Sanchez flags persistent DOB staffing and inspectorial cuts
Sanchez repeats her long-standing concerns about DOB staffing, noting the prior administration eliminated roughly a quarter of the budgeted workforce including inspection and safety positions, and that the enforcement division still saw a reduction of 16 positions including seven inspectorial titles.
Excuse me, finally.
I would be remiss if I didn't end with my continued concerns around staffing within the agency.
In my time as chair of the Committee on Housing and Buildings, I have repeatedly raised concerns about DOB staffing.
Under the prior administration, DOB eliminated roughly a quarter of its budgeted workforce, including positions tied to inspections and safety oversight.
And while the council has fought year over year to recover positions, even in the most recent fiscal year, DOB's enforcement division saw a reduction of 16 positions.
Including seven inspectorial titles.
So I will continue to push for inspectorial and safety agency, excuse me, and safety capacity that the agency needs.
I look forward to hearing more about the administration's approach to construction safety, implementation of recent council legislation, and further opportunities to collaborate toward our shared goal of keeping New Yorkers safe.