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Orange County approves new rule on rent increases, ending leases

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Orange County commissioners went back and forth Tuesday night about a proposal to stabilize rent.

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The ordinance, if put on the November ballot and approved by voters, would cap rate increases at 5% next year.

It would apply to landlords who own more than four units, except those who own “luxury” housing.

Landlords would also not be allowed to increase rent more than once a year.

READ: Orange County has adopted a new rental ordinance. Here’s what it does

Concerns came from commissioners including Nicole Wilson, who pointed out exemptions in the ordinance that would leave certain renters out.

“One of the things I tried really hard to express was the need to make sure there is an extra safety net for whatever reason,” she said.

READ: Central Florida housing groups team up to call for more affordable options

County Mayor Jerry Demings said rent stabilization isn’t a silver bullet, and said they have to continue to focus on other things in the works to help people dealing with skyrocketing rent.

There will be a public meeting Aug. 9. Commissioners will listen, then decide whether or not rent stabilization will go before the voters in November.

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Adam Poulisse, WFTV.com

Adam Poulisse joined WFTV in November 2019.