Good Cause Eviction advocates speak out in Rochester

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — Housing advocates joined city leaders in Rochester Wednesday to advocate for the passage of strong Good Cause Eviction legislation.

If enacted here in Rochester, advocates say it would protect renters from rate hikes, unfair evictions, and help to guarantee lease renewals to renters who pay rent on time.

One Rochester mother says she came here from Guatemala in hopes of providing a fresh start for her seven kids. She says she’s been battling with landlords for years and is scared of becoming homeless again.

“We’re desperately searching for a new place, spending dollar after dollar on application fees to view apartments,” Good Cause Eviction legislation supporter Yadira Susseth said. “However, unregulated rents in Rochester are making it impossible to find an affordable home. Landlords are charging more and more for poorly maintained apartments.”

“I would like us to pass the strongest version of this legislation in Rochester, as other cities in New York State have done,” Rochester City Councilmember Mary Lupien said. “Right now what we have introduced is the weakest version of this legislation.”

Lupien has been a staunch advocate for tenant rights in the city. She says the current legislation sitting in committee leaves out a large chunk of residents. City leaders are holding public meetings so folks can learn more about that legislation, and voice their opinions.

• South District – Monday, July 29, 2024 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Aenon Missionary Baptist Church (175 Genesee Street);
• East District – Tuesday, August 6, 2024 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Ryan R-Center (530 Webster Avenue);
• Northeast District – Tuesday, August 13, 2024 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Public Market (280 North Union Street);
• Northwest District – Tuesday, August 27, 2024 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Edgerton R-Center(41 Backus Street);

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