Council of New York Cooperatives and Condominiums

WHICH SUPPORTS PASSAGE OF A.5050 / S.943-A
A TAX-ABATEMENT FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO REDUCE CARBON EMISSIONS

CNYC urges members to contact their City Council representatives to ask that they co-sponsor, support, and vote in favor of resolution 0277-2024, which calls on the State Legislature to pass A.5050 / S.943-A.

A.5050 / S.943-A, introduced by Assemblyperson Braunstein and State Senator Parker, would establish a real estate tax abatement to help offset the cost of capital projects that reduce carbon emissions and bring buildings into compliance with LL97. The amount of the abatement would depend on the percentage that the project decreases carbon emissions.

There is no doubt tax abatements would increase the affordability of LL97 compliance for many co-ops and condos. CNYC seeks your help to ensure that all cooperatives and condominiums that have to comply with Local Law 97 are eligible for this abatement program. Particularly if your building’s assessed value exceeds $45,000 per unit, we highly recommend you ask your City Council person not only to co-sponsor 0277-2024, but to ensure that all co-ops and condos that are required to comply with LL97 remain eligible.

HERE and also written out below is a sample letter you can tailor for your building and send to your city council member. It is critical that all City Council members understand the need for funding to help with LL97 compliance, and the issues we are facing regarding general affordability. Please take the time to send the letter. Please also forward it to any other co-op or condo boards that you know.

After offering amnesty for water bill delinquents with considerable success, but without recovering all past due funds, New York City has initiated the next phase of its expanded collection enforcement actions. ‘Water Shutoff Notices’ will be sent stating that water service to their property could be shut off unless the entire owed amount is paid or the buildings enter into a payment agreement. If this applies to you, more information can be found here: https://www.nyc.gov/office-of-the-mayor/news/211-24/mayor-adams-demands-water-bill-dodgers-pay-debt-risk-losing-water-access#/0

Wednesday, April 3 at 6pm on Zoom: CNYC’S ROUNDTABLE SERIES will feature attorneys Bruce Cholst and Ron Gold, compliance expert Jessica Tusing, property management expert Michael Wolfe, and insurance brokers Neil Valsangkar and Sophie Bird. If you have a question pertaining to your co-op or condo, send it in, and then sign-on and hear it answered.

Wednesday, April 17 at 6pm IN PERSON at 20 West 44th Street: CNYC’s Annual Meeting will feature tables with representatives from Department of Finance, Department of Buildings, Department of Environmental Protection, NYC Accelerator, the NYC City Council and more. Come at 6pm to get guidance on issues you may have with compliance, taxes, flooding, FISP or LL97, and then stay for our updates and election.

ENSURING PROPER SQUARE FOOT CALCULATIONS FOR YOUR LL97 FILING
A "DO NOW MUST!" FOR BUILDNGS WITHOUT PLANS

Local Law 97 carbon reduction thresholds are based on calculations derived from the square footage for each property type in your co-op or condo (e.g. apartments, retail space, grocery store, etc. – each with a different carbon coefficient). Since emissions are allowed for each square foot, it makes sense to measure every square foot and include it in your filing. The square foot information found in the Department of Finance’s tax records (which the Department of Buildings uses ONLY to determine if your building is subject to LL97) does not provide an accurate representation of ALL the space in your building that qualifies for LL97 carbon calculations. It was not intended to serve that purpose. Using that number in your benchmarking is likely to result in a low emissions threshold and a higher than necessary fine.

If you have architectural drawings for your building, the Registered Design Professional (RDP) whom you hire to file your May 1, 2025 Local Law 97 Report will be able to use those to calculate your square footage by property type and attest that it is correct. However, if your building does not have drawings, it will be very difficult for an RDP to calculate and attest to your reported square footage by property type. If you choose to file your LL97 report without preparing a detailed survey, you and your RDP may risk submitting an unsubstantiated number, and you could be hit with substantial fines if your calculations are inaccurate.

The RDP must be a professional engineers (PE) or a registered architects (RA). These professionals will face a growing influx of work next spring as the filing deadline approaches. Therefore, we recommend you investigate obtaining a survey now, and/or ask your RPD what they will need to accurately calculate and attest to your square footage per property type. It is likely that you will find the work less costly and easier to obtain if you begin your search immediately.

To demonstrate compliance with Local Law 88, all covered buildings will be required to submit proof before the end of the year that they modified or replaced all common area lighting systems as mandated by the law. The upgraded systems must meet City standards for maximum interior lighting power allowances, lighting controls (interior lighting controls, light reduction controls and automatic lighting shutoff), tandem wiring, exit signs, and exterior lighting as found in section 805 of the New York City Energy Conservation Code (NYCECC). The upgrade, which needs to have been completed only once between the effective date of Local Law 88 and December 31, 2024, must be shown to have met the existing NYCECC at the time of the upgrade.

In addition to updating lighting systems, any covered buildings with: (1) non-residential tenant space of 10,000 gross square feet or more, on one of more floors let, or sublet, to the same tenant, or (2) non-residential tenant space in excess of 10,000 gross square feet on one floor, must sub-meter these spaces. Tenants in sub-metered spaces must be provided with a monthly statement showing the amount of electricity measured by the sub-meter and any amount charged to the tenant for electricity.

Buildings must file two separate reports to show compliance, one certifying that the lighting upgrades are complete and the other confirming the sub-meter installations. These reports must be prepared by an RPD or a licensed master or special electrician. They must then be filed by the building owner with the NYC Department of Buildings on or prior to January 1, 2025.

If you have not already completed your upgrades, and/or you have not engaged an RDP, or properly licensed electrician, you should do so immediately. Con Edison’s incentives for Common Area Lighting products are due to end soon. Time is of the essence.

Every year, NYC Buildings of 25,000 square feet or greater must annually file benchmarking reports on their use of fuel, water and electricity as required by Local Law 84. This benchmarking report on your 2023 data must be filed by May 1, 2024. Buildings of this size are also subject to the carbon reduction requirements in Local Law 97, where reports will be due on May 1, 2025.

If there are questions about whether your building is required to submit a benchmarking report and to comply with LL97, here is the Department of Buildings – Sustainability's new 2024 LL84 Covered Buildings List (CBL). Visit the Department of Building’s Sustainability website for additional information.

Con Edison’s revamped Building Energy Usage Portal is also live. If your building is on the CBL and your building is a Con Edison customer, your electrical data should have now been uploaded by Con Edison into the Portfolio Manager. Take the time now to review the uploads, and make sure they are accurate, and that the portal includes all your accounts.

The Department of Buildings (DOB) issued their final rule regarding the installation of Natural Gas Alarms in accordance with Local Law 157 of 2016, which amended the NYC Housing Maintenance Code and NYC Building Code to require: (1) the installation of natural gas detecting devices in residential buildings, and (2) the promulgation of a rule by DOB regarding the installation and location of such devices. Please note the following guidelines:

It is important to keep records for the purchase and installation of all alarms, as well as any requests for repairs/replacements.

