form10q2ndqtr2009.htm


 
United States
Securities And Exchange Commission
Washington, DC  20549

Form 10-Q

 x QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended April 30, 2009

OR

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934


For the transition period from _____to_____

Commission File Number 1-12803
 


Urstadt Biddle Properties Inc.
(Exact Name of Registrant in its Charter)

Maryland
04-2458042
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
(I.R.S. Employer Identification Number)
 
321 Railroad Avenue, Greenwich, CT
06830
(Address of principal executive offices)
(Zip Code)

Registrant's telephone number, including area code:  (203) 863-8200

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes x    No  o
  
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).  Yes  No  o

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company.  See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act (Check one):

Large accelerated filer  o
Accelerated filer  x
Non-accelerated filer  o
Smaller reporting company  o

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).  Yes  o    No  x 
 
As of June 5, 2009, the number of shares of the Registrant's classes of Common Stock and Class A Common Stock was:
8,193,205 Common Shares, par value $.01 per share, and 18,242,055 Class A Common Shares, par value $.01 per share


1



Index
 
 
Urstadt Biddle Properties Inc.
 
 
 
Part I.                      Financial Information
 
Item 1.
Financial Statements (Unaudited)
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
Item 2.
   
Item 3.
   
Item 4.
   
   
Part II.                      Other Information
   
Item 1.
Legal Proceedings
   
Item 2.
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
   
Item 4.
Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
   
Item 6.
Exhibits
   
Signatures
 
 
2

 
URSTADT BIDDLE PROPERTIES INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands, except share data)

   
April 30,
   
Oct 31,
 
ASSETS
 
2009
   
2008
 
   
(Unaudited)
       
Real Estate Investments:
           
Core properties – at cost
  $ 563,758     $ 566,889  
Non-core properties – at cost
    1,383       1,383  
      565,141       568,272  
Less:  Accumulated depreciation
    (98,527 )     (94,328 )
      466,614       473,944  
Mortgage note receivable
    1,207       1,241  
      467,821       475,185  
                 
Cash and cash equivalents
    2,986       1,664  
Restricted cash
    369       519  
Marketable securities
    754       897  
Tenant receivables
    19,305       17,782  
Prepaid expenses and other assets
    5,775       5,603  
Deferred charges, net of accumulated amortization
    4,120       4,467  
Total Assets
  $ 501,130     $ 506,117  
                 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
               
                 
Liabilities:
               
Unsecured revolving credit line
  $ 17,100     $ 5,100  
Mortgage notes payable
    91,999       104,954  
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
    1,419       606  
Deferred compensation – officers
    353       1,074  
Other liabilities
    7,714       8,513  
Total Liabilities
    118,585       120,247  
                 
Minority interests
    9,370       9,370  
                 
Redeemable Preferred Stock, par value $.01 per share; issued and outstanding 2,800,000 shares
    96,203       96,203  
                 
Commitments and Contingencies
               
                 
Stockholders’ Equity:
               
7.5% Series D Senior Cumulative Preferred Stock (liquidation preference of $25 per share);
2,450,000 shares issued and outstanding
    61,250       61,250  
Excess Stock, par value $.01 per share; 10,000,000 shares authorized;
none issued and outstanding
    -       -  
Common Stock, par value $.01 per share; 30,000,000 shares authorized;
               
8,193,205 and  7,990,120 shares issued and outstanding
    82       80  
Class A Common Stock, par value $.01 per share; 40,000,000 shares authorized;
               
18,242,055 and 18,208,118 shares issued and outstanding
    182       183  
Additional paid in capital
    259,630       258,235  
Cumulative distributions in excess of net income
    (43,778 )     (39,181 )
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
    (394 )     (270 )
Total Stockholders’ Equity
    276,972       280,297  
Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
  $ 501,130     $ 506,117  

The accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements are an integral part of these statements.
 
3

 
URSTADT BIDDLE PROPERTIES INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (UNAUDITED)
(In thousands, except per share data)
   
Six Months Ended
   
Three Months Ended
 
   
April 30,
   
April 30,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
Revenues
                       
Base rents
  $ 30,974     $ 29,938     $ 15,431     $ 15,196  
Recoveries from tenants
    11,186       9,692       5,697       5,227  
Lease termination income
    40       58       40       -  
Mortgage interest and other
    358       307       20       141  
Total Revenues
    42,558       39,995       21,188       20,564  
                                 
Expenses
                               
Property operating
    7,509       6,551       4,088       3,488  
Property taxes
    6,586       5,672       3,197       2,847  
Depreciation and amortization
    8,026       7,016       3,671       3,523  
General and administrative
    3,293       2,884       1,675       1,400  
Directors' fees and expenses
    166       138       78       63  
Total Operating Expenses
    25,580       22,261       12,709       11,321  
                                 
Operating Income
 
    16,978       17,734       8,479       9,243  
Non-Operating Income (Expense):
                               
Interest expense
    (3,103 )     (3,467 )     (1,561 )     (1,718 )
Gain on sale of marketable securities
    381       -       381       -  
Interest, dividends and other investment income
    233       189       196       94  
Minority interests
    (229 )     (18 )     (114 )     (9 )
                                 
Net Income
    14,260       14,438       7,381       7,610  
Preferred stock dividends
    (6,547 )     (5,171 )     (3,274 )     (2,835 )
Redemption of Preferred Stock
    -       (660 )     -       (660 )
                                 
Net Income Applicable to Common and Class A Common Stockholders
  $ 7,713     $ 8,607     $ 4,107     $ 4,115  
                                 
Basic Earnings Per Share:
                               
Common
  $ 0.29     $ 0.32     $ 0.15     $ 0.15  
Class A Common
  $ 0.32     $ 0.35     $ 0.17     $ 0.17  
                                 
Diluted Earnings Per Share:
                               
Common
  $ 0.28     $ 0.31     $ 0.15     $ 0.15  
Class A Common
  $ 0.31     $ 0.34     $ 0.17     $ 0.16  
                                 
Dividends Per Share:
                               
Common
  $ 0.4350     $ 0.4300     $ 0.2175     $ 0.2150  
Class A Common
  $ 0.4800     $ 0.4750     $ 0.2400     $ 0.2375  
 
The accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements are an integral part of these statements.

4

 
URSTADT BIDDLE PROPERTIES INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED)
(In thousands)

   
Six Months Ended
 
   
April 30,
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
Cash Flows from Operating Activities:
           
Net income
  $ 14,260     $ 14,438  
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
               
Depreciation and amortization
    8,026       7,016  
Straight-line rent adjustment
    (162 )     (213 )
Gain on sale of marketable securities
    (381 )     -  
Deferred compensation arrangement
    (721 )     (72 )
Restricted stock compensation expense and other adjustments
    1,376       726  
Minority interest
    229       18  
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
               
Tenant receivables
    (1,362 )     (775 )
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
    814       771  
Other assets and other liabilities, net
    (2,440 )     (807 )
Restricted cash
    151       (2 )
                 
Net Cash Flow Provided by Operating Activities
    19,790       21,100  
                 
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
               
Acquisitions of real estate investments
    -       (16,951 )
Return of deposits on acquisitions of real estate
    1,100       -  
Proceeds from sale of property
    925       -  
Improvements to properties and deferred charges
    (888 )     (6,716 )
Payments received on mortgage notes receivable
    35       31  
Proceeds on sale of securities available for sale
    3,620       -  
Purchases of securities available for sale
    (3,239 )     -  
Distributions to limited partner of  joint venture
    (229 )     (18 )
                 
Net Cash Flow Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities
    1,324       (23,654 )
                 
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
               
Net proceeds from issuance of Series E Preferred Stock
    -       57,950  
Redemption of Series B Preferred Stock
    -       (15,000 )
Proceeds from revolving credit line borrowings
    12,000       13,000  
Repayments of revolving credit line borrowings
    -       (25,200 )
Dividends paid - Common and Class A Common Stock
    (12,310 )     (12,121 )
Dividends paid - Preferred Stock
    (6,547 )     (5,171 )
Repurchase of shares of Class A Common Stock
    (506 )     (4,856 )
Sales of additional shares of Common and Class A Common Stock
    526       499  
Repayment of officer note receivable
    -       1,300  
Principal repayments of mortgage notes payable
    (12,955 )     (851 )
                 
Net Cash Flow Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities
    (19,792 )     9,550  
                 
Net Increase In Cash and Cash Equivalents
    1,322       6,996  
                 
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Period
    1,664       4,218  
                 
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period
  $ 2,986     $ 11,214  
                 
Supplemental Cash Flow Disclosures:
               
Interest Paid
  $ 2,981     $ 3,468  
 
The accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements are an integral part of these statements.
 
