Jersey City Council debates housing affordability and algorithmic rent control measures

During the Jersey City Municipal Council meeting on May 21, 2025, housing issues took center stage as community members voiced urgent concerns about affordability and tenant protections. The discussions highlighted the growing crisis of housing accessibility for working-class residents, emphasizing the need for immediate action from local leaders.

One passionate speaker, Shireen McCormack, underscored the plight of working-class individuals who are being pushed out of the city due to soaring housing costs. McCormack, who has long advocated for affordable housing, stressed the importance of ensuring that new developments include units that are financially accessible to those who work in the city. “We need to stop letting them build houses and skyscrapers without any affordable in it,” she declared, calling for a more equitable approach to housing development.

The meeting also featured a strong push for Ordinance 25,057, aimed at preventing algorithmic rent fixing. Michelle Hirsh, a resident of Portside Towers, shared her firsthand experience with the devastating impact of artificially inflated rents, which have surged by over 50% for some tenants. She urged the council to take a stand against predatory practices that exploit vulnerable residents, stating, “We’re not just statistics in a lawsuit. We’re families, workers, and community members.”

The ordinance, which seeks to protect tenants from unfair rent increases driven by algorithmic manipulation, received support from multiple council members. Advocates highlighted the need for fairness and justice in the housing market, emphasizing that the current system disproportionately favors landlords and developers at the expense of residents.

As the council deliberates on these pressing issues, the voices of community members reflect a growing demand for accountability and reform in Jersey City's housing policies. The outcomes of these discussions could significantly impact the lives of many residents, shaping the future of affordable housing in the city. The council's next steps will be crucial in addressing the urgent needs of the community and ensuring that Jersey City remains a place where all can afford to live and thrive.