Residents of a luxury apartment building in Brooklyn are rallying to reinstate three longtime door attendants who were recently dismissed by new management. Tenants at 50 N. 5th St. in Williamsburg have launched a petition demanding the rehiring of Ganesh, Diamond, and Irving, all of whom have served as familiar faces at the building’s front desk.

Organizers of the petition say the attendants were an integral part of the building’s community, providing personalized interactions that fostered a sense of home among residents. “They knew everybody’s names; they knew the kids’ names; they knew the pets’ names,” said petition organizer Indigo, who asked to withhold her last name for privacy reasons. She added that residents often gathered around the front desk to catch up with the staff, which helped the building feel less like a large, impersonal complex.

Rose Associates, the property and leasing management company that recently took over the building, informed residents by email that the decision to terminate the three employees was made to ensure the "long-term success" of the property. The company declined to comment further when contacted.

The announcement prompted a swift reaction from tenants, who began the petition drive and have collected 243 signatures toward a 250-signature target. Many residents expressed disappointment at the loss of staff they described as more than employees, but longtime community fixtures who contributed to the neighborhood atmosphere.

The dispute highlights tensions that can arise when property management transitions result in personnel changes, affecting resident relations and the culture of residential buildings. At this stage, it remains unclear whether Rose Associates will revisit its decision amid the mounting tenant pushback.