Judge lets challenge to Costa Mesa motel law proceed

Orange County Superior Court Judge Sheila Fell allowed a lawsuit combating a Costa Mesa ban on most long-term stays in motels, denying the city of Costa Mesa’s motions to dismiss the litigation.

The lawsuit argues that Costa Mesa is unfairly targeting low-income residents by denying access to temporary, emergency housing in the form of motel stays. “It’s unfortunate that we’re in a situation where, really, Costa Mesa is, instead of creating more opportunities for people to have a roof over their head, they’re making it more difficult for people to keep a roof over their heads,” said Mark Erickson, an attorney the Public Law Center, which is representing a group of motel residents.