Santa Monica put a temporary moratorium on commercial evictions Wednesday after local officials ordered many businesses to close Monday to slow the spread of coronavirus, evaporating revenue needed to pay workers, rent and utilities.

City Manager Rick Cole signed an emergency order Wednesday morning prohibiting landlords from evicting businesses through Apr. 30 if they have been financially impacted by coronavirus. The city also waived late fees on the taxes and fees it collects from businesses through the end of April.

Wednesday's supplemental order also suspends the removal of rental property from the market under the Ellis Act, which allows landlords of rent control buildings to go out of the rental business.

Read More: https://www.smdp.com/santa-monica-extends-evictions-moratorium-to-businesses/187893