5

 
URSTADT BIDDLE PROPERTIES INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY (UNAUDITED)
(In thousands, except shares and per share data)
 
   
7.5% Series D
                     
Additional
   
Cumulative
Distributions
   
Accumulated
Other
   
Total
 
   
Preferred Stock
   
Common Stock
   
Class A Common Stock
   
Paid In
   
In Excess of
   
Comprehensive
   
Stockholders’
 
   
Issued
   
Amount
   
Issued
   
Amount
   
Issued
   
Amount
   
Capital
   
Net Income
   
Income
   
Equity
 
Balances – October 31, 2008
    2,450,000     $ 61,250       7,990,120     $ 80       18,208,118     $ 183     $ 258,235     $ (39,181 )   $ (270 )   $ 280,297  
Comprehensive Income:
                                                                               
Net income applicable to Common
                                                                               
and Class A common stockholders
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -       7,713       -       7,713  
Change in unrealized gains in marketable securities
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -       -       (124 )     (124 )
Total comprehensive income
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -       -       -       7,589  
Cash dividends paid :
                                                                               
Common stock ($.4350 per share)
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -       (3,554 )     -       (3,554 )
Class A common stock ($.4800 per share)
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -       (8,756 )     -       (8,756 )
Issuance of shares under dividend reinvestment plan
    -       -       30,185       -       6,437       -       494       -       -       494  
Shares issued under restricted stock plan
    -       -       170,900       2       64,200       -       (2 )     -       -       -  
Stock options exercised
    -       -       2,000       -       2,000       -       32       -       -       32  
Restricted stock compensation and other adjustment
    -       -       -       -       -       -       1,376       -       -       1,376  
Repurchases of Class A common Stock
    -       -       -       -       (38,700 )     (1 )     (505 )     -       -       (506 )
Balances – April 30, 2009
    2,450,000     $ 61,250       8,193,205     $ 82       18,242,055     $ 182     $ 259,630     $ (43,778 )   $ (394 )   $ 276,972  

The accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements are an integral part of these statements.

6

 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(1) ORGANIZATION, BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Business
Urstadt Biddle Properties Inc. (“Company”), a real estate investment trust (REIT), is engaged in the acquisition, ownership and management of commercial real estate, primarily neighborhood and community shopping centers in the northeastern part of the United States.  Non-core properties include two distribution service facilities.  The Company's major tenants include supermarket chains and other retailers who sell basic necessities.  At April 30, 2009, the Company owned or had interests in 43 properties containing a total of 3.9 million square feet of Gross Leasable Area (“GLA”).

Principles of Consolidation and Use of Estimates
The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company, its wholly owned subsidiaries, and joint ventures in which the Company meets certain criteria of a sole general partner in accordance with Emerging Issues Task Force (“EITF”) Issue 04-5, “Determining Whether a General Partner, or the General Partners as a Group, Controls a Limited Partnership or Similar Entity When the Limited Partners Have Certain Rights.”  The Company has determined that such joint ventures should be consolidated into the consolidated financial statements of the Company.  All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.

The accompanying financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X.  Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles have been omitted.  In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included.  Results of operations for the six month period ended April 30, 2009 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending October 31, 2009.  It is suggested that these financial statements be read in conjunction with the financial statements and notes thereto included in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2008.

The preparation of financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities, the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the periods covered by the financial statements.  The most significant assumptions and estimates relate to the valuation of real estate, depreciable lives, revenue recognition and the collectibility of tenant and mortgage notes receivables.  Actual results could differ from these estimates.  The balance sheet at October 31, 2008 has been derived from audited financial statements at that date.

Federal Income Taxes
The Company has elected to be treated as a real estate investment trust under Sections 856-860 of the Internal Revenue Code (Code).  Under those sections, a REIT that, among other things, distributes at least 90% of real estate trust taxable income and meets certain other qualifications prescribed by the Code will not be taxed on that portion of its taxable income that is distributed.  The Company believes it qualifies as a REIT and intends to distribute all of its taxable income for fiscal 2009 in accordance with the provisions of the Code.  Accordingly, no provision has been made for Federal income taxes in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

The Company follows the provisions of FASB Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes – an interpretation of SFAS No. 109” (“FIN No. 48”), that defines a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return.  FIN No. 48 also provides guidance on derecognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure, and transition.   Based on its evaluation, the Company determined that it has no uncertain tax positions and no unrecognized tax benefits as of April 30, 2009.  The Company records interest and penalties relating to unrecognized tax benefits, if any, as interest expense.  As of April 30, 2009, the tax years 2005 through and including 2008 remain open to examination by the Internal Revenue Service.  There are currently no federal tax examinations in progress.

Concentration of Credit Risk
Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents, marketable securities, mortgage notes receivable and tenant receivables.  The Company places its cash and cash equivalents in excess of insured amounts with high quality financial institutions.  The Company performs ongoing credit evaluations of its tenants and may require certain tenants to provide security deposits or letters of credit.  Though these security deposits and letters of credit are insufficient to meet the terminal value of a tenant’s lease obligation, they are a measure of good faith and a source of funds to offset the economic costs associated with lost rent and the costs associated with retenanting the space.  The Company has no dependency upon any single tenant.
 

 
7

 

Marketable Securities
Marketable securities consist of short-term investments and marketable equity securities.  Short-term investments (consisting of investments with original maturities of greater than three months when purchased) and marketable equity securities are carried at fair value.  The Company has classified marketable securities as available for sale.  Unrealized gains and losses on available for sale securities are recorded as other comprehensive income in Stockholders’ Equity.  During the six month period ended April 30, 2009 the Company sold 400,000 shares of REIT common stocks for an aggregate sales price, net of commissions, of approximately $3.6 million.  The securities had a purchase cost of approximately $3.2 million.  The Company realized a gain on the transaction using the specific identification method of $381,000.  The gain is included in the consolidated statement of income for the six month and three month periods ended April 30, 2009.  There were no sales of marketable securities during the six month period ended April 30, 2008.

As of April 30, 2009, all of the Company’s marketable securities consisted of REIT Common and Preferred Stocks.  At April 30, 2009, the Company has recorded a net unrealized loss on available for sale securities in the amount of $394,000.  For each of the securities in the Company’s portfolio with unrealized losses, the Company reviews the underlying cause of the decline in value and the estimated recovery period, as well as the severity and duration of the decline and management’s estimate of fair value of the security.  In the Company’s evaluation, the Company considers its ability and intent to hold these investments until the Company can recover its cost basis.  The Company deems these unrealized losses to be temporary.  If and when the Company deems the unrealized losses to be other than temporary, unrealized losses will be realized and reclassified into earnings.  The net unrealized loss at April 30, 2009 is detailed below (In thousands):

Description:
 
Fair Market Value
   
Cost
Basis
   
Net Unrealized Gain/(Loss)
   
Gross
Unrealized Gains
   
Gross Unrealized (Loss)
 
                               
REIT Common and Preferred Stocks
  $ 754     $ 1,148     $ (394 )   $ 55     $ (449 )

Comprehensive Income
Comprehensive income is comprised of net income and other comprehensive income (loss). Other comprehensive income (loss) includes items that are otherwise recorded directly in stockholders’ equity, such as unrealized gains or losses on marketable securities.  At April 30, 2009, other comprehensive income (loss) consisted of net unrealized gain (losses) on marketable securities of approximately ($394,000).  Unrealized gains and losses included in other comprehensive income will be reclassified into earnings as gains and losses are realized.  During the six month period ended April 30, 2009, approximately $40,000 of unrealized gains on marketable securities that were previously recorded in other comprehensive income were realized upon the sale of the securities and re-classified into earnings.

8


Earnings Per Share
The Company calculates basic and diluted earnings per share in accordance with SFAS No. 128, “Earnings Per Share.” Basic earnings per share (“EPS”) excludes the impact of dilutive shares and is computed by dividing net income applicable to Common and Class A Common stockholders by the weighted number of Common shares and Class A Common shares outstanding for the period.  Diluted EPS reflects the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue Common shares or Class A Common shares were exercised or converted into Common shares or Class A Common shares and then shared in the earnings of the Company.  Since the cash dividends declared on the Company’s Class A Common stock are higher than the dividends declared on the Common Stock, basic and diluted EPS have been calculated using the “two-class” method.  The two-class method is an earnings allocation formula that determines earnings per share for each class of common stock according to the weighted average of the dividends declared, outstanding shares per class and participation rights in undistributed earnings.

