ALAMEDA, Calif. – A tight-knit community of more than 50 residents residing in houseboats in Alameda has taken legal action against the property owner, alleging violations of the city’s rent control regulations and intimidation tactics targeting elderly inhabitants.

Floating Homes at Barnhill Marina

The colorful floating homes at the Barnhill Marina stand as the largest floating home marina in Alameda, boasting 56 berths or boat slips. These unique dwellings require residents to pay rent to the landlord for access to essential services like electricity and water.

Violation of Rent Control Laws

Under Alameda’s rental regulations, the rents for these berths are governed by the city’s rent control laws. The city asserts that a significant portion of the houseboat community consists of elderly individuals aged 65 and above, many of whom have called the marina home for decades.

Pressured Lease Agreements

In 2021, Valley Investments Redwoods acquired the property housing the houseboat community. Allegations suggest that the new property owner promptly began coercing tenants into signing new, substantially more expensive lease agreements, often exceeding double their previous rental rates, with increases of up to 180%.

Legal Action

The city of Alameda, in collaboration with the District Attorney’s Consumer Justice Bureau, has initiated legal proceedings against the property owner. The lawsuit accuses the property owner of engaging in a campaign designed to instill confusion and fear among tenants, leading many to accept the new lease terms under duress.

Unpaid Fees

Additionally, the property owner stands accused of neglecting to remit $120,000 in rental fees owed to the city of Alameda, further exacerbating the situation for the affected residents.

Response from Property Owner

Despite attempts to reach the property owner for comment, there has been no immediate response to inquiries regarding the allegations.

Conclusion: Seeking Justice for Alameda’s Houseboat Community

The legal action undertaken by the city of Alameda and the District Attorney’s Consumer Justice Bureau underscores the importance of upholding rent control regulations and protecting vulnerable communities from intimidation tactics. As the case unfolds, residents of Alameda’s houseboat community anxiously await a resolution that safeguards their rights and ensures fair treatment by property owners. For further updates on this developing story and more local news, download The Local News App today.

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