Salinas City Council votes to repeal Rental Ordinances amid community backlash

SALINAS, Calif. (KION-TV) -- After the city council voted to repeal the housing ordinance, some members of the local government are feeling disappointed. The Salinas city council voted 5 to 2 in a decision to take back efforts on four housing ordinances approved back in September 2024. 

“They had the responsibility to share with the residents why they're making these decisions,” said Councilmember Andrew Sandoval.  “The fact that they said nothing and just quickly within a minute they said let's motion, let's get rid of this. This should be alarming to folks.”

Community members took it to public comment to share their opinions. A controversial topic that raised opinions from both sides.

“Not that I wasn't expecting it,” explained Councilmember Tony Barrera. “The majority of the council wanted to repeal it as quickly as possible. So I think one of the things that we're gonna be doing now is to find out how we're going to help with the rental assistance. How much money will we be able to get? how many people will be able to help?” 

It may seem that there is tension among city council members. However, despite divided opinions on this specific issue, Councilman Barrera assures us that the council is united when it comes to other city issues.

“I respect every city councilmember, including the mayor, because we are going to have other issues as well,” added Barrera. “This is a major issue, but we will be discussing other issues, and we need to be able to work together. So, I think the ones that have the luxury of judging us are the people that we serve. 

Property owners say the ordinances will add another burden on them that will only result in higher rent prices. In a previous interview with our sister station, Telemundo, Councilmember Barajas went on to say the decision to repeal is based on data gathered from rental ordinance programs in other cities. 

Community members may still seek a different result. Sandoval says there are talks of a referendum effort. 

Sandoval says, “they need to collect signatures from registered voters in the city of Salinas and if they collect those signatures within 30 days then that will pause the city council's decision and possibly put that out to the voters to decide about this issue.”  

Amid the uncertainty, the people are demanding answers. Councilmember José Luis Barajas confirmed that tomorrow, members of the council and the mayor will hold a press conference to discuss this decision.