SUMMARY

• Robert Robinson, Senior Partner, Partners for Dignity and Rights: A recent Supreme Court decision has led numerous municipalities across the United States to conduct encampment sweeps and enact laws criminalizing sleeping on the streets for those without alternatives
• Preeti Sodhi, Senior Director of Community and Government Relations at the High Line: The proposed development near the High Line, a product of extensive negotiations with community stakeholders, has sparked significant concern among local residents and advocates
• Tom Angotti, Professor Emeritus at Hunter College’s Urban Policy and Planning and the Graduate Center, City University of New York: The fundamental lesson highlighted is that city planning often lacks a long-term vision, focusing instead on short-term gains, primarily driven by developers who plan for a 10- to 20-year horizon to recoup their investments
• Rashida Tyler, Deputy Executive Director of the New York State Council of Churches and the Project Manager for the Interfaith Affordable Housing Collaborative: There is a need to develop a grassroots housing platform that counters the narrative of the pro-housing movement, which is misleading

CHAIR: John Mudd

MINUTES: Sharon Jasprizza

WELCOME / INTRODUCTIONS

John Mudd, MSCC, welcomes all and outlines the purpose of the meeting.

POLICY MEETING UPDATES

There are no policy meeting updates.

SEPTEMBER  HIGHLIGHTS

• Huge shoutout to John Mudd and everyone who made The Communities Together: Social Justice and Music Festival a resounding success! On September 14, 2024, MSCC and its coalitions united on Music Street (30th Street between 7th and 8th Avenues) to amplify our voices against the forces squeezing out long-term residents and demolishing affordable housing. Together, we raised awareness and fueled the fight for a more equitable NYC!  We must keep pushing for change against overdevelopment and greed. Our communities deserve better than the unchecked ambitions of greedy developers who prioritize profit over people. When we allow developers to prioritize their profit margins, we sacrifice our neighborhoods, our environment and future. We deserve developments that respect our history, enhance our quality of life, and create opportunities for everyone, not just the privileged few. Stay tuned for updates on how you can get involved in our efforts to advocate for community-driven developments instead of profit-driven ones. Your voice matters!
• What an incredible year for MSCC’s Urban Farm Program! With the help of volunteers and our farming networks, we proudly distributed over 3,000 pounds of fresh, healthy food to those in need! As we close for the season, we’re already gearing up for 2025 with plans to expand our irrigation, fencing, and green housing. Together, with our fabulous partners, we are cultivating a brighter future! 
• Exciting News from MainChance! MSCC is thrilled to share that Sueranna Antoine, Deputy Director of the GCN-MainChance Multi Service Center at 120 East 32nd Street, New York, received some good news in late September regarding the center’s stability.  MainChance has been a vital resource for our community, providing essential services and support to those in need. MSCC has been involved in lobbying efforts in ensuring MainChance continues to thrive as a critical resource in our community. More updates will be available soon, and it’s understood there is still more work to be done for an enduring future for MainChance

SPECIAL INTRODUCTION(S) AND OR UPDATES: 

Lili Lopez, Outreach Specialist, NY Connects, Manhattan and Brooklyn, 646-457-5364 646-8091071 llopez@cidny.org 

• NY Connects is a free program that connects people with any disability and any age to services and resources. It supports people’s needs and assists with housing applications, SNAP applications, SSI applications, Benefits applications, and Medication applications. Contact NY Connects at 844-862-7930.

CRIMINALIZATION FOR BEING HOMELESS

Robert Robinson, Senior Partner, Partners for Dignity and Rights, rob.robinson423@gm ail.com, 646-509-9986

• A recent Supreme Court decision has led numerous municipalities across the United States to conduct encampment sweeps and enact laws criminalizing sleeping on the streets for those without alternatives. In response, a group from Chicago, affiliated with the Institute for Global Homelessness, has filed a formal complaint with the UN regarding the right to adequate housing, which UN Special Rapporteur, Balakrishnan Rajagopalis is currently reviewing
• States like Florida and Kentucky are moving forward with similar legislation, prompting concerns that the U.S. State Department may be asked to investigate these issues. Meanwhile, a monthly meeting between impacted advocates and city officials, including Deputy Mayor Ann Williams-Isom and Molly Park, the Commissioner for the Department of Social Services, has been described as more of a theatrical display rather than a genuine engagement, especially as the city faces potential political turmoil. Some participants view the meetings as an opportunity for visibility, although others, like the speaker, perceive them as superficial and lacking in meaningful progress