Following on our last E-Blast, shareholders and unit owners who live in the “Congestion Business District” – Manhattan South of 60th Street may want to follow up on their testimony to the MTA by joining CNYC member buildings in the affected area and signing their petition requesting the MTA gives further consideration to the impact congestion pricing will have on co-ops and condos in the zone, including increased ancillary costs and loss of income.

CNYC has started posting videos on our YouTube Channel. More will follow shortly, including some that will be accessible only to members. Make sure you subscribe to @CNYC_1975 so receive notification when we add videos, AND check to ensure you’ve renewed your membership for 2024.

Help CNYC successfully launch a greater presence on our social media platforms! Please like, follow, and share @CNYC_1975 on Facebook, Instagram & TikTok. We’re also on LinkedIn at Council of New York Cooperatives & Condominiums.

In an effort to broaden the audience for CNYC’s educational and advocacy platform, we want to tap into the conversations that are happening NOW!
CNYC welcomes your 1–2-minute video clips showcasing the community found in co-ops and condos, as well as exciting projects and upgrades.

Our first topic will be “Green Infrastructure.” If you want to participate, send a 1-2 minute clip sharing your cooperative or condominium’s latest GREEN infrastructure upgrade to: poole@CNYC.coop Please include in subject line: GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE VIDEO and your condo/coop name.

Congestion pricing for New York City south of 60th Street was legislated in 2019 as a part of the State Budget Resolution to help fund the MTA (Metropolitan Transit Authority) ’s capital plan. The Traffic Mobility Review Board (TMRB) was created and charged with establishing a program of tolls in the area to:

The TMRB held three hearings while developing its plan, which it presented to the public in November of 2023. Click here for the TMRB’s final report. This opened a period for public comment on the congestion pricing structure. The comment period will close on March 11th.

Congestion pricing will impact all City residents. Many will be pleased at the prospect of less traffic and cleaner air as well as the infusion of funds to improve public transportation.

Those who work in Manhattan south of 60th Street, or commute regularly to the area, will be directly affected by the cost associated with congestion pricing, and they will have to make decisions regarding the additional fees to drive south of 60th Street. Will this increase work-at-home days? Or promote carpooling? Or increase the use of public transportation? Or will it convince people to move or switch jobs? Will people who enjoy the theater, restaurants, and cultural opportunities in the area south of 60th Street be deterred by the additional cost? Will this have an impact on the already struggling restaurants, local stores, and service businesses still trying to recover from the reduced office populations?

Compared to those that commute into the area, City residents that live in Manhattan south of 60th street, or immediately adjacent to the area, will most likely be disproportionately disadvantaged by the Congestion Pricing plan as proposed. Many of these people live in condominiums and cooperatives, which will find their costs increase for goods and services that are delivered via car or van or truck. Maintenance and repair costs, capital projects, building supplies, scaffolding installation can all be expected to rise as vendors add on the cost of the congestion pricing. Further, for those buildings with garages, there will most likely be a 15-20% decrease in garage revenue, matching the expected decline in traffic. Residents in the area will also be the most impacted if restaurants and stores are forced to close. To date past requests for concessions, such as the 90% reduction enjoyed by residents of the parallel zone in London, have been rejected. There is still time to repeat these requests and to provide further information to the MTA regarding the potential economic impact on your building.

Four public hearings are scheduled on Thursday, February 29th at 6 PM; Friday, March 1st at 10 AM, and Monday, March 4th at 10 AM and 6 PM in hybrid format in the MTA ’s William J. Ronan 20th Floor Boardroom at 2 Broadway in Manhattan. Members of the public who wish to speak (for two minutes) must register in advance by calling the Hearing Hotline at (646)252-6777 or in person at the hearing. Registration is now open; it closes 30 minutes after the beginning of the hearing. People may also register to participate remotely via Zoom or telephone.
Your comments can be submitted in any of the following ways:

Insurance premiums are skyrocketing. Insurance limits are decreasing. Exclusions are increasing. It is more important than ever to give yourself time to obtain and review proposals when your insurance is up for renewal. Make sure you’re on top of those dates – Getting loss runs, selecting brokers, and determining which carriers will submit bids for your building takes time.

In the final days of the last City Council session the Fair Chance Housing Act was passed. It doesn’t allow boards to consider criminal history of an admissions candidate until ready to accept that candidate based on their application where no criminal history information can legally be requested. Once ready to accept a candidate, the board can then seek information on any misdemeanors committed within three years of release or felonies committed within five years of release. The act takes effect on January 1, 2025 and it does indemnify building owners (and therefore boards) from liability for misconduct by the resident. To help buildings review their admissions policies to ensure they conform with new regulations. CNYC is planning classes admissions policy, procedures and applications in the near future.

As we’ve warned before, the new City budget includes a line for $7.5 million to be recouped from co-op-condo tax abatements purportedly given to shareholders/unit owners who have claimed the abatement despite not using their apartment as their primary residence. The City will be determining this by mailing affidavits to shareholders / unit owners whose residency status they question. It is urgent that those shareholders / unit owners respond to the mailing. We advise that you let your residents know that they should keep an eye out for this mailing.

The New York League of Conservation Voters has teamed up with a group of New York University students to research issues cooperatives and condominiums have faced in approaching LL97 compliance. They have prepared a short survey to help them better understand the difficulties and possibilities involved in various carbon reduction projects. They will use this information to recommend policy changes to the City. To take their short survey, please click HERE. If you have questions, please e-mail Rebecca Poole at poole@cnyc.coop.

The New York State Energy Research & Development Authority (NYSERDA) distributes funds for energy improvements and is currently charged with distributing New York State’s share of the Federal Inflation Recovery Act (IRA) Funds. NYSERDA has developed two programs focused on funding energy improvements and electrification projects in affordable housing. CNYC has testified at a recent hearing on these programs, requesting that they be revised to enable individual home owners in cooperatives and condominiums to qualify for these NYSERDA programs.

NYSERDA’s current guidelines require that 50% of all (shareholders / unit owners) qualify based on the area median income (AMI). While this requirement makes sense when giving rebates to landlords of rental buildings - to enable landlords to perform energy efficiency work without needing to raise rent at a building where 50% of the renters are low-moderate income - it does not make sense for a cooperative or condominium, where the individual owners are all paying for their full portion of the upgrade.

CNYC has requested that NYSERDA revise its rules to individual lower income shareholders and unit owners in cooperatives and condominiums be able to access these programs as individuals, just as the owner of a private home can do. Without this resource, many seniors and lower income shareholders and unit owners could be forced from their homes by the increased cost of Local Law 97 compliance.

NYSERDA is accepting comments thru 4 PM tomorrow, Wednesday, December 20th. Please support our effort to expand availability of NYSERDA incentives by sending your own version of the sample letter that follows to residential.ira@NYSERDA.ny.gov. Click here for a WORD version of the letter.

NYC CRIMINAL BACKGROUND LEGISLATION RESURFACES
WITH SOME AMENDMENTS
TIMED TO PASS BEFORE THE LEGISLATIVE SESSION ENDS

Early in this 2-year City Council session, Council Member Keith Powers introduced Int. 632 of 2022, the so called “Fair Chance Act”, which would prohibit any inquiry into the criminal history of candidates to rent or purchase dwellings. A hearing was held on December 8, 2022 where CNYC voiced strong opposition to this legislation for its potential threat to the safety and security of other residents in our member cooperatives and condominiums. Mr. Powers promised to consider the objections raised.

