CONSERVATIVE PARTY PRESS RELEASE Issued Jointly by the Five Counties in the City of New York
15 September 2021 / For Immediate Release Contact: Frances T. Vella-Marrone, Tel. (347) 866-4945
CONSERVATIVE PARTY CONDEMNS CITY COUNCIL BILL PROHIBITING CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS ON RESIDENTIAL TENANTS
The Conservative Party organizations representing the five counties of the City of New York unequivocally condemn City Council Intro. 2047, which would prohibit landlords from conducting criminal background checks on residential tenants, including those in co-operatives and condominiums.
“The NYS Conservative Party joins with our city organizations in opposing Intro 2047, a typical progressive agenda item that gives zero thought to the resulting consequences to landlords and tenants alike,” said New York State Conservative Party Chairman Gerard Kassar. “Tenants should expect landlords to have done their due diligence in providing a safe environment. And property owners have the right to all background information both financially and criminally when making decisions concerning potential tenants.”
“With crime already on the rise, this proposal only further endangers the safety and security of our communities,” said Kings County Chairwoman Frances T. Vella-Marrone.
“The City is exceeding its authority and endangering its citizens with the removal of these safety measures,” said Bronx County Chairman Patrick McManus.
“It’s just another example of putting the criminal’s interests before those of hard working law abiding people,” said New York County Chairman Stuart J. Avrick.
“This is another attempt from the City Council to infringe on the rights of its citizens so that they may feel comfortable and safe from those they may rent to,” said Queens County Chairman Thomas M. Long. “This is unacceptable to anyone who owns a home or apartments.”
“These misguided policies are destroying the quality of life in Staten Island and resulting in a mass exodus from our community,” said Richmond County Chairman David Mario Curcio, whose county organization endorsed the secession of Staten Island from the City of New York earlier this year.
“While many landlords are struggling to pay their bills, the City Council, yet again, looks to hurt its constituents,” added Richmond County Vice Chairman and candidate for City Council George S. Wonica. “This legislation is part of a systemic problem of government overreach and is destined to make housing affordability skyrocket. If elected in November, I hope to be able to bring ‘real world’ experience to the council to show how legislation like this does more to hurt our communities than help it.”
This year’s general election contests, including those for City Council, are scheduled for Tuesday, November 2nd, with Conservative Party candidates appearing on Row “C” of the ballot.
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