“The Rent Guidelines Board’s vote to authorize rent increases, while on the lower end of the proposed ranges, will only further exacerbate the homelessness and housing crisis in our communities at a time when New Yorkers can least afford it. As our city grapples with a record-high shelter population, an affordable housing shortage that remains unabated, and rising costs, New York City tenants increasingly struggle to make ends meet. This will harm our communities, deepen the lack of affordability, and make it even more difficult for New Yorkers to remain in their homes and work in the city they love. While we need action on housing at the state level, there are steps the City should be taking to address evictions, homelessness, and housing on its own. Yet, there has been inadequate intervention by the Administration as evictions skyrocket, and the mayor’s budget lacks the housing investments needed in our city to protect New Yorkers. These rent increases will only fuel our housing crisis unless the city budget invests in housing solutions that prevent evictions and homelessness, and ensures city agencies are supported to advance them. We urge the mayor to join the Council in supporting housing investments being added to the budget.”

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