Mobile Home Law Hearing Set

The Carson council set a public hearing Nov. 15 for a proposed revision to its ordinance governing the closing of mobile home parks. The revision would strengthen relocation assistance provisions and add language to make the ordinance conform to state law.

At issue is a state law that became effective Jan. 1, 1987, that limits relocation assistance required of park owners to “reasonable costs of relocation.” The state law does not define the term.

The proposed revision to the Carson ordinance uses the same language but broadens the protection to cover all residents--renters and owners of mobile homes--and includes recreational vehicles in the definition of a mobile home. It would permit the city to require owners of a park that is closing to pay not only the moving costs for a mobile home but also for moving and construction of improvements such as patios, carports and porches. In addition, the city could require park owners to pay any increase in rent for one year.

Mobile home residents said after the public hearing was set that they are disappointed that the council did not pass the ordinance without a hearing.