During a recent city council meeting, Ben Serfus, a supervising attorney at the Hudson Valley Justice Center, advocated for the adoption of the Emergency Tenant Protection Act (ETPA) and good cause eviction legislation in Poughkeepsie. Representing tenants facing eviction across Dutchess County, Serfus emphasized the critical role these measures play in stabilizing housing for low-income families.

Serfus highlighted that rent stabilization significantly reduces the risk of no-cause evictions, allowing tenants to remain in their homes and maintain stability for their families. He noted that such protections enable families to raise children in the same school district throughout their childhood, fostering a sense of community and continuity.

However, Serfus also raised concerns about potential litigation threats from landlords aimed at discouraging localities from opting into the ETPA. He pointed to recent instances in cities like New Paltz and Newburgh, where landlords have challenged the adoption of similar measures, creating a climate of fear regarding legal repercussions. Serfus urged the council to learn from these examples and proceed with caution to avoid the pitfalls encountered by other municipalities.

The meeting underscored the ongoing debate over tenant protections in the region, with advocates calling for swift action to safeguard vulnerable populations against displacement.