City Hall, NY – Today, Speaker Adrienne Adams and Deputy Speaker Diana Ayala, Chair of the Council’s Committee on General Welfare, announced a hybrid hearing scheduled for Tuesday, August 9 at 10 am in Council Chambers at City Hall, conducting oversight on the long-term issues in New York City homeless shelters and the recent increase in asylum seekers. The Committee on General Welfare is expected to hear from officials from Mayor Eric Adams’ administration. 

Members of the public who wish to testify can register here

Speaker Adams and Deputy Speaker Ayala released the following statement: 

“New York City is in the midst of a housing crisis that is exacerbating homelessness and must be confronted with expanded access to affordable housing. We also know that the shelter system has suffered from longstanding issues that are unacceptable and must be addressed. The City has a responsibility to ensure adequate conditions in our shelter system for all residents, whether it is those who have sought asylum from another country or not. The Council will hold a critical oversight hearing to examine how the mayor’s administration is handling these issues to uncover the real challenges and identify solutions. It is crucial for us to be clear about the steps needed to ensure access to safe temporary shelter and a pathway to permanent affordable housing for people in our city.” 

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