Now, in the final weeks of the legislative session, an amended version of the ‘Fair Chance Act’ has been finalized and is expected to be voted on by the City Council next week on December 20th. If passed by the Council, Mayor Adams is expected to sign the bill into law.

Although some productive changes have been made in the new version, which would allow for the review of certain crimes committed during certain time periods, the law would limit the ability of cooperatives and condominiums to evaluate applicants based on their full criminal history. While well-intentioned, Int. 632-A deprives cooperatives and condominiums of the ability to perform the holistic review of potential purchasers that is so vital to the preservation of our homes, our financial assets and our communities.

CNYC thanks all the speakers for their careful preparation and insightful presentations in the class that made up our 43rd Annual Housing Conference on Sunday, November 12, 2023. We also thank the registrants who attended these classes.

The PLENARY SESSION in the middle of the day was dedicated to the memory of Gregory Carlson, an activist in the world of cooperatives and condominiums and member of the CNYC board – among many other leadership positions. Tributes to Greg were followed by greetings from City Council member Gale Brewer who has long supported CNYC and attends all CNYC Annual Conferences.

Commissioner Rohit Aggarwala, the City’s Chief Climate Officer had a video message, noting progress made toward Local Law 97 compliance and encouraging all buildings, large and small to incorporate decarbonization and energy conservation in all plans for their buildings. Phil Dubuc of the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) explained programs and incentives available for energy improvements and decarbonization projects in multiple dwellings of 5 or more units.

CNYC board chair Stuart Saft described the environmental and economic benefits of adaptive reuse of existing buildings, in this case commercial buildings that are being repurposed in whole or in part for residential use. CNYC board president Peter Varsalona reminded attendees of the new garage inspection reports to be filed in 2024 and that virtually all buildings in the city must begin in 2024 to perform annual parapet inspections, with a report that they retain for at least six years. Mr. Varsalona also had many suggestions to streamline the process of FISP compliance and reduce the time that sidewalk sheds would need to be in place. CNYC board member Robert Pollack spoke of property taxes and invited conference registrants to attend the February 6 meeting of the Action Committee for Reasonable Real Estate Taxes where he will review the new tax assessments that will be published on January 15th and will remind participants of how to protest increased assessments.

The Conference Program was distributed to all conference registrants. It includes a Resource Directory, which is now posted on the CNYC website as a resource. A number of the advertisers have opted to link their Directory advertisement to a short video describing their company. These videos are posted for a year on the CNYC and Habitat Magazine YouTube channels.

