New York City Council
Subcommittee on Zoning and Franchises
Sep 17, 2024
·
11:00 AM
1 hr 32 min
Summary
A vote on four land use proposals:
- A residential rezoning at 31-17 12th Street in Astoria, Queens
- A residential rezoning at 250 86th Street in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn
- A residential rezoning at 21st Street in Astoria, Queens
- A tax exemption for Marcus Garvey Affordable Housing in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn.
The committee also held public hearings on:
- A sidewalk cafe application for Cozy Corner in Maspeth, Queens
- A mixed-use development at 135th Street in Manhattanville
- A partial demolition proposal at 343 West 47th Street in Hell's Kitchen, Manhattan
- A mixed-use development at 2390 McDonald Avenue in Gravesend, Brooklyn.
Discussions focused on affordable housing, environmental concerns, parking, and community impact.
Features testimony from the public, particularly for the 135th Street proposal.
Meeting chapters
Read summaries and watch videos for short segments that matter to you.
Opening remarks and meeting attendance
Council Member Kevin Riley opens the Subcommittee on Zoning and Franchises meeting and introduces the attending council members. He provides an overview of the day's agenda, mentioning that there will …
0:00:43
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23 sec
Overview of the four items to be voted on
Council Member Riley provides an overview of the four applications that will be voted on during the meeting. These include three residential rezoning projects and one tax exemption application. - …
0:01:07
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36 sec
Overview of the four hearings scheduled
Council Member Riley outlines the four hearings scheduled for the meeting, covering various development proposals across New York City. He also mentions a deferred hearing. - First hearing: Cozy Corner …
0:01:43
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65 sec
Explanation of hearing procedures and public participation guidelines
Council Member Riley provides a detailed explanation of the hearing procedures, including guidelines for public participation both in-person and remotely. He covers various aspects of the meeting format and rules. …
0:02:49
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132 sec
Vote on 31-17 12th Street rezoning proposal in Astoria, Queens
Council Member Riley presents the details of the first vote, which concerns the approval with modifications of LU's 138-139, relating to the 31-17 12th Street proposal in Astoria, Queens. The …
0:05:04
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68 sec
Vote on 21st Street rezoning proposal in Astoria, Queens
Council Member Riley presents the details of the second vote, which concerns the approval of LU's 145-146, relating to the 21st Street proposal in Astoria, Queens. The proposal involves rezoning …
0:06:14
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50 sec
Vote on 250 86th Street rezoning proposal in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn
Council Member Riley presents the details of the third vote, which concerns the approval with modifications of LU 140, relating to the 250 86th Street rezoning proposal in Bay Ridge, …
0:07:06
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107 sec
Vote on Marcus Garvey article 11 tax exemption in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn
Council Member Riley presents the details of the fourth and final vote, which concerns the approval of LU 147, relating to the Marcus Garvey article 11 tax exemption request for …
0:08:55
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28 sec
Vote outcome for land use items
The Subcommittee on Zoning and Franchises approved several land use items with a unanimous vote. - Yeas: 6 - Nays: 0 - Abstentions: 0 All approved items are to be …
0:10:30
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11 sec
Council Member Riley opens hearing on Cozy Corner sidewalk cafe application
Council Member Kevin C. Riley opens the public hearing on LU 155, which relates to the Cozy Corner sidewalk cafe application in Council Member Holden's district. He provides information about …
0:10:50
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57 sec
Council Member Holden discusses concerns over Cozy Corner sidewalk cafe application
Council Member Robert F. Holden addresses the Subcommittee on Zoning and Franchises regarding the land use application for Cozy Corner (LU 155) in his district. He expresses concerns raised by …
0:11:49
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87 sec
Overview of Cozy Corner sidewalk cafe application
Zef Gjini, owner of Cozy Corner, presents the sidewalk cafe application for the establishment located at 600170th Avenue in Richmond, New York. - The application is for a sidewalk cafe …
0:14:11
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7 sec
History and compliance of Cozy Corner cafe
Cozy Corner has been operating for 3.5 years, since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, with ongoing compliance checks from city departments. - The cafe has been subject to regular …
0:14:21
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18 sec
Details of previous sidewalk cafe application
The previous sidewalk cafe application for Cozy Corner included an 8-foot outdoor seating area on the street. - Concerns were raised about fire department access - This led to reconsideration …
0:14:42
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21 sec
Adjustments to current sidewalk cafe application
In response to concerns raised about the previous application, Cozy Corner has made adjustments to their current sidewalk cafe proposal. - The outdoor seating area has been reduced from 8 …
0:15:03
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19 sec
Ongoing compliance with city departments
Cozy Corner has maintained compliance with various city departments throughout its operation. - The cafe has been following all rules set by the Department of Transportation (DOT) and Community Development …
0:15:22
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18 sec
