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Q&A

Discussion on office-to-housing conversion and EMCOR program subsidies

0:58:58

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3 min

Council Member Justin Brannan inquires about the appropriate level of subsidy for office-to-housing conversion projects, specifically mentioning the EMCOR program and votes on 175 Water and 853 Third Avenue. Comptroller Brad Lander and Executive Deputy Comptroller Francesco Brindisi respond, explaining their rationale for approving one project and rejecting another based on market conditions and the necessity of subsidies.

  • The discussion highlights the complexities of determining when subsidies are needed for office renovations or conversions.
  • Brindisi explains the difference in their decisions for 850 Third Avenue (approved) and 175 Water Street (rejected) based on factors such as market conditions and the likelihood of renovation occurring without additional subsidies.
  • The conversation touches on the broader issues of commercial office vacancies and the potential for office-to-residential conversions in certain areas of the city.