Subject: Guest column by Kristian Núñez from August 18th “Ventura must act in the face of the housing crisis”:
Ventura’s housing market is under pressure, and while rent controls seem like an attractive solution, it’s a short-sighted approach that could only make things worse. The reason rents are rising is clear: there’s a growing shortage of supply. The solution isn’t more regulation or rent controls – it’s more housing. By encouraging the construction of more housing, the city can create a stable market where prices are naturally kept in check by competition rather than artificial controls.
While rent controls may provide temporary relief for tenants, they discourage new construction and investment, leading to a deterioration of the housing stock and a worsening of the supply shortage, which in turn drives up prices for everyone. In addition, such measures can lead to a decline in property maintenance as landlords lose the incentive to keep buildings in good condition.
It is also important to recognize that recently passed state laws, such as SB 567, are designed to strengthen tenant protections by closing existing loopholes. These measures need time to take effect before new regulations are introduced that could further hamper growth. In addition, the city should focus on enforcing laws already in place by hiring a city attorney with that expertise and increasing code enforcement. Educating tenants and housing providers is also essential.
But in the long term, Ventura should focus on policies that promote a healthy, competitive housing market. That means supporting initiatives like rezoning for higher housing density, investing in infrastructure to support new development, and providing incentives to build affordable housing.
Ventura’s politicians must take bold steps to address the housing crisis, but they must focus on sustainable, long-term solutions that encourage growth and development. The way forward is not through restrictive policies, but through creating opportunities for all residents to find affordable, quality housing.
Cami Pinsak, Camarillo, president of the Ventura County Coastal Assn. of Realtors
