Housing Rental Board Gets First Look At Proposed Petition, Hearing Process for Tenants, Landlords

The Pasadena Rental Housing Board is set to review the first draft of the proposed petition process and hearing procedures today in a public meeting.

The regulations would form a core component of the voter-initiated Charter Amendment (Measure H) rent stabilization program, which the City said aims to provide stability and predictability for both tenants and landlords in the City’s rental housing market.

The public meeting is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. Wednesday at the Robinson Park Recreation Center.

An agenda item focuses on Chapters 5 and 6 of the Pasadena Rental Housing Board Regulations, which pertain to the Petition Process and Hearing Procedures. These regulations are important for both landlords and tenants in Pasadena as they address key aspects of rental housing regulations and their enforcement.

The proposed regulations authorize landlords to petition the Board for upward adjustments in rent, ensuring a fair return on their investments. They also outline the procedures for landlords to comply with decisions made by the Board or a Hearing Officer, particularly in cases where they are required to reduce rent or refund tenants.

On the other hand, tenants would have the right to petition for a downward adjustment of rent if the landlord fails to maintain the rental unit in habitable condition, reduces housing services, fails to maintain the property, or charges rent above the lawful amount.

The proposed regulations provide tenants with a structured way to represent their interests and seek redress for grievances related to their living conditions and rent.

The designation of Hearing Officers to conduct hearings and make decisions on petitions would introduce a formal mechanism for dispute resolution.

Included in the proposal is provision for public comment and the requirement that all documentation be considered a public record.

Those who cannot attend the meeting in person may use electronic devices and join the meeting at:  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89816590299

Telephone only dial-in is available at: 1-669-900-6833, Meeting ID: 898 165 902 99