The City Council voted 6-1 Tuesday to require those who wish to demolish, redevelop or convert low income rental housing to pay displaced tenants’ relocation expenses, giving them the cash equivalent of two months’ rent.
Work on the ordinance began a year ago as the council wrestled with how to relocate 250 of the city’s poorest tenants at 291 Evandale Ave. At that time, the council allowed use of the city’s below market rate, or BMR, housing fund, with the stipulation that the fund only be used for those relocating within Mountain View.
So far, 11 of 26 moved tenants have qualified for the program. Many couldn’t find another affordable place in Mountain View, while others couldn’t provide proof of their low income status.
The city’s action Tuesday would provide assistance even for tenants who cannot find homes in Mountain View — a victory for affordable-housing advocates.
Council member Matt Pear voted for the motion, but expressed concerns about passing costs onto small property owners. The ordinance will affect any property with more than two rental units deemed to be low income housing.
“It’s the owners that will be impacted,” Pear said. “That element has not spoken. They have no idea what is about to take place.”
City attorney Michael Martello said the council could reserve the right to withdraw the requirement on a case-by-case basis.
Also included in the ordinance is another $2,000 to those with special needs, such as children or a disability, plus 180 days notice, full refund of security deposit, 60 day subscription to a rental agency and bilingual assistance if needed. The free last month’s rent and $500 moving allowance recommended by staff were not included.
Community center plan
After several years of delay due to budget cuts, plans for a new community center at Rengstorff Park inched forward Tuesday with some preliminary discussion.A 35,000-square-foot, two story facility would replace the crumbling 1960s-era center. The new center, not completely designed, has a larger footprint in the park, which is its most controversial aspect.
“Parking has to be underground,” said council member Bryant. “It’s going to be expensive but it has to be done.”
Retiring in droves
Adding to the five from two weeks ago, six more city employees were recognized for their service upon retirement Tuesday.Eight-year council veteran Mike Kasperzak said he had never seen so many people retire at once while he was on the council, and predicts that most of the city’s leadership will retire within five years.
Trailblazing study
Also Tuesday, the council approved $38,000 to study a Permanente Creek Trail crossing over Highway 101 and another underneath Old Middlefield Way.E-mail Daniel DeBolt at ddebolt@mv-voice.com
