Serrano Speaks At Town Hall Meeting For Housing Justice

Senator Serrano participated in a Town Hall Meeting for Housing Justice at Taino Towers in East Harlem on Wednesday night.

"New York City is in the midst of an affordability crisis," said the Senator. "Right now, our communities are getting hit on all fronts – public housing deficits, Mitchell Lama opt-outs, and exploding rents in private buildings."

"This is the time for strong legislative leadership coupled with massive community engagement," said the Senator, who pointed to his work on revisions to the 421a tax exemption, and efforts to fill vacant lots in Upper Manhattan.

"Last year, we succeeded in changing the rules on 421a. If developers want money back from the state, they will need to ensure on-site income-oriented housing. Period."

The organizers of the event, led by Councilmember Melissa Mark-Viverito, also highlighted the contrasts between U.S. spending on the Iraq War versus spending on housing, healthcare and infrastructure.