Described as the “Bernie Madoff of Landlords ”, Steve Croman seems to be turning over a new leaf as he slowly makes improvements on a notorious set of properties in Hell’s Kitchen. However, local politicians, activists and residents are not convinced by his actions, with one saying: “Croman must be removed from the building’s ownership immediately.”
Last October, we reported on the appalling conditions at 351-357 W45th Street , after a group led by David Stuart, President of the HK45/46 St Block Association issued an ultimatum for an immediate, public, multi-agency investigation. “Our community is no longer going to live with drug crime, and the filth, degradation and fear such crimes promulgate!” said Stuart.
Those calls were reacted to by a group led by Council Member Erik Bottcher — which included Stuart, Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal, Assembly Member Tony Simone, NYPD’s Midtown North Precinct, the Department of Buildings, the Center for Urban Community Services (CUCS), the Office of the Attorney General, NYC Mayor’s Office, NYC Special Prosecutor’s Office and others. All were surprised when Croman turned up to face the music, and all agreed that some actions have happened since October.