New York City Council
Committee on Housing and Buildings
Nov 12, 2024
·
10:00 AM
2 hr 49 min
Summary
A hearing on tenant harassment and safety, focusing on several bills aimed at addressing illegal evictions, tenant protections, and extreme heat issues in NYC apartments.
Key discussions included:
- Expanding definitions of harassment
- Increasing penalties for illegal evictions
- Providing more protections for tenants
- Requiring cooling systems in all tenant-occupied dwellings
Features testimony from the Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD), New York City Police Department (NYPD), and the public.
Meeting chapters
Read summaries and watch videos for short segments that matter to you.
Introduction and context of the tenant harassment and safety hearing
Council Member Pierina Sanchez opens the Committee on Housing and Buildings hearing on tenant harassment and safety. She introduces herself as the chair and acknowledges the presence of other council …
0:00:36
·
17 sec
Overview of New York City's housing crisis
Council Member Sanchez outlines the severe housing crisis facing New York City, emphasizing low vacancy rates and rising costs. - The city has a 1.4% vacancy rate, which is effectively …
0:00:54
·
18 sec
Recent eviction statistics in New York City
Council Member Sanchez presents recent eviction statistics, highlighting a significant increase in evictions since the pandemic eviction moratorium ended. - Over 13,000 registered evictions occurred in 2022, up from 5,000 …
0:01:12
·
18 sec
Illegal evictions and unscrupulous landlord tactics
Council Member Sanchez explains the legal eviction process in New York City and highlights the issue of illegal evictions carried out by unscrupulous landlords. - Landlords must follow a set …
0:01:30
·
34 sec
Forms of tenant harassment and challenges in enforcement
Council Member Sanchez outlines various forms of tenant harassment and discusses the challenges in enforcing housing standards and protecting tenants' rights. - Harassment can include threats, changing locks, or failing …
0:02:05
·
68 sec
Certificate of No Harassment program overview and statistics
Council Member Sanchez provides an overview of the Certificate of No Harassment (CONH) pilot program and presents statistics on its implementation and findings. - The CONH program was created in …
0:03:13
·
34 sec
Overview of proposed legislation on tenant protection and harassment
Council Member Sanchez introduces several pieces of legislation aimed at addressing tenant harassment, illegal evictions, and related issues. - Intro 621: Expands the definition of tenant harassment and the Certificate …
0:03:48
·
57 sec
Proposed legislation on cooling requirements and heat-related tenant protections
Council Member Sanchez introduces legislation aimed at addressing extreme heat issues in residential buildings and protecting tenants during hot summer months. - Intro 994: Requires tenant-occupied dwellings to be provided …
0:04:46
·
45 sec
Acknowledgments and farewell to departing staff member
Council Member Sanchez concludes her remarks with acknowledgments to her staff and a heartfelt farewell to a departing team member. - She thanks her chief of staff, director of land …
0:05:32
·
55 sec
Council Member Sandy Nurse discusses bills on illegal evictions and tenant rights
Council Member Sandy Nurse presents her remarks on several bills she has introduced, focusing on illegal evictions and tenant rights. She discusses the prevalence of illegal lockouts, the inadequacy of …
0:06:28
·
4 min
Council Member Restler's opening acknowledgments
Council Member Lincoln Restler opens his remarks by thanking Chair Sanchez for her leadership of the committee and expressing regret over the departure of a staff member named Taylor. - …
0:11:01
·
14 sec
The impact of climate crisis and extreme heat in New York City
Council Member Restler highlights the urgency of the climate crisis, emphasizing the increasing temperatures in New York City and the deadly impact of extreme heat on residents. - Restler notes …
0:11:17
·
62 sec
Details of Intro 994: Cooling requirement legislation
Council Member Restler outlines the proposed legislation (Intro 994) that would require landlords to provide cooling in residential units, mirroring existing heat requirements. The bill aims to address the health …
0:12:26
·
179 sec
Acknowledgments for collaboration on Intro 994
Council Member Restler expresses gratitude to various organizations and individuals who contributed to the development of the cooling requirement legislation. - He specifically thanks WE ACT and NEJA for their …
0:15:26
·
39 sec
Closing remarks on the importance of addressing extreme heat
