“Keeping rents affordable and being able to retain a long-term tenant is important,” said Mason.
But last March when the pandemic hit, Mason’s tenant stopped paying rent. And by law she couldn’t ask any questions.
“There’s no further language, no further explanation,” said Mason.
There are no firm numbers for how much rent has gone unpaid during the pandemic, but some estimate it’s as much as $5.5 billion in California alone. And while unemployed individuals, small businesses and corporations have all received government help, small landlords have gotten nothing.
“They’re requiring us to assist with the financial crisis and carry the financial burden by allowing individuals to live in your property for free,” said Mason. “And you’re giving them a loan with no interest, no penalties. And it’s most likely not going to be paid back.”
Protesters demand no evictions during pandemic, blockade courthouse steps
Protesters blockade courthouse steps, demand an end to evictions
Protesters in Santa Clara County are demanding a halt to all evictions and better protection for renters statewide. They blocked the entrance to the courthouse in order to stop proceedings and to send a message to legislators.
SAN JOSE, Calif. - Protesters in Santa Clara County are demanding a halt to all evictions and better protection for renters statewide. They blocked the entrance to the courthouse in order to stop proceedings and to send a message to legislators.
In front of the Santa Clara County courthouse, protesters made a blockade: a human barrier to keep everyone out.
California would extend eviction moratorium through June under deal By Alexei Koseff
SACRAMENTO Gov. Gavin Newsom and state legislative leaders have agreed to extend California’s partial eviction moratorium by five more months as they prepare to hand out billions of dollars in federal rent relief to struggling tenants and property owners.
The deal, which still must pass the Legislature, was put into print on Monday morning, so lawmakers could vote on the bill as soon as Thursday. It would allow tenants who are facing financial hardship because of the coronavirus pandemic to stay in their homes until at least the end of June, when property owners could again pursue evictions for nonpayment of rent.
This year’s election was historic for Santa Ana as Vicente Sarmiento replaced outgoing Mayor Miguel Pulido, who termed out after 26 years.
Sarmiento ran as possibly the first Bolivian American mayoral candidate, and earned the trust of voters with a platform that put Santa Ana’s most vulnerable residents front and center.
Sarmiento, who served three terms on the City Council, is taking the reins amid skyrocketing COVID-19 numbers and the economic crisis it caused.
TimesOC spoke with Sarmiento about his plans and goals.
Q: What are some of the main issues you are looking to take on during your term?