Council Member Riley questions Cozy Corner owner about sidewalk cafe application
Council Member Kevin C. Riley questions Zef Gjini, the owner of Cozy Corner, about their sidewalk cafe application. The discussion covers the reasons for the application, changes in outdoor seating …
0:15:46
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77 sec
Council Member Holden questions Cozy Corner sidewalk cafe application
Council Member Robert F. Holden expresses concerns about the Cozy Corner sidewalk cafe application, particularly regarding parking issues and safety in the area. The applicant, Zef Gjini, defends the application, …
0:17:05
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4 min
Council Member Riley opens public hearing on 135th Street rezoning proposal
Council Member Kevin C. Riley opens a public hearing on LUs 149-150, which relate to the 135th Street rezoning proposal in Manhattanville. He provides an overview of the proposal, including …
0:21:55
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78 sec
Council Member Abreu introduces the 135th Street rezoning application in West Harlem
Council Member Shaun Abreu introduces and provides context for the 135th Street rezoning application in West Harlem. He describes the proposed development, its location, and potential benefits to the community. …
0:23:13
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96 sec
Introduction to the 701 West 135th Street development project
Neil Weisbard from Seyfarth Shaw LLP introduces the proposal for 701 West 135th Street on behalf of Crosscap Holdings. The project aims to transform a corner of Northern Manhattan. - …
0:25:59
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19 sec
Rezoning and project area description for 701 West 135th Street
The project area is located on the west side of 12th Avenue between West 135th Street and West 137th Street. The site currently has a two-story building that is unoccupied. …
0:26:23
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42 sec
Requested actions for the 701 West 135th Street development
The project requires several actions, including rezoning, amendments to existing districts, and special permits to allow for the proposed development. - Rezoning from M1-1 to R7-2 district with a C2-4 …
0:27:05
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46 sec
Proposed building details for 701 West 135th Street
The proposal is for a 53,548 square foot mixed-use building with residential, commercial, and community facility spaces. The building will be 7 stories tall and 71.5 feet high. - 7-story, …
0:27:53
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118 sec
Improvements to the surrounding area of 701 West 135th Street
The project includes plans for improvements to the surrounding area, particularly focusing on sidewalk repairs and street enhancements. - DOT proposing improvements to the area between West 135th and West …
0:29:53
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45 sec
Environmental considerations and view impact of 701 West 135th Street
The proposed building is designed to minimize its impact on views from Riverside Drive and surrounding areas. Most of the structure will be below the height of Riverside Drive, with …
0:30:39
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114 sec
Special permits and zoning amendments for 701 West 135th Street
The project requires several special permits and zoning amendments to allow for the proposed development and address the unique characteristics of the site. - Rezoning from M1-1 (manufacturing) to R7-2 …
0:32:39
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87 sec
Conclusion and benefits of the 701 West 135th Street project
The presentation concludes by highlighting the potential benefits and transformative nature of the 701 West 135th Street development project. - Project will transform the area between 135th Street and West …
0:34:07
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37 sec
Council Member Riley inquires about infrastructure issues and sinkhole near proposed development site
Council Member Kevin C. Riley inquires about infrastructure issues, particularly a sinkhole, near the proposed development site. Neil Weisbard and Steve Wygoda respond, explaining past efforts to address the issue …
0:34:52
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134 sec
Addressing Community Board 9's concerns about the proposed development
Council Member Riley inquires about how the applicants are addressing Community Board 9's concerns regarding the proposed development near an active railway. The applicants explain the safety measures, including Amtrak's …
0:37:06
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131 sec
Timeline for construction of the proposed development
Council Member Riley inquires about the timeline for starting construction on the project if approved. The applicant, Neil Weisbard, provides an estimated timeframe for beginning construction. - Construction expected to …
0:39:19
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13 sec
Planned businesses for the ground floor of the proposed development
Council Member Riley asks about the types of businesses the applicants are seeking to locate on the ground floor of the proposed development. Neil Weisbard outlines the plans for commercial …
0:39:33
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40 sec
Unit distribution in the proposed development
Council Member Riley inquires about the unit distribution in the proposed development, questioning the high number of studios. The applicants provide updated information on the unit mix, which was revised …
0:40:14
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70 sec
Concerns about studio apartments and potential for unit combination
Council Member Riley seeks clarification on the possibility of combining studio apartments and expresses concerns about the high number of studios in the proposed development. The architects explain the flexibility …
0:41:24
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72 sec
Discussion on proposed zoning and building height limitations
