Judge Dismisses Rent Freeze Lawsuit Against City of Santa Barbara
A judge dismissed a lawsuit challenging Santa Barbara's temporary rent freeze, though plaintiffs may file an amended complaint.Summary
U.S. District Judge Sherilyn Peace Garnett dismissed a lawsuit filed by the Santa Barbara Rental Property Association challenging the city’s temporary rent freeze, which began in February and is set to expire on December 31, 2025. The judge also removed the Santa Barbara City Council as defendants, leaving only the City of Santa Barbara as a party. However, the association’s lawyer, former city attorney Barry Cappello, said the plaintiffs may file an amended complaint in early August to pursue claims that the rent stabilization ordinance constitutes an unconstitutional taking. City Attorney John Doimas said the ruling affirms that the ruling affirms local governments’ authority to enact reasonable economic regulations to address housing affordability.
(Source：Noozhawk)