Council Member Restler concludes his presentation by emphasizing the need for action to address extreme heat, and Council Member Sanchez responds with support for the proposed legislation. - Restler stresses …
0:16:07
·
45 sec
Introduction and overview of HPD's role in housing enforcement
Deputy Commissioner AnnMarie Santiago introduces herself and her colleagues from the NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) to testify about various housing-related introductions and resolutions. She expresses support …
0:17:23
·
68 sec
HPD's enforcement work and tenant protection efforts
HPD engages in a wide range of enforcement activities to ensure housing quality and safety for New York City residents. These efforts include responding to complaints, conducting emergency repairs, and …
0:18:32
·
65 sec
Anti-harassment programs and Certificate of No Harassment
HPD operates several programs to protect tenants from harassment, including the Anti Harassment Unit (AHU) and the Certificate of No Harassment (CONH) process. These programs aim to identify and penalize …
0:19:37
·
88 sec
Partners in Preservation: A new approach to addressing harassment
Partners in Preservation (PIP) is HPD's newest program to address tenant harassment through community collaboration and data-driven organizing. The program is set to expand into new communities later in the …
0:21:06
·
30 sec
Legal services and support for tenants facing eviction
The city provides various legal services and support programs for tenants facing eviction or harassment. These initiatives aim to protect tenants' rights and prevent unlawful evictions. - Universal Access to …
0:21:37
·
69 sec
HPD's role in tenant education about rights
HPD plays a crucial role in educating tenants about their rights through various resources and materials. These efforts aim to inform tenants about harassment and eviction-related issues. - HPD provides …
0:22:59
·
17 sec
Discussion of Intro 621: Adding illegal eviction to harassment definition
HPD discusses Intro 621, which seeks to add illegal eviction to the housing maintenance code definition of harassment and as a criterion for buildings selected for the Certificate of No …
0:23:17
·
71 sec
Concerns about Intro 622: Changes to illegal eviction case handling
HPD expresses concerns about Intro 622, which proposes requiring the housing part of the housing court to hear illegal eviction cases instead of the trial part. The department believes this …
0:24:30
·
72 sec
Discussion of Intro 623: Increased penalties for illegal eviction
HPD discusses Intro 623, which proposes increasing civil penalties for illegal eviction and adding new requirements for HPD-administered tax subsidies, abatements, and exemptions. The administration expresses support for the bill's …
0:25:43
·
66 sec
Concerns about Intro 993: Police involvement in lockout situations
The administration expresses support for the intent of Intro 993 but raises significant concerns about the scope of its requirements, particularly regarding police involvement in illegal lockout situations. - The …
0:26:51
·
145 sec
Discussion of Intro 1037: Posting requirements for rent-stabilized buildings
HPD discusses Intro 1037, which requires the posting of notices in registered multiple dwellings with one or more rent-stabilized units. The department identifies potential challenges and concerns with implementing this …
0:29:18
·
45 sec
Discussion of Intro 994 and city initiatives to address extreme heat
HPD discusses Intro 994, which addresses cooling requirements in residential units, and outlines various city initiatives to combat extreme heat and climate change impacts on residents. The department emphasizes the …
0:30:13
·
3 min
Council member inquires about Anti-Harassment Unit and Certificate of No Harassment program
Council Member Pierina Sanchez inquires about the relationship between the Anti-Harassment Unit (AHU) and the Certificate of No Harassment program at HPD. Deputy Commissioner AnnMarie Santiago clarifies that these are …
0:34:00
·
28 sec
Discussion on HPD's proactive enforcement and litigation efforts
Council Member Sanchez inquires about HPD's proactive enforcement work, particularly regarding litigation. Deputy Commissioner Santiago and Assistant Commissioner Weithman provide details on the department's efforts. - HPD initiated litigation against …
0:34:29
·
3 min
Details of the Partners in Preservation program discussed
Council Member Sanchez inquires about the Partners in Preservation program, and Deputy Commissioner Santiago provides information on its funding, scope, and implementation. - The program has $3,600,000 in funding across …
0:37:37
·
92 sec
Council member expresses concerns about Universal Access to Counsel program
