Provides that the sale of real property owned by the N.Y. city housing authority to a private entity must be approved by the state legislature

BILL NUMBER:S3587

Title of bill

An act to amend the public housing law, in relation to regulating the conveyance of certain public housing

Purpose or general idea of bill

To protect the availability and affordability of the New York City public housing stock.

Summary of specific provisions

Section 402-a is added and provides that any contract for the sale or transfer of any real property owned or controlled by the New York city housing authority to a private entity must be approved by the legislature.

Justification

Created in the 1930's, public housing projects were meant to be affordable homes for lower and middle class New Yorkers, now the buildings are crumbling, there is a $185 million yearly operating deficit, and a decade long waiting list. In light of such constant and deleterious conditions, the notion of selling public housing seems to some to be a plausible solution but it is at best an ill-advised alternative.

The need for additional affordable housing in New York City is undeniable; however, the theory that supports the sale of current property for the creation of new housing in poorer neighborhoods is elitist and separatist. Such a elan would further the economic divide which the current housing market can potentially spurn if allowed to grow without balances and mechanisms such as the review and oversight this legislation envisions.

Prior legislative history

2007: A.9531

Fiscal implications

None.

Effective date

This act shall take effect immediately and shall apply to any contract fox the sale or transfer or real property to a private entity by the New York city housing authority on or after such date.