Randy Mastro challenges Mayor Mamdani over NYC tax and rent policies

Attorney Randy Mastro has initiated multiple legal challenges against New York City Mayor Mamdani’s administration. Mastro is currently managing at least five lawsuits targeting various municipal policies.

One major legal dispute concerns the rollout of a pied-à-terre tax, which levies charges on second homes valued over $5 million and condos over $1 million for non-primary residents. Mastro argues the tax implementation is illegal because it places the burden of proof on homeowners to demonstrate they do not owe the tax. He also noted that the administration erroneously sent notices to primary residents and published their names.

Additionally, Mastro is challenging the mayor’s plans to freeze rents for stabilized apartments. He contends that such actions bypass the City Charter, which mandates that an independent Rent Guidelines Board make these decisions. Mastro further alleges that the administration has rigged the system against landlords by manipulating public hearings.