Proposed Newark Ordinance Would Beef Up Rent Control Rules In City

NEWARK, NJ — A proposed ordinance in Newark that would prevent “unconscionable” rent hikes in the city took a step forward this week.

On Wednesday, the Newark City Council voted to advance an ordinance that would prevent increases more than 5 percent in any one-year period that would cause “considerable financial harm to renters.”

It would apply to properties not already regulated by the city’s rent control ordinance, including public housing units and existing owner-occupied properties of one to four units. A public hearing and second vote on the measure is anticipated for May 24, TAP Into Newark reported.

Watch the council’s discussion about the proposed legislation below.

• See Related: Corporations Own Most Of Newark's Homes. New Laws Are Pushing Back
• See Related: 'Affordable' Isn't Affordable: Newark's Plan To Create More Housing
• See Related: NJ Protesters Decry Poverty, Lack Of Housing At MTV Awards In Newark

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com. Learn more about advertising on Patch here. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site. Don’t forget to visit the Patch Newark Facebook page.