THE HIGH LINE COALITION

Preeti Sodhi, Senior Director of Community and Government Relations at the High Line, preeti.sodhi@thehighline.org

• Preeti was introduced to the Highline group through the Chelsea Reform Democratic Club while discussing the proposed rezoning of the Western Railyards by Related. At this event, he connected with John Mudd, MSCC. They later collaborated at the Social Justice and Music Fair and Manhattan Plaza’s block party in September. See September highlights above for further information about the festival
• The Western Railyards, located at the northern end of the High Line and bounded by 30th and 34th Streets and the West Side Highway, is set for extensive redevelopment under a plan agreed upon in 2009. This area, which represents 20% of the High Line’s total length, is being developed as part of the larger Hudson Yards project, with a focus on improving access and creating much-needed housing.
• The proposed development near the High Line, a product of extensive negotiations with community stakeholders, has sparked significant concern among local residents and advocates. The developers aim to construct an enormous podium that is larger than three stacked warehouses, which critics argue will overpower the High Line and reduce the proposed housing units. The plan notably shifts the focus from primarily residential use to a predominantly commercial one, altering the open space layout and threatening the unique visitor experience of the High Line 
• Historically, community advocacy has played a crucial role in preserving the High Line, as seen in the successful “Save the Spur” campaign in 2008. Currently, the “Protect the Highline” campaign seeks to gather community support against the new development plan, stressing the need to maintain light, air, and views while addressing issues of safety, housing, and public access issues. 2,600 supporters are already rallying around the cause as the campaign focuses on educating the public about the proposed changes. The campaign is about mobilizing efforts to ensure that the interests of the community in future developments are front and center
• The “Protect the Highline” campaign, launched this spring, aims to address the community about a proposed development plan for the rail yards. Similar to efforts in 2008, the campaign seeks to advocate for public officials to prioritize the community’s needs, including preserving light, air, and views, ensuring safety, and addressing housing accessibility and affordability. The campaign emphasizes the importance of maintaining public amenities and access to open spaces on Manhattan’s West Side, and it calls for account and calls for developers’ accountabilities
• In its current phase, the campaign has focused on educating community members about the rezoning process. Various community groups, like Save Chelsea and the Chelsea Block Association, have joined the effort to raise awareness through op-eds and other materials
• The campaign is navigating two parallel timelines: a land use approval process, including an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) expected by early 2025, and a separate casino license application managed by the state, due next June. The Highline campaign highlights the urgency of mobilizing community conversation and advocacy amidst ongoing presentations by developers about the Western rail yards project
• The discussion highlights the ongoing competition among various groups proposing casinos in Manhattan, all vying for a single license. The campaign emphasizes engaging with the community to gather support and share information about their initiatives. Key activities include outreach at community meetings and events, such as block parties, and sharing details about the High Line’s programs, including the recently launched application for their Emerging Fellows Program, which hires 35 teens for leadership development. https://www.thehighline.org/emergingleaders/ Additionally, they are reviving the free Highline Halloween program for families. The campaign’s overarching message calls on elected officials for the community and upholds commitments, particularly as the city navigates a defined land use approval process. The campaign encourages community involvement in ongoing dialogues and provides resources on its website, https://protect.thehighline.org/ including FAQs, news articles, and testimonials regarding the proposed developments and their potential impacts

DISCUSSION

Alex Yong, Westside Neighborhood Alliance (WSNA): Is WIN part of Christine Quinn’s group? 

