So This Happened…Week of March 24-30, 2025

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CA (Mar. 30, 2025) — After much discussion among the City Councilmembers – and some angry protests – Concord decided to amend the no fault eviction rules to carve out an exemption for landlords who own no more than two single-family homes or condos. The council also agreed to a flat 5% annual rent cap for multi-family rental complexes of two or more units built before Feb. 1, 1995.
At the Feb. 25 meeting, housing advocates waved a banner stating: “Don’t betray Concord. Keep families house” as small landlords described the difficulties they face. (Read the complete story here.)
Meanwhile, Pioneer reporter David Scholz delves into Concord’s housing development scene as the city strives to add more than 5,000 units to meet state goals. “We have a variety of projects that are at different stages,” noted planning manager Aaron Sage. “A project can be on the books for two or three years, but it can be a few years before it gets permitted.”
Combatting climate change: Pleasant Hill Mayor Noack outlines the city’s Climate Action Plan, which she calls “a roadmap to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while promoting sustainable development, resilience and equity throughout the community.” She invites residents to visit the city website to take a survey on the concept. Take a survey to help shape the Climate Action Plan at www.phillca.gov/CAP2025.
Mat accomplishments: After winning its first North Coast Section girls wrestling championship, Clayton Valley Charter earned several podium spots at the state level. The team finished seventh overall. In other local sports news, a second turf field and running track was completed at Mt. Diablo High School. It’s the Bay Area’s first fully recyclable, PFAS chemical-free and infill-free turf field.
More local news
Here are some other stories the Pioneer covered recently:
From the police: Jury convicts McIsaac in Lafayette home invasion case; Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office plans 2025 Junior Women’s Academy; and the latest from Concord PD and Clayton PD.
“Night in New Orleans” a festive evening for Clayton Valley music program.
Clayton Valley Village seeks volunteers to help seniors.
Focus on Finance: Cracking the credit code.
Preplanning with Oakmont matters more than you think.
Grayson working to protect Californians from scams.
Lifelong exposure to art leads to a focus on Vermeer.
Spring comes to Concord: Embrace the longer days and hit the trail.
Read past installments of “So This Happened…”: Click here.
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