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proposed ordinance in Los Angeles aims to boost building incentives for developers, but tenant advocates warn it could displace thousands of rent-controlled apartment dwellers. The Citywide Housing Incentive Program would offer breaks on height and parking requirements if projects include a certain percentage of affordable units and are located near transit hubs, major streets, jobs, and schools.

    Developers who build 100% affordable housing projects would be eligible for incentives across a wider area of the city. However, most parcels that fall under the proposed development incentives are in residential neighborhoods zoned for apartments, which concerns tenant advocates. Older units, which make up most of Los Angeles' apartments, are protected by rent control and provide stability for working-class residents.

    "This housing stock is the cornerstone of our housing policy solution," said Laura Raymond, director of ACT-LA coalition. "It doesn't make sense to have it at risk." The proposed zoning change comes as Los Angeles struggles to meet a state-mandated goal of building 457,000 homes by 2029, with 255,000 created through land rezoning.

    To mitigate the impact on tenants, the city has proposed additional protections for low-income residents displaced by demolition. They would have the right to move into new apartment complexes at their prior rent or a rent deemed affordable based on their income. The city estimates that some tenants could receive relocation assistance payments of over $100,000. However, it's unclear how many apartments might be demolished due to the rezoning plan.