Preeti Sodhi, Senior Director of Community and Government Relations at the High Line

• Christine Quinn is President and CEO of Win and has expressed support for the President and CEO of Win and has expressed support for this development. The discussion surrounding the development of the Western Rail Yards is multifaceted, particularly with Related Companies and WYNN Resorts’ recent proposal for a casino license, which are distinct issues, but interrelated. Several locations in downstate New York, including Coney Island, Queens, Times Square, and Hudson Yards, are also vying for casino licenses, complicating the conversation further
• Community sentiments are divided, with varying opinions on how the development should proceed if the casino license is not awarded. The Highlands perspective emphasizes that they are not opposed to the development of the Western Rail Yards but stress support in any new proposals. They advocate for any redevelopment to align with the commitments made in the 2009 rezoning and to enhance the promises made to the community at that time. Overall, the community desires a development that benefits local residents while ensuring that any changes reflect their needs and priorities

John Leyva: Activist and resident: 

• Are you dealing with the EDC? (The City Economic Development Corporation) 

Preeti Sodhi, Senior Director of Community and Government Relations at the High Line: 

• The proposed rezoning is currently in the city planning process, following an initial hearing several months ago regarding the land use application. The city agency overseeing this matter actively reviews the submitted application, which is a critical step in rezoning. As it stands, the project is moving forward through the necessary regulatory channels

John Leyva: Activist and resident: 

• There are many challenges opposing the Brooklyn Marine Terminal development project. Many residents mistakenly believe this organization is a city agency, leading to confusion about its role. The development process, which utilizes a GPP (General Project Plan) that favors developers and requires city approval, has been met with significant resistance from the community. The organization is frustrated by the rushed timeline, with only two months remaining before the project’s anticipated conclusion. The development process is lacking genuine community engagement, citing poorly organized workshops that limit public interaction and feedback. For instance, the initial workshop was conducted via Zoom with no opportunity for participants to communicate with one another, while subsequent workshops were criticized for their format, which felt superficial and dismissive of community concerns. The organization also points out the lack of proper notice for these events, further alienating residents
• It’s important to express solidarity with others fighting similar battles and emphasize the need for community support, encouraging people to sign a petition related to their cause. There is a need to advocate for local interests and ensure that community voices are heard in the development process

Preeti Sodhi, Senior Director of Community and Government Relations at the High Line: 

• In summary, it’s crucial to understand that while the land use review process has a specified timeline that must be followed, proactive engagement is essential so the High Line is not going to wait for formal processes to begin, and is already actively cultivating community support and building coalitions beforehand so as to be more effective during community input in the designated times, such as the draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) reviews and public hearings. 

Renee Keitt: Community Advocate: 

• The importance of community input is emphasized as residents seek to hold elected officials accountable for their actions regarding housing issues. Despite a climate of fear among officials, the message is clear: community members must push back against decisions that threaten their homes. A press conference is scheduled for October 10th at 1 PM at City Hall to publicly oppose the demolition of houses, countering the narrative that residents support such measures. The event aims to highlight the significant opposition within the community and secure support from leaders like Jerry Nadler, who advocates for the majority’s voice. The call to action underscores the need for continued resistance and advocacy.

Damyanti Radheshwar, Community Advocate:

• Refers to various public presentations aimed at gauging community support for the ongoing proposals related to the Hudson Yards development, including housing and infrastructure connections along 11th Avenue.  Damyanti raises questions regarding the necessary support from landowners, government entities, and other stakeholders for any proposed land use changes, particularly considering potential new developments like casinos. There seems to be a lack of clarity regarding ownership and the implications this has for community engagement and planning processes. Damyanti seeks answers regarding who is backing these proposals and the need for a clear understanding of ownership and oversight

Robert Robinson, Senior Partner, Partners for Dignity and Rights:

• Suggests that elected officials are prioritizing development interests over the needs of the community and that it’s important to hold elected officials accountable, questioning who they truly represent in a supposed representative democracy. The large-scale developments, such as Hudson Yards, are part of a strategy to create a “second city” on the West Side which could further marginalize local voices. These developments are land grabs, and we must advocate for open dialogue and challenges to the existing processes. Rob raises doubt about the democratic nature of community boards, noting that many members are appointed by the same authorities they are meant to scrutinize and there is a need for greater community engagement and activism to ensure that democracy is truly serving the people

Tom Angotti, Professor Emeritus at Hunter College’s Urban Policy and Planning and the Graduate Center, City University of New York

