SAN DIEGO (KGTV) — More than 40 people marched into the streets Friday, to protest rent hikes, claiming it could put them out on the streets.
Residents of the Morley Street Apartments in Linda Vista received notices in February about their rent increasing in May. The rent increases range from $200 to $400.
Raphael Bautista of San Diego Tenants Union calls it abusive rental practices. He says the substantial rent increase started when MC Properties bought the complex.
In a letter to the tenants, they explained rent hikes are due to increased taxes and insurance fees. 10News reached out to the property group for further comment but has not heard back.
“The rents are between 15 and 40 percent increases, that’s gouging,” Bautista said. He says the larger problem is that it’s legal, and that’s something the group is trying to change.”
“There’s no law controlling how high rent is increased,” he said. “We're pushing for rent control at two percent.”
“People are feeling frustrated because most people don’t have money to pay rent (increase). We can’t afford that,” said Romeo Martinez,who lives at the Morley Street Apartments.
The San Diego Tenants Union organized the protest and march. The group marched to the management office where someone came out to listen to their demands, but took no action.
The management office says they will relay the groups' complaints to the owner.
“We want to make sure we peaceful resolution as soon as possible,” Bautista said.
“Today’s purpose wasn't really to get a decision, but we did a turn in about 25 to 30 letters from these tenants,” Bautista said. “We want to make sure we get a peaceful resolution as soon as possible.”
