Measure H Rent Control Organizers Preparing For Next Steps

An organizer on Measure H told Pasadena Now that although it feels good to see the initiative pass, there is still work to be done.

“The ball is in the City’s court so to speak,” Ryan Bell said Wednesday. “I think various members of the campaign could have meetings with the City Manager, but I am just guessing.”

Supporters of the initiative declared victory on Tuesday after the day’s voting update reached 52.11% in favor of the measure and 47.89% against it. 

“It appears Measure H has been approved by a majority of voters,” said City Manager Miguel Márquez. “Even as we await the final vote tally, City staff is convening a work group to analyze the requirements of the measure so we can work toward its successful implementation.”

Measure H faced opposition from the California Apartment Association and the National and California Associations of Realtors. 

According to the Charter Amendment, Measure H goes into effect 10 days after the Council adopts the election results by resolution. 

After that the City will have 30 days to post the job for the rental board. 

It is not known when the resolution will reach the City Council.

“Tenants are already approaching us with questions,” Bell said. 

Bell said the tenants organizations will hold an information session to field some of the questions and keep the community informed. 

“It feels great, there is still a small percentage of my brain still watching the vote tally,” Bell said. “We have been working on this for five years. Implementation is the most important thing. There is a lot of work to be done on that front.”

But even after Measure H takes effect, the organizers say they will continue their mission.

“We will just continue to do what we have been doing for five years, taking calls from tenants and help them advocate for their rights, but the good news is the community will soon have a place where tenants can reach out.”