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TESTIMONY
Testimony by David Gellman, Bronx Community Board 8 Member, on concerns regarding City of Yes
2:37:50
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82 sec
David Gellman, speaking as a resident and member of Bronx Community Board 8, expresses concerns reflective of his board regarding the 'City of Yes' housing proposal.
While not opposed to increased density in principle, he argues the proposal favors developers without ensuring affordability, lacks sufficient focus around mass transit, and raises fears that Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) could primarily benefit investors rather than provide family housing, potentially leading to blockbusting.
- Gellman expresses concern that 'City of Yes' may increase density without guaranteeing proportional affordable housing.
- Argues density increases are not sufficiently targeted around major transit hubs.
- Voices skepticism about Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), fearing they will be exploited by investors rather than serving residents like family members.
David Gellman
2:37:50
Good evening.
2:37:51
My name is David Gelman.
2:37:53
I am a Bronx Community District eight resident, a board member, and the budget chair.
2:37:59
Though I don't speak here on behalf of the board, whose district is about a half mile Northwest of where we are right now, my comments are representative of our board's resolution and debate as well as the majority of the community boards across the city.
2:38:15
City of Yes is the closest analog for me to comment on here.
2:38:19
So while we are not opposed to the increased density put forward by City of Yes, it, one, tends to favor opportunities for developers to increase density without necessarily any material increase in affordable housing or any at all two, it is not properly concentrated immediately around well suited mass transit And three, while the concept of accessory dwelling units, ADUs, suggest a backyard outbuilding for grandma, there are no residential requirements after the original owner.
2:38:57
So in reality, it will become a vehicle for quick turnover, nonresiding investors, and thus become a significant force for blockbusting, not unlike the 1970s.
2:39:11
Thank you.