The proposal would create new affordable housing, public parks, and other community improvements. On September 21, 2015, the City Planning Commission began the public review process for the Department of City Planning’s proposal to rezone several neighborhoods in Brooklyn. The East New York Community Plan would invest in the improvement of the East New York, Ocean Hill, and Cypress Hills neighborhoods of Brooklyn—represented by Community Boards 5 and 16—by adding affordable housing and community … <Read More>
Search Results for: Housing and economy
CityLaw: Three Policy Questions for Nonprofit Property Tax Exemptions
A long-standing feature of American tax policy is the exemption granted to nonprofit organizations, the largest of which is the exemption from local property taxes. The exemption, with origins back to the 18th century, is widespread. Among the 50 states, 17 state constitutions mandate property tax exemptions for charitable organizations, 25 authorize the legislature to give exemptions, and eight do not address the issue. New York State establishes two classes of exemptions for nonprofits: … <Read More>
City Council Holds Oversight Hearing on Short-Term Rentals
Eight-hour hearing covered testimony from supporters and opponents of short-term rental businesses. On January 20, 2015, the City Council Committee on Housing and Buildings held an oversight hearing on the effects of short-term rentals on New York City’s economy and neighborhoods. Over the course of eight hours, the committee heard testimony from independent tenants, representatives from the Mayor’s Office of Special Enforcement, the home-sharing website Airbnb, owners of local bed-and-breakfasts, and members of … <Read More>
Council Approved East Fordham Road Rezoning
Central Bronx area rezoned is adjacent to the Bronx Zoo, the Bronx Botanical Garden, and Fordham University. The Council approved the Bronx Planning office’s proposed zoning map amendments affecting a 12 block area in the Central Bronx. The new zoning established height limits, protects neighborhood character, and reinforces existing commercial character. A major goal of the rezoning is to stimulate revitalization of the area through private investment, the construction of affordable housing and to create … <Read More>
Amended version of living wage law debated at Council
New proposal would limit applicability and duration of living wage mandate associated with development projects receiving City economic incentives. On November 22, 2011, the City Council’s Contracts Committee held a hearing on Intro 251- A, an amended version of the Fair Wages for New Yorkers Act. The legislation would require certain employers connected to development projects receiving City financial assistance to pay employees a “living wage” linked to the consumer price index. The living … <Read More>
City Council considers impact of Wal-Mart
Concerns about how big-box retailer would affect small businesses dominated hearing. On February 3, 2011, the City Council’s Community Development Committee, Small Business Committee, and Economic Development Committee held a joint oversight hearing to debate Wal- Mart’s impact on the local community if the big-box retailer opened a store in the City. The Council convened the hearing in response to Wal-Mart’s renewed campaign to open a store in the City. Community opposition caused Wal-Mart to … <Read More>