Council Approves Bill to Incorporate Universal Design Features in City-Funded Housing Developments

On February 21, 2023, Mayor Eric Adams signed Local Law 030 of 2023. The law will require housing developers receiving City funds for new rental developments with over 41 units to incorporate universal design features. The goal of the law is to make all units fully accessible to any occupant no matter their age, or disability. The law will meet the needs of New Yorkers so that they can age safely in their homes and … <Read More>


Committee on Aging Hears Bill Aimed to Safeguard Elderly Renters

Int. 673-2022 would entitle renters over the age of 60 to full legal representation at no cost. On September 7, 2022, the New York City Council’s Committee on Aging held a public hearing on Introduction 673-2022. The bill would entitle renters over the age of 60 to full legal representation at no cost in cases of eviction or termination of tenancy, as well as require the Department for the Aging to provide financial assistance and … <Read More>


Council Votes to Create Supportive Housing Tenants’ Bill of Rights, Reporting Requirements

The bill of rights provides tenants with necessary rights and information to help them maintain their housing. On December 9, 2021, the City Council voted to approve two bills related to supportive housing. Supportive housing is a form of affordable housing with on-site social and supportive services targeted primarily at formerly homeless households. The bills, both sponsored by Council Member Stephen Levin, create a supportive housing tenants’ bill of rights and require the Department of <Read More>


City Council Passes Legislation to Limit Fees Landlords Can Collect From Tenants for Early Vacancies

The bill amends the landlord’s duty to mitigate damages for an early vacancy of a leased residence. On November 23, 2021, the City Council passed Int. 2312-A, which limits the fees landlords can collect from tenants who vacate prior to the end of a lease to prepare the property for the next rental. The bill, sponsored by Council Member Kevin C. Riley, helps balance the needs of landlords to pay for the maintenance of units <Read More>


Council Approved Rheingold Development with a 30 Percent Affordable Housing Requirement

 

Controversial Bushwick development project questioned on affordable housing goals in public hearings. On December 10, 2013, the full City Council voted 48-1 to rezone six blocks in Bushwick, Brooklyn, in order to allow the development of ten mixed-use developments. The rezoning area is bounded by Bushwick Avenue, Flushing Avenue, Melrose Street, Stanwix Street, and Forrest Street.  Council’s Committee on Land Use voted 18-1 and Land Use Subcommittee on Zoning and Franchises unanimously voted 10-0 … <Read More>