PRESS INQUIRIES
New York City Council
Subcommittee on Zoning and Franchises
City of Yes for Economic Opportunity (N 240010 ZRY & N 240011 ZRY)
Thank you, Chair Riley and members of the subcommittee for the opportunity to testify in support of the City of Yes for Economic Opportunity. The Partnership, which represents private sector employers, works together with government, labor, and the nonprofit sector to maintain the city’s position as the preeminent global center of commerce, innovation, and economic opportunity.
City of Yes for Economic Opportunity would provide greater flexibility in the use of space and encourage development of more housing and jobs. The proposed zoning changes would remove obsolete and unnecessary restrictions on business operations that add to the cost of doing business in the city. Businesses would be able to adapt more readily to changing customer demands and in the ways that people want to live, work, and do business. For example, the reforms would:
- Create new opportunities for freelancers who work from their homes by increasing the permitted size and type of business that can qualify as a home occupation.
- Make it easier to fill retail vacancies and aid the recovery of the central business districts by relaxing discontinuance rules, waiving the requirements for unnecessary loading docks in existing buildings, and adding allowances for amusements, clean manufacturing, and upper-story commercial uses.
These reforms, among others, will lead to investments that will activate storefronts and expand economic activity creating more vibrant commercial corridors across the city, promoting foot traffic, and increasing public safety. These zoning reforms will provide a clear signal that the city is open for business growth and expansion now and in the years ahead. We strongly urge the Council to approve these changes.
Thank you.