Editor,
My heart broke as I listened to tenants speak outside the apartment building from which they — eight Latino families — were being evicted. Some had lived there for many years. Some had kids in the local school. All were current on their rent. Many spoke of their fear of finding a new place to live so quickly — and likely a new job and new school.
My heart broke because I too have kids in the local schools and I too want everything that they said they want for their families: stability and a sense of community. But there is a striking difference between us. I am a homeowner. And, as any homeowner — and property owner — knows, we have government protections and indirect subsidies in place, including Proposition 13, mortgage interest deductions, tax advantages when we sell, and now, artificially low interest rates on loans. It is time we offer at least some protections to our renters too.
By passing Measure R this November, we can do that now, when they need it most. Let’s say no to unwarranted evictions and unfair rent increases (The measure allows for rent increases for necessary capital improvements). Let’s empower an independent commission — comprised of the stakeholders, landlords and tenants, but appointed by the City Council, to provide accountability — to adjudicate on requests and complaints.
Let’s be a city that recognizes every resident is valued and deserves to be represented. Let’s support Measure R and strive to be the compassionate community we say we want to be.
Elana Lieberman
Burlingame
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