New York City is currently facing a severe housing crisis, marked by record-high rents, rising home prices, and an acute shortage of available apartments—the lowest in six decades. This dire situation also means that approximately 90,000 people rely on city shelters each night, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive solutions.
To address this challenge, Mayor Eric Adams formed a committee last year tasked with identifying revisions to the city charter that could simplify the complex land-use review process and accelerate housing development. The committee proposed four notable measures, three of which are controversial due to their potential to reduce the power of the City Council—a body many see as a crucial check on unchecked development.
The upcoming ballot will present these proposals to voters, giving New Yorkers a direct voice in shaping the future of the city’s housing landscape. These measures, numbered two through five on the ballot, have sparked citywide debate, with strong arguments presented by both supporters and opponents.
Proposal 2: Accelerate Affordable Housing Development
Proposal 3: Streamline Reviews for Modest Housing and Infrastructure Projects
Proposal 4: Establish an Affordable Housing Appeals Board
Proposal 5: Modernize with a Digital City Map