Mayor, city council hear about challenges of securing affordable housing during Elk Grove City Council meeting
The Elk Grove City Council has historically taken a hands-off approach to rent control issues.
During the August 28 Elk Grove City Council meeting, the mayor and city council members heard from a city resident about affordable housing challenges.
Speaking during public comment on non-agenda items, Mr. Ronny Jones told the city council about the challenges his niece experienced over 10 years securing an affordable apartment in Elk Grove. Additionally, Jones suggested that Mayor Bobbie Singh-Allen and her city council address the widespread corporate purchase of single-family dwellings in the region that are driving-up rents.
It is unclear if the city council would be willing, much less legally able, to enact ordinances addressing corporate purchases of single-family dwellings. Even if they could legislate such laws, the Elk Grove City Council has historically taken a hands-off approach to rent control issues, given the influence the California Apartment Association has had with their campaign donations to city council members over the years.
The only time in recent years Mayor Singh-Allen addressed affordable housing, outside of her commentary on the fair housing lawsuits she embroiled the city and taxpayers in, was two years ago when she promised to develop more starter homes. This promise has gone unfulfilled.
Mr. Jones' comments can be seen in this video.
