On February 2, 2023, the New York City Council approved Local Law 26, which would more closely monitor the status of the City’s most vulnerable families—those who live in shelters. The new law was originally introduced in 2022 by Council Member Kevin C. Riley as Introduction 421. Local Law 26 now requires the NYC Department of Homeless Services to report more regularly on the status of families with children living in shelters.
Search Results for: City Council
City Continues to Address Issues with Illegal Smoke Shops
On January 18th, 2023, the New York City Council’s Committee on Health held an oversight hearing to discuss the surge of unlicensed smoke shops citywide and related safety issues. The oversight hearing was held jointly with the Committee for Consumer and Worker Protection and the Committee for Oversight and Investigations.
Council Votes to Approve Bill to Safeguard Elderly Tenants’ Rights
On January 19, 2023, the New York City Council voted to approve a bill that would help safeguard elderly renters. Int.673-2022, sponsored by Council Member Crystal Hudson, would entitle renters over the age of 60 facing eviction or termination of tenancy full legal representation at no cost.
Dept. of City Planning Releases New FRESH Program Report
On February 1, 2023, the Department of City Planning updated the progress of the Food Retail Expansion to Support Health program with a new report, “FRESH By the Numbers.”. The Food Retail Expansion to Support Health (“FRESH”) program gives property owners the ability to construct slightly larger buildings in certain districts if the building includes a FRESH supermarket. The program targets neighborhoods that often lack access to fresh produce and other groceries, which … <Read More>
City Planning Commission Discusses Zoning for Carbon Neutrality Amendment Ahead of Public Review Process
Commissioners raised early questions about implementation and funding issues. On January 30, 2023, the City Planning Commission held a review session and overview discussion for the proposed Zoning for Carbon Neutrality amendment, one of the three City of Yes amendments proposed by Mayor Eric Adams last year. The Zoning for Carbon Neutrality amendment aims to reduce or eliminate unnecessary restrictions within the zoning text that inhibit a developer or building owner from using sustainable technology … <Read More>
Comptroller’s Report Finds Chronic Lack of Heat Issues in Over 1,000 Buildings, Recommendations to Enhance City Response
On January 9, 2023, the Office of Comptroller Brad Lander released a new report “Turn Up the Heat,” which reviews the City’s efforts in addressing chronic heat complaints. By law, from October 1 through May 31, landlords are required to maintain indoor temperatures at 68 degrees in the daytime when outdoor temperatures are below 55 degrees, and at least 62 degrees indoors at night, regardless of the outdoor temperature. Hot water must also be provided … <Read More>