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Landmark Brooklyn Heights Building Bought By "Slumlord"
By
Jen Chung
Published May 16, 2012
Modified May 16, 2012
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By
Jen Chung
Published May 16, 2012
Modified May 16, 2012
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Brooklyn Heights residents may be holding their breath: The Post reports that a developer whom the Public Advocate has called a "slumlord" has confirmed that he bought the Hotel Bossert, which is for Jehovah's Witnesses members, on Montague Street: "He declined to reveal the purchase price but said the building’s original façade would be preserved and that he plans to have it running as a hotel again by 2014, pending city approval."
Why worry? Well, the Post points out that Bistricer's company, Clipper Equities, is a junior partner in the Chelsea Hotel, where many tenants claim dangerous conditions and harsh tactics from landlord (and primary owner) Joseph Chetrit. Bistricer's attempt to buy Starett City was blocked by then-Attorney General Andrew Cuomo and HUD. And the Jehovah's Witnesses organization, The Watchtower Bible and Tract Society, that owns the building has been known from its "impeccable" upkeep (PDF).
The Brooklyn Heights Association is taking a "wait and see approach." A public hearing is being held tonight.
Tagged
brooklyn
brooklyn heights
david bistricer
hotel bossert
jehovah's witnesses
Slumlord
watchtower bible and tract society
Jen Chung
Jen Chung is a former WNYC and Gothamist editor.
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Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
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