Looking Ahead with Optimism & Determination
As we prepare to welcome 2025, let’s take a moment to pause and reflect on our shared journey. This past year has brought its share of challenges, but it has also revealed opportunities for growth, collaboration and renewal. And, the turning of the calendar offers us a fresh start — a chance to recommit to our goals, build on our successes, and embrace the challenges that lie ahead.
In 2024, we were tested in many ways. For the third time, we had to fight to defeat the attempted repeal of Costa-Hawkins, and with it the re-implementation of vacancy controls. We had the rent board do an end-run around us and get the city council to place their measure on the ballot (Measure BB) even though they had not received the required number of signatures from the public. Despite these hurdles, we remain steadfast in our commitment to protecting housing providers and fostering sustainable housing solutions.
Small rental property owners are more than landlords. We are providers of housing (much of it affordable,) we are your neighbors, and we are contributors to the fabric of our community. It is our job to change the old narrative about who we are in Berkeley. And with a new mayor and city council, we have an opportunity to build bridges in 2025.
Celebrating Victories
Even in a year full of challenges, there have been bright spots worth celebrating. Together, we’ve accomplished much:
• Legislative Wins: Proposition 33 was soundly defeated — gaining support from barely 40% of the voters. In addition, Proposition 34 passed, which should hopefully end our need to rally every two-to-four years to protect Costa-Hawkins.
• Local Government Change: One of the most hopeful signs of progress has been the shift in the city council. Thanks to our collective efforts, we helped bring in fresh voices — leaders who are more open to balanced and fair housing policies. This change gives us reason to hope for a brighter, more collaborative future.
• Strengthened Relationships: We’ve deepened relationships with policymakers and community leaders, positioning us to better advocate for sustainable housing solutions that benefit everyone.
Each of these achievements is a reminder that our efforts matter. As we look ahead, we see new opportunities to advocate and to strengthen our community. In a city that
prides itself on being ‘progressive’ (frankly, I’m not really sure what that term means), we will face many challenges, but there is hope for meaningful change.
A Call for Greater Involvement
None of our achievements would have been possible without your help. Your engagement — attending meetings, writing to councilmembers and state legislators, and sharing your experiences — makes all the difference. In order to advance our cause in this new year, we need more voices, more stories and more participation to help us in shaping the future.
BPOA is your association, and its strength comes from your participation. Here are a few ways you can strengthen the organization and make an impact:
• Get Educated: Staying informed is the first step to making a difference. Join us to learn about the latest issues and to connect with your fellow members. This year there are going to be a lot of adjustments between the implementation of Measure BB and new state law changes.
• Commit to Attending Events and Meetings: Plan to attend city council meetings to advocate for our positions. Politicians need to see turnout in order to make the hard choices. We have strength in numbers.
• Share Your Story: Your experiences as a housing provider are powerful. Whether it’s a success, a lesson learned, or a current challenge, your story can inspire others and influence decision makers.
• Volunteer: From helping with events to advocating on key issues, there are many ways to contribute. Contribute a little of your time and resources to support
our initiatives.
• Spread the Word: Get at least one other property owner who is not a member to join BPOA this year.
Gratitude and Dedication
As I enter my second term as being your president, I want to thank everyone who contributed in 2024. As a longtime housing provider, I share your same concerns and
challenges. This is our chance to build on the progress we’ve made and to create opportunities for growth and success. The future is not set in stone — it is shaped by
what we do today, together.
Being a housing provider in Berkeley has its challenges. Thank you for your resilience, your dedication and your belief in the work we do. Remember: changing the narrative
around housing is a marathon, not a sprint. I ask that in this new year you commit to ‘upping your game’ and getting more involved with BPOA.
The future remains uncertain, but one thing I know for sure is that we are stronger together. By continuing to support one another and advocating for responsible housing policies, we can build a future that benefits us all. Let’s move into the new year with hope in our hearts and determination in our actions.
Let’s make this new year one to remember.