Council Member Sanchez raises concerns about the implementation of the Universal Access to Counsel program, highlighting the gap between the number of cases served and the total number of housing …
0:39:12
·
62 sec
Council member criticizes budget cuts to Anti-Harassment Tenant Protection program
Council Member Sanchez expresses surprise and criticism regarding the administration's touting of the Anti-Harassment Tenant Protection program, given recent significant budget cuts. - The program was cut by $25,000,000 last …
0:40:16
·
31 sec
Council member inquires about NYPD and HPD roles in illegal lockout responses
Council Member Sandy Nurse asks for clarification on the roles of NYPD and HPD when responding to calls about illegal lockouts. The discussion aims to understand the process and responsibilities …
0:40:48
·
48 sec
NYPD official explains process for determining illegal evictions
Josh Levin from NYPD details the department's process for responding to and determining illegal evictions. He explains that officers consider multiple factors to make a determination. - Officers look for …
0:41:36
·
118 sec
Discussion on objective criteria for officers in illegal eviction cases
Council Member Sandy Nurse inquires about the existence of objective criteria or checklists for officers to use when determining illegal evictions. Josh Levin from NYPD explains the department's approach to …
0:43:34
·
132 sec
NYPD official explains when officers can leave the scene of an illegal lockout
Josh Levin from NYPD explains the circumstances under which officers can leave the scene of an illegal lockout. The discussion covers the resolution process and officer discretion. - Officers generally …
0:45:46
·
124 sec
Inquiry about tenant helpline hours and potential expansion to 24/7 service
Council Member Sandy Nurse inquires about the current hours of operation for the tenant helpline and suggests expanding it to a 24/7 service. HPD representatives are unable to provide immediate …
0:47:50
·
66 sec
Request for data on peak hours for illegal eviction calls
Council Member Sandy Nurse requests data from NYPD regarding the peak hours for illegal eviction calls. This information is not immediately available but is requested as a follow-up. - Current …
0:48:56
·
97 sec
Discussion of fines for illegal lockouts under Intro 623
Council Member Sandy Nurse inquires about the current fines for illegal lockouts and their effectiveness. HPD representatives provide limited information and redirect to the law department for more details. - …
0:50:35
·
24 sec
Debate on denying city subsidies to landlords who illegally evict tenants
Council Member Sandy Nurse and HPD representatives discuss the possibility of denying city subsidies or tax exemptions to landlords who illegally evict tenants. The conversation explores potential policy approaches to …
0:50:59
·
97 sec
Request for data on types of housing where illegal evictions occur most
Council Member Sandy Nurse requests information on the types of housing where illegal evictions most commonly occur. HPD representatives are unable to provide immediate answers but promise to follow up …
0:52:43
·
46 sec
Inquiry about serial illegal evictors
Council Member Sandy Nurse asks HPD representatives if they are aware of any specific landlords or companies that are serial illegal evictors. The response indicates a lack of immediate information …
0:53:29
·
59 sec
Clarification on Intro 622 regarding housing court proceedings
Council Member Sandy Nurse addresses a potential misinterpretation of Intro 622, specifically regarding its implications for housing court proceedings in illegal eviction cases. - Clarification that the bill doesn't require …
0:54:28
·
42 sec
Council Member Sanchez questions NYPD on illegal eviction procedures
Council Member Pierina Sanchez engages in a Q&A session with Josh Levin from the NYPD regarding the department's procedures for handling illegal eviction cases. The discussion covers how officers gather …
0:55:11
·
158 sec
Council Member Abreu questions NYPD and HPD on illegal evictions and rent stabilization postings
Council Member Shaun Abreu engages in a Q&A session with representatives from NYPD and HPD, focusing on criteria for identifying illegal evictions and the proposed posting of rent stabilization information …
0:57:50
·
147 sec
City's position on cooling requirements in new construction
Council Member Restler seeks clarification on the city's stance regarding cooling requirements in new construction. Deputy Commissioner Joffe confirms that HPD supports efforts to ensure cooling access for all New …
1:00:34
·
83 sec
Potential costs and IAI improvements for cooling requirements
