An unexpected Collab- A Welcome One!

On a recent Monday afternoon, Austrian Vice Chancellor Andreas Babler toured a rent-stabilized apartment in South Williamsburg.

he apartment was in disrepair, with a sagging ceiling and abandoned furniture. Tenant advocate Lina Renique-Poole explained that the landlord had warehoused over 20 units in the building, leaving them unrented and in poor condition. (An all to common complaint in affordable housing conditions)

She also highlighted issues such as lack of repairs in occupied units, a wave of evictions, and the influence of real estate money in local politics.

Babler, dressed in a tailored blue suit and leather shoes, listened attentively. He inquired about the political strategy to address these issues. Renique-Poole responded, "Well, we're going to get a new mayor."

The visit underscored the stark contrast between Vienna's approach to affordable housing and New York City's challenges. Vienna has long been recognized for its commitment to affordable housing, providing a model that many advocates hope New York will follow.

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