The following table sets forth the reconciliation between basic and diluted EPS (in thousands):

   
Six Months Ended
   
Three Months Ended
 
   
April 30,
   
April 30,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
Numerator
                       
Net income applicable to common stockholders – basic
  $ 2,029     $ 2,208     $ 1,082     $ 1,062  
Effect of dilutive securities:
                               
Stock awards
    44       58       24       33  
Net income applicable to common stockholders – diluted
  $ 2,073     $ 2,266     $ 1,106     $ 1,095  
                                 
Denominator
                               
Denominator for basic EPS – weighted average common shares
    7,053       6,980       7,062       6,984  
Effect of dilutive securities:
                               
Restricted stock and other awards
    245       316       256       379  
Denominator for diluted EPS – weighted average common equivalent shares
    7,298       7,296       7,318       7,363  
                                 
Numerator
                               
Net income applicable to Class A common stockholders-basic
  $ 5,684     $ 6,399     $ 3,025     $ 3,053  
Effect of dilutive securities:
                               
Stock awards
    (44 )     (58 )     (24 )     (33 )
Net income applicable to Class A common stockholders – diluted
  5,640     $ 6,341     $ 3,001     $ 3,020  
                                 
Denominator
                               
Denominator for basic EPS – weighted average Class A common shares
    17,908       18,310       17,903       18,179  
Effect of dilutive securities:
                               
Restricted stock and other awards
    90       175       96       197  
Denominator for diluted EPS – weighted average Class A common equivalent shares
    17,998       18,485       17,999       18,376  

Segment Reporting
The Company operates in one industry segment, ownership of commercial real estate properties which are located principally in the northeastern United States.  The Company does not distinguish its property operations for purposes of measuring performance.  Accordingly, the Company believes it has a single reportable segment for disclosure purposes.

Stock-Based Compensation
The Company accounts for its stock-based compensation plans under FASB Statement No. 123R, “Share-Based Payment” (“SFAS No. 123R”), which requires that compensation expense be recognized based on the fair value of the stock awards less estimated forfeitures.  The fair value of stock awards is equal to the fair value of the Company’s stock on the grant date.

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities” (“SFAS No. 159”), which provides companies with an option to report selected financial assets and liabilities at fair value. SFAS No. 159 also establishes presentation and disclosure requirements designed to facilitate comparisons between companies that choose different measurement attributes for similar types of assets and liabilities. SFAS No. 159 does not affect any existing accounting literature that requires certain assets and liabilities to be carried at fair value nor does it eliminate disclosure requirements included in other accounting standards. The Company adopted SFAS No. 159 effective November 1, 2008, and did not elect the fair value option for any existing eligible items.
 
9


In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements” (“SFAS No. 157”). SFAS No. 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. SFAS No. 157 does not impose fair value measurements on items not already accounted for at fair value; rather it applies, with certain exceptions, to other accounting pronouncements that either require or permit fair value measurements. Under SFAS No. 157, fair value refers to the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants in the principal or most advantageous market. The standard clarifies that fair value should be based on the assumptions market participants would use when pricing the asset or liability. In February 2008, the FASB issued Staff Position No. 157-2, “Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 157” (“FSP FAS 157-2”), which delays the effective date of SFAS No. 157 for all non-financial assets and liabilities, except those that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the Financial Statements on a recurring basis until fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008. The Company adopted the provisions of SFAS No. 157 for assets and liabilities recognized at fair value on a recurring basis effective November 1, 2008. The partial adoption of SFAS No. 157 did not have a material impact on the Company’s Financial Statements.  See Note 6 for additional discussion of fair value measurement.

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 160, “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements,” which, among other things, provides guidance and establishes amended accounting and reporting standards for a parent company’s noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary.  The Company is currently evaluating the impact of adopting the statement, which is effective for fiscal years beginning on or after December 15, 2008.

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141R, “Business Combinations” (“SFAS No. 141R”), which replaces SFAS No. 141 “Business Combinations.”  SFAS No. 141R, among other things, establishes principles and requirements for how an acquirer entity recognizes and measures in its financial statements the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed (including intangibles) and any noncontrolling interests in the acquired entity.  The Company is currently evaluating the impact of adopting the statement, which is effective for fiscal years beginning on or after December 15, 2008.

(2)  CORE PROPERTIES

In January 2009, the Company sold a 3,400 square foot vacant retail property located in Eastchester, New York for a sales price of approximately $925,000. This property was acquired by the Company in fiscal 2008 and there was no significant gain or loss recorded on the sale.  The property had no operating activity and the Company will not report any discontinued operations as required by SFAS No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long Lived Assets”.

Upon the acquisition of real estate properties, the fair value of the real estate purchased is allocated to the acquired tangible assets (consisting of land, buildings and building improvements), and identified intangible assets and liabilities (consisting of above-market and below-market leases and in-place leases), in accordance with SFAS No. 141, “Business Combinations”.  The Company utilizes methods similar to those used by independent appraisers in estimating the fair value of acquired assets and liabilities.  The fair value of the tangible assets of an acquired property considers the value of the property “as-if-vacant”.  The fair value reflects the depreciated replacement cost of the asset.  In allocating purchase price to identified intangible assets and liabilities of an acquired property, the value of above-market and below-market leases are estimated based on the differences between (i) contractual rentals and the estimated market rents over the applicable lease term discounted back to the date of acquisition utilizing a discount rate adjusted for the credit risk associated with the respective tenants and (ii) the estimated cost of acquiring such leases giving effect to the Company’s history of providing tenant improvements and paying leasing commissions, offset by a vacancy period during which such space would be leased.  The aggregate value of in-place leases is measured by the excess of (i) the purchase price paid for a property after adjusting existing in-place leases to market rental rates over (ii) the estimated fair value of the property “as-if-vacant,” determined as set forth above.

In April 2009, the Company completed its evaluation of the acquired leases at its Veteran’s Plaza property which was acquired in August 2008.   As a result of its evaluation, the Company has allocated $355,000 to a liability associated with the net fair value assigned to the acquired leases at the property, which amount represents a non-cash investing activity and is therefore not included in the accompanying consolidated statement of cash flows for the six month period ended April 30, 2009.

For the six months ended April 30, 2009 and 2008 the net amortization of above-market and below-market leases was approximately $71,000 and $33,000, respectively, which amounts are included in base rents in the accompanying consolidated statements of income.

The Company is the general partner in two consolidated limited partnerships which own shopping centers.  The limited partnerships have defined termination dates of December 31, 2097 and December 31, 2099, respectively.  The partners are entitled to receive an annual cash preference payable from available cash of the partnerships.  Any unpaid preferences accumulate and are paid from future cash, if any.  The balance of available cash, if any, is distributed in accordance with the respective partner’s interests.  Upon liquidation of the partnership, proceeds from the sale of partnership assets are to be distributed in accordance with the respective partnership interests.  The partners are not obligated to make any additional capital contributions to the partnership.  The Company retains an affiliate of one of the limited partners in one of the partnerships to provide management and leasing services to the property at an annual fee equal to two percent of rental income collected, as defined.  The limited partner interests in both partnerships are reflected in the accompanying consolidated financial statements as Minority Interests.

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(3)  MORTGAGE NOTES PAYABLE AND BANK LINES OF CREDIT

The Company has a $50 million Unsecured Revolving Credit Agreement (the “Facility”) with The Bank of New York Mellon and Wells Fargo Bank N.A.  The Facility gives the Company the option, under certain conditions, to increase the Facility’s borrowing capacity up to $100 million.  The maturity date of the Facility is February 11, 2011 with two one year extensions at the Company’s option.  Borrowings under the Facility can be used for, among other things, acquisitions, working capital, capital expenditures, repayment of other indebtedness and the issuance of letters of credit (up to $10 million).  Borrowings will bear interest at the Company’s option of Eurodollar plus 0.85% or The Bank of New York Mellon’s prime lending rate plus 0.50%.  The Company will pay an annual fee on the unused commitment amount of up to 0.175% based on outstanding borrowings during the year.  The Facility contains certain representations, financial and other covenants typical for this type of facility.  The Company’s ability to borrow under the Facility is subject to its compliance with the covenants and other restrictions on an ongoing basis.  The principal financial covenants limit the Company’s level of secured and unsecured indebtedness and additionally require the Company to maintain certain debt coverage ratios.  The Company was in compliance with such covenants at April 30, 2009.

