PUBLIC TESTIMONY
Testimony by Zeynep Turan, Representative of FRIENDS of the Upper East Side
0:34:24
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124 sec
Zeynep Turan, representing FRIENDS of the Upper East Side, expresses concerns about the City of Yes for Housing Opportunity (CHO) proposal. While acknowledging the need for affordable housing, she argues that the proposed zoning amendments may not effectively address this goal and could potentially harm neighborhood character and livability.
- Criticizes the Universal Affordability Preference for allowing developers to opt out of creating affordable housing
- Expresses concern about changes to landmark transfer development rights and their potential impact on historic districts
- Warns against reducing rear yard size and eliminating open space requirements, citing the importance of green spaces for mitigating heat and resident well-being
Zeynep Turan
0:34:24
Good morning, Council members.
0:34:25
Zena Turan speaking on behalf of friends of the Upper East Side.
0:34:29
Like many New Yorkers, we share the goal of creating affordable housing across the city, but we firmly believe that zoning amendments should be approached in a contextual and equitable way that is respectful of the public review process and of neighborhood character.
0:34:44
Cohort proposes to rely on market to regulate prices, a system that has failed on the operating side, an area that has also seen hundreds of existing relatively affordable housing such as tenements demolished for ultra luxury high rises.
0:34:59
The proposed universal affordability preference allows developers to opt out of creating affordable housing by foregoing additional f a r.
0:35:08
We need zoning reform that centers the creation and preservation of truly affordable housing, especially in high density neighborhoods like ours.
0:35:17
As preservationists, we are deeply concerned about the proposed changes to landmark transfer development rights.
0:35:23
These changes would allow development rights to travel to receiving sites much further away, potentially eroding the unique character of historic districts and neighborhoods.
0:35:34
We believe it's crucial that the LPC retain its jurisdiction to review development projects in receiving sites to ensure they're compatible with the surrounding context and appropriate for the area.
0:35:46
Reducing rear yard size and eliminating open space requirements in favor of accessory Developing units would diminish light, air, and green space.
0:35:55
The doughnut holes at the interior of our city blocks are crucial for mitigating heat.
0:36:00
Lifting open space requirements for tower and the park campuses could lead to development that destroys valuable green space residents depend on.
0:36:10
We urge the commissioners commission to consider alternative solutions to strengthen our neighborhoods, prioritize resident well-being and livability, ensure a transparent and inclusive public review process, and create a path to more affordable housing options.
0:36:27
Thank you.
