Tacoma officials are debating modifications to tenant protections as they respond to the perceived impacts of the Landlord Fairness Code Initiative (LFCI), a measure passed in 2023. This initiative was designed to safeguard tenants and families while aiming to reduce homelessness. Now, city leaders are examining potential amendments to balance the initiative’s effects on the rental market and its unintended consequences.
The LFCI introduced several significant renter protections, including a cap on late fees for rental payments, a ban on evictions during winter and school months, and requirements for landlords to cover relocation costs if rent is increased by 5% or more. Advocates, such as the organization Tacoma For All, played a vital role in its adoption. Despite its voter backing, the LFCI has sparked contentious discussions regarding its implications for housing stability.
During a study session on November 28, 2023, Tacoma City Council members explored possible changes to the LFCI. Concerns have arisen from various stakeholders, particularly regarding the financial strain on low-income housing providers and the reported increase in property damage. Under current regulations, landlords can impose a late fee of up to $10 per month, but discussions suggest this could rise to a maximum of $75.
Another proposed amendment would reduce the notice period for eviction related to damages from two notices between 210 and 180 days to a single 120-day written notice. Additionally, some council members are advocating for a reduction in the eviction moratorium, currently set at five months, to three months during winter. Council Member Jamika Scott has proposed extending the moratorium from November 15 to March 15, aligning it more closely with the colder season’s realities.
The council’s deliberations reflect broader concerns about the LFCI’s impact. A request for consideration presented to the council indicated that the initiative may be destabilizing the budgets of low-income housing providers. Reports have surfaced indicating increased damage to rental units and landlords facing challenges with tenants failing to pay rent for extended periods. Smaller landlords, in particular, have expressed feeling disproportionately affected by these financial strains.
Despite the initial support for the LFCI, Tacoma City Council retains the authority to amend or repeal the initiative within two years of its enactment. Some council members underscore the necessity of these amendments, as they observe an increasing number of tenants falling behind on rent payments, resulting in growing debts for housing service providers.
The LFCI is scheduled to return for a first reading before the city council on December 2, 2023, with a potential final vote set for December 9, 2023. As Tacoma navigates this complex issue, the outcome of these discussions could significantly influence the stability of the rental market and the well-being of vulnerable populations within the community.
