Santa Monica Rent Control July 9, 2026

The City of Santa Monica Rent Control Board held its regular meeting on July 9, 2026, where key procurement-related discussions focused on the proposed Micro Grant Habitability Pilot Program. The Housing Division presented this pilot program aimed at providing financial assistance to small landlords of rent-controlled properties to support habitability repairs and maintenance. The program is designed with a $300,000 budget allocated entirely for direct aid, offering grants up to $5,000 and loans up to $25,000 with specific terms including rent increase caps and loan forgiveness conditions. The board also approved exemptions for newly constructed properties from rent control. The pilot program includes eligibility criteria, application processes, and compliance monitoring, with the goal of preserving affordable housing stock and improving living conditions. The program is pending City Council approval and will be evaluated through a pilot study to inform future decisions.