Who is Invited to all NYARM events?
Commercial, Multi-family, Mixed-use Building Decision Makers & Their:
Management Teams, Professionals, Service Providers, Attorneys, CPAs, P.E.s, Vendors, Management Company Leadership & Administrative Staff, Coop/Condo Board Members, Building Engineers, Architects, Construction Managers, Commercial Managers Superintendents, Building Managers, Resident Managers, Property Managers

~~~~ 2023 Dates, Pricing, Locations ~~~~
10/5 10/10 10/17 10/24 11/02 11/21 11/28 12/07

• 1st Thursdays 12 noon-1:30 LUNCH & Continuing Education at 245 5th Ave & 28th St, NYC 10/05 11/02 12/07

Includes CREDIT towards the NY Accredited Realty Manager Certification.
Topics covered during each session:
1) Timely MUSTS for Building Managers
2) New or Updated Directives, Laws & Procedures dictated by authorities
• Cost = $20 for NYARM members & guests plus bring your own lunch or enjoy complimentary pizza

• 2nd Tuesdays 12 noon -1:30 LUNCH & Focus Groups Tick Tock Diner 481 8th Ave & West 34th St, NYC 11/14* at Cooperator show see below

Problem solving techniques are learned the focus is on specific issues facing NY real estate. Areas of concern addressed during each of the below dates
1) Uncovering every possibility to aid buildings to achieve Local Law 97 compliance
2) Helping the Mayor's efforts to rezone the Garment District to include residential
3) Supporting RSA's & CHIP's continued push to end NYC RENTCONTROL.
• Cost = $20 for NYARM members & guests plus pay your own lunch tab.

• Entry for NYARM members costs $20 per person and each individual pays their own bar or restaurant tab. These events focus on the needs of building management & service providing companies.

• Dress Code = Come as you are or, your preferred work attire.
• Cost is $20 to attend for: members or guests of members or first timers.
• The $20 includes complimentary pizza (& similar)
• Pay your own bar tab
• Non Members that are not guests of members pay $40-$60 per event (as opposed to $20)
And may only attend 3 times as non members. To determine status email Margie Russell mrussell@nyarm.com
Members are encouraged to invite their customers.

• Dress Code = What you prefer or, your work attire
• RSVP is very important, please, even if you are a maybe
Text or email Margie Russell mrussell@nyarm.com 516-456 0313 your: name phone # company or location affiliation & position

CNYC's 43rd Annual Housing Conference
42 Classes and a Plenary Session
Sunday, November 12, 2023 - All on Zoom

Click here to download the Conference Brochure to read the descriptions of the available classes, with guidance as to area of interest, level of difficulty, availability of professional credit.

All are welcome at CNYC’s annual Conference, but fees vary with cooperatives and condominiums whose 2023 membership is current able to send one person to attend all day at no cost; member rates for additional registrants are modest, with further incentives for multiple registrations. Online registration is encouraged; credit card payment is accepted only there. You will need your CNYC membership number to enjoy member rates. Call CNYC at 212 496-7400 if your membership card has been misplaced.

If your cooperative or condominium has not yet paid its CNYC membership dues, there is still time. You can use the membership renewal form on the CNYC website for quick payment. Please be sure to provide the names, addresses and e-mail contact for all current board members as you renew.

Local Law 126 of 2021 requires that all New York City buildings ‘fronting on the right-of-way’ (except detached 1 and 2 family homes) have an annual inspection of their parapet performed by a qualified individual. If this inspection reveals that the parapet or any appurtenances present a hazardous condition, the Department of Buildings must be notified immediately, appropriate measures must be taken to protect the public (sidewalk shed, netting, fencing) and the issue must be quickly addressed and corrected.

The building owner or the individual performing the inspection must write a detailed report, which is to be retained by the building for six years.

Final rules promulgated by the Department of Buildings yesterday move the start date for compliance from this month to the beginning of 2024 and include some modifications to the original rule in response to suggestions made (by CNYC and others) at the hearing on those rules. Click here the full text of this rule.

APPROVED ARTWORK NOW REQUIRED ON SIDEWALK SHEDS
UNLESS OWNER ACTIVELY OPTS OUT

A hearing was recently held on the proposed rules to implement Local Law 63 of 2021, which would require that sheds and protective temporary structures (sidewalk sheds and fencing) include art work, which would consist of items pre-approved by the City or items subject by the owner for approval. The artwork is to be securely affixed and inspected regularly to ensure that it is well secured and physically intact. The rules do include a provision permitting building owners to opt out of including art work on their protective temporary structure.

CNYC’s testimony to this hearing praised the well-meaning legislation but pointed out the considerable expense faced by any building as protective temporary structures are erected and suggested that the program be made optional, allowing building to OPT-IN rather than imposing the art work on them or requiring that they OPT-OUT. CNYC will continue to follow this issue and will provide guidance once the final rule is promulgated.

Local Law 18 of 2022 took effect on September 5th. It sets strict requirements for any NYC apartment to be listed for short term rental. All hosts of such rentals must register with the Mayor’s Office of Special Enforcement. Among other requirements, the host must have approval of the landlord or board of the building where the unit is located and must be present to host the renter. The law also enables a building owner or board to opt to list their building on the Prohibited Building List (PBL) maintained by the Office of Special Enforcement. No short term rentals are permitted in buildings on this list.

In this time of tornadoes, wildfires, extreme heat and excessive rain, no one can any longer question the existence of climate change and the need for all of us to become involved in controlling energy consumption and reducing our carbon footprint.

New York City began efforts in 2009 to reduce reliance on fossil fuel and to increase awareness of measures large and small that can help reduce every New Yorker’s energy use. #6 heating 6 oil was quickly phased out and soon #4 oil will no longer be permitted in New York City.

With the goal of reducing its 2005 carbon footprint by 80% by 2050, New York City enacted Local Law 97 in 2019 setting carbon reduction requirements on most NYC buildings of 25,000 square feet or more, and imposing fines on those buildings that fail to meet set reductions at five year intervals.

The first of these intervals closes at the end of 2024, with reports due May 1, 2025. Buildings failing to meet their prescribed reduction will face fines if they have not provided detailed proof of having made a good faith effort at compliance.

CNYC has long advocated for incentives rather than fines and penalties. With cooperatives and condominiums figuring heavily among the buildings subject to Local Law 97, CNYC is now working to ensure that members – and potential members -- do not face fines.

This fall, CNYC is presenting a series of four classes to help buildings onto the path to Local Law 97 compliance. The series will be presented on Zoom on four evenings, September 28th, October 12th, 19th and 26th at 6:00 PM. It free to anyone who wishes to attend. Here is an overview:

SUSTAINABILITY WITH AFFORDABILITY
A 4-Part Series to help Co-ops and Condos Comply with Local Law 97

CLASS 1 : First Steps Toward Compliance - Thursday, September 28, 2023
Understand LL97 and The Targets that Your Co-op or Condo Must Meet
Understand Your Current Position; Structure Your Plans to Meet Targets

CLASS 2 : Your Building’s Potential Pathways to Compliance - Thursday, October 12, 2023
Carbon Reduction as Part of Your Capital Plan
Projects Appropriate for Your Building that will get you to your goals.

CLASS 3 : Successful Projects You Can Replicate - Thursday, October 19, 2023

Additional details and registration information can be found below. Note that several of the classes at CNYC’s 43rd Annual Housing Conference on Sunday, November 12th also address Local Law 97.

As part of the “GetShedsDown” initiative, the City is requiring all owners with sheds that have been up for more than 90 days to answer an online survey. CNYC is analyzing the new regulations that are being introduced as part of this initiative and will be in touch regarding any recommended advocacy. In the meantime, please ensure you comply with this recent regulation.

The survey is DUE BY AUGUST 31, 2023. Information requested will include (1) why the shed is up, and (2) the timeline for when the shed will be taken down. Please speak with your managing agent, architect, or engineer ASAP, and ensure that your survey is completed on the DOB NOW Public Portal before the deadline. If you are a member and need any assistance, please feel free to contact CNYC at (212) 496-7400 or at info@cnyc.coop.

