Several Bayonne residents used the public-comment portion of Wednesdays council meeting to raise urgent concerns about rent increases and sales of rental properties that tenants said threaten displacement of seniors, people with disabilities and low-income households.

Dennis Clark, a tenant at 4547 Kelly Parkway, said his building was sold while he was attempting to pay rent and described notices of large rent increases affecting elderly and disabled neighbors. "Theyre trying to raise the rent ... up to $2,700," Clark said, adding that many tenants now face unaffordable increases.

Other residents described similar experiences and fears of eviction. One speaker said his buildings new owner had begun contacting tenants while Clarks flyer efforts to organize neighbors produced limited turnout for the meeting. Council members advised tenants to contact the municipal Rent Control office and the citys Bureau of Economic Opportunities and Fair Housing as immediate steps.

Council members and staff said they will share rent-control contact information with speakers and noted an upcoming agenda item on affordability. Councilman Booker and others encouraged tenants to gather and report details to city staff so the city can assess whether policy changes, outreach, or legal remedies are needed. "Gather your friends and neighbors, contact me, tell me when to come down there," Booker said to a speaker.

Speakers described a mix of concerns: alleged removal of units from rent control following vacancy and renovation rules, inconsistent enforcement and fears that vulnerable residents will be priced out. Council members noted historic ballot efforts to create municipal rent control in 2014 failed and said the city must find ways to support tenants even when municipal authority is limited.

City officials said they would follow up with the complainants, provide rent-control resources and explore options, including connecting tenants to legal aid and existing municipal programs.