Council Member Restler inquires about the potential costs and Individual Apartment Improvements (IAI) related to implementing cooling requirements. The discussion covers the circumstances under which landlords can charge for air …
1:01:59
·
4 min
HPD's enforcement capacity for cooling requirements
Council Member Restler discusses HPD's potential enforcement capacity for cooling requirements, comparing it to their current heating season inspections. Deputy Commissioner Santiago acknowledges that implementing cooling requirements would require increased …
1:06:07
·
117 sec
Council Member Nurse questions NYPD on illegal evictions and desk appearance tickets
Council Member Sandy Nurse inquires about the NYPD's handling of illegal evictions and the issuance of desk appearance tickets, citing a 2022 report that found discrepancies between NYPD practices and …
1:08:21
·
3 min
Council Member Nurse inquires about NYPD training on unlawful evictions
Council Member Sandy Nurse questions Josh Levin from NYPD about the frequency and content of officer training on unlawful evictions. Levin explains the department's approach to refresher trainings and commits …
1:12:12
·
101 sec
HPD representative discusses inter-agency efforts on illegal lockouts
AnnMarie Santiago from HPD provides information about ongoing inter-agency efforts to address illegal lockouts, including the creation of a working group and the development of resources for both law enforcement …
1:13:54
·
46 sec
Discussion on agencies involved in the tenant protection cabinet
Council Member Pierina Sanchez inquires about the agencies involved in the tenant protection cabinet. Deputy Commissioner AnnMarie Santiago provides a partial list, including HPD, DSS, and the mayor's office, but …
1:14:41
·
51 sec
Discussion on Intro 993 regarding lock change procedures for illegal lockouts
Council Member Pierina Sanchez inquires about the administration's position on Intro 993, which deals with lock change procedures for illegal lockouts. The discussion focuses on the potential role of city …
1:15:36
·
3 min
Inquiry about penalties for unlawful evictions
Council Member Pierina Sanchez inquires about the penalties for unlawful evictions, focusing on when the penalty schedule was last updated and the amount of penalties collected. Deputy Commissioner AnnMarie Santiago …
1:18:43
·
100 sec
Inquiry about tracking extreme heat complaints within apartments
Council Member Pierina Sanchez inquires about whether HPD or any other agency currently receives and tracks extreme heat complaints within apartments. Deputy Commissioner AnnMarie Santiago provides information on HPD's handling …
1:20:23
·
42 sec
Discussion on common types of harassment by property owners and related data
Council Member Pierina Sanchez inquires about the most common types of harassment by property owners and related data. HPD representatives provide information on harassment cases and the Certificate of No …
1:21:05
·
178 sec
HPD's use of data in enforcement programs and building selection for litigation
Council Member Pierina Sanchez inquires about HPD's use of data in enforcement programs and the criteria for selecting buildings for litigation. Deputy Commissioner AnnMarie Santiago provides information on the types …
1:24:03
·
67 sec
Council member Restler acknowledges agencies involved in tenant protection
Council Member Lincoln Restler expresses appreciation for the director of the mayor's office of climate and environmental justice, Elijah Hutchison, and his work on behalf of the city and constituents. …
1:25:10
·
24 sec
Discussion on extreme heat complaints and current city response
Council Member Restler inquires about the city's response to extreme heat complaints, revealing that HPD currently only handles inadequate heating complaints and lacks a legal infrastructure to address extreme heat …
1:25:37
·
88 sec
Council member Restler emphasizes need for regulatory structure for extreme heat protection
Council Member Restler emphasizes the inadequacy of current solutions for extreme heat, such as sending people to cooling centers, and stresses the need for a regulatory structure to make homes …
1:27:07
·
42 sec
Discussion on sustainable cooling approaches and balancing climate goals
Council Member Restler and Assistant Commissioner Leone discuss the tension between keeping people safe in extreme heat and not exacerbating climate challenges, focusing on improvements in air conditioning devices and …
1:27:49
·
170 sec
Challenges in implementing cooling requirements and need for strategic approach
Deputy Commissioner Joffe discusses the challenges of implementing cooling requirements, emphasizing the need to balance urgency with thoughtful implementation. Council Member Restler acknowledges the helpfulness of the discussion. - Joffe …
1:30:40
·
80 sec
