By David Moss Santa Monica
Sonya and Bruce Sultan wrote a letter (“Rent control develops diversity,” June 2-3) and sent out a clarion call for homeowners like themselves to embrace rent control. They commented: “We see rent control as an important safeguard, not just for individuals, but also for the type of community we value...” I see things quite differently. Regardless of whether people live in rentals, or own their condos/houses north of Montana or along Pico, there should be city-wide visceral disgust because the “City” has no hard facts as to who actually lives in rent-controlled apartments, or what percentage of tenants in rent-controlled units have low incomes, small net worth or disabilities that warrant subsidy from private landlords.
For years, I have asked at least one council member, “On what basis is it known that those in rent-controlled apartments are truly those in need of reduced rent?” I often ask this question each time the council blindly approves more preferential parking, thereby, perhaps giving a further subsidy to undeserving tenants paying less than market rates, and forcing visitors or employees of local businesses to scramble even harder for parking. I am still waiting for, and open to an answer.
Most everyone likes the diversity of Santa Monica, but no one should admire a city that refuses to: 1) examine who lives in privately-owned rent controlled units; and 2) change the law in regards to those that are undeserving of the privilege. Dwight Eisenhower said, “A people that values its privileges above its principles, soon loses both.” It is past time for undeserving tenants to be weeded out, otherwise no one can honestly say that rent control is an “important safeguard” in the city of Santa Monica.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on June 9, 2007. Read the original PDF.