• Over the last 20 years of community-based planning in New York City there have been efforts of neighborhoods like Chelsea to establish their own planning processes to counteract developers’ influence and over a hundred community-based plans have emerged since the 1960s and 70s, fueled by the civil rights and environmental justice movements. The city planning under Mayor Michael Bloomberg, where planning became subservient to the interests of wealthy developers lacked long-term vision
• There is a need for a citywide movement to unite communities across Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the Bronx to collectively challenge the real estate development agenda. With an upcoming mayoral election this is a good time for organized action to redefine urban planning and restore community context in decision-making

Luana Green, MSCC:

• There is need for unity among community groups, and particularly the Elliot Chelsea House group, as development plans linked to the High Line will impact the entire West Side, including Chelsea. Luana is concerned about local elected officials, like Gerald Nadler and others, not adequately representing the residents’ interests, particularly regarding proposed demolitions and new constructions that could harm the community and environment. The struggles faced by different neighborhoods are interconnected and thus collective action to urge residents to vote against officials who do not support their causes. The potential detrimental effects of the proposed developments on the local skyline, environment, and community well-being should be discussed. There is a lack of promotion for the Vinyl Night on October 3rd, thus the importance of better communication within the community is necessary. https://www.thehighline.org/events/vinyl-nights-on-the-high-line/

John Mudd, MSCC:

• We need to protect people and to look towards ending homelessness. John asks about the campaign

Preeti Sodhi, Senior Director of Community and Government Relations at the High Line:

• The High Line campaign aims to empower community members to engage in local development discussions. Launched a few months ago, it focuses on educating the public through presentations and a dedicated website, protect.thehighline.org, which serves as a resource for information and updates
• The campaign has successfully grown its supporter base from 50 to over 2,600, signaling strong community interest in ongoing dialogue about proposed rezoning efforts. Additionally, the initiative seeks to build coalitions with various groups, promote community voices through op-eds, and facilitate meetings to ensure that local concerns are heard by elected officials. Community members are encouraged to sign up for updates and participate in future events

CHATBOX

Renee Keitt: Community Advocate: 

• Our goal at Fulton and Elliott Chelsea is not to be a continuation of Hudson Yards. They are trying to take over the west side of Manhattan. Chelsea has the 197a plan
• When you speak to the tourists, they are having the same problems of gentrification, homelessness, and demolition

Alex Yong, Westside Neighborhood Alliance (WSNA):

• Land grabbers. Bottcher’s involvement doesn’t surprise me, we need more CLTs and mission-driven housing, but I know it’s not an overnight thing
• For true housing equity, we need to move closer to CLTs and mission-driven housing https://NYCCLI.org/CLA

Robert Robinson, Senior Partner, Partners for Dignity and Rights:

• If we cannot commit to on going popular and political education we will remain behind the 8-ball. Always operating in a defensive mode. I just had comrades from Brazil spend 10 days in the city and they are all about the education piece
• The landless Workers Movement in Brazil is all about community control. If we cannot commit to ongoing popular and political education, we will remain behind the 8-ball. Always operating in a defensive mode. I just had comrades from Brazil spend 10 days in the city and they are all about the education piece. The landless Workers Movement in Brazil is all about community control
• Education will help us to understand Power! The developers and govt have the Power. How do we shift the Power to communities??
• We have to change our fundamental relationship to land
• I agree but if we keep saying “meet people where they’re at” we will accomplish nothing. Because as you just clearly laid out even people working together are in a different place
• We are a selfish society. I got mine, the homeless person failed! Everyone can make it here! Narratives

Rashida Tyler, Deputy Executive Director of the New York State Council of Churches and the Project Manager for the Interfaith Affordable Housing Collaborative

• John Mangin is leading up the City of Yes initiative at DCP
• Many Electeds don’t know anything about specific policies, they depend on special interest groups to write the legislation and policies…but theu just want the credit
• The people have to write the policies and legislation they want to see.

