Brenda Irizarry testifies as Bronx tenant supporting income cap increase
Brenda Irizarry, a Bronx tenant since 1982 and member of Tenants and Neighbors and CASA, supports raising the SCRIE/DRIE income cap to $75,000, sharing that she's currently ineligible but fears future MCI rent increases in her 100-year-old building could make her unable to afford rent.
Good afternoon.
My name is Brenda Irizarry.
I live at 3215 Bainbridge Avenue in the Bronx since 1982.
I am a member of Tenants and Neighbors, CASA, Met Council, and Our Bronx.
I am appealing to the City Council to increase the income cap for SCREET and DREET to $75,000.
This would benefit seniors and the disabled in several ways.
More people would be eligible for these programs.
Also, seniors and the disabled can remain in their homes without fear of displacement.
It is a safety net in addition to rent stabilization.
Currently, I am not eligible for SCREED because of my income.
However, my building is over 100 years old and had two MCIs.
One resulted in a rent increase of $12 per room.
I fear that one day I won't be able to pay my rent if there are more MCIs in the future.
Along with other rent increases.
Therefore, I am urging the City Council to pass Intro 978A,
raising the income limit for SCREEP and DREEP will protect our most vulnerable citizens on fixed incomes, especially in times of economic distress.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Hope we're going to pass and help everyone.
Thank you.