needed. Staff warned implementation will require administrative resources and possible adjustments to existing program duties.

Vote and implementation: the council passed the measure by a 4–3 margin. Councilmembers Ross, Freeman and Jordan were recorded in opposition; the ordinance was adopted by title and will remain a temporary measure while staff advances the permanent stabilization program and related outreach materials.

The council moved next to member reports and regional updates.