Vann Introduces Lien Sale Reform Bill

Outgoing city Councilman Al Vann, D-Bed-Stuy, may be getting close to his final weeks as a local legislator, but that doesn't mean he's resting on his laurels. 

Vann just introduced a new bill this week, designed to tweak recent reforms to the city's lien sale laws.

“When it comes to our homes, the most precious assets individuals and families hold, the city must never sacrifice the interests of the weak to maximize revenue,” said Vann. “I am committed to ensuring that the law considers the needs of our most vulnerable property owners and tenants, which protects communities as well.”

The bill Vann introduced is a three-pronged approach to approving the city's lien sale process. 

First, the Department of Finance would be compelled to include up to date notices for residents in the process of lien sales. 

Second, the DoF would also have to provide an easy-to-use exemption checklist for those under a lien, which would protect seniors, service members and others.

Finally, the bill would allow rental tenants to make separate agreements in the event of a larger apartment building sale — preventing innocent renters from being kicked out of rental properties that change hands.