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Cesar Rang,el <br /> <br />Santa Ana, CA 92703 <br />March 11th, 2025 <br />I am a resident of Santa Ana, and I am writing to bring attention to the poor living conditions <br />affecting many families in our community. As housing costs continue to rise, many low-income <br />residents are forced to live in substandard housing with issues such as pest infestations, mold, <br />plumbing failures, and overcrowding. These conditions pose serious health risks and diminish the <br />quality of life for many hardworking individuals and families. As a city leader, I urge you to take <br />action to address this urgent issue. <br />Many of Santa Ana's rental properties, particularly in low-income neighborhoods, suffer from <br />neglect due to landlords failing to maintain safe and habitable living conditions. Tenants often fear <br />retaliation if they report problems, while others struggle with rent increases despite living in unsafe <br />environments. According to reports from the Kennedy commission and local housing advocates, <br />nearly 40% of renters in Santa Ana are severely rent -burdened, meaning they spend more than half <br />their income on rent. This leaves little room for essential expenses like food, healthcare, and <br />education, exacerbating the cycle of poverty. Children and elderly residents are especially vulnerable <br />to the health hazards caused by unsafe housing, including respiratory illnesses from mold and <br />stress -related conditions due to overcrowding. <br />To address this crisis, I urge the City Council to, strengthen tenant protections, enforce <br />stricter health and safety inspections for rental properties, and provide additional funding for <br />affordable housing initiatives. lmplementing a proactive rental inspection program, similar to those in <br />other cities, could help ensure landlords, comply with health and safety codes before violations reach <br />critical levels. Additionally, expanding rental assistance programs and legal support for tenants can <br />help prevent displacement and hold negligent landlords accountable. <br />I appreciate your time and consideration of this issue. Ensuring safe and dignified housing <br />for all Santa Ana residents is essential to the well-being, and prosperity of our community. I <br />respectfully request your support in advocating for stronger policies to address this crisis. Please let <br />me know how I can stay informed about the city's efforts an this matter. <br />Sincerely, <br />Cesar Rangel <br />