Council Member Sandy Nurse questions HPD on Certificate of No Harassment program and Intro 621
Council Member Sandy Nurse inquires about the Certificate of No Harassment (CONH) program, focusing on Intro 621 and the potential inclusion of illegal evictions in the program's criteria. HPD representatives …
1:32:01
·
4 min
Discussion on subsidies for cooling devices for low-income tenants
Council Member Restler inquires about potential subsidies to help low-income tenants, particularly seniors, afford to run air conditioning units. He references subsidies provided during the COVID-19 pandemic and asks about …
1:36:46
·
3 min
Analysis of cooling access data in New York City households
Council Member Restler inquires about updated data on cooling access in NYC households, referencing a previous analysis by the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH). Deputy Commissioner Joffe provides …
1:40:10
·
87 sec
Discussion on utility costs and affordability of cooling for low-income households
Deputy Commissioner Joffe and Council Member Restler discuss the challenges of utility costs and affordability of cooling for low-income households in New York City. - Joffe confirms that the problem …
1:41:38
·
60 sec
Council Member Restler emphasizes the scale of the cooling access problem in NYC
Council Member Restler makes remarks emphasizing the significant scale of the cooling access problem in New York City, putting the numbers into perspective. - He compares the number of people …
1:42:37
·
58 sec
Introduction and purpose of IBO testimony on Intro 994
Sarah Parker, a senior research and strategy officer at the New York City Independent Budget Office (IBO), introduces herself and outlines the purpose of her testimony regarding Intro 994, which …
1:44:47
·
54 sec
Heat-related emergency room incidents in New York City
Sarah Parker presents data on heat-related emergency room incidents in New York City from 2020 to 2023, highlighting the increasing trend and the impact on older adults. - Annual heat-related …
1:45:43
·
64 sec
Impact of Intro 994 on renters and property owners
Sarah Parker discusses the potential effects of Intro 994 on renters and property owners in New York City, highlighting the current state of air conditioning in rental units and potential …
1:46:50
·
95 sec
Air conditioner usage and associated energy costs
Sarah Parker provides detailed information about the energy costs associated with running air conditioners and highlights potential issues with Intro 994 regarding energy efficiency and installation. - Running a small, …
1:48:25
·
84 sec
LIHEAP/HEAP program details and limitations
Sarah Parker provides an in-depth explanation of the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP/HEAP), its funding structure, and its limitations in addressing cooling needs in New York City. - …
1:49:52
·
136 sec
Concerns about NYC electrical grid capacity
Sarah Parker raises concerns about the capacity of New York City's electrical grid to handle increased demand from additional air conditioning, especially during peak summer months. - Energy demand typically …
1:52:09
·
62 sec
Council Member Restler expresses appreciation for IBO's work
Council Member Lincoln Restler expresses his gratitude for the Independent Budget Office's (IBO) work and their input on the policy-making process. He acknowledges the value of having independent, expert input …
1:53:27
·
38 sec
Balancing cooling access with climate goals and energy efficiency
Council Member Restler and Sarah Parker discuss the challenges of providing access to cooling while maintaining grid stability and reducing emissions. Parker presents a 'triangle' of issues to consider: access …
1:54:07
·
4 min
Explanation of air conditioning costs in rent-stabilized apartments
Sarah Parker provides a detailed explanation of how air conditioning costs are handled in rent-stabilized apartments, including annual surcharges and individual apartment improvements (IAIs). - Parker explains the annual air …
1:58:21
·
143 sec
Testimony by Evan Ma, Staff Attorney at Brooklyn Defender Services on Tenant Protection Bills
Evan Ma, a staff attorney at Brooklyn Defender Services, testified in support of several bills aimed at protecting tenants from illegal evictions and lockouts. He emphasized the importance of these …
2:02:58
·
3 min
Testimony by Michael Grinthall, Director of Housing Rights at Take Root Justice, on Illegal Evictions and Intro 622
Michael Grinthall, representing Take Root Justice, testified in support of all bills being heard, with a focus on Intro 622 addressing illegal evictions. He highlighted the current gaps in protecting …
2:06:03
·
144 sec
Testimony by Evan Henley, Staff Attorney at Legal Aid Society
