Long Beach’s Housing and Public Health Committee took no action Tuesday, May 19, after hearing testimony on a proposal to tighten the city’s “just cause” ordinance.

The California Apartment Association opposed any expansion. Fred Sutton of CAA told the committee that Long Beach already has stricter standards than the state and warned against adding what he described as failed policies from Los Angeles.

Supporters of stronger rules urged the city to remove substantial remodel as a basis for eviction, expand protections to more renters and increase relocation assistance. Housing providers and industry representatives said further restrictions could make it harder to maintain older rental housing and discourage investment.

No recommendation to change the ordinance was made at the meeting. CAA will provide updates if the proposal returns.