April 26, 2023-Governor Hochul Withdraws Housing Plan

Governor Hochul has withdrawn her controversial housing plan from the budget.   I would like to thank all of you who wrote to oppose this proposal.     This type of an initiative  should have been vetted long before inclusion  in a budget.   There are tens of thousands of  vacant rent controlled apartments in New York City  that are stalled  because of regulatory constraints.   Large numbers of affordable housing unit projects that have obtained normal approvals are currently in progress throughout the state.   Many commercial office buildings are now vacant and some are being converted to housing.  Virtually all Long Island public officials opposed this maneuver. 

My personal opinion is that's New York's housing situation is in the process of radically changing and is occurring following appropriate zoning and  environmental reviews.  

Long Islanders have spoken and I hope the Governor has heard the message for the long term. 

Sincerely,

Charles R. Goulding
Mayor