In April 2008, borrowings under the Facility were used to refinance an existing mortgage note payable, which was secured by the Company’s Staples property in the amount of $7.9 million.  In conjunction with that transaction, the mortgage was assigned to the lender of the Facility and as a result $7.9 million of the outstanding balance on the Facility is shown as a mortgage note payable on the accompanying April 30, 2009 consolidated balance sheet.  Interest on outstanding borrowings under the Facility is currently accruing at approximately 1.23% per annum.

In March 2009, the Company borrowed $12 million on the Facility to repay the maturing mortgage on one of its properties in the amount of $12.1 million.  On May 15, 2009, the Company, through a wholly-owned subsidiary, completed a new first mortgage financing on the aforementioned property in the amount of $18.9 million.  The new mortgage has a fixed rate of interest of 6.55% per annum with required monthly payments of principal and interest based on a 25 year amortization schedule.  The mortgage has a term of ten years and is due in May of 2019.  A portion of the proceeds from the mortgage financing in the amount of $17.1 million were used to repay the Facility.  As of May 15, 2009, the balance outstanding under the Facility is approximately $7.9 million.

The Company also has a Secured Revolving Credit Facility with the Bank of New York Mellon (the “Secured Credit Facility”).  The Secured Credit Facility provides for borrowings of up to $30 million.  The maturity date of the Facility is April 15, 2011 and is collateralized by first mortgage liens on two of the Company’s properties.  Interest on outstanding borrowings is at prime plus 0.50% or the Eurodollar rate plus 1.75%.  The Secured Credit Facility requires the Company to maintain certain debt service coverage ratios during its term.  The Company was in compliance with such covenants at April 30, 2009.  The Company pays an annual fee of 0.25% on the unused portion of the Secured Credit Facility.  The Secured Credit Facility is available to fund acquisitions, capital expenditures, mortgage repayments, working capital and other general corporate purposes.

(4)  REDEEMABLE PREFERRED STOCK

The Company is authorized to issue up to 20,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock.  At April 30, 2009, the Company had issued and outstanding 400,000 shares of Series C Senior Cumulative Preferred Stock (Series C Preferred Stock), 2,450,000 shares of Series D Senior Cumulative Preferred Stock (Series D Preferred Stock) (see Note 5) and 2,400,000 shares of Series E Senior Cumulative Preferred Stock (Series E Preferred Stock).

The following table sets forth the details of the Company’s redeemable preferred stock as of April 30, 2009 and October 31, 2008 (amounts in thousands, except share data):  

   
April 30,
2009
   
October 31,
 2008
 
8.50% Series C Senior Cumulative Preferred Stock; liquidation preference of $100 per share; issued and outstanding  400,000 shares
  $ 38,406     $ 38,406  
8.50% Series E Senior Cumulative Preferred Stock; liquidation preference of $25 per share; issued and outstanding  2,400,000 shares
    57,797       57,797  
Total Redeemable Preferred Stock
  $ 96,203     $ 96,203  

The Series E Preferred Stock and Series C Preferred Stock have no stated maturity, are not subject to any sinking fund or mandatory redemption and are not convertible into other securities or property of the Company.  Commencing May 2013 (Series C Preferred Stock) and March 2013 (Series E Preferred Stock), the Company, at its option, may redeem the preferred stock issues, in whole or in part, at a redemption price equal to the liquidation preference per share, plus all accrued and unpaid dividends.

Upon a change in control of the Company (as defined), each holder of Series C Preferred Stock and Series E Preferred Stock has the right, at such holder’s option, to require the Company to repurchase all or any part of such holder’s stock for cash at a repurchase price equal to the liquidation preference per share plus all accrued and unpaid dividends.
 
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The Series C Preferred Stock and Series E Preferred Stock contain covenants that require the Company to maintain certain financial coverages relating to fixed charge and capitalization ratios.  Shares of both Preferred Stock series are non-voting; however, under certain circumstances (relating to non-payment of dividends or failure to comply with the financial covenants) the preferred stockholders will be entitled to elect two directors.  The Company was in compliance with such covenants at April 30, 2009.

As the holders of the Series C Preferred Stock and Series E Preferred Stock only have a contingent right to require the Company to repurchase all or part of such holders shares upon a change of control of the Company (as defined), the Series C Preferred Stock and Series E Preferred Stock are classified as redeemable equity instruments as a change in control is not certain to occur.

(5)  STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Restricted Stock Plan
The Company has a restricted stock plan for key employees and directors of the Company.  The restricted stock plan (“Plan”) provides for the grant of up to 2,350,000 shares of the Company’s common equity consisting of 350,000 Common shares, 350,000 Class A Common shares and 1,650,000 shares which, at the discretion of the Company’s compensation committee, may be awarded in any combination of Class A Common shares or Common shares.

Prior to November 1, 2005, the grant date fair value of nonvested restricted stock awards was expensed over the explicit stock award vesting periods.  Such awards provided for continued vesting after retirement.  Upon adoption of SFAS No. 123R, the Company changed its policy for recognizing compensation expense for restricted stock awards to the earlier of the explicit vesting period or the date a participant first becomes eligible for retirement.  For nonvested restricted stock awards granted prior to the adoption of SFAS No. 123R, the Company continues to recognize compensation expense over the explicit vesting periods and accelerates any remaining unrecognized compensation cost when a participant actually retires.

Had compensation expense for nonvested restricted stock awards issued prior to the adoption of SFAS 123R been determined based on the date a participant first becomes eligible for retirement, restricted stock compensation would have decreased in the six months months ended April 30, 2009 and  2008 by approximately $125,000 and $168,000, respectively.

In January 2009, the Company awarded 170,900 shares of Common Stock and 63,200 shares of Class A Common Stock to participants in the Plan.  In March of 2009, the Company awarded an additional 1,000 shares of Class A Common stock to a participant under the plan.  The grant date fair value of restricted stock grants awarded to participants in 2009 was approximately $3.4 million.

A summary of the status of the Company’s non-vested Common and Class A Common shares as of April 30, 2009, and changes during the six months ended April 30, 2009 are presented below:

   
Common Shares
   
Class A Common Shares
 
Non-vested Shares
 
Shares
   
Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value
   
Shares
   
Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value
 
Non-vested at November 1, 2008
    961,750     $ 14.54       321,200     $ 14.21  
Granted
    170,900     $ 14.23       64,200     $ 15.42  
Vested
    (37,200 )   $ 7.91       (44,700 )   $ 9.11  
Forfeited
    -       -       -       -  
Non-vested at April 30, 2009
    1,095,450     $ 14.72       340,700     $ 15.11  

As of April 30, 2009, there was $13.2 million of unamortized restricted stock compensation related to non-vested restricted stock grants awarded under the Plan.  The remaining unamortized expense is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 5.75 years.  For the six months ended April 30, 2009 and 2008 amounts charged to compensation expense totaled $1,256,000 and $726,000, respectively.

Share Repurchase Program
In a prior year, the Board of Directors of the Company approved a share repurchase program (“Program”) for the repurchase of up to 500,000 shares of Common Stock and Class A Common Stock in the aggregate.  On March 6, 2008, the Board of Directors amended the Program to allow the Company to repurchase up to 1,000,000 shares of Common and Class A Common stock in the aggregate.  In December 2008, the Board of Directors further amended the Program to allow the Company to repurchase up to 1,500,000 shares of Common and Class A Common stock in the aggregate.  In addition, the Board of Directors amended the Program to allow the Company to repurchase shares of the Company’s Series C and Series D Senior Cumulative Preferred Stock (Preferred Stock) in open-market transactions.  As of April 30, 2009, the Company had repurchased 3,600 shares of Common Stock and 724,578 shares of Class A Common Stock under the Program, (including 38,700 shares of Class A Common Stock that were repurchased at an average price of $13.01 during the six month period ended April 30, 2009).


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Preferred Stock
The Series D Preferred Stock has no maturity and is not convertible into any other security of the Company and is redeemable at the Company’s option on or after April 2010 at a price of $25.00 per share plus accrued and unpaid dividends.

