On Wednesday, August 14th, tenants of 1187 Anderson Avenue in the Bronx, supported by CASA (Community Action for Safe Apartments) and Assemblymember Landon Dais, gathered in front of the Bronx County Housing Court to demand that their landlord, Emerald Equity Group LLC, meet their legal obligations. The tenants, who have endured years of neglect and substandard living conditions, are advocating for their rights and for an improvement in their living standards.
Assemblymember Dais, a strong advocate for tenant rights and a member of the Housing Committee of the New York State Assembly, spoke passionately at the event. “I stand firmly with the tenants who have bravely come together, with support from CASA, to advocate for their rights. Too many unscrupulous landlords in our community perpetuate the cycle of tenant instability by pressuring tenants into questionable contracts and failing to fulfill their obligations. For years, these tenants have endured substandard living conditions, fighting tirelessly for basic amenities and a habitable environment. I am committed to supporting my community in this struggle,” said Dais. He also emphasized that responsible landlords should be commended, but those who fail to meet their obligations must be held accountable.
The tenant association, formed with the help of CASA, now represents half of the buildings managed by Emerald Equity. Despite a housing court ruling that granted the tenants a 50% rent abatement, the landlord has continued to neglect his duties, leaving the tenants in unacceptable living conditions. This ongoing negligence has only strengthened the resolve of the tenants and their supporters.
In response to the landlord’s continued disregard for their well-being, the tenant association, with the assistance of the Urban Homesteading Assistance Board (Uhab), is exploring the possibility of converting their buildings into Co-op housing. This move would require the landlord to sell the properties, potentially giving the tenants greater control over their living environment.
The press conference served as a rallying cry for tenants across New York City, urging them to hold negligent landlords accountable. Assemblymember Dais made it clear that the mistreatment of tenants would not be tolerated and that the fight for justice would continue.
As the tenants of 1187 Anderson Avenue continue their battle for fair treatment, they hope their efforts will inspire others to take similar action, ensuring that all New Yorkers can live in safe and dignified housing.
