Belkin Burden Goldman, LLP was recently featured in a Law360 article titled “NY High Court To Hear Case Against Kingston Rent Rollback” by Grace Dixon. The article discusses a pivotal legal development in New York, where the state’s highest court is set to hear a major challenge regarding rent stabilization in the city of Kingston. Our firm is proud to be at the forefront of this significant case, serving as the legal counsel representing the Hudson Valley Property Owners Association and Kingston landlords.
Background of the Case
The case, titled Hudson Valley Property Owners Association Inc. et al. v. City of Kingston et al., revolves around Kingston’s adoption of rent stabilization measures following a 2019 amendment to state rental laws. This amendment allowed municipalities outside New York City and its surrounding counties to opt into rent stabilization if their housing vacancy rates fell below 5%. Kingston, the first municipality to take advantage of this change, declared a housing emergency and implemented a historic 15% rent reduction for tenants.
The decision to enact these measures was met with resistance from the Hudson Valley Property Owners Association and a coalition of local landlords. They argued that the city’s housing emergency declaration and subsequent rent reduction were unjustified and legally questionable. The case has seen significant legal action, with a trial court initially upholding the city’s actions but vacating the rent reduction, only for the Appellate Division to later reverse this decision.
Now, the New York Court of Appeals is set to weigh in on this matter, which will not only affect Kingston but could have broader implications for municipalities across New York State considering similar rent stabilization measures.
Our Firm’s Role
Our firm’s attorneys, Sherwin Belkin, Magda Cruz, Matthew Brett, and Aris Dutka of Belkin Burden Goldman LLP, are representing the Hudson Valley Property Owners Association and the Kingston landlords in this landmark case. We are committed to ensuring that the legal rights of property owners are upheld and that the proper legal standards are applied when determining the legitimacy of rent stabilization measures.
The outcome of this case could set a significant precedent for rent stabilization laws across the state, making it a critical issue not only for Kingston but for numerous other cities considering similar actions.
Looking Ahead
We will be closely keep you apprised of this case as it progresses through the Court of Appeals. The decision will have far-reaching consequences for property owners and tenants alike, and we are proud to be at the forefront of this important legal battle.