EUREKA, Ca. (KIEM)-The City of Eureka mayor specifically talked about the ordinance that will give renters extended time to pay rent and the homelessness issue in her weekly address.
“The City of Eureka is working diligently to support the health and well-being of our citizens, our community, and our economy during the COVID-19 pandemic,” Mayor Susan Seaman said in a supportive message to the residents of Eureka and continuing her message of unity.
“To help control the community spread of COVID-19, please keep doing your part.”
The number of unemployed persons rose by nearly six million people in the month of March according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Those numbers directly reflect the effect of the Coronavirus and the efforts to contain it costing some people their jobs and their paycheck.
If you’re one of many renters unable to pay your rent, a temporary ordinance gives residential and commercial renters more time to pay.
“Right now, and for the duration of the moratorium, landlords cannot evict tenants for nonpayment of rent, or for a no-fault eviction,” Seaman said.
The eviction moratorium is effective immediately but to be eligible you must meet certain requirements.
“In order to qualify for delayed payments, tenants must notify their landlord, in writing, of lost income and their inability to pay the full rent,” she said. “They must also provide documentation to support their claim.”
Seaman says several concerned residents have voiced their concerns surrounding one of the most vulnerable populations during this pandemic, those with no home or place to lay their head during the “shelter-in-place” order.
“As you know, the Eureka Police Department’s Community Safety Engagement Team and our Community Service Department and UPLIFT Eureka staff are working with community partners on the front lines of the COVID-19 homelessness response,” Seaman said.
The program is mostly supported by measure Z funding from Humboldt County and grants, contributions Seaman is grateful for.
“I would also like to take this moment to say a big thank you to all of those “essential workers” who are continuing to serve our community during these challenging times,” Seaman said.
The eviction moratorium is in effect until May 31st for more information click on https://www.ci.eureka.ca.gov/
