After hearing from the California Apartment Association, the South Pasadena City Council declined to proceed with a proposal that would limit landlords’ ability to reclaim possession of a unit for substantial remodeling.

The decision came during a council meeting on Tuesday, June 13. Previously, CAA had urged rental operators to voice their opposition to these changes to the city’s “just cause” for eviction ordinance.

CAA argued that the proposal would inflate necessary rehabilitation costs, deter needed upgrades, and make South Pasadena even more unaffordable. Furthermore, CAA pointed out the city already has a substantial remodel ordinance and suggested the council instead reject the proposal in favor of a more thoughtful approach, which would include an economic study to evaluate renovation costs and impacts on the city’s aging housing stock.

Matt Buck, vice president of local public affairs for CAA in Los Angeles, said the council opted to take more time to study the issue by continuing the city’s 45-day no-fault eviction rules.

“On June 28, the council will formally vote to extend the temporary moratorium, possibly beyond the summer,” Buck said. He added that this extension would provide sufficient time for the staff to draft a new just cause ordinance that reflects the concerns of CAA and its members. It is essential that operators have an ability to engage in needed rehabilitation in a streamlined and cost-effective way.

CAA, advocating for fairness towards housing providers, was acknowledged for its attendance and contributions during the council’s deliberations. The association pledges to continue working closely with its members and the council to help create a housing policy that saves South Pasadena’s aging affordable housing supply, Buck said.