Ithaca council members unanimously advanced a nonbinding resolution asking Asteri's owner to forgive residents' unpaid rent, with a final vote expected Nov. 4, according to The Ithaca Voice.
The proposal would also ask the Vecino Group to pause nonpayment evictions until after winter and admit tenant organizers when residents invite them, but the city cannot compel those actions.
The 181-unit downtown building, which opened in August 2024, has faced habitability complaints and eviction proceedings and was temporarily vacated in March over fire safety problems.
Former building case manager Nick Scollard told the committee that eviction proceedings had targeted more than 90 households while residents faced substantial back-rent demands.
Alderperson Hannah Shvetz said the resolution addresses property management failures rather than opposing supportive housing, and speakers urged protection for tenants during the coming winter shelter season.
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