Troy Mayor Carmella Mantello has officially vetoed the city’s involvement in the Good Cause Eviction Law, a measure aimed at increasing protections for renters facing steep rent increases or eviction without legal justification. Earlier this month, the all-Democratic Troy City Council had voted unanimously to opt into the legislation, which would make Troy the twentieth city in New York State to adopt the policy, following the passage of a statewide law in 2024.
The Good Cause Eviction Law requires landlords in covered units to show a legally valid reason—such as nonpayment of rent, major lease violations, or illegal activity—to evict tenants or decline to renew leases. It also limits annual rent hikes to 10%, or 5% plus the inflation rate, whichever is lower. Exemptions apply for small owner-occupied buildings and higher-rent units, so not every apartment in Troy would be covered if the law is enacted. According to Spectrum News, Mantello expressed concern that the law could have “unintended consequences that ultimately make it more difficult to maintain and grow our housing supply.” She also cited worries about legal uncertainty and the potential impact on small landlords.
City Council President Sue Steele criticized the mayor’s request for a study, stating that a housing study had previously been suggested and rejected by Mantello. Steele said, “The time for study has long passed. The time to listen to the people of Troy is now, and we will enact Good Cause Eviction to protect tenants and to acknowledge good landlords.” She has indicated the council plans to override the veto at its next meeting on Wednesday, April 9…