At AACSC’s March Membership Meeting, Executive Director John Edmond delivered a compelling call to action on the critical importance of advocacy for housing providers. With new policy battles unfolding at both the city and state level, Edmond reminded members that staying informed and engaged is no longer optional it is essential for protecting property rights and shaping the future of rental housing in Southern California.

Why Advocacy Matters

Policy decisions directly impact property rights, day-to-day operations, and costs for housing providers. Without active participation, harmful laws risk passes unchallenged.

Edmond emphasized that lawmakers frequently hear only from tenant groups and unless housing providers share their stories, the policy conversation will remain unbalanced.

“Your voice as a housing provider matters. Without it, others will define the rules for you.”

Understanding Today’s Threats

Several proposals pose immediate risks to housing providers:

  • Just Cause Ordinances – Proposed in Long Beach, limiting management flexibility.
  • Substantial Remodel Moratoriums – Another Long Beach proposal preventing relocations for major renovations.
  • Regional Expansion – If adopted locally, these measures are likely to spread to neighboring cities.

We must have a sense of urgency to early, coordinated advocacy to stop restrictive measures before they gain traction.

Building Political Relationships

Personal connections with policymakers remain one of the most effective tools for advocacy. AACSC encouraged providers to:

  • Invite councilmembers for on-site property tours.
  • Set up informal coffee meetings with local representatives.
  • Increase visibility by attending town halls and public forums.

Effective Advocacy Tactics

Every member can play a role. These are simple but powerful actions:

  • Phone Calls & Public Comments – Be respectful, concise, and clear.
  • Letter-Writing Campaigns – Share personal stories; AACSC provides templates.
  • Showing Up in Numbers – Council hearings and city meetings demonstrate industry strength.

The Role of PACs

John highlighted the importance of Political Action Committees (PACs), which allow housing providers to collectively support candidates who understand the industry. He stated that contributions must remain ethical and transparent to ensure AACSC’s credibility and long-term influence.

AACSC’s Current Efforts

The Association is actively advancing advocacy initiatives, including:

  • “Let Us Renovate, Don’t Regulate” Campaign – Petitioning against remodel moratoriums.
  • Industry Partnerships – Aligning with other organizations to amplify housing messages.
  • Policy Alternatives – Working with experts to propose balanced solutions.

Member Engagement Opportunities

Housing providers were urged to take immediate action:

  • Sign and share petitions
  • Participate in advocacy meetings
  • Speak at council hearings
  • Stay informed with AACSC alerts

Members were also introduced to AACSC’s new Legislative Tracker, launching April 2025, providing real-time updates on bills, ordinances, and policies affecting rental housing.

Final Takeaway

“An attack on one property owner is an attack on all. Our collective voice is our greatest strength.” - John Edmond

How You Can Take Action Today

✔️ Join the AACSC Advocacy Task Force
✔️ Sign and circulate the “Let Us Renovate, Don’t Regulate” petition
✔️ Attend upcoming city hearings and submit public comments
✔️ Use AACSC’s advocacy resources to stay compliant and informed you'll moved living night fill created.

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