(6) FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

On November 1, 2008, the Company adopted SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements”.  The Company measures marketable equity and debt securities classified as available for sale securities at fair value on a recurring basis.  The fair value of these financial assets was determined using the following inputs at April 30, 2009:

         
Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using
 
   
Total
   
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets
(Level 1)
   
Significant Other Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
   
Significant Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3)
 
                         
Available for Sale Securities
  $ 754,000     $ 754,000     $ -     $ -  

(7)  COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

In the normal course of business, from time to time, the Company is involved in legal actions relating to the ownership and operations of its properties.  In management’s opinion, the liabilities if any that may ultimately result from such legal actions are not expected to have a material adverse effect on the consolidated financial position, results of operations or liquidity of the Company.

At April 30, 2009, the Company had commitments of approximately $799,000 for tenant related obligations.

(8)  SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

On June 4, 2009, the Board of Directors of the Company declared cash dividends of $0.2175 for each share of Common Stock and $0.24 for each share of Class A Common Stock.  The dividends are payable on July 17, 2009.


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Item 2.                    Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements of the Company and the notes thereto included elsewhere in this report.

Forward Looking Statements
This Item 2 includes certain statements that may be deemed to be “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.  All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included in this Item 2 that address activities, events or developments that the Company expects, believes or anticipates will or may occur in the future, including such matters as future capital expenditures, dividends and acquisitions (including the amount and nature thereof), business strategies, expansion and growth of the Company’s operations and other such matters are forward-looking statements. These statements are based on certain assumptions and analyses made by the Company in light of its experience and its perception of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors it believes are appropriate. Such statements are subject to a number of assumptions, risks and uncertainties including, among other things, general economic and business conditions, the business opportunities that may be presented to and pursued by the Company, changes in laws or regulations and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company. For a more detailed discussion of some of these factors, see the risk factors set forth in “Item 1A Risk Factors” of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2008.  Any forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements.

Executive Summary
The Company, a REIT, is a fully integrated, self-administered real estate company, engaged in the acquisition, ownership and management of commercial real estate, primarily neighborhood and community shopping centers in the northeastern part of the United States. Other real estate assets include office and industrial properties. The Company’s major tenants include supermarket chains and other retailers who sell basic necessities. At April 30, 2009, the Company owned or had interests in 43 properties containing a total of 3.9 million square feet of GLA of which approximately 92% was leased.

The Company derives substantially all of its revenues from rents and operating expense reimbursements received pursuant to long-term leases and focuses its investment activities on community and neighborhood shopping centers, anchored principally by regional supermarket chains.  The Company believes, because of the need of consumers to purchase food and other staple goods and services generally available at supermarket-anchored shopping centers, that the nature of its investments provide for relatively stable revenue flows even during difficult economic times.  The Company is experiencing and, in the remainder of fiscal 2009, expects that it will continue to experience increased vacancy rates at some of its shopping centers and a lengthening in the time required for releasing of vacant space, as the current economic downturn continues to negatively affect retail companies.  However, the Company believes it is well positioned to weather these difficulties.  Notwithstanding the increase in vacancy rates at various properties, approximately 92% of the Company’s portfolio remains leased.  The Company has a strong capital structure with, by industry standards, a small amount of debt maturing in the next 12 months that the Company believes it can refinance or repay with available cash or borrowings under its credit facilities.  The Company expects to continue to explore acquisition opportunities that might present themselves during this economic downturn consistent with its business strategy.

Primarily as a result of recent property acquisitions, the Company’s financial data shows increases in total revenues and expenses from period to period.

The Company focuses on increasing cash flow, and consequently the value of its properties, and seeks continued growth through strategic re-leasing, renovations and expansion of its existing properties and selective acquisition of income producing properties, primarily neighborhood and community shopping centers in the northeastern part of the United States.

Key elements of the Company’s growth strategies and operating policies are to:

§  
Acquire neighborhood and community shopping centers in the northeastern part of the United States with a concentration in Fairfield County, Connecticut; Westchester and Putnam Counties, New York; and Bergen County, New Jersey
 
§  
Hold core properties for long-term investment and enhance their value through regular maintenance, periodic renovation and capital improvement
 
§  
Selectively dispose of non-core and underperforming properties and re-deploy the proceeds into properties located in the  northeast region
 
§  
Increase property values by aggressively marketing available GLA and renewing existing leases
 
§  
Renovate, reconfigure or expand existing properties to meet the needs of existing or new tenants
 
§  
Negotiate and sign leases which provide for regular or fixed contractual increases to minimum rents
 
§  
Control property operating and administrative costs


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Critical Accounting Policies
Critical accounting policies are those that are both important to the presentation of the Company’s financial condition and results of operations and require management’s most difficult, complex or subjective judgments.   Set forth below is a summary of the accounting policies that management believes are critical to the preparation of the consolidated financial statements.  This summary should be read in conjunction with the more complete discussion of the Company’s accounting policies included in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements of the Company for the year ended October 31, 2008 included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended October 31, 2008.

Revenue Recognition

Revenues from operating leases include revenues from core properties and non-core properties.  Rental income is generally recognized based on the terms of leases entered into with tenants.  In those instances in which the Company funds tenant improvements and the improvements are deemed to be owned by the Company, revenue recognition will commence when the improvements are substantially completed and possession or control of the space is turned over to the tenant.  When the Company determines that the tenant allowances are lease incentives, the Company commences revenue recognition when possession or control of the space is turned over to the tenant for tenant work to begin.

The Company records base rents on a straight-line basis over the term of each lease. The excess of rents recognized over amounts contractually due pursuant to the underlying leases is included in tenant receivables on the accompanying balance sheets. Most leases contain provisions that require tenants to reimburse a pro-rata share of real estate taxes and certain common area expenses.   Adjustments are also made throughout the year to tenant receivables and the related cost recovery income based upon the Company’s best estimate of the final amounts to be billed and collected.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

The allowance for doubtful accounts is established based on a quarterly analysis of the risk of loss on specific accounts. The analysis places particular emphasis on past-due accounts and considers information such as the nature and age of the receivables, the payment history of the tenants or other debtors, the financial condition of the tenants and any guarantors and management’s assessment of their ability to meet their lease obligations, the basis for any disputes and the status of related negotiations, among other things. Management’s estimates of the required allowance is subject to revision as these factors change and is sensitive to the effects of economic and market conditions on tenants, particularly those at retail properties.  Estimates are used to establish reimbursements from tenants for common area maintenance, real estate tax and insurance costs.  The Company analyzes the balance of its estimated accounts receivable for real estate taxes, common area maintenance and insurance for each of its properties by comparing actual recoveries versus actual expenses and any actual write-offs.  Based on its analysis, the Company may record an additional amount in its allowance for doubtful accounts related to these items.  For the six month periods ended April 30, 2009 and 2008 the Company increased its allowance for doubtful accounts by $142,000 and $259,000, respectively.  It is also the Company’s policy to maintain an allowance of approximately 10% of the deferred straight-line rents receivable balance for future tenant credit losses.

Real Estate

Land, buildings, property improvements, furniture/fixtures and tenant improvements are recorded at cost.  Expenditures for maintenance and repairs are charged to operations as incurred.  Renovations and/or replacements, which improve or extend the life of the asset, are capitalized and depreciated over their estimated useful lives.

The amounts to be capitalized as a result of an acquisition and the periods over which the assets are depreciated or amortized are determined based on estimates as to fair value and the allocation of various costs to the individual assets.  The Company allocates the cost of an acquisition based upon the estimated fair value of the net assets acquired.  The Company also estimates the fair value of intangibles related to its acquisitions.  The valuation of the fair value of intangibles involves estimates related to market conditions, probability of lease renewals and the current market value of in-place leases.  This market value is determined by considering factors such as the tenant’s industry, location within the property and competition in the specific region in which the property operates.  Differences in the amount attributed to the intangible assets can be significant based upon the assumptions made in calculating these estimates.

The Company is required to make subjective assessments as to the useful life of its properties for purposes of determining the amount of depreciation.  These assessments have a direct impact on the Company’s net income.

Properties are depreciated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets.  The estimated useful lives are as follows:

Buildings
30-40 years
Property Improvements
10-20 years
Furniture/Fixtures
3-10 years
Tenant Improvements
Shorter of lease term or their useful life


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Asset Impairment

On a periodic basis, management assesses whether there are any indicators that the value of its real estate investments may be impaired.  A property value is considered impaired when management’s estimate of current and projected operating cash flows (undiscounted and without interest) of the property over its remaining useful life is less than the net carrying value of the property.  Such cash flow projections consider factors such as expected future operating income, trends and prospects, as well as the effects of demand, competition and other factors.  To the extent impairment has occurred, the loss is measured as the excess of the net carrying amount of the property over the fair value of the asset.  Changes in estimated future cash flows due to changes in the Company’s plans or market and economic conditions could result in recognition of impairment losses which could be substantial.  Management does not believe that the value of any of its real estate investments is impaired at April 30, 2009.

