The meeting was called to order at 4:10 p.m.

The following individuals interviewed for the three vacant public member positions on the Rent Guidelines Board (RGB).

Chair Swanson asked Mr. Rose what prompted him to apply for the position. Mr. Rose stated that he could be very valuable, he is on various volunteer boards and can add a useful amount of expertise. Chair Swanson stated that Mr. Rose’s resume indicates that he is on the Board of Directors of some Co-op Boards. Mr. Rose responded that he is but they have nothing to do with rent stabilization. Mr. Rose handed out a detailed explanation of some ways in which he believes he could benefit the Board. Mr. Rose believes we are all better off if there is more information on the table. It could not hurt to expose the information so that it becomes common knowledge. Mr. Rose owns a co-op. Legislator Pinto explained to Mr. Rose what the duties of the RGB are. Mr. Rose has not attended any of the RGB meetings but has been involved in hundreds of negotiating situations. His time is his own and could make any meetings at any time.

Chair Swanson asked Mr. Fraulo what prompted him to apply for the position. Mr. Fraulo stated that as the price of housing increases, the chance of his children being able to purchase a home in Westchester is slim. He has lived in Westchester all his life and would like to see his children settle here as well, so realistically the only way to do that would be to rent. He also wants to get into public service and felt this would be a worthwhile position. Chair Swanson asked Mr. Fraulo what his understanding of the duties of the RGB was. Mr. Fraulo stated that he thought they hear cases between tenants and landlords and make determinations. Chair Swanson asked if Mr. Fraulo had any experience working with disputes. Mr. Fraulo is in human resources and deals with conflicts and disputes every day, that is the nature of the business world. He has sat in on grievances for labor disputes with labor representatives and management. Mr. Fraulo is a homeowner, not a landlord or tenant.

Chair Swanson asked Mr. Biskup what prompted him to apply for the position on the RGB. Mr. Biskup saw the article in the paper. He lived in New Rochelle for eighteen years. He had lived in an apartment and has some clients that were landlords. He currently owns a house in Pelham, he is no longer a tenant. Chair Swanson asked what expertise he would bring to the RGB. Mr. Biskup stated that he has been a CPA for fifteen years, and a partner for eight years. He handled a number of co-op and condo issues. He is good at analyzing financial matters. He can determine if guidelines are being met or if increases are justified. Chair Swanson explained that the RGB often has conflicts, she asked how he would handle these situations. Mr. Biskup would listen to the issues and bases on what he hears, would make a decision. He feels he could be an objective mediator. He has never owned an apartment building. He has no problem attending evening meetings.

Legislator Pinto motioned to approve the minutes of March 23, 1998 and was seconded by Legislator Young. The motion was carried by a vote of 6-0.

Legislator Pinto motioned to adjourn the meeting at 4:55 p.m. and was seconded by Legislator Young. The motion was carried by a vote of 6-0.