08/24/2026
Over 70% of residential buildings in Utica were built before 1960, and in high-risk neighborhoods, 5% to 8%+ of screened young children test positive for elevated blood lead levels—over three times the statewide average outside NYC.
Passing a local Good Cause Eviction law is a vital public health measure.
What is Good Cause? It is a local law requiring landlords to have a legitimate business or behavioral reason (like non-payment or lease violations) to end a tenancy, while guaranteeing tenants who pay their rent and follow the rules the right to renew their lease.
Right now, many families hesitate to report peeling lead paint, broken boilers, or water leaks because an arbitrary 30-day notice can displace them. Good Cause gives renters the legal protection to work with Utica Codes to fix hazards, while fully preserving a landlord’s right to evict for non-payment or property damage.
Safe housing protects our children. Contact your Utica Common Council member today and urge them to support the Good Cause Eviction law. To learn more or get connected, call me at 315-520-8845.