Evan Henley from Legal Aid Society testified on the issue of illegal lockouts, expressing support for measures to ensure swift and effective relief for occupants. He raised concerns about specific …
2:08:30
·
122 sec
Testimony by Justin La Mort, Managing Attorney at Mobilization For Justice
Justin La Mort, representing Mobilization For Justice, testified on proposed legislation to address illegal lockouts, focusing on Intros 622 and 623. He presented data on illegal lockout cases and discussed …
2:10:36
·
154 sec
Council Member Sandy Nurse explains reasoning behind proposed illegal eviction legislation
Council Member Sandy Nurse clarifies aspects of proposed legislation addressing illegal evictions and explains the rationale for involving the police department in these cases. - Clarifies that restrictions in the …
2:13:15
·
81 sec
Testimony by Whitney Hu, Director of Civic Engagement and Research at Churches United for Fair Housing, on Illegal Evictions and Cool Homes for All
Whitney Hu, representing Churches United for Fair Housing, expresses strong support for the Illegal Evictions Act and Cool Homes for All legislation. She emphasizes that these bills address systemic inequities …
2:15:13
·
112 sec
Testimony by Dr. Diana Hernandez, Professor at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, on Energy Insecurity and Cooling Requirements
Dr. Diana Hernandez, a professor at Columbia University, testified in support of Intro 994, which would require cooling in tenant-occupied dwellings. She presented research on energy insecurity, the health risks …
2:17:18
·
7 min
Testimony by Israel Sanchez, Campaign Coordinator at Association For Neighborhood and Housing Development (ANHD)
Israel Sanchez from ANHD expresses support for the goals of Intro 994 to mitigate extreme heat effects on vulnerable New Yorkers but unable to fully support the legislation due to …
2:24:50
·
123 sec
Testimony by Caleb Smith, Resiliency Coordinator at WE ACT For Environmental Justice, on Introduction 994
Caleb Smith from WE ACT For Environmental Justice testified in support of Introduction 994, which would require cooling in residential units. He emphasized the disproportionate impact of extreme heat on …
2:26:58
·
123 sec
Council Member Restler thanks panelists and expresses intent for future collaboration
Council Member Lincoln Restler expresses gratitude to the panelists, particularly Caleb from WE ACT and Whitney from Cuff, for their contributions in shaping the legislation. He also acknowledges the expert …
2:29:05
·
23 sec
Testimony by Hannah May-Powers, Health and Safety Policy Analyst from the Office of the Brooklyn Borough President
Hannah May-Powers, representing the Brooklyn Borough President's office, testified in support of the Stop Illegal Evictions Act and emphasized the need for stronger tenant protections. She highlighted the ongoing issues …
2:30:12
·
126 sec
Testimony by Danielle Manley, Manager of Policy at Urban Green Council, on Intro 994
Danielle Manley from Urban Green Council provides feedback on Intro 994, which aims to address extreme heat risks in New York City by ensuring cooling access for residents. While supporting …
2:32:41
·
142 sec
Testimony by Irene Metaxatos, Rent Stabilized Tenant from East Village
Irene Metaxatos, a long-time rent stabilized tenant in the East Village, testified in support of stronger legislation to protect tenants from predatory landlords and baseless evictions. She shared her personal …
2:35:15
·
3 min
Testimony by Stanley Wong, Staff Attorney from Legal Services NYC on Proposed Housing Bills
Stanley Wong, a housing staff attorney from Legal Services NYC, provided testimony supporting several proposed bills aimed at curbing illegal evictions and protecting tenants' rights. He offered insights on potential …
2:38:44
·
125 sec
Testimony by Shravanthi Kanekal, Senior Resiliency Planner at New York City Environmental Justice Alliance
Shravanthi Kanekal from the New York City Environmental Justice Alliance testified in support of Intro 994, which would establish maximum indoor temperature regulations. She emphasized the necessity of cooling strategies …
2:41:03
·
137 sec
Testimony by Isabel Friedman, Advocate at Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) on Intro 994
Isabel Friedman from NRDC expresses strong support for Intro 994, which aims to require cooling in residential buildings, while highlighting several considerations for the council as they finalize the bill's …
2:43:31
·
109 sec
Testimony by Christopher Leon Johnson, Member of the Public
Christopher Leon Johnson expressed strong disagreement with the committee's actions and the proposed bills. He accused the council members of being biased towards the city and landlords, and against tenants …
2:46:29
·
126 sec
