During a recent city council meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding the ongoing issues surrounding rent control and the practices of corporate landlords, particularly in relation to RealPage, a company implicated in alleged price-fixing and inflated rents. Several speakers, including Kevin Weller, highlighted the gravity of the situation, noting that RealPage is currently facing class action lawsuits and a criminal investigation, including an FBI raid in Georgia.

Weller criticized the council's consideration of a resolution that could potentially allow RealPage to continue its practices, which he described as illegal and detrimental to tenants. He emphasized that the city should not permit the use of inflated rents from 2012 to 2016 as a basis for recalculating current rents, as this would violate existing rent control ordinances.

Tara Smith shared her personal experience with rent increases, illustrating a staggering 21% hike in just over half a year for a comparable apartment, despite no significant improvements to the property. She argued that such increases are unjustifiable and are a direct result of corporate greed rather than necessary repairs or upgrades.

Jessica Rizzolo expressed frustration over the lack of accountability from city officials, particularly Mayor Fulop, who she accused of neglecting the plight of tenants while campaigning on affordable housing issues. She questioned the commitment of the council to enforce existing laws and protect constituents from corporate landlords.

Brandon Cohen echoed these sentiments, criticizing the council for failing to act on the rent recalculation process, which he argued should not revert to illegal rates established in 2016. He called for more transparency and accountability in the council's dealings with landlords.

Shannon, another speaker, reiterated the need for strict adherence to the rent leveling board's decisions, emphasizing that recalculations must start from the legal base rent established in 1983, not from illegal rates. She urged the council to take immediate enforcement action against landlords who continue to violate the law.

The meeting underscored a growing frustration among residents regarding the enforcement of rent control laws and the perceived inaction of city officials in addressing the challenges posed by corporate landlords. As the council prepares to vote on the resolution concerning RealPage, the community remains vigilant, demanding accountability and adherence to the law to protect tenant rights.