Title
Introduction of Ordinance Amending the Alameda Municipal Code by Adding Article XVIII to Chapter VI Concerning Fair Housing and Tenant Protections by Prohibiting Unlawful Tenant Harassment, Disruption of Housing Services and Housing Discrimination including Source of Income. (City Attorney 2310)
Body
To: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
In addition to the current protections against unlawful housing practices that are in the Alameda Municipal Code, the proposed ordinance contains additional provisions that further strengthens the City of Alameda's (City) housing laws, by providing express limitations against tenant harassment, unlawful disruption of housing services and housing discrimination, including source of income discrimination. The purpose of these proposed provisions is to 1) defend and nurture the stability of housing and neighborhoods in the City, 2) preserve and protect the City's housing stock, especially affordable housing stock, 3) preserve the public's health, safety, and welfare, 4) advance the housing policies of the City with regards to low and fixed income persons, and those needing special protections, such as elderly or disabled tenants, and 5) maintain diversity in the City's neighborhoods and communities while recognizing the rights of rental property owners.
BACKGROUND
The City's current housing laws generally protect tenants from unlawful housing practices, but do not expressly prohibit the unlawful harassment of tenants, the unlawful disruption of housing services or unlawful discrimination in housing. The proposed ordinance contains additional provisions that further strengthens the City's housing laws by providing express limitations against tenant harassment, unlawful disruption of housing services and housing discrimination, including source of income discrimination.
DISCUSSION
If adopted, this ordinance would 1) defend and nurture the stability of housing and neighborhoods in t...
Click here for full text