State elections commission declines to open an investigation into Protect Salinas Renters.

The California Fair Political Practices Commission has declined to open an investigation into the group Protect Salinas Renters, despite receiving two identical complaints from people who alleged that signature-gatherers used food to reward petition signatories in an apparent bribery effort. 

Christopher Burton, assistant chief of the FPPC's enforcement decision, notified people named in the complaint in an Oct. 31 letter that the agency was dropping the matter. "The Enforcement Division will not pursue an enforcement action in these matters," Burton wrote. 

A parallel investigation is underway by the Monterey County District Attorney's Office, which has declined to speak about an ongoing investigation, as is standard in ongoing matters. 

The Weekly has been unable to locate either of the FPPC complainants, Luci Rodriguez or Jamie Estrada. It is not clear if they have been in contact with the DA's Office. 

The issue of renter protections has been a flashpoint in Salinas politics. After council overturned rent stabilization and three other ordinances in June, the group Protect Salinas Renters undertook a successful signature-gathering effort for a referendum. The referendum will go to voters in November 2026. 

The City also hosts a forum on housing solutions, part of the mayor's plan for alternatives, from 8:30am-3:30pm on Wednesday, Nov. 5. 

"The housing summit is really part of a series that will take place throughout the month of November," Mayor Dennis Donohue said during the City Council meeting on Oct. 28.

"Hopefully this will be a positive moment, a chance to pivot," Donohue added.