The Conference Brochure is posted on the CNYC website, describing the 42 classes offered in this day of learning and sharing. Each 2023 member cooperative and condominium can register one person to attend all day at no cost. Additional registrants enjoy modest member rates – but these rates go up on October and registration closes at midnight on Thursday, November 9th. Read or download the Conference brochure HERE and register online when you have selected the classes that you wish to attend.

Our webmaster is working assiduously to correct the glitch that currently prevents online registration for the many evening classes that CNYC offers. We hope that online registration for our evening classes will soon be restored; in the interim, we are happy to accept your registration if you e-mail info@cnyc.coop with the class or series that you wish to attend, your name, address, and the e-mail that you wish to use to log on to the class(es).

CO-OP/CONDO ABATEMENT EXTENDER SIGNED INTO LAW
GOVERNOR HOCHUL'S SIGNATURE EXTENDS THE PROGRAM THRU JUNE OF 2027

CNYC thanks Senator John Liu and Assembly member Ed Braunstein for introducing extender legislation very early in the legislative session, for amending their bills to provide for a four year extender and for shepherding this important legislation through their respective chambers. Governor Hochul signed the extender into law on June 30, 2023.

The Co-op/Condo Abatement Program, first took effect in 1997 providing qualifying New York City home owners in cooperatives and condominiums with a property tax reduction designed to bring their taxes closer to those paid by home owners in 1,2, and 3 family homes. Changes over the years created different abatement percentages based on assessed value, and limiting qualification to those for whom their cooperative or condominium is their primary residence.

AS THE STATE LEGISLATIVE SESSION CLOSES, BILLS OF INTEREST TO CNYC MEMBERS AWAIT GOVERNOR'S SIGNATURE

The New York State Senate adjourned for the year on June 10th and the Assembly finished its work this week. Two laws helpful to many CNYC member were passed in this session; CNYC will advise members when they have been signed into law by Governor Hochul.

* A.4972-A Braunstein /S.3252-A – Liu extends the Co-op/Condo Property Tax Abatement program through June 30, 2027.

This abatement program is available to New York City shareholders and unit owners for whom their cooperative is their primary residence. In buildings of fewer than 30 units with an average assessed value per unit of $100,000 or more and larger buildings with average assessed value per unit of $60,000 or more, for qualifying residents to receive the abatement, an annual affidavit must be filed with the Department of Finance confirming that all building service workers are paid prevailing wages. Heartfelt thanks to Senator Liew and Assembly member Braunstein for introducing this vital legislation early in the year, then amending it to run for four years.

* A.7758-Braunstein/S.47029- Kavanagh reinstates the J-51 program of property tax exemptions on major capital improvements for qualifying buildings as the Affordable Housing Rehabilitation Program. It expands eligibility to cooperatives and condominiums with average assessed values up to $45,000 per unit, and applies to rehabilitation projects done between June 30, 2022 and June 29, 2026. three years, with the same low eligibility threshold but some improvements in benefits.

*A.1029-C Cruz/S.211-A Myrie, the Clean Slate Act, seals from public access the criminal record of individuals for certain state convictions after the individual has served their sentence and thereafter has remained a law abiding citizen for a required period of time. For traffic infractions and criminal misdemeanors, the requisite period is 3 years; for misdemeanors it is 8 years. This carefully worded legislation enhances employment and housing opportunities for individuals who have paid their debt to society for past infractions.

Several bills have also passed relating to energy conservation or carbon control. Future CNYC Updates will address these.

Yesterday, May 31, 2023, the New York State Senate passed S.4972-A. Its companion A. 3252-A was passed unanimously by the Assembly on May 23rd. This legislation extends the Co-op/Condo Property Tax Abatement program in New York City to June 30, 2027.

Heartfelt thanks to Senator John Liu and Assembly member Ed Braunstein for their early introduction of this important legislation, and for shepherding it to passage. We await Governor Hochul's signature to enact S.4972-A/A.3252-A into law.

The Co-op/Condo Abatement Program will continue seamlessly on the property tax bills for Fiscal Year 2024, which begins on July 1st.

Mayor Adams extends the Water Bill Amnesty Program for an additional month - through May 31, 2023 - to help New Yorkers save money while also clearing debt.

CNYC's ANNUAL MEETING & UPDATE ON KEY ISSUES
Tuesday, April 25th at 6 PM via Zoom
ALL ARE WELCOME

Join CNYC Executive Board members on Tuesday evening, April 25th at 6 PM for its Annual Meeting and Election of Directors. All are welcome, but only CNYC member cooperatives and condominiums with 2023 membership paid can participate in the election. This informative meeting always begins with reports on many important issues that CNYC is following on behalf of its members. Click here to register to receive the zoom link for the Annual Meeting.

At its March meeting, the CNYC board approved an increase in the dues formula, which has not changed in five years. Effective July 1, 2023, CNYC's base fee will increase from $75 to $100, making the membership renewal formula $100 base plus $4 per unit. Membership renewal is due in January of every year, but many CNYC members take longer to renew. If this is the case for your cooperative or condominium, renew now to avoid the increase when new bills are generated in July.

Building owners delinquent in their water bills are urged to contact the Department of Environmental Protection to set up a payment plan. Doing so before April 30, 2023 will access amnesty for interest otherwise due. To learn more, have your account number ready and click here

Every year NYC buildings of 25,000 or more square feet must enter their energy and water use in the Portfolio Manager portal to ultimately receive an Energy Grade. The grade for the 2022 energy and water use that is presently being inputted will be available in October, when it must be posted prominently on entrances to the building. While these grades track energy efficiency rather than carbon control, the Department of Buildings is working to more closely align parts of Local Law 97 compliance with energy grades.

Beginning tomorrow, April 1, 2023, new Department of Sanitation rules require that trash in bags be placed at curbside between 8 PM and Midnight. Buildings that have opted and qualified to set out their garbage at 6 PM must have the garbage in containers with lids that close firmly. On recycling days, cardboard can be placed next to the bins.

Has your board established a policy regarding rental of units in the absence of the owner? These short term rentals are often advertised on AirBNB and other similar portals. Unsupervised ‘guests', unfamiliar with building rules, can be disruptive and problematic. The city's Office of Special Enforcement has established a portal where potential hosts of short term rentals must register to qualify to do so. On the same portal, building owners (including co-op and condo boards) can opt to forbid short term rentals in their buildings by joining the Prohibited Building List. The Office of Special Enforcement will not authorize hosts in any building on this list. For full details, click here.

Mayor Adams announced the Charge Safe, Ride Safe: New York City 's Electric Micromobility Action Plan and signed five bills into law on March 20, 2023, to help combat the increasing number of fires caused by e-bikes and lithium-ion batteries. The fires have been severe and hard to extinguish, resulting in 12 deaths and 266 injuries since 2021.

The items in the plan and bills that are important to cooperatives and condominiums looking to reduce risk of fire are: (1) promoting and incentivizing safe battery use and (2) increasing education and outreach to electric micromobility users. Bills 656 and 749 require FDNY and DCWP to provide information on how to mitigate risks, Intro 722 requires FDNY to provide reports and data on the fire risks, and bills 663 and 752 address the manufacture and sale of devices and batteries that do not meet safety standards.

Boards can distribute the safety notice provided below, and consider various actions that help eliminate unsafe charging practices, and the storage of non-certified devices and batteries in their buildings. As more information becomes available, CNYC will post it prominently on our website.

Reverse mortgages enable seniors to tap the equity in their homes to cover expenses that might otherwise be prohibitive. Owners of houses and condominiums have long been able to access reverse mortgage loans, but they have just become available to seniors in housing cooperatives, thanks to a ten-year campaign waged by CNYC and championed by Assembly Member Jeff Dinowitz.

