Carlos Cedeno with the backing of a small group of Lakewood landlords, is launching a new agency to resolve conflicts between landlords and their tenants. “I want to establish a more reliable and honest agency,” Cedeno said. “We are headed toward a catastrophe in Lakewood.”

Conflict between landlords and tenants is a persistent problem in Lakewood, home to one of the region’s largest Latino populations. Complaints from residents about overcrowded homes abound. At the same time, day laborers complain that they’re forced to pack into homes because of price gouging.

Cedeno was the township’s fair housing officer since spring 2005, but abruptly resigned earlier this month. He blamed the Puerto Rican Action Board � the agency that oversaw him � for his departure.

Nobody answered the telephone Monday at the Puerto Rican Action Board’s office in New Brunswick.

The Lakewood Tenant Landlord Community Center has the backing of a group of landlords who are supporting Cedeno’s efforts. Cedeno said the landlords are helping in the search for office space. Cedeno said the agency should be open within the next few weeks.

In the meantime, Cedeno says he continues to field calls from tenants in search of affordable housing and in need of help mediating differences with landlords.

In addition to mediating disputes � a service that will be free of charge � Cedeno says he’ll also conduct inspections for landlords to make sure apartments meet township standards.

“They want to do things right. They don’t know how,” Cedeno said.

Details, such as what he’ll charge the landlords, are still being worked on, Cedeno said.

While part of the job will involve working with landlords, the other part will focus on ensuring tenants understand their obligations.

“I’ve talked to people who haven’t paid their rent in five months and wonder why they’re being evicted,” Cedeno said. “When people deal with Carlos Cedeno, they’re dealing with someone who will mediate and solve problems.”

Ervin Oross Jr., director of community development for Lakewood, said Cedeno was held in high regard during his tenure as fair housing officer.

“Carlos did a great job. Unfortunately his situation didn’t work out. However, I’m confident the Puerto Rican Action Board will fill the spot,” Oross said.

Mordy Eichorn, a local landlord, says he believes Cedeno will be effective at mediating between the two sides.

“There’s a lot of misunderstanding because of the language barrier. I think it’ll help to have someone make clear what the obligations of the landlord and tenant are,” he said. “Carlos has a great reputation in town. He has a heart of gold.”

Cedeno will be among the people speaking Wednesday at a seminar on landlord and tenant rights, which will be held at 6 p.m. at the municipal building, 231 Third St. As the township’s fair housing officer, Cedeno worked out of the Lakewood Resource and Referral Center on Clifton Avenue, in the heart of downtown Lakewood. His new office will be nearby.

APP