Staten Island Homeowners Fear for Their Safety
Staten Island homeowners are expressing concerns over the release of a list containing their names and addresses, which may be subject to the city’s proposed pied-à-terre tax. The list, which includes hundreds of Staten Island properties, has raised safety concerns among residents who fear they may be targeted by scammers or individuals they have encountered in the past.
Yesenia and Brian Thompson, residents of New Springville, are among those who have been affected by the list. Brian, a retired NYPD member, is worried about the safety of his family, citing his past experiences with individuals he has arrested. “I’m worried about people I’ve locked up, people that I’ve put in prison that are going to see this and come after me,” he said.
The Thompsons, who do not own a second residence, criticized the city for not doing its due diligence before releasing the list. “How do I prove that I don’t have something?” Yesenia questioned. They believe the city should have investigated first before releasing the list, which contains sensitive information on those who may be taxed.
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Maria Esposito, a Dongan Hills resident, also spoke out against the list, arguing that the city should have taken it down already. She pointed out that the list provides estimated market values for properties alongside their names, making it easier for scammers to target vulnerable residents.
Valerie Martinez, a Staten Island resident and civil servant, reiterated concerns over safety and the potential to be targeted by scammers. Mario Buonviaggio, vice chair of the Port Richmond Strong North Shore Alliance civic group, slammed the city government for creating “havoc” in the community and “demonizing the hard-working people that purchased a home.”
The city’s proposed pied-à-terre tax is intended to bridge the city’s budget gap, with projected annual revenue of $500 million. However, the release of the list has sparked controversy and raised concerns about the city’s approach to implementing the tax. As the situation continues to unfold, Staten Island homeowners remain concerned about the potential consequences of the list and the impact on their safety and well-being.
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They are worried about their safety.
The city’s budget gap is a significant issue.
