A Local Law to amend the New York city charter, in relation to findings made by the board of standards and appeals in the approval of affordable housing projects

Summary

This legislation, Int. No. 1518, aims to clarify the scope of review for the Board of Standards and Appeals (BSA) when it considers modifications to zoning regulations for affordable housing projects. Specifically, it seeks to ensure that the BSA's review does not extend to the selection of Mandatory Inclusionary Housing (MIH) options by the City Council. The bill clarifies that for projects seeking modifications under Section 666-a of the City Charter, the BSA must consider specific findings related to affordability, including that at least 50 percent of dwelling units are income-restricted and do not exceed 120 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI). The BSA must also detail in its decisions the projected number of units, their income restrictions, and anticipated occupancy dates. This aims to prevent the BSA from overriding Council's decisions on MIH affordability levels, which are intended to ensure housing is affordable to constituents at lower AMI levels.

Citizen Impact

This law clarifies the City Council's authority in selecting affordability levels for new housing projects. It aims to ensure that affordable housing options remain accessible to a broader range of income levels by preventing the Board of Standards and Appeals from overriding Council's decisions on MIH affordability tiers.

Confidence

high