Skid row activists say longtime residents of the Cecil Hotel, such as Alvin Taylor, cant afford the higher rents that come with redevelopment. The Los Angeles Community Action Network has sued the owners of the Alexandria Hotel, also in downtown Los Angeles, over what it says are prejudiced and illegal housing practices. Earlier this month, one of the community groups supporting law firms sent a letter to the new owners of the Cecil, saying they must stop redevelopment plans or face similar legal action. (Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times)