Damyanti Radheshwar, Community Advocate:

• I like to propose: 1) Housing as Infrastructure, 2) Homelessness as Urban Planning Issue, and 3) More Power to CBs!, How about More Power to the CPC!!
• Instead of coalition supposing we call it a LOBBY

John Leyva: Activist and resident: 

• The problem is the developers are now the Urban Planners
• We have to organize and support each other’s campaigns
• I became a member of the County Committee through Rep Your Block just to try to disrupt the corrupt Brooklyn Dem Party

Carol Lamberg, Community member, Housing Advocate, and Author:

• We need to quadruple the federal housing budget.

NYC POOR DEVELOPMENT POLICIES: CITY OF YES, DEMOLITION OF NYCHA, MIDTOWN UPZONING

Tom Angotti, Professor Emeritus at Hunter College’s Urban Policy and Planning and the Graduate Center, City University of New York

• The fundamental lesson highlighted is that city planning often lacks a long-term vision, focusing instead on short-term gains, primarily driven by developers who plan for a 10 to 20-year horizon to recoup their investments. Once they recover their initial capital, they typically lose interest in the area, contributing to a fragmented urban landscape, as seen in Manhattan, which is characterized by overinvestment and social divisions. 
• Meaningful community planning often requires personal initiative outside of city structures. Tom was involved in developing one of the first community plans in Brooklyn, which arose from a charter revision in 1986 aimed at empowering communities through the planning process. Despite some success with 17 approved community-based plans, the overarching city planning system remains focused on short-term investments, leading to a city that resembles a collection of enclaves rather than a cohesive, long-term urban strategy
• Tom talks about his experiences testifying before charter revision commissions regarding the necessity of long-term city planning. He highlights a recent testimony he provided before the pandemic, emphasizing that the most significant opposition to long-term planning came from directors of the City Planning department, indicating a need for more consideration for future consequences at City Hall. He states that the loudest voices often belong to developers pushing for immediate projects, such as casinos and high-rises, rather than sustainable planning.
• He stresses the importance of communities organizing to present their own agendas for development, advocating for grassroots involvement in planning processes. Tom is not impressed with Mayor Adams’ “City of Yes” initiative, which he perceives as a superficial approach to address the housing crisis through supply-side economics. Tom contrasts this with the struggles during the De Blasio administration, where he was actively involved in advocating for equitable development, particularly in neighborhoods historically neglected by urban planning policies. Tom expresses concern that significant rezoning efforts, such as those initiated by Bloomberg, prioritized large developers at the expense of community needs
• Urban rezoning in New York City primarily benefits privileged, predominantly white neighborhoods while neglecting peripheral areas, particularly in Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx, which are often communities of color. Tom was involved in the resistance against these rezonings, noting that many efforts to protect these marginalized neighborhoods ultimately failed. With the advent of Mayor Adams’ administration, Tom speculates on the city’s strategy to stimulate development in these neglected areas, suggesting that the planning department proposed a new initiative called the “City of Yes” to address the situation
• Tom says loosening of zoning regulations is required to promote mixed-use developments across urban areas. He notes the “City of Yes” initiative under Mayor Adams, which aims to simplify the development process by revising zoning texts and allows new developments without formal rezoning. Tom notes the problematic rhetoric surrounding this initiative, particularly the insinuation that opposition from peripheral neighborhoods is rooted in racial bias. He emphasizes the need for community boards to have more authority and resources, asserting that the current review process for developments is merely advisory, favoring developers and the mayor. Tom warns that the “Yes in My Backyard” (YIMBY) movement may undermine local organizing efforts by co-opting community dissatisfaction with development proposals
• There is a lack of budget and power for community boards, which hinders their ability to engage in meaningful and inclusive planning. The city’s approach to planning is exclusionary rather than inclusionary, meaning the city’s policies often maintain exclusivity, particularly in neighborhoods seeking development, such as those desiring a casino. He emphasizes that peripheral neighborhoods, particularly in Black and Brown communities, have historically been denied political power and influence, which is crucial for equitable development. There is a need for genuine participatory planning that empowers marginalized communities
• The Empire State Development Corporation (ESDC) is a state entity operating under the authority of the Governor of New York. It was established to foster economic growth and development across the state, particularly in addressing the need for affordable housing. Despite its intentions, the ESDC has faced challenges in effectively promoting affordable housing initiatives in suburban areas, largely due to strong political opposition and exclusionary practices that persist at the local government level
• In response to these challenges, the ESDC has shifted its focus towards investing in more developed urban areas, such as Brooklyn. The ESDC has the ability to override local zoning laws and leverage budget resources that cities may lack. This power was notably utilized in the Atlantic Yards Development project in Brooklyn, which faced significant community opposition and ultimately resulted in only partial completion after the developer went bankrupt
• There is a lack of a counterbalance within the New York City government to challenge the ESDC’s decisions, suggesting that mayors have not proposed alternative development strategies for neighborhoods like Chelsea or downtown Brooklyn. This absence of diverse perspectives in city governance has led to continuing the prevailing development approaches, which have not significantly changed despite community concerns. There was an opportunity if Ruth Messenger’s mayoral candidacy had been successful as it could have shifted the dynamics of urban planning in the city
• There is an urgent need for a new generation of elected officials who possess sensitivity, engagement, and a strong social consciousness, and these leaders should emerge from and support community-based movements, focusing on inclusive growth and development that addresses structural issues such as poverty and homelessness, rather than merely pursuing economic growth. There is a lack of candidates in the current political landscape who can approach these issues from a fresh perspective. Leaders who are disconnected from land development interests need a “house cleaning” at City Hall. The Office of Management and Budget is a significant obstacle to improving the city’s quality of life. A leader who can effectively utilize the city’s resources to tackle pressing social issues rather than catering to developers under the false assumption that increased housing alone will resolve the housing crisis is urgently needed
• The diverse communities in their efforts to engage with local governance, particularly through community boards established in the 1970s face challenges.  These boards, which emerged from the civil rights movement, have been weakened by the influence of big real estate and development interests. Less than 1% of a significant budget is allocated to support community engagement, leaving residents feeling powerless as city officials often disregard their votes. He emphasizes that while capable individuals are within community boards, the overarching system favors central power and undermines community solidarity. A collective approach to problem-solving at the community level is needed. Tom notes the importance of addressing quality of life issues beyond mere land development. He calls for a shift in priorities to ensure that community voices are heard and that their needs are met in a meaningful way

