NYC Pakistan-Owned Hotel Took $146M For Illegals But Owes $13M In Taxes

The Roosevelt Hotel, owned by Pakistan International Airlines, owes New York City over $13 million in property taxes and nearly $1 million in water bills. The hotel housed a large number of illegal aliens under contracts with the city, costing taxpayers over $146 million. This influx of migrants utilized the hotel as a temporary housing facility. Notably, Jose Ibarra, a Venezuelan gang member, was among those housed at the hotel. Despite a payment agreement with the city, the hotel missed its tax payments, accumulating substantial debt. A redevelopment deal with the federal government could enable the Pakistani government to avoid future taxes. This potential exemption is a result of the U.S. Department of State frequently requesting tax exemptions for foreign governments. The Department of Finance has not received the request, but prior charges must be paid, according to their spokesperson. The situation highlights financial discrepancies and potential tax avoidance related to the hotel's operations. The financial burden of housing migrants has intensified the scrutiny of the hotel's practices.