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Q&A

Council Member Riley on 30% increases as systemic failure

New York City Council · Jul 15, 2026 · starts 1:16:17 · 54 sec

Riley argues that if 30% increases are common across the portfolio, it demonstrates a systemic failure. Phillips agrees and points to J51 reauthorization and collaborative tools as solutions.

Kevin C. Riley

My last question is, you stated that Tracy Towers is not exceptional to this.

Kevin C. Riley

But respectfully, isn't that the problem?

Kevin C. Riley

Because if 30% increase are becoming a common across portfolios, that demonstrates a systematic failure that we have within our system.

Kevin C. Riley

So I think there are creative ways that we could think about improving this down the line, because I do think no one here believes that 30% increase in anything is something that's substantial.

Adam Phillips

Yeah, and we're happy to work together with folks to take a look at more creative ways to reduce operating expenses, right?

Adam Phillips

Like the reauthorization of J51 is a really good tool that we could use to layer into the 5% shelter rent tax to lower expenses.

Adam Phillips

So more collaboration on things like that would be great.

Kevin C. Riley

Thank you, Deputy Commissioner.

Kevin C. Riley

Thank you, Chair.

Julie Walpert

Thank you.

Julie Walpert

Banks followed by J.C.

Linda Lee

Inches?