Wilmington City Council Advances Rent Control Proposal Amid Debate
WILMINGTON – After an intense discussion and a series of public comments, the Wilmington City Council’s Community Development and Urban Planning Committee has approved a proposal aimed at controlling rent increases in the city. Sponsored by Councilwoman Shané Darby, the measure seeks to limit rent hikes to the lesser of the change in the Consumer Price Index or a flat 3 percent.
"This ordinance does not stop rent increases; it simply ensures that they are not excessive," Darby emphasized, addressing the council during the heated meeting. However, the proposal does include exceptions, allowing landlords of new constructions to remain exempt from this cap for the first ten years. Additionally, landlords who undertake significant renovations can apply for permission to exceed the cap.
While committee members largely expressed their support for the measure, hesitations were voiced from Mayor John Carney’s office. Daniel Walker, the mayor’s deputy chief of staff, underscored concerns about the strain this law could place on city staff, particularly within the License and Inspection Department, which would oversee enforcement if the ordinance passes. Walker highlighted the need for a focus on increasing affordable housing supply, asserting, "Our position is to double down on what’s working."
In response to these concerns, Darby urged that the issue of rent control must be addressed urgently, stating, "We can walk and chew gum at the same time. They can all happen concurrently because people are in need today."
The committee’s approval paves the way for a full council vote scheduled for May 22, where the fate of the proposed rent control measure will be determined.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
