Requires model zoning and planning guidelines that foster age-integrated communities to provide for mixed-use development for senior residential housing

Title of bill

An act to amend the elder law, in relation to model zoning and planning guidelines that foster age-integrated communities

Purpose or general idea of the bill

to establish model zoning and planning guidelines that foster age-integrated communities

Summary of provisions

To make recommendations to the Governor for the presentation of an annual award to a senior citizen for outstanding and unusual contribution to the community.

To conduct a program of education and information on age discrimination.

Model zoning and planning guidelines that foster age-integrated communities, to allow accessory senior citizens units in areas zoned for single family residences and for mixed use development accommodating senior citizens.

To recommend mixed-use age-integrated housing development or redevelopment demonstration projects in urban, suburban and rural areas of the state. And to establish an advisory committee to ensure the success of this language, composed of people from all different arenas.

Justification

Affordable and accessible housing continue to be a primary concern and a top priority for senior citizens and for senior advocates. Despite the knowledge of a growing population of seniors over the next decade, finding housing that is suitable and affordable in communities throughout the state continue to be a challenge. Much of today's senior housing is single purpose in design and targeted to specific subpopulations, effectively segregating these subgroups. Many suburban communities were designed for young families and they rely heavily on the use of the automobile and isolate those with mobility impairments. Communities in many states are changing their zoning to create mixed-use age-integrated communities that integrate businesses with services with different generations that do not rely on the vehicle. There is an opportunity for New York to look at developing more communities that look like this to build smart, to control sprawl, and to revitalize downtowns and other areas where real estate may not be available or communities would like to redesign to meet their community needs. This legislation directs the state to develop model zoning guidelines that would be available to communities who wish to use this model and to encourage integration, not isolation.

Fiscal implications

None.

Effective date

This act shall take effect immediately.