With Governor Hochul's signature the bill became Chapter 643 of the Laws of 2021. The NYS Department of Financial Services then had to provide accreditation to the reverse mortgage lenders that are under their supervision. As the law requires they also established training for counselors who advise prospective borrowers about the ramifications of their loans. This information can be found on the NYS Department of Financial Services website.

HUD does not make reverse mortgage loans to seniors in housing cooperatives. Reverse coop apartment unit loans will all be proprietary loans. Banks like Citibank, Wells Fargo, and Chase do not need to meet any additional State requirements to offer reverse mortgage loans or reverse coop apartment unit loans. Ask your local bank if they offer such loans. Non-deposit lenders do fall under the supervision of the Department of Financial Services. Thus far four such lenders have been approved to offer reverse unit loans in New York. They are:

Over time it is expected that more lenders will be added to this list. To find their names and contact information, click here then, in the drop-down menu for Type of Institution, scroll down to ‘Reverse Mortgage Dual Lending Authority' and click the SEARCH button for the list.

Once a borrower has a reverse coop apartment unit loan proposal from a lender, the borrower is required to take counseling to ensure that they fully understand the loan. The lender will supply the names of counselors certified by the Department of Financial Services. Five are currently listed on the Department of Financial Services website; it is expected that this list will grow over time.Counselling can be in person, by telephone or via the internet. Upon completion of counseling, the borrower will receive a certificate which is a necessary part of the loan documents.

Board approval will be required before a reverse coop apartment unit loan can be closed. Now is a good time for boards to begin formulating their policy regarding reverse coop apartment unit loans.

CITY COUNCIL HEARING ON CRIMINAL BACKGROUND LEGISLATION THURSDAY AT 10 AM AT CITY HALL

Int. 632 would prohibit any examination of the criminal history of any candidate to rent or purchase housing in New York City multiple dwellings, including cooperatives and condominiums. On Thursday, December 8th at 10AM, the City Council Committee on Human Rights will discuss Int. 632.

While CNYC strongly supports fair housing and condemns discrimination in any form, we oppose Int. 632 because it is unfair to existing residents and to owners of New York City multiple dwellings, whose safety and well-being are also of concern.

For boards in cooperatives and condominiums to fulfil their responsibility to ensure safety and quality of life for all residents, they need access to past history in order to evaluate the nature of the crime, the length of time since it occurred and any evidence of recidivism. This would facilitate decisions considerate of all parties involved -- the existing shareholders and unit owners as well as the candidate.

Please contact your City Council representative and tell them that you believe this legislation goes too far and could endanger the safety and well-being of your community. If they are among the 30 co-sponsors of Int. 632, ask that they remove their support or seek major modifications to protect existing building residents.

Please consider attending the December 8th hearing in person or virtually and presenting written or oral testimony. To testify, register at https://council.nyc.gov/testify where you can also upload a copy of your testimony for the record.

Please join DEP at a virtual workshop on the Green Infrastructure Grant Program on Wednesday, December 7, 2022 from 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM. Attendees will learn about funding available for green roof retrofits on private property, eligibility requirements, and how to apply

FIRE SAFETY

Following a deadly fire at an apartment buidling in the Bronx, the City Council and the Mayor instituted the following changes to fire safety codes and laws:

Local Law 63 of 2022 is aimed at tightening compliance with regulations regarding hallway, stairwell, and apartment doors that must self-close and self-latch.

The amendments to FDNY Rule 3 RCNY 401-06 and the Mayor's Executive Order No. 12 are geared toward enusring all buildings distribute and post the notices and information contained in FDNY's Fire Emergency Preparedness Guide.

NATURAL GAS

The City Council has added amendments to the initial slew of natural gas piping inspection, installation and safety legislation and regulations. Additionally, agencies have started to take action on promulgating standards.

Local Law 138 of 2021 assists buildings that do not use any natural gas in meeting the inspection filing requirements of Local Law 152.

Local Law 157 of 2016, required the installation of natural gas leak detectors upon the promulgation of an industry standard. NFPA (The National Fire Protection Association) produced a new standard (NFPA 715, Standard for the Installation of Fuel Gasses Warning Equipment) in April 2022. To date the City has not issued a notice relative to the standard, but it is likely that buildings will have to comply shortly - so stay posted!

ConEdison is installing Natural Gas Detectors to monitor air in buildings' basements where gas supply enters the building. In the event a gas leak is detected the alarm will sound, and announce "Danger - Gas leak explosion risk. Evacuate." The alarm will also simultaneously alert ConEdison, who will notify the fire department. This is especially useful in wood frame combustible buildings.
ConEdison's installations are free, and can be scheduled by visiting their portal or contacting them at (800) 75-CONED. The installation is optional at the current time.

PARKING GARAGES

Beginning in January 2022 buildings will need to hire qualified parking inspectors to inspect their parking garages and file a condition report with the Department of Buildings. All unsafe conditions must be repaired within 90-days and plans must be developed for conditions that are marked safe with repair.
The the filing periods for the reports are as follows:

WATCH THIS SPACE

NYC's 2022 Construction Code became effective on November 7, 2022
Stay tuned for important highlights.

CNYC's 42nd Annual Housing Conference
Sunday, November 13th via Zoom
42 Classes and a Plenary Session with Keynote Speaker Laura Popa

CNYC is pleased to announce that Laura Popa, Deputy Commissioner for Sustainability at the Department of Buildings will be the Keynote Speaker at our Plenary Session which begins at 1:15

Non-affiliates are also welcome. Click here for the Conference Brochure and here to register.

Early bird rates end Thursday, October 20th and all registration for this Conference closes at midnight on Thursday, November 10th)

CITY COUNCIL EXPLORES WAYS TO IMPROVE GARBAGE COLLECTION AND MITIGATE RAT PROBLEMS

Ranking second only to Chicago in the magnitude of our rat problem, New York continually seeks ways to improve. Various pieces of legislation seek to lessen opportunities for rats to invade garbage. One calls for a report designating the area or areas where the rat problem is most severe. Another would require that garbage be put out within a few hours of collection time, and one bill proposes that buildings of 100 units or more provide a dumpster for the collection of garbage. As these and other proposals work their way through the City Council, CNYC will keep members informed of changes likely to affect their garbage collection.

In May, New York State launched an innovative environmental program to collect and recycle leftover and unwanted oil and latex paint. Visit www.paintcare.org to learn of drop off points where you can recycle paint cans or to arrange a pick-up of large quantities of paint cans (minimum of 100). There is no cost for this service.

As the time approaches for NYC buildings of 25,000 square feet or more to reach the first carbon reduction hurdle set by the Climate Mobilization Act of 2019 (Local Law 97), the Department of Buildings has published rules for the implementation of the law. A hearing will be held on these proposed rules on Monday, November 14th; written comments are also encouraged and must be received by that date.

Notable in these detailed rules are 1) a much more individualized approach to defining different types of buildings and their emissions reduction requirements and 2) a statement at the bottom of page 4 points out that while the law includes heavy financial penalties for non-compliance, it also provides for reduction of those penalties if a good faith effort has been made to comply.

The NYC Accelerator provides guidance on energy conservation and carbon reduction to all New York City buildings AT NO COST. It has many helpful resources including it BUILDING SNAPSHOT where, by entering a building address, you can learn its LL97 compliance status.

On Thursday, October 13th at 9:30 AM, the NYC Accelerator will hold a panel discussion on compliance in multi-family buildings, at Roosevelt House on East 65th Street in Manhattan. All are welcome but tickets are required. Click here to register.

