Tenants Convention

Help select the progressive, pro-tenant Berkeley Rent Board slate!

Tenants homeowners, and landlords who fully support tenants rights - including but not limited to rent control and eviction protections - are invited to join in the 2026 Berkeley Tenants Convention to nominate a strong slate of candidates to run for city-wide election to the Berkeley Rent Board. Berkeley's Rent Stabilization Board plays a vital role in ensuring fair rental prices and decent living conditions. The Board serves renters and landlords and is known throughout the state for the breadth and quality of its services. Board Members receive a monthly stipend and health insurance,  At the convention, each aspiring commissioner will share with you his or her experience, philosophy, and goals. After everyone has spoken, we will vote.

All Berkeley residents (16 and older) who support rent control and strong tenant protections are welcome to seek selection as a convention candidate. To run as a candidate, fill out this application by Sunday, March 22.

All 2026 candidates will be vetted and chosen by the Tenants Convention taking place on Sunday. April 19 from 1:30 to 4:30 pm at the Black Repertory Theatre. This is followed by online voting (or by paper ballot for those without the internet) through Tuesday, April 28. The last day to request a ballot is Friday, April 24. To vote at the Convention, you must be a Berkeley resident at least sixteen years old by April 28, 2026. Eligible Convention voters include college/university students, unhoused residents, non-citizens and other persons ineligible to register to vote who fully supports tenants’ rights.

For more information, contact berkeleytenantsconvention@gmail.com.

Please consider making a donation to help us cover all of our costs. To donate, go to www.berkeleytenants.org and click on "Join" in the upper right corner of the website's homepage (please type "Convention" in the "Add a message to BTU" line). If you are currently in Berkeley and would prefer to make a donation by cash or check, please email berkeleytenantsconvention@gmail.com.

CONVENTION TIMELINE
• Friday, January 16: Candidate questionnaire is publicly released
• Sunday, March 22: Candidate questionnaire is due
• Monday, April 6 - Sunday, April 12: Candidates interviewed by sponsoring organizations
• Sunday, April 19 - The Convention at the Black Repertory Theatre
• Friday, April 24: Last day to request a ballot
• Tuesday, April 28: Last day to vote