Hoping to create a new era of collaboration between landlords and their tenants, the Santa Monica City Attorney’s Office is hosting a public workshop at the Annenberg Community Beach House Wednesday, Oct. 21.
“We all agree that it’s time for something new,” said Deputy City Attorney Eda Suh. “The old model of distrust, conflict and litigation just doesn’t work.”
The workshop, “Finding Common Ground in Changing Times,” will address issues between tenants, property owners and city government. The event is scheduled from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 415 Pacific Coast Highway. Admission is free but space is limited. Pre-registration is required at www.smconsumer.org.
Santa Monica landlords and tenants have periodically gotten together in the past to work on common issues, notably following the Northridge Earthquake of 1994.
“But we don’t want to wait for the next earthquake for people to get together again,” said Suh.
The program includes:
• A hands-on workshop in problem solving skills with mediator Peter Robinson;
• A diverse panel who will answer questions from the community; and
• Special guests including Los Angeles County Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky and Mayor Ken Genser.