Housing Education & Mediation Services for Landlords & Tenants
Published on February 01, 2022
The Prosecution & Affirmative Litigation Unit of the Alameda City Attorney’s Office has launched a pilot program to provide education and mediation services for landlords and tenants on a wide range of housing issues.
On November 2, 2021, the Alameda City Council unanimously directed the City Attorney’s Office, in partnership with the Rent Program, to establish a pilot program to assist both landlords and tenants with their housing needs. As part of this program, paralegal Rico Fenix will be dedicating his time to work on housing issues in Alameda – helping to educate residents about the law, and mediating conflicts where appropriate. Mr. Fenix is expected to partner with the Rent Program to provide workshop-based education to landlords and tenants on a monthly basis, and take point in hosting the City’s annual Fair Housing Conference. He will take inquires from landlords and tenants, provide both proactive and responsive education about applicable state and local housing laws, and engage in neutral mediation where appropriate. Mr. Fenix will be supported by Assistant City Attorney John Le and Special Counsel Adam Radinsky.
“I am excited to take charge of this pilot program and serve both landlords and tenants in the City of Alameda,” said Mr. Fenix.
“A critical tool in combating the current historic state-wide housing and homelessness crisis is to maintain housing stability for existing residents,” said City Attorney Shen. “Since the launch of our Prosecution & Affirmative Litigation Unit in early 2020 our enforcement experience has shown that education and mediation can be valuable tools to create mutual awareness between landlords and tenants, and avert unnecessary conflict and litigation. I applaud the Council’s wisdom in choosing to direct additional resources to support housing stability in Alameda.”
The Alameda City Attorney Office’s Prosecution Unit is committed to justice and helping the citizens of Alameda. The Unit resolves consumer protection, labor, and fair housing issues through education and public outreach. When appropriate, the Unit enforces these laws to protect the public from unfair and unlawful practices.
If you have questions or would like to report an issue, please contact the Prosecution Unit at 510-747-4772 or email to cityprosecutor@alamedacityattorney.org.