Providence rent control ordinance passes first vote, mayor promises veto

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — The Providence City Council has moved forward with a proposed rent control ordinance after approving it in a narrow 9-6 vote Thursday night.

The measure still needs a second approval before it can be sent to Brett Smiley, who has already indicated he intends to veto it.

If adopted, the policy would mark a historic shift. It is the first time the city has advanced legislation aimed at limiting rent increases.

What the Providence rent control proposal would do

The ordinance sets a cap of 4 percent on yearly rent increases for certain tenants. It also includes carve-outs designed to reflect local housing conditions.

Landlords would still be able to request higher increases in specific situations, such as major building upgrades, sharp tax hikes, or other significant operating costs.

City leaders backing the plan say the goal is to give renters more stability while allowing property owners to maintain their buildings.

Supporters say policy brings predictability

Council President Rachel Miller said the measure is intended to support the majority of Providence residents who rent.

Supporters argue the ordinance will create more predictable housing costs in a market where rents have risen faster than many residents can afford.

Councilor Justin Roias said the policy is not a complete solution to the housing shortage, but could help families plan ahead.

The proposal follows months of hearings and revisions. An updated version cleared committee before Thursday’s vote.

Oversight board and exemptions included

The ordinance would create a five-member Residential Rent Regulation Board. The panel would handle enforcement, settle disputes, and oversee how the policy is applied.

City officials say the framework draws from rent regulations used in hundreds of municipalities nationwide.

The measure is also designed to focus on larger landlords. Exemptions would apply to small owner-occupied properties, certain affordable housing units, and newly built developments.

Councilor Shelley Peterson said renters are struggling to keep up with rising costs and need added protections, even if the policy does not lower rents outright.

Opposition raises economic concerns

Not all council members support the plan.

Councilor Pedro Espinal warned the financial impact of the ordinance has not been fully addressed.

Councilor James Taylor questioned whether rent control policies are effective, pointing to other regions where similar measures have faced criticism.

He also raised concerns about how the proposal has been presented to the public.

Debate over timing and process

Councilor John Goncalves attempted to delay the vote and called for an independent legal review, but both efforts were sent to committee.

Goncalves ultimately voted against the ordinance, saying the council should take more time to evaluate its potential impacts.

What happens next

The ordinance must pass a second vote before heading to the mayor’s desk.

If vetoed, the council would have 30 days to override the decision with a two-thirds majority vote.