Three appeals challenging Rent Stabilization Ordinance decisions kept the West Hollywood Rent Stabilization Commission busy, with each case resulting in unanimous votes to affirm the hearing examiners’ rulings. The appeals, heard on May 8, 2025, involved disputes over housing services at properties on North San Vicente Boulevard, Holloway Drive, and North Crescent Heights Boulevard.
The first appeal, D-4966, concerned tenant Anthony Diugenio’s access to an outdoor water source at 966 North San Vicente Boulevard. Diugenio argued that the water, used for cleaning common areas and watering plants, was a housing service removed after 32 years. The landlord, represented by attorney William Bogdoyan, countered that no permission was ever granted, and the lease did not include such access. The hearing examiner’s decision, denying a rent reduction, was upheld due to substantial evidence supporting the landlord’s claim. “A reasonable person could have made that decision,” said Commissioner Joshua Kurpies, noting the commission’s limited scope to review evidence presented to the examiner.
Appeal D-4876CD1 addressed a compliance determination at 8558 Holloway Drive, where landlord Alex Galicia contested a $6 rent reduction for an inoperative intercom and outdated directory. Tenants Ean Caspi and Diana Caspi argued that the system remained faulty, posing security risks. Despite Galicia’s claim of a post-decision city inspection showing functionality, the commission could not consider this new evidence. Staff recommended affirming the examiner’s finding of non-compliance, and the commission agreed. “The landlord could apply for a new compliance determination,” Chair Adam Bass noted, suggesting a resolution path.
The final appeal, D-4980, at 1038 North Crescent Heights Boulevard, saw both tenant David Markey and landlord Michael Sarshad challenge the examiner’s rulings. Markey contested denials of rent reductions for gas repair costs, a back door repair, and security deposit interest. The commission found the gas reimbursement and security deposit issues outside its jurisdiction, while the door repair was deemed adequately addressed by the landlord’s installation of a metal plate, despite Markey’s objections to its efficacy. Sarshad appealed a $23 rent reduction for garbage and recycling duties, claiming tenants always handled them. Markey countered that management historically managed waste, a service removed in 2020. The commission upheld the examiner’s decision, finding substantial evidence for the rent reduction. “It’s ultimately the landlord’s responsibility,” Bass said.
Commissioners emphasized mediation for resolving ongoing disputes, encouraging parties to contact the Rent Stabilization Division. The decisions reflect the commission’s commitment to evidence-based rulings while navigating complex tenant-landlord dynamics.