GRASSROOTS HOUSING PLATFORM

Rashida Tyler, Deputy Executive Director of the New York State Council of Churches and the Project Manager for the Interfaith Affordable Housing Collaborative

• Rashida has a long history of community activism in housing and is a policymaker with a Master of Public Administration 
• The current pro-housing movement often promotes extractive development and gentrification rather than genuinely addressing the housing crisis
• There is a need to distinguish between rhetoric and effective policy and to advocate for a more concrete and beneficial approach to housing legislation
• A blend of advocacy and policymaking is required, and community members are urged to engage with their elected officials and hold them accountable to enact policies that truly support affordable housing
• There is a need to develop a grassroots housing platform that counters the narrative of the pro-housing movement, which is misleading
• What is needed is informed and organized community action to influence policymaking and demand real solutions that benefit the people

DISCUSSION

Tom Angotti, Professor Emeritus at Hunter College’s Urban Policy and Planning and the Graduate Center, City University of New York

• The “City of Yes” is primarily driven by the city planning department rather than the mayor’s office
• Even Small homeowners and building owners face zoning challenges. For instance the installation of solar panels, particularly in the outer boroughs, zoning regulations hinder such efforts
• There are some positive aspects of the City of Yes initiative, but it ultimately weakens the role of community boards, which are better positioned to address local issues than city planners based in Manhattan
• The zoning resolution, last significantly revised in 1961, is outdated and in need of comprehensive reform rather than piecemeal adjustments
• Instead of implementing the “City of Yes” imitative, the city could have engaged more effectively with local activists and community members to develop meaningful policy revisions that would facilitate solar panel installations and other improvements
• The top-down approach of the initiative is unnecessary and ineffective, as it primarily benefits developers and those with financial resources, rather than addressing the needs of the broader community.

