City Council’s end-of-month review of City of Consent calls for additional details
The City Council is gearing up to vote on the “City of Yes” plan by the end of the year. However, Council Speaker Adrienne Adams has pointed out that the current proposal needs more detailed information to ensure that the new housing benefits adequately serve average citizens.
Mayor Eric Adams is pushing to ease property development restrictions with the “City of Yes” initiative, but Speaker Adams recently emphasized the importance of securing comprehensive guarantees and funding. Without addressing these concerns, the proposal may struggle to win approval in the Council.
The “City of Yes” plan features three main components, with the most contentious issue being its push to modify existing land-use regulations. This includes plans to allow the construction of higher-density apartment buildings in traditionally low-density suburban areas and enable homeowners to add or remove independent living units on their properties. The aim is to increase housing availability within constrained spaces to address the pressing housing shortage.
In a recent interview, Speaker Adams conveyed her willingness to reform land-use policies, recognizing it as a vital step in transforming the current housing landscape. Still, she stressed the need for not just “tearing down the old” but also crafting innovative solutions. She noted that the Mayor’s current proposal does not ensure that new homes will be constructed or that they will be affordable for New Yorkers.
Before the vote, the City Council plans to draft a “Housing Action Plan,” which will demand that the “City of Yes” initiative incorporates requirements for affordable housing in new developments, stricter enforcement of tenant protection laws, and enhanced subsidies for low-income renters.
New York City has been grappling with a housing shortage, particularly impacting low-income residents. Recent surveys reveal that less than 1% of apartments renting for under $2,400 were available in the city last year. The Adams administration argues that current land-use policies hinder new housing development and perpetuate racial and class segregation, making it difficult for individuals from low-income families or communities to achieve upward mobility. According to estimates from the planning department, if the “City of Yes” plan is approved, it could generate between 50,000 and 100,000 new housing units over the next 15 years. However, the plan has encountered significant backlash from low-density communities, especially in Queens.
The City Council has scheduled public hearings on the “City of Yes” plan for October 21 and 22. The first day will mainly feature inquiries from council members, while the second day will give the public a chance to express their opinions and concerns.
