Velazquez on East New York Rezoning Proposal

Washington, DC –Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY-07) released the following statement following the New York City Council Land Use Committee’s vote on the Mayor’s Rezoning Plan for East New York:

“I am grateful to see that this plan has been revised from previous versions to take into account a number of concerns voiced by the local community. In March, I wrote the City Council to draw attention to several provisions in the plan that I felt needed correcting in order to protect tenants’ and working families’ interests.

“It is particularly heartening that the City Council revised the plan to remove the Arlington Village Parcel from the rezoning. This 300,000 square foot parcel of land in the middle of the rezoning area is a strategic and pivotal site for the future redevelopment of the neighborhood. This site is critical to the future of the entire community and therefore merits its own land use review process with full public review and comment.

“I also appreciate the relief that was provided to existing homeowners. The City Council has agreed to convene a working group to study the issue related to legalizing basement units in East New York. The inclusion of $12 million in funding to support conversions or other small home repairs will help maintain homeownership. Also, the Department of Housing, Preservation and Development will work with the City Department of Environmental Protection to implement a water rate relief program for low-income homeowners and affordable housing tenants.

“Despite these positive developments, I have deep reservations about other elements of this proposal. Ultimately, this is about expanding and maintaining local affordable housing options. I find it troubling that the AMI levels for new housing in the neighborhood have not been adequately adjusted to fully reflect the community’s needs. It’s my hope that further changes will be adopted before the full City Council votes on this proposal. Regardless of that process, I will continue working with the community and city officials to push for more affordable housing options in East New York and throughout our City.”

In March, Velázquez wrote the City Council asking for changes to the proposal to better meet community needs. That letter is available online here.

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