Relates to additional guidelines and procedures to the designation process for a landmark, interior landmark, scenic landmark and historic district

BILL NUMBER:S5410

Title of bill

An act to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to additional guidelines and procedures to the designation process for a landmark, interior landmark, scenic landmark and historic district

Purpose

To hasten the landmark designation process and provide more transparency and openness in proceedings relating to landmark designation.

Summary of provisions

Section 1 amends section 25-303 of the administrative code of the city of New York in relation to public hearings and the provision of information to the public when the commission votes on designation of a landmark, interior landmark, scenic landmark or a historic district. In addition requires a rulemaking in relation to designations for historic districts. Requires a designation to include a report that includes an economic analysis.

Section 2 amends section 25-313 of the administrative code of the City of New York to require testimony at the public hearing be maintained as part of the record.

Section 3 sets for the effective date.

Justification

The purpose of the New York City Landmarks law is to preserve great and historic buildings. Preserving our history as well as the feel and character of New York City is a worthy goal. However, the process requires some reform. The process needs to be more open and transparent, ensure that proper public notice is provided so that those impacted by landmark designations receive notice and opportunity to appear and provide information relevant to the decisions in front of the commission. This legislation would require the Commission to provide public notice and ensuring that public statements are kept as part of the record.

Legislative history

This is a new bill.

Fiscal implications

None to the state.

Effective date

This bill shall take effect immediately.