10 Ocean Social

Press Release: Tenants Prevail as Rent Leveling Board Unanimously Rejects Proposed Amendments

a large group of people are sitting in a courtroom holding their fists in the air .

Atlantic Highlands, NJ

In a resounding victory for tenants' rights and community stability, the Atlantic Highlands Rent Leveling Board voted 5-0 to reject proposed amendments that would have allowed for significant and frequent rent increases. The decision came after a 2.5-hour hearing marked by passionate testimony from residents and a thorough examination of the proposal's flaws.

Key Highlights:

  1. Unprecedented Community Engagement: Tenants from 10 Ocean Blvd submitted over 40 pages of well-researched arguments, with participation from every floor of the building. Over 20 residents attended the hearing, demonstrating the community's strong investment in the outcome.
  2. Exposure of Procedural Irregularities: Residents persuasively argued that the proposal was effectively a disguised hardship appeal, attempting to bypass established procedures for transparency and fairness.
  3. Defense of Consumer Price Index (CPI): Tenants effectively countered arguments against using CPI for rent adjustments, emphasizing its role in maintaining affordability and predictability.
  4. Revelation of Deferred Maintenance: Residents highlighted that the ongoing façade project, presented as a capital improvement, was actually addressing years of neglect.
  5. Preservation of Community Values: The decision upholds the carefully crafted balance between landlord and tenant interests, reflecting the town's commitment to housing stability.

Michael Edelman, a resident who presented a detailed rebuttal to the landlord's arguments, stated, "This victory demonstrates the power of collective action and the importance of engaged citizens in local governance. We're grateful that the Board recognized the potential harm these amendments could have caused to our community."

Marisa Walsh, another resident of 10 Ocean Blvd, spoke to the sense of empowerment felt by the community: "I was so encouraged to hear about today’s turnout to the meeting today and the successful outcome. The only way we will make any progress is together! I’m looking forward to working with everyone on future building campaigns because we are stronger with everyone’s support."

The decision ensures that the existing rent control ordinance, which was established through careful consideration and community input, remains intact. It protects long-term residents from unsustainable rent increases and preserves the diverse character of Atlantic Highlands.

For more information, contact: together@10ocean.social.

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