Residents of 1332 Shattuck Ave. in North Berkeley have formed the city's first tenants association to tackle issues related to mold, leaks, and electricity. This initiative follows the passage of Measure BB, a new law granting expanded rights to renters, allowing them to negotiate with landlords like a labor union. Activists highlight that this measure not only permits constructive bargaining but also protects tenants from retaliation, ensuring they can advocate for improved living conditions and fair treatment without fear.
Avery Arbaugh of the Berkeley Tenants Union emphasized that the new Measure BB enables tenants to negotiate with landlords, stating, "Measure BB gives tenants the right to bring a landlord to the bargaining table in a similar way to a labor union." This legal framework allows for serious discussions about immovable issues.
Hala El Solh, a tenants association member, highlighted their goals, saying, "One of the main goals is just to put collective pressure on the leasing company and management company to kind of meet maintenance requests as well as the promises that were guaranteed in our lease." This shows the tenants' commitment to enforcing their rights.
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