By Mary O’KEEFE

On Tuesday the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to extend the eviction moratorium through Feb. 28.

Supervisor Sheila Kuehl and Chair Hilda Solis co-authored a motion to extend the moratorium on evictions in addition to expanding protections for renters. They cited the danger that evictions could lead to more families finding themselves homeless, which would be especially concerning during this time of pandemic. In addition, information that some “unscrupulous” landlords were harassing tenants prompted a motion that contained expanded protection for renters. The issues cited included rent hikes, physical intimidation and continued threats of eviction.

A property owner, who described herself as a senior, called during public comment to voice her concerns about how she has been treated by her tenant who has not paid her rent for months. She had rented half of her home in an effort to help her pay her mortgage but she is now concerned she may lose her home.
The moratorium was unanimously passed and Supervisor Kathryn Barger offered an amendment that would give support to landlords and asked a group of tenants and landlord representatives be created by the Dept. of Consumer and Business Affairs to look into the moratorium.

In addition, the motion for a more flexible Rent Relief Program was unanimously approved and the deadline expanded to Dec. 31, 2021. The motion expanded eligibility for the program including not penalizing those tenants who paid at least partial rent and those who took out loans to do so would no longer be prohibited from getting help through this program. This program helps landlords by providing rent money with eligible households receiving up to $10,000 in assistance.

The board of supervisors voted on another motion presented by Solis and Holly Mitchell concerning an ordinance that would, if approved, require grocery stores and pharmacies in the unincorporated regions of the County to pay all of their workers an additional $5 per hour. Barger voiced her concern about the motion requirements including paying the additional hourly hike regardless of the employees’ existing salary.

“Grocery store employees are front line heroes during this pandemic and have continued to work diligently and ensure residents have access to safe, reliable food and essential supplies,” Barger stated. “I am concerned the board is voting on a substantial pay increase for all employees, regardless of their position or salary, without taking the time to carefully consider the potential impacts of these decisions. Grocery stores currently report a slim 2.2% profit margin due to additional costs and supply chain issues as a result of COVID-19.”

She requested more information and study on the issue and the unintended consequences that this wage increase could have in attempting to help including leading to a rise in food prices and costs, and reduced hours and benefits for workers.

“This is an important issue and one that deserves careful thought and consideration. The board should engage in conversations with key stakeholders and legal counsel to fully understand any potential impacts of this proposed ordinance before moving forward,” Barger stated.

The issue is to come back to the board on Jan. 26.