By Julian Lucas
Published 8/2/2022 6am PST

Pomona — Yesterday evening PUSH Coalition (Pomona United for Stable Housing) and Housing is A Human Right Organization in support of PUSH rallied in front of City Hall for rent stabilization in the city of Pomona. PUSH’s demanded that city council vote to cap rents at 3%. However, council voted in favor of a 4% increase 1 % percent less than the original proposed 5%. During a special meeting last week. Mayor Tim Sandoval mentioned people suffer from trauma, especially the youth of families who struggle pay their rent.

The eviction restriction for the state of California lifted on July 1, last month, after a two year moratorium. Although the moratorium expired, some tenants are protected, without rent increase burden in several counties, including Los Angeles County, but the protections are limited to low-income families.

After the rally, members of both organizations attended last nights city council meeting to weigh in during public comment. The final vote to increase rents resulted in a 4% increase with a 5-2 vote, Council member Torres and Ontiveros-Cole voting against the increase. The increase will go into effect immediately.

Julian Lucas, is a photographer, creative strategist, and writer in training, but mostly a photographer. Julian also works as a housing specialist which, includes linking unhoused veterans to housing.