Bronx tenants speak out against proposed rent hikes for rent-stabilized apartments
THE BRONX, N.Y. (PIX11) – New Yorkers living in rent-stabilized apartments say they can’t take another rent hike.
Tenants gathered Monday evening hoping to keep a roof over their heads, imploring for a rent freeze. They say rent keeps on going up, but their wages are not.
"I hate getting ripped off," said a Bronx tenant.
She joined hundreds of New Yorkers opposing the new proposed plan by the New York City Rent Guidelines Board.
"Low-income citizens getting rent higher once again," said another tenant
If the plan goes into effect, starting on Oct. 1, tenants will be paying 2 to 4.5% more in rent for a one-year lease. There will also be a 4 to 6.5% increase for a two-year lease.
"A rent increase for me will mean an extra $115 in rent, my salary has not gotten up $115 a month," said resident Joanne Grell. For her, rent affordability means skipping generational poverty.
"Because the rent has been affordable, I was able to put two children through college, one is on her way to medical school," she added.
Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson highlighted that since the end of the coronavirus pandemic, the borough has seen 7,000 evictions during the public hearing at Hostos Community College Monday evening.
"These proposed hikes will be devastating for hard-working families during an unprecedented housing crisis," stated Gibson.
Small building owners also stepped up to the mic, responding to those claiming they will continue profiting from a rent hike as they have in the past.
"No one is making money. Small owners are hurting badly. Some of us take on a second job to keep up with bills," said a Bronx building owner.
Last year, the Rent Guidelines Board increased the rent by 3% for one-year leases and by 3.2% for two years.
The next two public hearings are scheduled for June 5 and June 11. The board will make a final decision on June 17.