I had a problem last spring, I think it was in early May, where the outside temperature was in the mid-70's and the landlord had the heat going full blast (contrast that with now, in November when the outside temp ranges between 30's and 50's mostly and they refuse to provide any heat whatsoever overnight.) I complained to the super who wouldn't do anything about it. It must have been in the 90's in my apartment. As it turns out HPD will not even look at such a situation until after May 31st when heat season is officially over.
Super claimed that he "must" provide heat until May 31 no matter what the temp was.
The super discovered the tenants' anger in other ways.
There are occasionally cases where the LL has the heat going strong in mid-July, and that can be dangerous, not just uncomfortable.
FYI, Keith Powers worked for Peter Vallone prior to being elected to City Council. If you remember, Peter Vallone was the landlord's best friend. So I wouldn't necessarily put a lot of faith in Powers.
Of course City Council can make changes, but the HPD rep. was not telling you the truth. They can define rules on any number of issues, and they don't have to wait for city council. Administrative agencies often make such claims because they are lazy.
But, on the other hand, if you are sufficiently mad, you can get the council to do something.
What are the other forums you have seen this sort of thing discussed?