News from City Councilman Tony Avella

As Chair of Zoning and Franchises for the City Council, I have been leading the fight to change the "Community Facilities" section of the zoning code since taking office in January,

Community Facilities include medical, religious, educational and social service establishments. The zoning resolution has been permitting these facilities to operate in residential communities, “as of right”. Unfortunately, this has had a disastrous effect on the quality of life in neighborhoods throughout the City. For example, a religious institution may use non-fixed seating (not bolted to the floor) and under the zoning code not have to provide one parking spot. This has allowed any institution to purchase a one-family home in quiet neighborhoods and not worry about parking when constructing much bigger buildings. This has to stop!

I continue to work closely with Department of City Planning (DCP) Commissioner, Amanda Burden to make changes to the zoning code so these abuses will no longer be permitted.

Currently, DCP personnel are conducting a citywide study of the problems. As soon as the study is completed, it is our hope to present zoning text amendments that will address these problems.

These recommendations will address issues –related to medical offices in low-density districts. community facility parking and rear yard obstructions. In addition, in order to steer these facilities away from residential neighborhoods, the recommendations will examine the potential for the placement of community facilities in manufacturing districts, this will be an incentive for these institutions to build in areas other than residential neighborhoods on property large enough for their needs.

It is imperative that we as a City preserve our neighborhoods. While I continue to press the City for change, I need your help as well, Please write to Mayor Bloomberg, City Hall, New York, NY 10007 and Commissioner Amanda Burden, Department of City Planning, 22 Reade Street, New York, NY 10007-1216 and tell them how important it is to amend the zoning code with respect to community facilities. Together we can make real change.