Dear Friend and Neighbor,

I want to be the first to inform you that the previously scheduled Zoning Subcommittee for tomorrow morning will be postponed. As we are discussing complex issues which impact our community, it is important that all voices in this community are heard.

I have read your emails, from those of you in support as well as those of you with concerns and fears about what a rezoning could mean. These perspectives are of the utmost importance and weighing what is best for the community going forward will determine our final decision.

The choice is not a simple one, by voting no, there is absolutely no opportunity to build desperately needed affordable housing at this site. The developers will be further empowered to build a luxury tower at a minimum of 14 stories, with 200 units at fully market price. This request has already been submitted to the relevant city agencies. 

By voting yes, the building proposed for this site would include 50% of the units below market rate, with 30% of the units at deeper affordability levels.  Additionally, 50% of the affordable units mentioned would be designated to residents of community board 12.  Negotiations with the developers have also produced lower rent for 10% of the retail space and 25,000 square feet of  rent-free  community space for local cultural/non-profit institutions. 

I continue to weigh these options carefully and the impacts any changes could have beyond the building itself. As passions are running high when it comes to this issue, I implore residents to consider our options carefully. I will be in touch soon about when a final decision will be made as well as what/when our vote will be.

I am honored to represent a community of so many diverse voices and views and I value each of them. Please continue sharing your thoughts. 

Thank you,

Ydanis Rodriguez

Council Member, District 10

Washington Heights, Inwood, Marble Hill