Dear Valued Property Owners and Tenants:
The Uptown Whittier Improvement Association (UWIA) Executive Committee offers its sincere concern and best wishes to you, your family, and the entire community amid these unprecedented circumstances. While the situation is certainly serious, we remain confident in our concerted ability to weather these challenging times.
As the situation continues to evolve, it is paramount that Uptown Whittier property owners and tenants continue to review and follow health directives, laws, and orders issued by federal, state, and local authorities. Of note, and of great impact to members of the UWIA, are two orders enacting eviction protections.
On March 16, 2020, Governor Gavin Newsom issued an Executive Order which “authorizes local governments to halt evictions for renters and homeowners, slows foreclosures, and protects against utility shutoffs for Californians affected by COVID-19.” A summary of and link to the full Executive Order is available on the Office of the Governor website.
The Whittier City Council took similar action during a telephonic meeting on March 24, 2020, enacting a local moratorium on both residential and commercial evictions through May 31, 2020. The City of Whittier has published a set of resources specific to this eviction moratorium including Frequently Asked Questions and a checklist & sample letter that tenants may present to their landlord.
Undoubtedly, parties involved in commercial leases are also experiencing hardships and challenges that vary greatly from party to party. Lessors and lessees are encouraged to seek assistance and advise from the various CARES Act programs, their banker, CPA, or attorney. The UWIA is optimistic that after shelter-in-place restrictions are lifted and businesses can reopen, all involved parties will commit to resolving any issues regarding deferred rents. Meanwhile, the UWIA will inquire about resources for lessors and lessees with the City of Whittier.
The UWIA will continue to discuss these issues at length during its next Board meeting on May 14, 2020. The meeting will be held telephonically at 8:30 a.m. Please contact GM Properties by phone at (562) 697-5000 or by email at brent@gmpropertiesinc.com or stephanie@gmpropertiesinc.com for dial-in instructions. If you are unable to participate in the call, please email your concerns, comments, and personal experience with the pandemic to info@uwia.org.
We hope this letter provides a level of comfort and reassurance to all.
Sincerely,
Uptown Whittier Improvement Association (UWIA) Executive Committee