Senator Klein & Assemblyman Mark Gjonaj Hold Tenant Meeting to Address Longstanding Resident Concerns

Elected Officials hold a “Know your Rights” meeting with frustrated residents of Goldfarb Properties Apartment Complexes located on Pelham Parkway

BRONX, NY - State Senator Jeff Klein (D-Bronx/Westchester), Public Advocate Letitia James and Assemblyman Mark Gjonaj (D-Bronx) held a “Know your Rights” meeting with residents of the Goldfarb Properties owned apartment complexes located on Pelham Parkway and neighboring Matthews Avenue, Tuesday evening. More than 50 residents joined the elected officials to share their ongoing grievances over building conditions, rent stabilization rights, rent increases and evictions.

The meeting was organized by Senator Klein’s office in the latest attempt to address and resolve outstanding resident concerns at the properties that range from reports of tenant harassment, potential violation of rent stabilization laws, massive construction projects impairing quality of life, lack of elevator service for the disabled, and no access to laundry facilities.

“For months the residents of these buildings have made serious allegations against management that are alarming and potentially illegal. Any violation of rent stabilization laws, not providing heat and hot water and disabled access will not be tolerated. I stand with the tenants of these buildings and will ensure that they are protected from any harassment by management and that their rights are not violated,” said State Senator Jeff Klein.

“The residents of these properties are entitled to live in a building that complies with regulations, provides required services and allows for peaceful use and enjoyment of their home.  Removing elevator service without consideration to the residents, especially the elderly or disabled is unacceptable.  Goldfarb must ensure the safety, comfort and restoration of services for all tenants.  Any type of tenant harassment will not be tolerated. I unite with the tenants to confirm that their homes, safety and rights are not compromised,” said Assemblyman Mark Gjonaj.
The Goldfarb Properties at issue includes three apartment buildings on Pelham Parkway: 1130 Pelham Parkway South; 1135 Pelham Parkway North; 1540 Pelham Parkway South; as well as 2160-2166 Matthews Avenue. Senator Klein first became aware of resident concerns last July when residents contacted his office looking for help. Over the summer and into the fall Senator Klein and his office have conducted multiple meetings with tenants as well as the owner of the property in an effort to rectify the list of outstanding issues at question.

With the help of Senator Klein office, tenants have filed eight building wide rent reduction complaints with the city Department of Housing and Community Renewal.

In addition, a lawsuit filed in September, on behalf of the Public Advocate Letitia James in Manhattan Federal Court alleges anti-discrimination laws have been violated by failing to correct elevator repairs for disabled tenants.