CNYC's 42nd ANNUAL CONFERENCE ALSO HAS LL97 CLASSES
ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13th - VIA ZOOM
ALONG WITH CLASSES ON MANY OTHER TOPICS & A PLENARY SESSION
REGISTRATION NOW -- FEES INCREASE ON OCTOBER 20th

Click here to download the Conference brochure which describes all 42 classes and here to register your team for the Conference. Every 2023 CNYC member cooperative and condominium is entitled to one free all-day registration; rates for additional members and for CNYC subscribers are modest. The public is welcome at higher fees. Registration closes at midnight on Thursday, November 10th.

With relaxed summer schedules now behind us, CNYC calls your attention to topics that could be important for your cooperative or condominium:

The Department of Finance extended the deadline for cooperatives and condominiums to file Prevailing Wage affidavits until the end of September. The affidavit is required for qualifying shareholders and unit owners to maintain their eligibility for the coop/condo property tax abatement in cases where the cooperative/condominium's assessment meets the set threshold. For details, scroll down to the notice posted on August 26th.

While reverse mortgage loans are not YET available to Seniors in New York cooperatives, we are pleased to report there is progress. Lenders are applying to qualify to make the loans and the NYS Department of Financial Services has convened a Working Group to develop training to familiarize existing reverse mortgage counselors with the nuances of cooperative governance, including the fact that boards will review any loan that a shareholder considers.

To that end, this is a good time for boards to familiarize themselves with reverse mortgages, consider any restrictions or parameters they may want to impose on reverse mortgage borrowers, and establish building policies.

At CNYC's all-virtual 42nd Annual Housing Conference, there will be a class on BOARD CONCERNS RE: REVERSE MORTGAGES in the 11 AM timeframe. The Conference brochure can be downloaded below.

New York City has some of the cleanest water anywhere. Scroll down to the August 19th posting from the Water Board and click to read their annual report.

The New York Association of Realty Managers holds virtual and in person events throughout every month, and graciously invites co-op and condo board members to participate. Scroll down to see what is in store in the next several weeks.

September 14 and 15 - BUILDINGSNY Trade Show on Pier 36 at 299 South Street
October 27 - COOPERATOR EXPO at the Javits Center
Sunday, November 13 - CNYC's 42nd ANNUAL HOUSING CONFERENCE via Zoom

PREVAILING WAGE UPDATE
NEW WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY TO CONTINUE ABATEMENT ELIGIBILITY

Last week the Department of Finance sent letters to New York cooperatives and condominiums that were subject to new Prevailing Wage requirements, noting that the Department had not received the requisite Prevailing Wage Affidavit which would have enabled them to continue to have qualifying resident owners participate in the Coop/Condo Property Tax Abatement Program.

Legislation signed into law on Labor Day, requires that all NYC cooperatives and condominiums of 30 units or more with average assessed value per unit of $60,000 or more and smaller cooperatives and condominiums with average assessed value per unit of $100,00 or more must submit this affidavit stating that all building service workers would be paid Prevailing Wages as of July 1, 2022. Even buildings with no service employees had to file the affidavit to continue abatement eligibility.

Despite considerable outreach efforts by the Department of Finance, CNYC and others, and despite multiple extensions of the filing deadline, there are still many cooperatives and condominiums that have not filed affidavits and therefore are scheduled to forego the abatement in this fiscal year.

But the Department of Finance is offering one final chance for cooperatives and condominiums to reinstate their abatement eligibility for Fiscal Year 2022-23. Here are the instructions from the Department of Finance:

Cooperatives and Condominiums that did not submit a prevailing wage affidavit must provide the Department of Finance with a completed affidavit. Cooperatives and condominiums which submitted an opt-out form must provide a completed prevailing wage affidavit and a letter stating that they wish to rescind the previously submitted opt-out form.

These materials must be submitted to ccainforeq@finance.nyc.gov by no later than October 1, 2022, if the developments wish to see their benefits reinstated for tax year 2022-23.

New York City Council districts are drawn every 10 years by an independent Districting Commission following the US Census to bring the City into compliance with the Constitutional doctrine of one-person, one-vote, the Voting Rights Act of 1965 and the City Charter. Each district must include close to the same number of voting age residents with very little variation permitted. The Commission is also charged with keeping neighborhoods intact, ensuring equitable representation of minorities, avoiding odd shaped districts, limiting districts that cross boroughs and avoiding gerrymandering -- all while trying to keep districts compact.

Now a second round of hearings has been scheduled in the hope of receiving specific public comments suggesting improvements to the current proposed districts and explaining the reasoning behind each suggestion. This is your opportunity to influence the make-up of your Council district and its future representation. Have the proposed boundaries separated a viable community, that should be kept intact within one district? Has an important park or landmark been shifted from the district whose residents use it all the time? Please help the Commission by explaining issues like these.

Here is the list of hearings. You may appear and testify at more than one, and you needn't necessarily testify at the one in your borough. (Note that there is one on Sunday afternoon)

NYSERDA RESEARCH STUDY STILL NEEDS PARTICIPANTS GIFT CARDS ARE PROVIDED AS PAYMENT

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) distributes funds for energy projects. NYSERDA is currently conducting a research study about multifamily building energy use and decision-making. Multi-family buildings in New York with 5 or more units are eligible to participate. The information collected will be used to design programs that will help you and your residents save money on your energy bills. You can earn up to $400 by participating in the study, and there is also the potential for property managers to include multiple buildings.
Join the study by completing a survey about your multifamily building's physical features and equipment types for $100. The survey asks respondents to participate in a site visit, for which NYSERDA pays $150 per building. During the site visit, there is the option to earn $50 by facilitating site visit of a living unit (two units maximum per building). Property managers who are also financial decisionmakers for their buildings may be selected to complete an additional survey for $50. All incentives will be provided in the form of Amazon e-gift cards.
Join the study today by clicking on this survey link: https://nyserda.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5upxwOydQ75JY2O
More information about the study can be found here on the NYSERDA study landing page or contact Aaron Huston at the Cadmus Group with your questions if you have questions about this study (the Cadmus Group is implementing the study on behalf of NYSERDA).

Conference registration will launch next week, on August 10th, when the Conference brochure will be posted on the CNYC website and online registration will open. Here are the titles of the 42 classes at this Conference. Plan to register a team from your cooperative or condominium to cover all topics of interest.

8:45 AM
101. CURRENT SIGNIFICANT LEGAL DECISIONS
102. HOW DOES YOUR BUILDING WORK?
103. LOCAL LAW 97 COMPLIANCE CHALLENGES
104. THE TREASURER'S RESPONSIBILITIES
105. YOUR BUILDING SERVICE EMPLOYEES
106. ASK UHAB : HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR FINANCIAL POSITION
107. WHAT SHOULD BE IN THE MINUTES?
108. TODAY'S OPTIONS FOR REFINANCING CO-OP UNDERLYING MORTGAGES
109. MANAGING CAPITAL PROJECTS : Coordinating The Many Moving Parts
110. CASE STUDIES IN IMPROVING CONDO OPERATIONS
111. BOARD CONCERNS RE: TRUST OWNERSHIP
112. SKY'S THE LIMIT : ROOFTOP AMENITIES
113. ALL ABOUT HOUSE RULES
114. WE CAN CONTROL BUILDING COSTS

11:00 AM
201. ADMISSIONS BASICS FOR NY COOPERATIVES
202. NEW LAWS & RULES IN NYC
203. NYC ACCELERATOR: Case Studies of Free Expert Help with Local Law 97
204. WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN AN ANNUAL FINANCIAL STATEMENT
205. MEDIATION TO RESOLVE DISPUTES
206. THE IMPORTANCE OF HAVING A WILL FOR THE HDFC SHAREHOLDER: And You Can Do It Yourself!
BOARD CONCERNS RE: REVERSE MORTGAGES
208. NYC PROPERTY TAX UPDATE : ABATEMENTS & EXEMPTIONS
209. WATER CONSERVATION : LETS GIVE THIS MORE ATTENTION
210. KEEPING RESIDENTS INFORMED
211. CONDUCTING YOUR ANNUAL MEETING : LESSONS LEARNED FROM THE PANDEMIC
