Sen. Donzella James Hosts Senate Urban Affairs Committee Meeting in Savannah

ATLANTA (September 9, 2024) - Last week, Sen. Donzella James (D-Atlanta), Chairwoman of the Senate Committee on Urban Affairs, held a hearing at Savannah Technical College. The meeting brought together committee members, stakeholders and the general public to discuss issues related to homeownership, property ownership, rent control and home owners, property owners and condominium owners associations.

Committee members discussed the complexities of homeownership, including the challenges first-time buyers face, the impact of rising property taxes and the need for greater transparency and fairness in home owners, property owners and condominium owners associations. Rent control, a pressing issue for many Georgia residents, was also a focal point, with discussions highlighting the balance between tenant protections and property owner rights.

"These important topics are at the heart of what makes our communities thrive," said Sen. James. "As we explore solutions to challenges faced by homeowners and renters alike, we must directly engage with residents from across our state to develop policies that promote stability and fairness in housing. I strongly believe in holding open meetings where the public can share their stories directly with their elected officials. We have an obligation to ensure every Georgian has access to affordable living arrangements.

Several bills were introduced over the past two years that would address these issues, including SB 125, which would lift the rent control prohibition in the state of Georgia, giving local control to the municipalities; SB 356, which would create an Ombudsman office for HOA issues; and SB 29 which would prevent HOA's from filing claims against homeowners who were previously in good standing. Even though these bills did not pass, I will continue to introduce legislation relating to these matters to assist the citizens in the State of Georgia."

The Senate Committee on Urban Affairs is committed to crafting and reviewing policies addressing urban areas' unique challenges. For more information on the committee's work and upcoming meetings, visit the Senate website here.

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Sen. Donzella James serves as the Chair of the Senate Committee on Urban Affairs. She represents the 35^th Senate District, which includes portions of Douglas and Fulton counties. She may be reached by phone at 404.463.1379 or by email at [email protected]

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