HOBOKEN — In November, Hoboken voters will decide on whether to remove rent control from certain buildings once a tenant moves out. The measure is supported by a property owners’ group but opposed by tenant activists.
Tenant activists have said the language of the ballot initiative is confusing.
Apparently, the city of Hoboken agrees.
An order to show cause, verified complaint and brief were filed Monday on behalf of the city clerk in relation to the question, according to a city press release.
According to the release, the city believes that the current proposed wording is misleading to voters, and the only way to fully protect their rights is to have the ballot question worded in a clearer manner. The city submitted a version of the question that they think is clearer, although it’s not shorter.
If the court denies the motion to revise the public question, the city has requested the approval of an accompanying interpretive statement alongside the original question. The city also requests that ballots not be printed until the matter is decided by the court.
“Regardless of which side people take on the question of rent control, voters deserve a clear understanding of the issue on which they are being asked to vote,” said Mayor Dawn Zimmer.
For previous coverage of the issue, see links below.