Council Member Shaun Abreu inquires about the proposed R7-2 zoning with C2-4 commercial overlay. The panel explains the decision-making process, including community feedback that led to lowering the building height …
0:42:36
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102 sec
Changes to the building's bulkhead design
Council Member Abreu inquires about changes made to the building's bulkhead since the initial proposal. The panel explains that they have reduced the height of the bulkhead and plan to …
0:44:18
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46 sec
Outreach efforts for community facility space
Council Member Abreu inquires about outreach efforts to fill the community facility space in the proposed development. The panel confirms their willingness to engage with local nonprofits and community organizations. …
0:45:06
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30 sec
Potential businesses for the proposed commercial space
Council Member Abreu inquires about potential businesses interested in the proposed commercial space. While formal marketing hasn't begun, the panel discusses potential uses based on the location's characteristics. - A …
0:45:36
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44 sec
Implications of Amtrak approval for cantilever design
Council Member Abreu inquires about the consequences if Amtrak does not approve the cantilever design over the rail right of way. The panel explains the importance of the cantilever to …
0:46:23
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18 sec
Flood risk assessment and mitigation strategies
Council Member Abreu raises concerns about potential flooding risks at the site, given its proximity to water and lower elevation. The panel outlines their flood mitigation strategies. - The site …
0:46:41
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66 sec
Noise reduction measures for the cantilever side
Council Member Abreu raises concerns about potential noise issues on the cantilever side of the building. The panel outlines their plans to address these concerns and ensure a good quality …
0:47:47
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49 sec
Discussion on Mandatory Inclusionary Housing (MIH) options
Council Member Abreu inquires about the Mandatory Inclusionary Housing (MIH) option the developers plan to use in the proposed development. The panel explains their current plans and potential alternatives. - …
0:48:37
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23 sec
Consideration of public restroom facilities in the development
Council Member Abreu raises the community concern about the lack of public restroom facilities in the neighborhood. The panel discusses their willingness to address this issue in their development plans. …
0:49:01
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37 sec
Street beautification plans for the development area
Council Member Abreu inquires about the developers' plans for beautifying the streets around the proposed development. The panel outlines the improvements planned in coordination with the Department of Transportation (DOT). …
0:49:38
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48 sec
Implications of surrendering the bulk special permit
Council Member Abreu inquires about the potential consequences if the developers were to surrender the bulk special permit. The panel explains why this would not be feasible for their project. …
0:50:26
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32 sec
Exploration of adaptive reuse options for the site
Council Member Abreu inquires about the feasibility of adaptive reuse for the existing site. The panel explains the various attempts made to repurpose the property and why they were unsuccessful. …
0:51:00
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114 sec
Council Member Bottcher commends Council Member Abreu for negotiation efforts
Council Member Erik D. Bottcher praises Council Member Shaun Abreu for his leadership in negotiating a win-win solution for the community regarding a recent application. Bottcher highlights the difficulty of …
0:53:01
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44 sec
Testimony by Rocky Brown, President of the Association for a Riverview, on Environmental Concerns for 135th Street Development
Rocky Brown, representing the Association for a Riverview, expresses concerns about hazardous environmental conditions, particularly petroleum in the soil, related to the 135th Street development project. He emphasizes the potential …
0:55:05
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95 sec
Testimony by Barry Weinberg, First Vice Chair of Manhattan Community Board 9, on 135th Street Rezoning
Barry Weinberg, representing Manhattan Community Board 9, testified in opposition to the 135th Street rezoning application. He corrected misrepresentations about the existing structure and highlighted concerns about environmental conditions, overbuilding, …
0:56:45
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128 sec
Testimony by Tiffany Khan, Member of the Public, on 135th Street Residential Development
Tiffany Khan strongly opposes the proposed 14-story development on 135th Street, citing concerns about the project's size, location, and potential environmental risks. She criticizes Council Member Eric Bottcher for misrepresenting …
0:59:27
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106 sec
Testimony by Shaneeka Wilson, Member of the Public, on Opposition to the 135th Street Rezoning
Shaneeka Wilson expresses strong opposition to development, citing safety concerns, flooding issues, and environmental hazards. She emphasizes that the proposed location is unsuitable for residential development due to multiple risk …
1:01:28
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138 sec
Testimony by Annette Robinson, Board Member of Manhattan Community Board 9, on 135th Street Rezoning
Annette Robinson, a long-time resident and member of Manhattan Community Board 9, strongly opposes the rezoning of 135th Street. She argues that the proposed development is unsuitable due to its …
1:04:00
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123 sec
Testimony by Basia Nikonorow, Long-term Resident on 135th Street Rezoning