Liquidity and Capital Resources
At April 30, 2009, the Company had unrestricted cash and cash equivalents of $3.0 million compared to $1.7 million at October 31, 2008.  The Company's sources of liquidity and capital resources include its cash and cash equivalents, proceeds from bank borrowings and long-term mortgage debt, capital financings and sales of real estate investments. Payments of expenses related to real estate operations, debt service, management and professional fees, and dividend requirements place demands on the Company's short-term liquidity.

Cash Flows

The Company expects to meet its short-term liquidity requirements primarily by generating net cash from the operations of its properties.  The Company believes that its net cash provided by operations will be sufficient to fund its short-term liquidity requirements for the balance of fiscal 2009 and to meet its dividend requirements necessary to maintain its REIT status.

The Company expects to continue paying regular dividends to its stockholders.  These dividends will be paid from operating cash flows which are expected to increase due to property acquisitions and growth in operating income in the existing portfolio and from other sources. The Company derives substantially all of its revenues from rents under existing leases at its properties. The Company’s operating cash flow therefore depends on the rents that it is able to charge to its tenants, and the ability of its tenants to make rental payments. The Company believes that the nature of the properties in which it typically invests ― primarily grocery-anchored neighborhood and community shopping centers ― provides a more stable revenue flow in uncertain economic times, in that consumers still need to purchase basic staples and convenience items. However, even in the geographic areas in which the Company owns properties, general economic downturns may adversely impact the ability of the Company’s tenants to make lease payments and the Company’s ability to re-lease space as leases expire. In either of these cases, the Company’s cash flow could be adversely affected.

Net Cash Flows from:

Operating Activities

Net cash flows provided by operating activities amounted to $19.8 million in the six months ended April 30, 2009, compared to $21.1 million in the comparable period of fiscal 2008. The net decrease in operating cash flows was a result of an increase in tenant receivables relating to common area maintenance and real estate tax billings and a decrease in net operating results of the Company’s properties owned during both periods offset by an increase in the net operating results of the Company’s acquired properties in the latter part of fiscal 2008.

Investing Activities

Net cash flows provided by investing activities amounted to $1.3 million in the first six months of fiscal 2009 and net cash flows used by investing activities amounted to $23.7 million in the comparable period of 2008. The net increase in cash flows in the six month period ended April 30, 2009 was primarily the result of the sale of one of the Company’s properties for $925,000 and the return of two contract deposits in the combined amount of $1.1 million relating to two acquisition opportunities that the Company choose not to pursue; offset by improvements to properties and deferred charges of $888,000.

Net cash flows used in the first six months of fiscal 2008 was principally due to the acquisition of properties consistent with the Company’s strategic plan to acquire properties in the northeast.  The Company acquired four properties in the amount of $17.0 million in the first half of fiscal 2008 and also incurred $6.7 million for improvements to properties and deferred charges.

The Company invests in its properties and regularly pays for capital expenditures for property improvements, tenant costs and leasing commissions.

Financing Activities

Net cash flows used in financing activities amounted to $19.8 million in the first six months of fiscal 2009 and net cash flows provided by financing activities amounted to $9.6 million in the comparable period of fiscal 2008. Net cash flows used by financing activities in the first six months of fiscal 2009 were predominantly the result of dividends to shareholders in the amount of $18.9 million.


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Net cash flows provided by financing activities in the first six months of fiscal 2008 was the net result of the Company completing the sale of its Series E Preferred Stock and generating $57.9 in net proceeds, offset by quarterly distributions paid to shareholders in the amount of $17.3 million and the repayment of revolving credit line borrowings in the amount of $25.2 million.  The increase in dividends in the second quarter of fiscal 2009 when compared with 2008 reflects dividends paid on a new issue of preferred stock sold in the second quarter of fiscal 2008.

Capital Resources

The Company expects to fund its long-term liquidity requirements such as property acquisitions, repayment of indebtedness and capital expenditures through other long-term indebtedness (including indebtedness assumed in acquisitions), borrowings on its unsecured and secured credit facilities, proceeds from sales of properties and/or the issuance of equity securities. The Company believes that these sources of capital will continue to be available to it in the future to fund its long-term capital needs; however, there are certain factors that may have a material adverse effect on its access to capital sources. The Company’s ability to incur additional debt is dependent upon its existing leverage, the value of its unencumbered assets and borrowing limitations imposed by existing lenders. The Company’s ability to raise funds through sales of equity securities is dependent on, among other things, general market conditions for REITs, market perceptions about the Company and its stock price in the market. The Company’s ability to sell properties in the future to raise cash will be dependent upon market conditions at the time of sale.

Financings and Debt

The Company is exposed to interest rate risk primarily through its borrowing activities. There is inherent rollover risk for borrowings as they mature and are renewed at current market rates. The extent of this risk is not quantifiable or predictable because of the variability of future interest rates and the Company’s future financing requirements.  Mortgage notes payable of $92.0 million consist principally of fixed rate mortgage loan indebtedness with a weighted average interest rate of 5.9% at April 30, 2009. The mortgage loans with fixed interest rates are secured by 9 properties with a net book value of $145 million and have fixed rates of interest ranging from 5.1% to 7.8%.  The Company has one variable rate mortgage loan in the amount of $7.9 million for which interest is currently accruing at approximately 1.23%.  The Company made principal payments of $13.0 million (including the repayment of a mortgage payable in the amount of $12.1 millon in fiscal 2009) in the six months ended April 30, 2009 compared to $851,000 in the comparable period of fiscal 2008.  The Company may refinance its mortgage loans, at or prior to scheduled maturity, through replacement mortgage loans.  The ability to do so, however, is dependent upon various factors, including the income level of the properties, interest rates and credit conditions within the commercial real estate market. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that such refinancings can be achieved.

The Company has a $50 Million Unsecured Revolving Credit Agreement (the “Unsecured Facility”) with The Bank of New York Mellon and Wells Fargo Bank N.A. The agreement gives the Company the option, under certain conditions, to increase the Facility’s borrowing capacity up to $100 million.  The maturity date of the Unsecured Facility is February 11, 2011 with two one year extensions at the Company’s option. Borrowings under the Unsecured Facility can be used for, among other things, acquisitions, working capital, capital expenditures, repayment of other indebtedness and the issuance of letters of credit (up to $10 million).  Borrowings will bear interest at the Company’s option of Eurodollar plus 0.85% or The Bank of New York Mellon’s prime lending rate plus 0.50%.  The Company pays an annual fee on the unused commitment amount of up to 0.175% based on outstanding borrowings during the year. The Unsecured Facility contains certain representations, financial and other covenants typical for this type of facility.  The Company’s ability to borrow under the Unsecured Facility is subject to its compliance with the covenants and other restrictions on an ongoing basis.  The principal financial covenants limit the Company’s level of secured and unsecured indebtedness and additionally require the Company to maintain certain debt coverage ratios.  As of April 30, 2009, the Company was in compliance with such covenants on the Secured Facility discussed below and Unsecured Facility.

The Company also has a secured revolving credit facility with a commercial bank (the “Secured Facility”) which provides for borrowings of up to $30 million.  The maturity date of the Secured Facility is April 15, 2011.  The Secured Facility is collateralized by first mortgage liens on two of the Company’s properties.  Interest on outstanding borrowings is at prime plus 0.50% or Eurodollar plus 1.75%.  The Secured Facility requires the Company to maintain certain debt service coverage ratios during its term.  The Company pays an annual fee of 0.25% on the unused portion of the Secured Facility.  The Secured Facility is available to fund acquisitions, capital expenditures, mortgage repayments, working capital and other general corporate purposes.

In March 2009, the Company borrowed $12 million on the Facility to repay the maturing mortgage on one of its properties in the amount of $12.1 million.

At April 30, 2009 the Company has approximately $55 million available to be drawn down under its two revolving credit facilities.

In May 2009, the Company, through a wholly-owned subsidiary, completed a new first mortgage financing on the aforementioned property in the amount of $18.9 million.  The new mortgage has a fixed rate of interest of 6.55% per annum with required monthly payments of principal and interest based on a 25 year amortization schedule.  The mortgage has a term of ten years and is due in May of 2019.  Proceeds from the mortgage financing in the amount of $17.1 million were used to repay the Facility.

