Patch Chat: Rent Hikes Fair or Unfair?

The Westchester County Rent Guidelines Board Monday voted five to two to raise rents on rent stabilized apartments under the Emergency Tenant Protection Act.

Rents will increase 2.5 percent for one-year lease renewals (or a minimum of $25 for those who pay under $1,000 per month in rent), and 4.0 percent on two-year lease renewals (or $40 a month for those who pay under $1,000 in rent per month).

There are about 27,000 rent stabilized apartments in Westchester. During a Monday meeting when the board made the decision, tenants and landlords engaged in impassioned arguments over whether to raise rents and whether the landlords or tenants needed the relief more. Click for the full story.

What do you think?

• Do you agree with the board's decision? Why?
• Is it fair to raise rents so landlords can keep up with their rising costs?
• Is it unfair to increase the burden of rent on tenants during difficult economic times?

Tell us in the comments section below 

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