"The fight over housing-related measures on New Yorkers' general election ballot is heating up with under four weeks until Election Day. Tuesday, City Council leaders rallied with influential labor unions against ballot measures two, three, and four, which would "fast track" affordable housing in certain neighborhoods, reduce public review of modest housing projects, and establish an appeals board that could override Council decisions on income-restricted development."
"The Hotel and Gaming Trades Council, building workers union 32BJ SEIU, and the District Council of Carpenters argued those agreements also help them get new members and secure benefits. "We all know we are in a housing crisis. We support housing. But these ballot proposals aim to exploit New Yorkers' real concern and hide what they actually do. The proposals would move decision power away from those that are closest to the community," said 32BJ president Manny Pastreich in a press conference Monday."
Two opposing coalitions have emerged: City Councilmembers and labor unions versus housers and the Charter Commission. Three ballot measures would fast-track affordable housing in certain neighborhoods, reduce public review for modest projects, and create an appeals board with authority to override Council decisions on income-restricted development. Council leaders and unions argue the measures would strip local decision-making and undermine the Council's role in securing benefits for districts. Unions contend supporting agreements help recruit new members and secure benefits. Supporters counter the measures would speed affordable housing production. A pro-measures group raised $3 million and several public figures voiced support. The Charter Commission faces ongoing lawsuits related to the measures.
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