California voters have defeated a ballot question that would have allowed local jurisdictions to expand rent control or create new rent control laws on most housing types.
The measure, Proposition 21, had support of roughly 40% of voters. It was the second time in consecutive election cycles that voters shot down a statewide rent control referendum. Real estate developers and Gov. Gavin Newsom opposed the measure.
Another question impacting commercial real estate, Proposition 15, was losing as of Nov. 5, but the outcome was considered too close to call. This measure would amend the state constitution to allow commercial and industrial properties to be taxed at market value rather than the purchase price.
In San Francisco, Proposition H, a measure to streamline the permitting processes for new businesses and allow existing restaurants/retailers to change business models and storefronts was approved. Proposition I, a question to increase the transfer tax on property sales valued at $10 million or more with funds to go toward affordable housing, appears to have passed.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Oct 16, 2015
Appellate court enacts nationwide stay on controversial expansion of Clean Water Act
New EPA rule suspended until court cases settled.
Codes and Standards | Oct 9, 2015
New California law means commercial building benchmarking program will be implemented
Multifamily housing to be included, a first for a U.S. state.
Codes and Standards | Oct 2, 2015
New ASHRAE guideline for commissioning existing systems and assemblies
Focuses on optimum facility and system operation.
Codes and Standards | Sep 18, 2015
New RELi standard addresses disaster resilience
Based on LEED model, may help lower insurance rates
Building Materials | Aug 28, 2015
Structural steel buildings specification available for second public review
Next year's specification open for comments until Sept. 21
Energy Efficiency | Aug 28, 2015
North American Passive House Network e-book explains Passivhaus, net-zero techniques
Free guide includes spotlight on individual projects
Windows and Doors | Aug 28, 2015
Newly formed group challenges Florida building code
Window, door companies oppose provisions that raise costs
Codes and Standards | Aug 28, 2015
New Orleans becoming a model for climate resilience only 10 years after Katrina
The city has moved ahead with resilience strategies that may become a model for other communities
Codes and Standards | Aug 21, 2015
Illinois governor vetoes bill that would restrict condo owners’ rights
Bill would have made it harder to sue for building flaws
Codes and Standards | Aug 21, 2015
Post-Katrina roofing codes creating more resilient buildings on Gulf Coast
Ten years after storm, notable progress on stronger roofs, IBHS says
