Saratoga News
Homes
Realtors take their issues to the state Capitol
Legislative Day presents chance to discuss industry
By Rose Meily
It was Legislative Day in Sacramento on June 7, and Realtors from throughout the state took advantage of the opportunity to meet with their state legislators and discuss issues that affect the real estate industry.
The event is organized by the California Association of Realtors each year, and the Realtors make up the largest organized group to meet with the state's legislators at one time.
One of the hot topics underlined by Realtors in their meetings with state representatives was their opposition to AB1169, which would require landlords to give tenants a 60-day notice to terminate tenancy if a tenant has resided in the dwelling for more than one year in non-rent control communities. Realtors told state legislators that this legislation favors bad tenants and places a burden on landlords and prospective tenants.
If a unit is subject to a 60-day notice, it is unreasonable to expect the landlord, much less a prospective tenant, to wait that long. Also, they said, disruptive tenants should not be allowed to remain in the dwelling for an extended period of time. Landlords fear good tenants may not be willing to tolerate living with a disruptive tenant, and in the end the landlord could lose the good tenants, too.
Realtors told legislators they support SB1177, the proposal to prohibit local governments from examining the books and records of homebuilders seeking a density bonus when they apply for a waiver or reduction in development standards. Realtors noted housing is desperately needed in the state of California. Conservative estimates indicate 250,000 new housing units are needed in California each year. However, local governments approve plans to build only half that number. Realtors contend the proposed legislation would expand incentives for builders of moderate-income family housing and promote job growth in connection with that development.
Area Realtors were able to meet Sen. Abel Maldonado (District 15), who was sympathetic to the Realtors' concerns. Stressing the importance of political participation, Maldonado told Realtors a "balanced approach for California" is needed, noting "real life work people, farmers, Realtors" and people of other professions are needed in the Legislature.
Maldonado told Realtors he has friends in the Legislature who are very conservative and others who are very liberal and, while they are all good people, what the Legislature needs is a "governing center" that is bipartisan and balanced.
Maldonado also stressed, "It's important to make members (of the Legislature) accountable to the people, so they are made not to forget what they said when they ran for office."
As advocates for property owners, Maldonado encouraged Realtors to support their associations, stressing, "In this business, there are lots of people against you who are here every day, so it's important to continue to support the organization that supports your values and fights for your interests, because if you don't, who else will?"
Secretary of State Bruce McPherson, who hails from Santa Cruz, was a surprise guest at the morning gathering of members of the California Association of Realtors. McPherson expressed his disappointment in the poor election turnout during the state primaries, which had taken place the day before. The June 6 state primaries saw the poorest voter turnout in California's history. Like Maldonado, McPherson encouraged Realtors to participate in the political process.
"We had the lowest turnout in 50 years in California history," said McPherson. "We all need to get out to vote and participate. Your voice needs to be heard; you need to let your representatives know what's on your mind, what makes common sense."
Referring to low political participation in California and nationwide, McPherson urged everyone to vote in November, stating, "It's obvious your vote is going to count more than ever. Elections are the foundation of our democracy. We need to know your vote counts. You can only do that by going to the polls and voting."
The day in Sacramento proved educational for many Realtors. It was Katherine Frey's first Legislative Day experience, and she said she was glad she came. "The experience was very valuable because it put us face to face with people we read about or see on TV," said Frey, a Realtor from Alain Pinel. "It's different seeing and hearing them in person. It puts a different spin on it."
It was also the first time for Kathy Kitching of Campi Properties, and she wasn't disappointed, either. "I'm concerned to learn there are about 46 new people that will be serving in the Legislature," remarked Kitching. "This means we need to constantly re-educate our representatives."
Bill Challas and Stan Carnekie, both of The Loan Source in Los Gatos, said they attend Legislative Day every year.
"Always, it's been a great experience. It opens an awareness for us about the political process," said Challas.
