Sanchez frames J-51 vote as response to housing and climate crises
Sanchez says aging New York City buildings are at the center of both the housing and climate crises, citing failing elevators, stranded seniors and disabled residents, roof boilers, electrical systems, and deadly fire hazards in the Bronx and Queens. She argues government must set safety standards while helping owners make needed investments.
New York City is facing a housing crisis and a climate crisis, and our aging buildings are at the center of both.
Our buildings are among the largest sources of greenhouse gas emissions, even as they break down around us.
Elevators are failing, stranding seniors and people with disabilities.
Roof boilers and electrical systems and other critical infrastructures need investment.
And in the Bronx and Queens, we are living the deadly consequences of aging, housing, and fire hazards.
While government has a responsibility to set high standards for owners to keep buildings safe, protect tenants, and reduce emissions, we must also help owners to make the investments being asked of them.