For my conflict story I would like to cover the rent-control problems in Long Island City. Many residents in Long Island City have rent-controlled apartments, however many landlords and property companies have been attempting to kick these tenants out because they are losing money. Companies like Vantage Properties have been sued by even the mayor for constantly harassing tenants. This is a real and prevalent issue and I hope to interview rent-controlled tenants who have dealt with this issue, as well as lawyers and brokers who can shed some light on the topic to balance the story out.

Some questions I would ask the tenants:

1. how long have you lived in the rent-controlled apartment, what is your rent compared to other tenants who dont have rent control?

2. How would you describe your interaction with your landlord?

3. Do you feel their presence constantly to the point where it could be considered harassment?

Some questions I would ask lawyers and brokers:

1. What are some methods that landlords could kick tenants out?

2. How often do these cases come into the law offices?

3. What are the tenants legal rights concerning rent-control, how could they fight back?