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AGENCY TESTIMONY
Commissioner Angie Master's testimony on reappointment to NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission
0:23:38
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3 min
Commissioner Angie Master testifies before the NYC City Council Committee on Rules, Privileges and Elections regarding her reappointment to the Landmarks Preservation Commission. She outlines her background, experience, and contributions to the commission, emphasizing her real estate expertise, representation of Staten Island, and commitment to equity in landmark designations.
- Master highlights her role in balancing preservation with modern business needs, citing specific examples like Aritzia's retail locations.
- She discusses her pride in the designation of Frederick Douglass Memorial Park on Staten Island as an individual landmark.
- Master emphasizes the commission's efforts to designate sites representing underrepresented communities and outer boroughs during her tenure.
Angie Master
0:23:38
Thank you, speaker Adams, chair powers, and members of the committee for this opportunity to testify before you.
0:23:44
I am honored to be considered for reappointment to the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission.
0:23:51
My name is Angie Master.
0:23:52
I am a Korean American immigrant who grew up on the West Coast, and I've been a proud resident of Staten Island for the last thirty years.
0:24:01
I graduated from Stanford University with a BA in international relations and an MA in international educational policy.
0:24:10
I later earned an MBA from Columbia Business School.
0:24:13
For the last decade, I have worked in commercial real estate across New York City, facilitating sales and leasing across a wide range of sectors as varied as retail, restaurants, religious institutions, educational facilities, and office buildings.
0:24:31
Since February 2023, I have had the honor of serving on the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission.
0:24:38
I don't come to LPC as an architect or as a preservationist, but as a real estate representative.
0:24:46
I have truly enjoyed my role at LPC and have learned so much about historical architectural styles and terms.
0:24:54
I've gained a newfound appreciation for mullions, lentils, and cornices.
0:25:01
During my time on the commission, I believe I have contributed in three meaningful ways.
0:25:07
One, real estate expertise.
0:25:10
The Landmarks Law recognizes that historic preservation is good for the economy of the city and that proper regulation of historic buildings will strengthen the city's economy.
0:25:21
As a realtor, I've been able to help the commission consider how historic buildings can remain vibrant and functional for their tenants while still supporting the LPC's mission to preserve the building's historical architectural features.
0:25:35
For example, Aritzia, the fashion retailer, came before LPC to propose the opening of two new retail locations in Manhattan, One at 115 Fifth Avenue in the Ladies' Mile historic district and another at 608 Fifth Avenue, the Gillette Building, an individual landmark.
0:25:54
I was able to speak to the retailer's need for appropriate signage and display of merchandising.
0:26:01
Secondly, I represent Staten Island.
0:26:06
Last June, I was especially proud when LPC designated the Frederick Douglass Memorial Park on Staten Island as an individual landmark.
0:26:14
It was established in the nineteen thirties as an African American cemetery.
0:26:19
It reminds us of a shameful time in New York City history, but one that deserves recognition and remembrance.
0:26:26
This designation had strong community support, and council member Camilla Hanks even gave public testimony before LPC.
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And third, equity and designations for underrepresented communities and outer boroughs.
0:26:43
I'm proud that during my tenure, the commission has designated sites such as the Joseph Rodman Drake Park, and enslaved African burial ground in The Bronx and the Frederick Douglass Memorial Park in Staten Island.
0:26:57
We have also designated individual landmarks in The Bronx, including the Old Croton Aqueduct as a scenic landmark, the Bronx Opera House, and the Tremont branch of the New York Public Library.
0:27:10
Serving on the Landmarks Preservation Commission has been a privilege.
0:27:14
I am proud to have played a small role in preserving the cityscape and the unique sense of place in New York City's historic districts.
0:27:22
If reappointed, I hope to continue to share my expertise as a realtor and my knowledge of Staten Island as I work collaboratively with my fellow Landmarks Preservation Commissioners.
0:27:33
Thank you.