New Yorkers are set to vote on land-use ballot measures that aim to curb the local power of council members. These proposals include fast-tracking affordable housing developments and shifting municipal elections to even-numbered years. Council members argue against these measures, claiming they undermine community input and accountability. Council Member Selvena Brooks-Powers emphasized the necessity of local guidance in land-use decisions. Despite reserving input from community boards, the proposals significantly reduce response time and increase city agency control, potentially diminishing the influence of community boards in the process.
Removing the Council from these processes would undermine accountability, silence local voices, and ultimately lead to worse outcomes for the very communities we all seek to serve.
The ballot proposals shrink the timeline for community input and shift more power over to city agencies rather than individual councilmembers.
Under the current system, community boards are able to lobby councilmembers and borough presidents, but the ballot measures would make it more difficult for boards to exert influence.
Council Member Selvena Brooks-Powers argued that councilmembers' guidance serves as a conduit for community members in land-use decisions.
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