Q&A
Discussion on MIH options for the proposed development
0:16:17
·
157 sec
Council Member Cabán inquires about the developer's willingness to proceed with MIH option 1 if the proposal is modified. The developers explain their preference for keeping both options 1 and 2 open, citing community board approval and local housing needs.
- Developers express preparedness to develop under option 1 but prefer keeping both options available
- Community board approved the application with both options mapped
- Developers argue for option 2 based on surrounding area analysis and community needs
Tiffany Cabán
0:16:17
I I the application before the committee proposes both NIH option 1 and 2, my question for you is, are you prepared to develop under MA at option 1 if the council modifies the proposal to remove option 2 and ensure deeper affordability?
Richard Lobel
0:16:31
So, Kelsa, I'm where I'll start, and and Michael can add if if he chooses.
0:16:36
Obviously, this has been a a topic of conversation throughout our EU loop discussions.
0:16:40
We are very forthright with community board 1 in allowing us to map both options with the understanding and good faith that we would, you know, that there's a significant chance we would choose option 2.
0:16:52
And the community board knowing that approved this application overwhelmingly at CB 1.
0:16:57
I think that the discussion in terms of our analysis is looking at the surrounding area and understanding that Astoria houses, being NICA housing, has an 80% AMI cap in addition to which other recent rezoning such as how it's north were projected under option 1 and would create an overage of option 1 options within the area.
0:17:20
And so the idea for the project site again We're merely asking for the opportunity to map option 1 and 2.
0:17:27
But the truth is that if we want to have an area where there is the full range of affordability options available, including for people who potentially would not be able to live within Nigel Housing for being above that 80% cap.
0:17:42
We thought that given the modest number of units being created here in terms of 80 units with potentially 24 affordable, that it would be appropriate for our site to allow for option 2.
0:17:52
Again, we're very cognizant of the council and the fact that the council has a goal of creating affordability and deep affordability.
0:18:05
But here, we looked at the surrounding area, at the range of options available, And for this limited application, that's why we felt strongly and we're asking for option 2.
Tiffany Cabán
0:18:15
Well, and, you know, I appreciate the information you're providing around the community board and all those things.
0:18:20
But, like, very specifically, my question is, are you prepared to develop under NIH option 1 and we modify the proposal?
Michael Beavis
0:18:26
Yeah.
0:18:27
We're prepared, but you know, there's a desire to leave both options on the table.
0:18:31
The ownership group did meet with the Astoria House's tenant association president back in December, Missus or miss Vanessa Jones Hall, who supports option 2.
0:18:42
She expressed the housing demand in the community for higher earning individuals and families.
0:18:50
So there is, you know, desire in the community for option 2.