San Jose Raises Blight Fines Up to $500K to Combat Neglect

San Jose is significantly increasing fines for absentee landlords who neglect properties, with daily penalties raised up to $20,000 and total fines reaching $500,000, marking some of the highest blight-related fines in California. The move targets properties that become fire hazards, attract crime, vandalism, and unhoused encampments, with officials noting previous lower fines were ineffective as wealthy or overseas owners often treated them as a cost of doing business. The ordinance gained momentum after high-profile cases like the deteriorated First Church of Christ Scientist, which remained neglected despite past penalties. Councilmembers Pamela Campos, Anthony Tordillos, and Peter Ortiz spearheaded the effort, emphasizing that residents should not bear the cost of others' negligence. The increase reflects frustration with chronic blight worsening neighborhood safety and property values amid San Jose's already high housing costs. Public feedback included concerns about the treatment of unhoused residents, but the council proceeded with the fines to compel compliance and protect community welfare.