Overblown neighborhood fears create a political environment in which local leaders face risks for supporting a sensible shelter policy. In the middle, but rarely heard amid the uproar, are everyday New Yorkers caught in a crisis.
‘Those who have put their support behind an exclusive zone system for commercial waste are turning a blind eye to the recommendations of rigorous research, industry experts, engineers and city officials who know the system best.’
‘On matters of land use, the City Council traditionally follows the wishes of the Councilmember in whose district the change is proposed. That’s a problematic approach on ordinary matters. And the borough jails plan is extraordinary.’
Rafael Espinal, one of two Democratic Councilmembers representing the neighborhood, sizes up the potential for saving low- and moderate-income Bushwick.
Brokers and lenders convinced drivers to take out risky loans they ultimately could not afford. But drivers and their allies say the city, too, profited from the industry’s downfall.
Overall, the budget for the Department for The Aging will grow 13 percent in 2020 from the previous year, reaching $411 million.
The mayor’s housing plan will generate more than 1,800 new jobs for porters, maintenance workers, superintendents and other building service workers—which could provide life-changing opportunities, if they come with good wages and benefits.
‘CLTs won’t be able to achieve their potential without meaningful support from our city government.’
The de Blasio administration has shown some openness to community land trusts, which offer a promising new approach to providing affordable housing in New York City. Now the Council is being called on to fund next steps.
The next representative of the 15th Congressional District could be a strong voice for Puerto Rico – or not.