Damyanti Radheshwar, Urban planning advocate: 

• Unless we have someone in the Government who’s also at the table in the Mayor’s office, the Governor’s office, and so on, we lack power
• Housing needs to be more focused on urban infrastructure planning in various countries, including the U.S. The pressing issue of homelessness and merely moving homeless individuals off the streets is insufficient. A comprehensive planning approach addressing these challenges is more effective
• Due to the limited power of Community Boards, there is a necy have a stronger voice in urban planning decisions
• The effectiveness of city planners and the City Planning Commission is low and despite Community 

Boards’ presence and funding their input often go unheard by government officials. There is a need for collaboration among community members, planners, and city officials to advocate for meaningful urban development

• The importance of community advocacy in countering powerful real estate interests and urges planners to be proactive rather than passive. A collective effort is needed to ensure that the voices of the community are heard by mayors and other leaders, highlighting the need for courage in advocating for necessary changes in urban planning.

John Mudd, MSCC:

• The Mayor is not interested, and generally, there is no interest in the public. It’s all about the developers

Robert Robinson, Senior Partner, Partners for Dignity and Rights:

• The need for community organizations to address societal issues is important, but many individuals fear losing their jobs and remain silent. Ongoing political education helps people understand and confront various challenges

Luana Green, MSCC: 

• Luana points out the systemic issues contributing to homelessness, particularly the trend of converting mental institutions into luxury housing, which ultimately displaces vulnerable individuals onto the streets
• The city government’s budget prioritizes other areas over housing, leading to a neglect of homeless services and a misconception of a housing shortage
• Luana asks how to effectively advocate for change in a political environment influenced by lobbyists and conflicting interests, emphasizing the need for a clearer strategy to hold elected officials accountable and push for genuine solutions 

Tom Angotti, Professor Emeritus at Hunter College’s Urban Policy and Planning and the Graduate Center, City University of New York

• Advocates for grassroots, independent organization and coalition-building to address various issues within the city and a shift in consciousness among community members
• Encourage active participation in community boards to ensure they represent the community’s diverse interests. The current system, often prioritizes the interests of developers over those of residents, leading to corruption and misalignment with community needs, e.g. the corrupt influence of the Brooklyn Democratic machine 
• Need a strategic approach that involves both horizontal and vertical changes in the political landscape to create a truly democratic representation of community interests, including those that may be contradictory. This will empower communities to shape their governance and resist the influence of lobbyists actively

John Mudd, MSCC: 

• It boils down to the critical mass, and I see the massive amount of people in these protests, and I’m there with them. But there’s got to be something a little more. We are working on policy too

John Leyva: Activist and resident: 

• The importance of community organization and mutual support in their ongoing struggles, particularly highlighting a recent issue related to the Highland project. Nonprofits often compromise community interests for financial gain, where organizations have been “paid off” to suppress dissent or provide minimal outreach. John does not want to work for a nonprofit, as he values his independence to speak freely and criticize without concern for organizational repercussions
• A significant issue in Brooklyn, specifically the Brooklyn Marine Terminal, which encompasses 122 acres of waterfront property, is the largest land acquisition in over two decades. Yet, the community has been sidelined in the decision-making process. The Economic Development Corporation (EDC) is not a city agency and operates with less oversight, often prioritizing private interests over community needs. https://columbiastwaterfront.my.canva.site/bmtna
• There is a need to rally people to fight against these injustices and stress the need for collective action across neighborhoods facing similar challenges.

John Mudd, MSCC: 

• We will draft a proposal for coming together. John referred to the September 14 rally, where communities came together for the common good. MSCC and Rob meet with Michelle Carver often and, maybe it’s a good idea to include more people on the meeting 

Robert Robinson, Senior Partner, Partners for Dignity and Rights:

• Rob works on homelessness at the city level, as well as on a national and global scale. However, the City has been reluctant to cooperate. As a result, it is necessary to pressure them into action. Rob says embarrassment strategies are required to draw attention to the inaction in front of the Federal Government, hoping to prompt a response

NEXT Meeting Homeless and Housing Meeting: 9:30 AM Tuesday, November 5, 2024. Always the 1^st Tuesday of every month. Contact hello@midtownsouthcc.org or john.mudd@usa.net for more information and Zoom invitations.

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