The Company has various standing or renewable service contracts with vendors related to its property management. In addition, the Company also has certain other utility contracts entered into in the ordinary course of business which may extend beyond one year, which vary based on usage.  These contracts include terms that provide for cancellation with insignificant or no cancellation penalties.  Contract terms are generally one year or less.


17


Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

During the six month periods ended April 30, 2009 and 2008, the Company did not have any material off-balance sheet arrangements.

Capital Expenditures

The Company invests in its existing properties and regularly incurs capital expenditures in the ordinary course of business to maintain its properties. The Company believes that such expenditures enhance the competitiveness of its properties. In the six months ended April 30, 2009, the Company paid approximately $888,000 for property improvements, tenant improvement and leasing commission costs. The amounts of these expenditures can vary significantly depending on tenant negotiations, market conditions and rental rates.  The Company expects to incur approximately $2.1 million for anticipated capital improvements and leasing costs during the balance of fiscal 2009. These expenditures are expected to be funded from operating cash flows or bank borrowings.

Acquisitions and Significant Property Transactions

In January 2009, the Company sold a 3,400 square foot vacant retail property located in Eastchester, New York for a sales price of approximately $925,000. This property was acquired by the Company in fiscal 2008 and there was no significant gain or loss recorded on the sale.  The property had no operating activity and the Company will not report any discontinued operations as required by SFAS No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long Lived Assets”.

Non-Core Properties
In a prior year, the Company's Board of Directors expanded and refined the strategic objectives of the Company to refocus its real estate portfolio into one of self-managed retail properties located in the northeast and authorized the sale of the Company’s non-core properties in the normal course of business over a period of several years.  The Company’s current non-core properties consist of two distribution service facilities (both of which are located outside of the northeast region of the United States).

The Company intends to sell these two remaining non-core properties as opportunities become available.  The Company’s ability to generate cash from asset sales is dependent upon market conditions and will be limited if market conditions make such sales unattractive.  At April 30, 2009, the two remaining non-core properties have a net book value of approximately $586,000.

Funds from Operations
The Company considers Funds from Operations (“FFO”) to be an additional measure of an equity REIT’s operating performance.  The Company reports FFO in addition to its net income applicable to common stockholders and net cash provided by operating activities.  Management has adopted the definition suggested by The National Association of Real Estate Investment Trusts (“NAREIT”) and defines FFO to mean net income (computed in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”)) excluding gains or losses from sales of property, plus real estate related depreciation and amortization and after adjustments for unconsolidated joint ventures.

Management considers FFO a meaningful, additional measure of operating performance because it primarily excludes the assumption that the value of its real estate assets diminishes predictably over time and industry analysts have accepted it as a performance measure.  FFO is presented to assist investors in analyzing the performance of the Company.  It is helpful as it excludes various items included in net income that are not indicative of the Company’s operating performance, such as gains (or losses) from sales of property and deprecation and amortization.

However, FFO:

§  
does not represent cash flows from operating activities in accordance with GAAP (which, unlike FFO, generally reflects all cash effects of transactions and other events in the determination of net income); and

§  
should not be considered an alternative to net income as an indication of the Company’s performance.


18


FFO as defined by us may not be comparable to similarly titled items reported by other real estate investment trusts due to possible differences in the application of the NAREIT definition used by such REITs.  The table below provides a reconciliation of net income applicable to Common and Class A Common Stockholders in accordance with GAAP to FFO for each of the six months and three months ended April 30, 2009 and 2008 (amounts in thousands).

   
Six Months Ended
   
Three Months Ended
 
   
April 30,
   
April 30,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
                         
Net Income Applicable to Common and Class A Common Stockholders
  $ 7,713     $ 8,607     $ 4,107     $ 4,115  
                                 
Plus:  Real property depreciation
    5,737       5,364       2,907       2,687  
Amortization of tenant improvements and allowances
    1,856       1,326       692       671  
Amortization of deferred leasing costs
    402       289       101       147  
                                 
Funds from Operations Applicable to Common and Class A Common Stockholders
  $ 15,708     $ 15,586     $ 7,807     $ 7,620  
                                 
Net Cash Provided by (Used in):
                               
Operating Activities
  $ 19,790     $ 21,100     $ 11,696     $ 14,492  
Investing Activities
  $ 1,324     $ (23,654 )   $ (25 )   $ (15,851 )
Financing Activities
  $ (19,792 )   $ 9,550     $ (9,785 )   $ 8,510  

FFO amounted to $15.7 million in the first half of fiscal 2009 compared to $15.6 million in the first half of fiscal 2008.  The net increase in  FFO is attributable, among other things, to: a) a gain on the sale of marketable equity securities of $381,000 during the second quarter of fiscal 2009 and b) an increase in operating results at some of the Company’s properties as a result of property acquisitions in fiscal 2008 c) a decrease in interest expense as a result of paying off $12.1 million mortgage with proceeds from the companies unsecured line of credit at a lower rate of interest: offset by a) a decrease in the occupancy percentage at some of the Company’s core properties and b) an increase in preferred stock dividends in the first half of fiscal 2009 as a result of the Company’s $60 million preferred stock sale in the second quarter of fiscal 2008 and c) an increase in operating expenses from both acquired properties and properties held in both periods, see more detailed explanations which follow.

Results of Operations

The following information summarizes the Company’s results of operations for the six month and three month periods ended April 30, 2009 and 2008 (amounts in thousands):

   
Six Months Ended
             
   
April 30,
         
Change Attributable to:
 
Revenues
 
2009
   
2008
   
Increase (decrease)
   
%
 Change
   
Property Acquisitions
   
Properties Held
In Both Periods
 
Base rents
  $ 30,974     $ 29,938     $ 1,036       3.5     $ 1,401     $ (365 )
Recoveries from tenants
    11,186       9,692       1,494       15.4       856       638  
Mortgage interest and other
    358       307       51       16.6       50       1  
                                                 
Operating Expenses
                                               
Property operating expenses
    7,509       6,551       958       14.6       368       590  
Property taxes
    6,586       5,672       914       16.1       287       627  
Depreciation and amortization
    8,026       7,016       1,010       14.4       401       609  
General and administrative expenses
    3,293       2,884       409       14.1       n/a       n/a  
                                                 
Other Income/Expenses
                                               
Interest expense
    3,103       3,467       (364 )     (10.5 )     452       (816 )
Interest, dividends and other investment income
    233       189       44       23.3       n/a       n/a  
                                                 

19


   
Three Months Ended
             
   
April 30,
         
Change Attributable to:
 
Revenues
 
2009
   
2008
   
Increase
(Decrease)
   
%
Change
   
Property
Acquisitions
   
Properties Held In Both Periods
 
Base rents
  $ 15,431     $ 15,196     $ 235       1.5     $ 657     $ (422 )
Recoveries from tenants
    5,697       5,227       470       9.0       710       (240 )
Mortgage interest and other
    20       141       (121 )     (85.8 )     (1 )     (120 )
                                                 
Operating Expenses
                                               
Property operating
    4,088       3,488       600       17.2       204       396  
Property taxes
    3,197       2,847       350       12.3       122       228  
Depreciation and amortization
    3,671       3,523       148       4.2       190       (42 )
General and administrative
    1,675       1,400       275       19.6       n/a       n/a  
                                                 
Non-Operating Income/Expense
                                               
Interest expense
    1,561       1,718       (157 )     (9.1 )     211       (368 )
Interest, dividends, and other investment income
    196       94       102       108.5       n/a       n/a  

Revenues
Base rents increased by 3.5% to $31.0 million for the six month period ended April 30, 2009 as compared with $29.9 million in the comparable period of 2008.  Base rents increased 1.5% to $15.4 million for the three months ended April 30, 2009 as compared with $15.2 million in the comparable period of 2008.  The increase in base rentals during each period was attributable to:

Property Acquisitions:

During fiscal 2008 the Company purchased or acquired interests in four properties totaling 205,500 square feet of GLA.  These properties accounted for all of the revenue and expense changes attributable to property acquisitions during the three and six month periods ended April 30, 2009.

Properties Held in Both Periods:

The decrease in base rents for properties held during the six month and three month periods ended April 30, 2009 compared to the same periods in fiscal 2008, reflects an increase in vacancies occurring in fiscal 2008 and the first two quarters of fiscal 2009 at several of the Company’s core properties offset by an increase in rental rates for in place leases over the period.  For the first six months of fiscal 2009, the Company leased or renewed approximately 346,000 square feet (or approximately 8.9% of total property leasable area).  At April 30, 2009 the Company’s core properties were approximately 91% leased.  Overall core property occupancy decreased to 90% at April 30, 2009 from 93% at April 30, 2008.

