Photo by Rhovy Lyn Antonio

The Concord City Council voted 3-2 this week to approve an amended rent control ordinance that would set a fixed 5% annual cap on rent increases. The changes also include new exemptions to the city’s Just Cause eviction rules for certain rental properties. 

Monday’s vote followed nearly four hours of public testimony and a disruption from rent control proponents, leading the Concord Police Department to clear attendees so council members could resume deliberations. This marked the council’s third meeting on the issue. 

Background of amendments 

The revised ordinance adjusts the current rent cap—originally set at 60% of the Consumer Price Index or 3%, whichever is lower—to a simpler fixed rate of 5%. It also exempts some single-family homes and condominiums from Just Cause eviction rules if the owner owns fewer than two rental homes in Concord. 

Council Member Pablo Benavente proposed aligning the city’s rent cap with state law by allowing increases of 5% plus inflation, capped at 7%, and broader Just Cause exemptions. This proposal narrowly missed approval. Instead, Mayor Carlyn Obringer advanced an alternative proposal for a fixed 5% annual cap, which the council approved at the March 25 meeting. 

Coalition advocacy 

Amplifying the unheard voices of housing providers, CAA launched an extensive advocacy campaign and led a broad coalition that advocated for amendments, with support from the Contra Costa Association of REALTORS, housing providers, homeowners, economic development groups, elected officials from across Contra Costa County, and concerned community members. CAA mobilized housing providers, conducted targeted outreach to educate homeowners, and facilitated direct engagement with policymakers—efforts that played a key role in shaping the outcome.

CAA appreciates the commitment and bravery of everyone who wrote letters, attended meetings, and testified despite opposition. Although the ultimate goal remains full alignment with state law, the amended ordinance represents a significant improvement over the city’s previously strict rent control regulations. The consistent engagement and passionate pleas of housing providers and stakeholders were instrumental in securing these improvements, and CAA will continue its efforts to further align Concord’s rent control with state law—and to keep fighting for you.

Next steps 

The amended ordinance is not yet final. Concord requires two readings of an ordinance before it becomes law. The second reading, generally a procedural step to confirm the initial vote, is scheduled for April 22. Rental housing providers are encouraged to attend this meeting to support final approval. 

Until the amended law takes effect—30 days following the second reading—the current rent control ordinance remains in place. CAA’s detailed Industry Insights paper on the existing ordinance can be accessed here (member login required). 

How you can help 

Video 

Click here to watch footage from Tuesday’s council meeting.   

Thank you for your continued support in advocating for fair and balanced housing policy. For questions, please contact Rhovy Lyn Antonio at rantonio@caanet.org.