An informational workshop regarding Fair Housing was hosted by the Marin County Board of Supervisors on the evening of June 12, 2018.

Joby Tapia, Secretary of the Marin Rental Properties Association, contributed to the discussion by presenting his observations and experiences. He reminded the Board that the vast majority of property owners in Marin act responsibly. He emphasized that no responsible owner wants to lose a good tenant. And the majority of Marin property owners avoid abusive rental policies.

He observed that rent control and just-cause eviction ordinances are a "double-edged sword" - cutting both ways. Such measures have demonstrated unintended consequences and costs. He pointed out, for example, that they incentivize owners to rent only to tenants who have substantial economic means. This leads to eventual gentrification of entire neighborhoods.

Joby summarized that the real problem in the Marin rental market is the lack of housing supply relative to demand. He concluded that the County needs to further “explore greater housing density and smart growth near public transportation areas”.