“Since becoming Chair of the Housing and Buildings Committee, I have called for New York to confront the housing crisis in its full complexity — not only as a crisis of affordability, but as one of housing quality, safety, and survival. Mayor Mamdani’s first housing plan reflects that reality, embracing the all-of-the-above approach this moment demands: building new housing, preserving existing homes, protecting tenants — including in NYCHA — and confronting distressed buildings where neglect is putting lives at risk,” said Council Member Pierina Sanchez.

“The focus on preservation, and on the Bronx, is especially urgent. Our borough and outer-borough communities are hurting. Families call 311 again and again for heat, leaks, mold, pests, and repairs that never come. With roughly 35% of housing complaints involving heat, and fires doubling over the last three years, housing quality must be treated as a matter of public safety.”

“I stand ready to work with the administration to finalize the SAFER Homes Act, overhaul the Housing Maintenance Code, strengthen inspections and heat enforcement, and sharpen preservation tools — including tax incentives — so they demand accountability and save lives. The Council is ready to collaborate with urgency, because New Yorkers cannot wait. That must also include settling the CityFHEPS expansion lawsuit immediately, so we can focus on keeping people safely housed.”

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