SMC Supervisors To Consider New Tenant Protections

REDWOOD CITY, CA — The Board of Supervisors will meet next week to learn more about issues affecting tenants in unincorporated San Mateo County and study implementing new protections. Officials said the effort is designed both to prevent homelessness, "east potential landlord harassment," and help people with criminal records to obtain stable housing.

According to the county, a report from the Legal Aid Society found that half of households that faced evictions in court had experienced homelessness at least once, with women and Hispanic renters most at risk. More than 30 percent of homeless people surveyed said their criminal records were a barrier to housing.

Some of the options set to be considered include prohibitions on"bad-faith actions" from landlords, like forcing people to vacate by failing to repair properties, making unnecessary renovations, or violating tenants' privacy.

Monday's special meeting will include representatives from the County Attorney's Office and other departments, but the Board will not take specific action or consider a specific ordinance until a later date.

Board of Supervisors Special Meeting

• Date: July 10, 2023
• Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
• Location: 400 County Government Center, Redwood City
  • Find meeting materials and Zoom information here.