To: City Council President Lakisha Collins Bellamy
Greetings:
Several weeks ago, the Good Cause Eviction legislation was placed in the Real Estate committee at your behest that would mirror the New York State legislative policy to be considered by Council and this administration. To date, this legislation has remained in Real Estate which appears to the public is not being addressed or monitored. I do recognize that when these drafts are submitted into committee that it is challenging to get everyone on board as well as to shape the legislation to fit the nuances of the municipality, however, there is an urgency occurring in Yonkers.Â
Local residents are being targeted with increased rental rates that are creating fear as well as displacement. I have been a vocal advocate for an increase in affordable housing that exceeds the 10% threshold as well as calling for the end of economic gentrification that is plaguing this City forcing the marginalized and lower wage earners to have to move out of the city, but yet commute back in order to work.
It is my hope that Yonkers, the third largest city in the state, will see the necessary need to opt into the Good Cause Eviction Legislation initiative in order to protect its residents who are facing the burden of increased rents that exceed reasonable market rental rates. Your leadership is needed during this critical time.Â
Thank you so much for your time and consideration in this matter.Â
