PUBLIC TESTIMONY
Testimony by Eric Olsen on 441/467 Prospect Avenue (Arrow Linen) Rezoning
3:30:32
ยท
127 sec
Eric Olsen, a local resident, strongly opposes the rezoning proposal for the Arrow Linen site in Windsor Terrace, Brooklyn. He argues against the proposed 15-story development with over 200 luxury apartments, citing concerns about the rezoning process, lobbying efforts, and the impact on the neighborhood.
- Olsen supports a 7-story development with 40% affordability instead of the proposed 15-story plan
- He highlights Arrow Linen's $365,000 lobbying efforts and the community board's 30-6 vote against the project
- Olsen criticizes the City of Yes zoning changes and calls for public opposition to the rezoning proposal
Eric Olsen
3:30:32
Alright.
3:30:33
My name's, Eric Olsen.
3:30:35
My family has rented 1 block west of Arrowlinen for the past 10 years.
3:30:39
I strongly oppose this up zoning from 5 to 15 stories and over 200 more luxury apartments in my neighborhood with only 60 60 or so affordable units.
3:30:49
I support 7 stories at 40% affordability.
3:30:53
But honestly, council members, I don't think any argument I make today is going to persuade the council.
3:30:58
So let me share a couple of things that the public should know when they see this travesty approved.
3:31:04
1, Arrow Linen spent $365,000 on lobbying to get this approved.
3:31:09
This started in 2020 and targeted all key officials in the EULER process.
3:31:14
And you know what?
3:31:14
It worked.
3:31:15
Everyone targeted has come out in support.
3:31:18
In contrast, our own community bore board voted 30 to 6th against.
3:31:22
Over 2,000 residents have signed a petition against it.
3:31:25
2, every public hearing has been brigaded by lobbyists from groups like Open York.
3:31:31
These groups are libertarian in philosophy but clothe themselves in progressive language.
3:31:36
They want housing deregulation, and they're funded by big tech and real estate money.
3:31:40
Their goal is to spread disinformation and make it appear that communities are divided.
3:31:45
Look for these outsiders at your next hearing.
3:31:49
3, this council just passed City of Yas.
3:31:51
Windsor Terrace was upzoned from 3 to 5 stories with no affordability requirement because it's near a subway stop.
3:31:57
We were told a little more housing in every neighborhood, and yet here we are discussing a spot rezoning, 3 times the allowed height.
3:32:04
If the council approves this, they are basically telling constituents that city of Yaz was a big fat lie.
3:32:12
Finally, I'd just like to say whatever this committee decides, it's ultimately council member Hanif's decision.
3:32:19
The council almost always defers to the local council member.
3:32:22
Whatever she decides is something she'll have to own going into her 2025 election and beyond.
3:32:28
So I ask the public to stand with us and let council member Hanif know what you think about this project.
3:32:34
Go to housing, not highrises.org, and you can get more info
UNKNOWN
3:32:38
Thank you.
Eric Olsen
3:32:38
About how to help.
3:32:39
Thank you.
Kevin Riley
3:32:39
Thank you.