Basia Nikonorow, a long-term resident of the neighborhood, expressed strong opposition to the proposed 135th Street rezoning. She highlighted concerns about the project's impact on the community, questioned the accuracy …
1:06:16
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162 sec
Council Member Riley introduces hearing on LU 153 and explains testimony process
Council Member Kevin C. Riley opens the hearing for LU 153, which relates to a demolition request at 343 West 47th Street in Clinton, Manhattan. He explains the process for …
1:10:25
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52 sec
Council Member Bottcher discusses special permit for partial demolition in Clinton district
Council Member Erik D. Bottcher provides remarks on a special permit application for the partial demolition of a residential building in the special Clinton district. He highlights the importance of …
1:11:17
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65 sec
Introduction and overview of special permit application
Lisa Orrantia from Akerman LLP introduces herself as the land use counsel for the applicant. She presents an application for a special permit to decrease residential floor area in a …
1:13:05
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39 sec
Site location and surrounding context
The presentation describes the location of the site and its immediate surroundings in Manhattan. - The site is on the north side of West 47th Street between 8th and 9th …
1:13:45
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15 sec
Building history and events leading to special permit application
The speaker provides a brief history of the building and the events that led to the current special permit application. - Originally a four-story, one-family building from the 1920s, converted …
1:14:01
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50 sec
Zoning details and special permit requirements
The presentation explains the zoning district, special Clinton District's preservation area, and the need for a special permit. It also outlines how the application meets the required findings. - The …
1:14:52
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89 sec
Details of the proposed development
The speaker provides specific details about the proposed development, including its scale, number of units, and compliance with regulations. - The proposed development is a seven-story building with 7 apartments …
1:16:22
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59 sec
Community engagement and applicant commitments
The speaker outlines the applicant's commitments and ongoing engagement with the community board and neighbors. - The client has made written commitments and will continue to work with the community …
1:17:23
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42 sec
Architectural design and presentation conclusion
The speaker presents an architectural rendering of the proposed development and concludes the presentation. - The rendering shows a mix of brick and metal panels with glass - The design …
1:18:08
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21 sec
Council Member Riley questions project team about unlawful demolition and construction safety
Council Member Kevin C. Riley engages in a Q&A session with representatives from a project team regarding an unlawful demolition that occurred without proper permits. He inquires about the extent …
1:18:31
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84 sec
Council Member Bottcher discusses construction commitments with Akerman LLP representative
Council Member Erik D. Bottcher engages in a Q&A session with Lisa Orrantia from Akerman LLP, reviewing the status of various commitments made to ensure the safety and compliance of …
1:20:01
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169 sec
Council Member Riley opens hearing on 2390 McDonald Avenue proposal
Council Member Kevin C. Riley opens the final hearing of the day for the 2390 McDonald Avenue proposal in Gravesend, Brooklyn. He outlines the proposal's main points and provides instructions …
1:23:18
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63 sec
Introduction and community support for 2390 McDonald Avenue project
Eric Palatnik, representing the owner of 2390 McDonald Avenue, introduces the project and highlights the unanimous support from Community Planning Board 15, the City Planning Commission, and the borough president. …
1:24:55
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34 sec
Overview of the 2390 McDonald Avenue development proposal
The proposed development at 2390 McDonald Avenue is an eight-story building with a mix of commercial and residential spaces. The project aims to provide a significant number of housing units, …
1:25:29
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53 sec
Location and context of the 2390 McDonald Avenue site
The development site at 2390 McDonald Avenue is strategically located near historical landmarks and public transportation, making it ideal for a transit-oriented development. - Located next to Gravesend Cemetery, the …
1:26:22
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36 sec
Proposed rezoning for the 2390 McDonald Avenue project
The project involves a rezoning proposal to change the current zoning district to allow for the proposed development. - Current zoning: C8 district - Proposed rezoning: C4-4L district - The …
1:26:59
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18 sec
Design and layout of the 2390 McDonald Avenue development
The proposed building for 2390 McDonald Avenue is designed to take advantage of its location and zoning requirements, with a focus on integrating with the surrounding area. - The building …
1:27:17
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32 sec
Council Member Riley questions Attorney Palatnik about 2390 McDonald Avenue rezoning proposal
Council Member Kevin C. Riley conducts a Q&A session with Attorney Erik Palatnik regarding the rezoning proposal for 2390 McDonald Avenue in Brooklyn. The discussion covers various aspects of the …
1:27:52
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4 min
