The L.A. City Council voted to extend rent control to newly-constructed rental buildings built on sites that within the last five years included demolished rent-controlled apartment units.  Pursuant to the Ordinance, developers may either subject the entire new building to rent control; or allocate 20% of the new units as affordable housing for households making 80% of AMI or less.   

While CCA is strongly opposed to this measure, we are proud to have played a critical role in this debate.  Due to the leadership of Councilmember Bernard Parks , and in large part to CCA's mobilization of key stakeholders, Council voted to exempt demolished buildings with three or fewer units (or four units where one of the units is occupied by the owner). In addition, recommended changes were incorporated into the Ordinance that allow affordable units to count towards the density bonus threshold.  

CCA thanks Councilmember Parks for his leadership on the exemption / density bonus issue and the many stakeholders who supported our efforts in opposition to this measure.   CCA will continue to lead the business community in promoting policies that encourage housing production, development, and investment in Los Angeles, while advocating against policies that send a negative message to L.A.'s businesses.

CCA member Union Rescue Mission's Hope Gardens Family Center project was heard at the Regional Planning Commission this week, where the Commission approved Hope Gardens' conditional use permit 4 - 0.  This landmark proposal will move 275 women and children out of Skid Row and into transitional housing on nearly 71 acres of land at the base of the Angeles National Forest, in Sylmar.  

CCA has been advocating in support of Union Rescue Mission's proposal since its inception nearly two years ago.  Recently, CCA helped organize a press conference with Cardinal Mahoney to highlight the importance of this project.  Hope Gardens is a significant step forward in regionalizing the County's homeless support services and building spaces for people to recover outside of the confines of Skid Row.   

The Commission's decision is open for two weeks, during which time appeals may be filed.  There has been vocal opposition from residents who live several miles from the property.  If the decision is appealed, the case will go before the Board of Supervisors.  CCA will continue to advocate for Hope Gardens and is committed to promoting regional solutions to Los Angeles' homelessness crisis.