In the near term, cities and counties may experience increased costs which are unknown, but are not likely to total more than millions of dollars annually. They state that mobilehome rent controls lead to a decline in the availability, quality, and affordability of mobilehomes and parks. According to proponents, over 600 mobilehome parks have closed since 1981. Supporters claim that rent regulations artificially increase the re-sale price of mobilehomes, putting them out of reach for many. They emphasize a free market can better serve both tenants and owners.
Supporters believe that mobilehome rent controls waste public resources.
They believe that the bureaucracy and litigation associated with rent control costs cities and counties hundreds of millions of dollars a year. They note the discounts under the measure would directly aid large numbers of low- income persons, and that park owners rather than taxpayers would bear the cost of the discounts. Moreover, the discounts, unlike rent controls, would be targeted to those truly in need rather than existing to benefit all mobilehome park residents, many of whom are not poor. Arguments in Opposition Opponents argue local jurisdictions should be free to evaluate social and economic conditions within their communities to determine whether mobilehome rent controls are appropriate. They note mobilehome owners are uniquely situated, living in purchased homes on rented space.