Appropriates $10 million to the division of housing and community renewal to assist municipalities in housing demolition

BILL NUMBER:S2052

Title of bill

An act making an appropriation to the division of housing and community renewal for housing demolition assistance

Purpose/summary of provisions

To make a one time appropriation of $10 million to the Division of Housing and Community Renewal to assist municipalities in the demolition and removal of abandoned or dangerous housing.

Justification

Consistent with the objectives of the 1996 Legislative Report of the Senate Democratic Task Force on the Financing of Affordable Housing this bill will assist localities with the costs of demolishing abandoned, dilapidated and unsafe housing structures within their municipal boundaries. New York state's urban areas have witnessed a sharp increase in the level of inhabitable and dangerous housing stock, yet have not seen an increase in funding availability for addressing this situation. without removing these structures, our communities and quality of life will continue to decline, housing sales and housing starts will continue to plunge, and the genuine safety of our neighbors will be put in jeopardy. Law enforcement leaders from across the state have repeatedly noted that these housing structures are routinely used for illegal activities and must be closed and removed. This bill will not only increase the liveability of our neighborhoods, but it will also assist in fighting crime and ensuring the safety of our children and families.

Fiscal implications

There will be a one time appropriation of $10 million from the General Fund.

Effective date

This act shall take effect immediately.