In the six month period ended April 30, 2009, recoveries from tenants for properties owned in both periods (which represents reimbursements from tenants for operating expenses and property taxes) increased by $638,000 compared to the same period in fiscal 2008. This increase was a result of an increase in property tax expense for properties held in both periods caused by increased assessments and municipal tax rate increases on certain properties.  In addition, the increase was further caused by increases in the amount billed to tenants for increased operating expenses including snow removal and maintenance costs in the first half of fiscal 2009 when compared to the same period in the prior year.  In the three month period ended April 30, 2009 recoveries from tenants for properties owned in both periods decreased by $240,000 when compared with the same period from fiscal 2008 as a result of an decrease in the occupancy rate in the Company’s portfolio resulting in less billings for common area maintenance and real estate taxes.

Expenses
Operating expenses for properties held in both periods increased by $590,000 and $396,000 in the six months and three month periods ended April 30, 2009, compared to the same periods a year ago primarily as a result of increased snow removal and maintenance costs.

Property taxes for properties held in both periods increased $627,000 and $228,000 during the six month and three month period ended April 30, 2009 compared to the same period a year ago as a result of increased assessments and municipal tax rates on certain properties.

Interest expense decreased $816,000 and $368,000 in the six month and three month period ended April 30, 2009 compared to the same periods in fiscal 2008 as a result of scheduled principal payments on mortgage notes, and the repayment of a $12.1 million mortgage note payable in March 2009 and a $12.9 million in mortgage notes payable in fiscal 2008.

20


Depreciation and amortization expense from properties held in both periods increased $609,000 during the six month period ended April 30, 2009 compared to the same period a year ago as a result of depreciation on $17 million in acquisitions in fiscal 2008 and a full quarter of depreciation for the $6.7 million in property improvements made in fiscal 2008 and the acceleration of depreciation and amortization on tenant improvements and deferred leasing charges related to two lease terminations in the first quarter of fiscal 2009.  Depreciation and amortization expense from properties held in both periods for the three month period ended April 30, 2009 was relatively unchanged.

General and administrative expenses increased by $409,000 and $275,000 in the six month and three month periods ended April 30, 2009 compared to the same periods in fiscal 2008, primarily due to an increase in legal and professional, consulting and restricted stock compensation amortization expense.

Inflation
The Company’s long-term leases contain provisions to mitigate the adverse impact of inflation on its operating results. Such provisions include clauses entitling the Company to receive (a) scheduled base rent increases and (b) percentage rents based upon tenants’ gross sales, which generally increase as prices rise. In addition, many of the Company’s non-anchor leases are for terms of less than ten years, which permits the Company to seek increases in rents upon renewal at then current market rates if rents provided in the expiring leases are below then existing market rates. Most of the Company’s leases require tenants to pay a share of operating expenses, including common area maintenance, real estate taxes, insurance and utilities, thereby reducing the Company’s exposure to increases in costs and operating expenses resulting from inflation.

Environmental Matters
Based upon management’s ongoing review of its properties, management is not aware of any environmental condition with respect to any of the Company’s properties that would be reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on the Company. There can be no assurance, however, that (a) the discovery of environmental conditions, which were previously unknown, (b) changes in law, (c) the conduct of tenants or (d) activities relating to properties in the vicinity of the Company’s properties, will not expose the Company to material liability in the future. Changes in laws increasing the potential liability for environmental conditions existing on properties or increasing the restrictions on discharges or other conditions may result in significant unanticipated expenditures or may otherwise adversely affect the operations of the Company’s tenants, which would adversely affect the Company’s financial condition and results of operations.


21


Item 3.                    Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

Market risk is the exposure to loss resulting from changes in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, commodity prices and equity prices.  The primary market risk to which we are exposed is interest rate risk, which is sensitive to many factors, including governmental monetary and tax policies, domestic and international economic and political considerations and other factors that are beyond the Company’s control.

Interest Rate Risk

The Company is exposed to interest rate risk primarily through its borrowing activities.  There is inherent rollover risk for borrowings as they mature and are renewed at current market rates.  The extent of this risk is not quantifiable or predictable because of the variability of future interest rates and the Company’s future financing requirements.

As of April 30, 2009, the Company had $24.9 million in outstanding variable rate debt.  The Company does not enter into any derivative financial instrument transactions for speculative or trading purposes.  The Company believes that its weighted average interest rate of 5.9% on its fixed rate debt is not materially different from current fair market interest rates for debt instruments with similar risks and maturities.

Item 4.                    Controls and Procedures

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
The Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have evaluated the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) as of the end of the period covered by this report.  Based on such evaluation, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that, as of the end of such period, the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective.

Changes in Internal Controls
During the quarter ended April 30, 2009, there were no significant changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.


22

PART II – OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.                    Legal Proceedings

The Company is not involved in any litigation, nor to its knowledge is any litigation threatened against the Company or its subsidiaries, that in management’s opinion, would result in a material adverse effect on the Company’s ownership, management or operation of its properties, or which is not covered by the Company’s liability insurance.

Item 2.                   Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

In a prior year, the Board of Directors of the Company approved a share repurchase program (“Program”) for the repurchase of up to 500,000 shares of Common Stock and Class A Common Stock in the aggregate.  On March 6, 2008, the Board of Directors amended the Program to allow the Company to repurchase up to 1,000,000 shares of Common and Class A Common Stock in the aggregate.  In December 2008, the Board of Directors further amended the Program to allow the Company to repurchase up to 1,500,000 shares of Common and Class A Common Stock in the aggregate.  In addition the Board of Directors amended the Program to allow the Company to repurchase shares of the Company’s Series C and Series D Senior Cumulative Preferred Stock (Preferred Stock) in open market transactions.

The following table sets forth the shares repurchased by the Company during the three month period ended April 30, 2009 under the Program:

 
Period
Total Number
of Shares
Purchased
Average Price
Per Share
Purchased
Total Number
Shares Re-
purchased as
Part of Publicly
Announced
Plan or
Program
Maximum
Number of
Shares That
May Yet be
Purchased
Under the Plan
or Program
February 1, 2009 - February 28, 2009
-
-
-
784,622
March 1, 2009 – March 31, 2009
12,8001
$11.71
12,800
771,822
April 1, 2009 – April 30, 2009
-
-
-
771,822

1.  Represents Class A Common stock.


23


Item 4.                    Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

In connection with the Annual Meeting of Stockholders held on March 5, 2009, stockholders were asked to vote on the following matters:

1.  
Election of four Directors (Class III ) to serve for three years:

Director
For
Withheld
Kevin J. Bannon
8,487,121
61,275
Robert R. Douglass
8,019,233
529,163
George H.C. Lawrence
8,022,518
525,878
Charles J. Urstadt
8,019,673
528,723

2.  
Ratification of the appointment of PKF, Certified Public Accountants, as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending October 31, 2009:

For
Against
Abstain
8,506,968
29,085
12,343


 
The terms of office of the following Class I and Class II directors continued after the meeting:

Class I Directors – terms expiring in 2010

Willing L. Biddle
E. Virgil Conway
Robert J. Mueller

Class II Directors – terms expiring in 2011

Peter Herrick
Charles D. Urstadt
George J. Vojta


24


Item 6.                    Exhibits


31.1
Certification of the Chief Executive Officer of Urstadt Biddle Properties Inc. pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
   
31.2
Certification of the Chief Financial Officer of Urstadt Biddle Properties Inc. pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
   
32
Certification of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of Urstadt Biddle Properties Inc. pursuant to Section 906 of Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.




25

 
S I G N A T U R E S



Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 
URSTADT BIDDLE PROPERTIES INC.
 
 (Registrant)
   
 
By:  /s/ Charles J. Urstadt
 
Charles J. Urstadt
 
Chairman and
 
Chief Executive Officer
   
 
By : /s/ John T. Hayes
 
John T. Hayes
 
Senior Vice President &
 
Chief Financial Officer
 
(Principal Financial Officer
Dated: June 8, 2009
and Principal Accounting Officer)



26

 
EXHIBIT INDEX


Exhibit No.

31.1
Certification of the Chief Executive Officer of Urstadt Biddle Properties Inc. pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
   
31.2
Certification of the Chief Financial Officer of Urstadt Biddle Properties Inc. pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
   
32
Certification of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of Urstadt Biddle Properties Inc. pursuant to Section 906 of Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002