Pasadena, CA — A judge has declined the California Apartment Association’s (CAA) request for a temporary restraining order against the newly passed Measure H, a rent control amendment to the Pasadena City Charter. The decision by Superior Court Judge Mary Strobel came after the CAA challenged the measure, alleging constitutional violations.
Measure H, approved by Pasadena voters in June and effective since December 22, aims to implement rent control in the city. The Association’s legal challenge argues that the measure unlawfully revises the city’s charter and infringes upon state laws including the Costa-Hawkins Rental Housing Act, which limits municipal rent control powers.
During the proceedings, Judge Strobel expressed her view that the association’s case did not demonstrate a compelling argument for irreparable harm caused by Measure H nor did she find the amendment to be unconstitutional. Moreover, she noted that the legal arguments presented against the amendment’s constitutionality were weak.
The court has also been approached by representatives who played a pivotal role in organizing the rent control initiative. Attorney Fredric Woochen, on behalf of the Measure H organizers, requested that they be included as defendants alongside the City of Pasadena, stressing their significant stake in the measure’s defense.
Ryan Bell, a key organizer for the rent control measure, shared his relief and confidence following the judge’s ruling. Bell highlighted the importance of their participation in defending the measure robustly, despite their confidence in the city’s ability to represent the amendment. The move aims to ensure that the voice of the supporters and their interpretation of the public’s will is adequately represented in court.
Pasadena City Attorney Michele Bagneris was commended by Bell for her competent handling of the case, adding an extra layer of reassurance for those backing Measure H. Bell also clarified that the organizers are focused strictly on legal defense and have no intentions of involving themselves in the implementation of the measure or administration of the rent control board.
Judge Strobel is set to hold a hearing for a preliminary injunction on January 26, which will further determine the measure’s immediate legal future.
As this legal battle continues, it represents a significant moment for rent control advocates in California, who have faced numerous legal challenges in attempts to regulate housing costs in urban areas. This case not only affects Pasadena but may hold implications for similar initiatives across the state.
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