New York Housing Policy Heat: Hochul Faces Criticism

The discourse surrounding housing policies in New York is concluding the year in a state of disarray, mirroring the finger-pointing seen during the legislative session’s close. Governor Kathy Hochul, under pressure, confirms that the housing compact shelved this year won’t resurface in 2024.

The prevalent consensus acknowledges the issue: a shortage of supply coupled with escalating demand, causing rent affordability challenges and hindering first-time homebuyers.

In the run-up to the upcoming Albany legislative session, tensions are escalating, with early salvos being fired. Homeowners for an Affordable New York, backed by businesses, criticizes three Democratic state senators—Toby Ann Stavisky, John Liu, and Peter Harckham—for endorsing the stalled “Good Cause Eviction” proposal. The group claims this measure, supported by “Socialists and Marxists,” would adversely affect existing housing supply, inflate rents, and deter new developments.

Greg Drilling, the group’s spokesperson, states, “It’s reckless, fanatical, and unserious, and we urge every member of the state legislature to reject it.”

Housing advocate Cea Weaver of Housing Justice for All denounces the mailers as “red baiting” and defends the lawmakers targeted, emphasizing their commitment to housing issues. Weaver cites polling data indicating voters’ concerns about affordability.

Simultaneously, the New York City District Council of Carpenters lambasts the Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY) in a letter obtained by Playbook. The union accuses REBNY of obstructing progress on housing issues, including the replacement of the 421a tax abatement program, new tenant protections, and a housing voucher program.

Joseph Geiger, the union’s executive secretary-treasurer, writes, “They would rather your constituents endure homelessness and poverty because they cannot stand the idea of making one dollar less — despite their billions of dollars in revenue.”

Union officials express a desire to reach a deal in Albany after unsuccessful talks earlier this year between Hochul and the Legislature. Kevin Elkins, the union’s Political Director, emphasizes the urgency, stating, “The crisis is at such magnitude, playing politics isn’t an option anymore. The space for a grand compromise is there.”

REBNY counters, asserting that its members are committed to addressing the housing issue in collaboration with officials and unions. A spokesperson states, “That includes continuing to work with the Building and Construction Trades Council, and its constituent unions, on a plan that pays good construction wages and benefits as part of any new program that spurs the creation of multifamily, mixed income rental housing.”

As Albany gears up for the legislative session, the housing debate intensifies, underscoring the imperative for a comprehensive solution to address New York’s housing crisis.

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