DATE: March 20, 2025
TO: Housing Policy & Resource Committee
FROM: Assistant City Manager
SUBJECT
Work Session regarding the feasibility of a Rental Registration System
RECOMMENDATION
Recommendation
That the Housing Policy & Resource Committee provides feedback on the feasibility of a Rental Registration System.
End
SUMMARY
In December 2023, the Homelessness-Housing Task Force (HHTF) reviewed a proposed Rental Registration System (RRS), which would serve as a database tracking the rental market, landlords, tenants, rent changes, and terminations to ensure compliance with the Residential Rent Stabilization and Tenant Protection Ordinance (RRSO). The system would support policymakers with data-driven insights into rental trends and housing stability. HHTF members generally supported the initiative, recommending its evaluation as part of the City’s FY25 Strategic Plan. Key considerations include the collection of tenancy information, potential privacy concerns, and the feasibility of allowing tenants to verify landlord-submitted data.
Implementing an RRS would require additional staffing with the Housing Division, with an estimated 2.50 full-time employees (FTE) needed for administration. Staff are evaluating whether to develop an in-house system or use third-party software, balancing cost against functionality. While a regional collaboration was considered, differences in jurisdictional policies and financial structures pose challenges. The City would need to increase the Rent Review Fees for Covered Rental Units and Rental Units to fund an RRS. The Housing Policy Resource Committee (HPRC) should consider key questions regarding data collection, compliance, enforcement, and funding strategies for the full City Council to review.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment I Staff Report