Rent Control Gets First Passage by City Council, But Smiley’s Veto Looms

Rent Control Gets First Passage by City Council, But Smiley’s Veto Looms

 

The Providence City Council approved first passage of the Rent Control ordinance.

Ordinances must be passed twice to become municipal law.

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The controversial initiative has drawn strong criticism from developers, landlords, and Providence Mayor Brett Smiley.

Proponents argue, “the ordinance, which would cap annual rent increases at 4% with exemptions that keep Providence’s specific needs in mind, was shaped by months of public engagement across the city, extensive policy research, and input from national housing experts. According to the ordinance’s sponsors, the proposal is designed to bring predictability and fairness to a housing market where rent increases have too often outpaced what residents can afford.”

“Tonight, the Providence City Council spoke for the 60% of residents in our city who rent their homes. We spoke for a positive vision of Providence where we build more housing, protect the homes we have, and stabilize rents so families can plan for their future, while ensuring property owners can continue to maintain and invest in their buildings,” said Council President Rachel Miller (Ward 13).

Read State Representative David Morales’ Guest MINDSETTER™ in support of the ordinance HERE. He is a candidate for Mayor.

Read former Providence Mayor Joe Paolino’s piece in opposition to rent control HERE.

Looming is a veto by Smiley.

To override a mayoral veto, the council needs two-thirds of the Council — 10 votes.

In the first passage, the rent control ordinance received nine votes and six against. The Council is scheduled to vote on April 16 for second and final passage.

 

9 YEAS: Council President Rachel Miller, President Pro Tempore Juan M. Pichardo, and Councilors Justin Roias, Sue AnderBois, Miguel Sanchez, Shelley Peterson, Althea Graves, Jill Davidson, and Mary Kay Harris.

 

6 NAYS: Councilors James Taylor, John Goncalves, Jo-Ann Ryan, Ana Vargas, Pedro Espinal, and Oscar Vargas.