Santa Monica Rent Control September 10, 2026

The City of Santa Monica Rent Control Board held a meeting on September 10, 2026, focusing primarily on tenant-landlord disputes, rent decrease petitions, and exemption applications related to rent control regulations. Key procurement-related discussions included the approval of budget allocations for implicit bias training and facilitated retreats for board members, with a proposed budget of $4,000 for training services. The board also discussed legislative updates affecting housing policies and rent control, including potential impacts of state bills on local housing regulations. Several motions were passed affirming hearing officer decisions on rent decrease petitions and remanding exemption applications for further evidentiary hearings. The board agreed to defer decisions on implicit bias training and facilitator retreats until after new board members are seated, with staff directed to explore options and return with recommendations in early 2027.