Don't leave us at the landlords' mercy

To the editor: 

Thank you for taking the time to interview our Social Action Committee at Riverdale Senior Services, informing us about SCRIE (Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption) and alerting us to the fact that many eligible seniors are not taking advantage of this benefit (“Confusion, ignorance leave seniors’ rent aid unclaimed,” May 5).  A dialogue progressed about how escalating rents and skyrocketing costs of basic necessities have impacted our lives.

We seniors who are not eligible for SCRIE fear that rent stabilization and rent controls that are about to expire in June, unless reconsidered, will leave us at the mercy of our building owners. The vacancy decontrol windfall that landlords are entitled to receive when an apartment is vacated makes it impossible to move when it may be necessary to relocate to more affordable housing.  

Many seniors have depended upon their bank interest to pay for the increasing costs of health insurance, food, phone, rent, electric, etc. Home attendants take a big chunk of our savings as well. Bank returns are miniscule and are not sufficient for us to make ends meet.

It is our duty to take a stand and speak out about the very issues that affect our daily lives. Do not sit back and expect others to take a stand for you.

Social Security and Medicare must be protected.

We must support Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz and Councilman Andrew Cohen for their efforts on our behalf in housing legislation. To quote Mr. Dinowitz in his spring newsletter, “Even under current rent laws, landlords can raise rents by huge amounts. There is much work to be done.”

In conclusion, we urge all those who depend upon rent protection laws and SCRIE to call, write and e-mail state Sen. Jeff Klein (718-822-2049). Tell him the importance of not only renewing rent stabilization and controls, but of strengthening them as well as encouraging his continued support.

We have much to lose!

The Social Action Committee

Riverdale Senior Services