212. SERVICES TO EXPECT FROM YOUR PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMPANY
213. BEST PRACTICES FOR CO-OP/CONDO BOARDS
214. A RESERVE STUDY/CAPITAL PLAN FOR YOUR CO-OP OR CONDO

Afternoon Classes 2:45 PM
301. DEALING WITH DIFFICULT RESIDENTS
302. THE BUILDING ENVELOPE: MAINTAINING ROOF & WALLS
303. LL97 - BOARD PERSPECTIVES OF ENERGY ADVOCATES
304. THE BUDGET
305. CALENDARING REQUIRED REGULATIONS & PROCEDURES IN SELF-MANAGED BUILDINGS
306. ASK UHAB : FOUNDATION FOR HEALTHY CO-OPS: COMMUNICATION & TRANSPARENCY
307. INSURANCE: COVERAGES, CHALLENGES & BEST PRACTICES
308. INTERNET ISSUES FOR PRUDENT BOARDS : Security, Liability and More.
309. SOLAR POWER FOR NY CO-OPS AND CONDOS
310. ENFORCING THE RULES
311. CASE STUDY: ACCOMMODATING THOSE WITH DISABILITIES
312. ASK THE CONSTRUCTION ATTORNEY
313. UNDERSTANDING YOUR HEATING SYSTEM & COMING CHANGES
314. SUBLET ISSUES IN NEW YORK COOPERATIVES

Early in the pandemic, the legislature passed legislation enabling cooperatives to hold board and shareholder meetings over the internet, but parallel legislation for condominiums has taken much longer. The bill was finally passed this spring and Governor Hochul signed it into law on July 1st. Now the board of managers of any New York condominium can choose to hold any meeting of unit owners in person, virtually or as a hybrid meeting.

When the pandemic forced the use of virtual meetings, the unexpected benefit often turned out to be higher participation than had been the norm for in-person meetings. Many buildings are continuing to hold some - if not all - meetings via electronic communication.

Questions about this legislation or other condo issues? Join CNYC Board chair Stuart Saft -- in a virtual meeting, of course - to get answers and hear the concerns of other condo board members. Register on the CNYC website at www.CNYC.coop.

New York Association of Realty Managers, NYARM
Margie Russell, Executive Director
f 212 216 0680 m 516 456 0313 mrussell@nyarm.com

Who is Invited to NYARM events?
Multi-family & Mixed Use Building Decision Makers and their Teams, Professionals & Service Providers: Management Companies, Esqs, CPAs, Coop/Condo Board Members, Architects, P.E.s, Handypersons, Vendors Superintendents, Building/Resident/Property Managers

A) Midday Compliance Webinars No Cost (+ Bldg Mgmt Certification Credit)

B) "Building Exterior Issues" Walking Tours September 14th & October 26th, Evenings immediately after the BldgsNY & Cooperator Trade Shows

C) Networking at Moynihan Bar ~~July 20~~, Aug 17, Oct 12, Nov 16
6-8:30pm Moynihan Train Hall Penn Station https://www.moynihanbar.com/about
Where? Enter at 8th Ave West 31std St at street level, NYC, Penn Station
• How? RSVP is needed to hold a spot or a table. Email or text
(516) 456 0313 mrussell@nyarm.com Provide Your: phone #, company or, location affiliation & position.
• Food/Drink - Cash bar & Cash food court
• Dress Code is what you prefer or, your work attire
• RSVP needed please for us to prepare - text or email to (516) 456 0313 mrussell@nyarm.com - Name, phone #, company or, location affiliation & position.

$20 Cost to Enter - Per Person for:

- August 17th Wed 6:00-8:30pm networking theme is SOLAR coordinated with NYC Accelerator's newly launched "NYC's Summer of Solar"

- October 12th Wed 6:00-8:30pm networking theme is C.E.R.T.
Community Emergency Response Teams and, various other emergency programs related to building management.

TWO INTERESTING ENERGY OPPORTUNITIES

1) NYSERDA RESEARCH STUDY SEEKS PARTICIPANTS

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) distributes funds for energy projects. NYSERDA is currently conducting a research study about multifamily building energy use and decision-making. The information collected will be used to design programs that will help you and your residents save money on your energy bills. You can earn up to $400 by participating in the study, and there is also the potential for property managers to include multiple buildings. Multifamily buildings located in New York with 5 or more units are eligible to participate in the study.

Join the study by completing a survey about your multifamily building's physical features and equipment types for $100. The survey asks respondents to participate in a site visit, for which NYSERDA pays $150 per building. During the site visit, there is the option to earn $50 by facilitating site visit of a living unit (two units maximum per building). Property managers who are also financial decisionmakers for their buildings may be selected to complete an additional survey for $50. All incentives will be provided in the form of Amazon e-gift cards.

More information about the study can be found here on the NYSERDA study landing page or contact Aaron Huston at the Cadmus Group with your questions if you have questions about this study (the Cadmus Group is implementing the study on behalf of NYSERDA).

The NYC Accelerator provides free guidance on energy conservation and carbon reduction at NO COST to all interested NYC buildings. The Accelerator has declared this the Summer of Solar, noting that federal and state incentives are higher than ever. Click here to learn more.
To further its goal of decarbonizing NYC, the Accelerator has scheduled three events this summer to help you determine if your building is a candidate for solar.

JUNE 30th IS THE FINAL DEADLINE
FOR BUILDINGS SUBJECT TO THE NEW PREVAILING WAGE REQUIREMENT TO SUBMIT THE AFFIDAVIT ENABLING QUALIFYING RESIDENT OWNERS TO CONTINUE TO RECEIVE COOP/CONDO ABATEMENT

Any and every New York City cooperative and condominium meeting the above assessment criteria must file this affidavit. Without it the Department of Finance cannot grant abatements to those shareholders and unit owners for whom the cooperative or condominium is their primary residence. Click here for the list of building that needed to comply as of May 20th. If your cooperative or condominium is on this list, please quickly submit this affidavit on the DoF portal to continue to qualify for the abatement program.

Reasonable Accommodations have been required by law in New York City since 1987; recent legislation now requires that owners alert tenants to their right to request reasonable accommodations for a disability. Detailed FAQ as well as a suggested form for the required written notice can be found on the website of the New York State Division of Human Rights.

This notice should be modified to clarify that in cooperatives and condominiums, shareholders and unit owners are responsible for accommodations inside of their apartments, but board must address requests for ramps, parking spaces closer to the building, etc. If the cooperative or condominium owns rental units, it is responsible for the accommodations there (if shareholders or unit owners rent their units, they have the financial burden of accommodations in those units. The notices are to be distributed by June 16th and posted on the building website. Prospective residents should receive the notice either with their application packet or at the closing on their unit.

HAS YOUR BUILDING SUBMITTED ALL NECESSARY FORMS FOR THE FISCAL 2023 COOP/CONDO ABATEMENT?

Cooperatives and condominiums of 30 or more units, with Fiscal 2023 assessed value that averages $60,000 or more per unit and smaller cooperatives and condominiums whose 2023 assessed value averages $100,000 or more per unit that wish to have qualifying shareholders and unit owners receive the Coop/Condo Property Tax Abatement in Fiscal 2023 (which begins in July) must submit to the Department of Finance an affidavit confirming that all building service employees will receive Prevailing Wage during the fiscal year, EVEN BUILDINGS THAT HAVE NO BUILDING SERVICE EMPLOYEES but meet the assessment criteria described above. The deadline for submission has been estended to June 30th. Click here for the list of building that needed to comply as of May 20th. If your cooperative or condominium is on this list, please quickly submit this affidavit on the DoF portal to continue to qualify for the abatement program.

DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE GRANTS MORE TIME FOR
BUILDING SUBJECT TO PREVAILING WAGE REQUIRMENTS
TO FILE REQUISITE AFFIDAVITS

To help ensure that ALL cooperatives and condominiums that are required to file prevailing wage affidavits in order to have unit owners and shareholders continue to qualify for the Coop/Condo Property Tax Abatement, the Department of Finance will continue to accept affidavits on its portal until June 30th. Accordingly, July property tax bills will NOT reflect loss of abatements; once all affidavits are fully processed, abatement adjustments will be made on subsequent property tax bills.

The prevailing wage requirement applies to all cooperatives and condominiums of 30 or more dwelling units whose 2023 assessed value averages more than $60,000 per unit and all cooperatives and condominiums that have less than 30 dwelling units whose 2023 assessed value averages more than $100,000 per unit.—EVEN BUILDINGS WITH NO BUILDING SERVICE WORKERS! Properties have not have filed with the Department of Finance an affidavit confirming that all building services workers employed in fiscal year 2023 (which begins on July 1, 2022) are paid prevailing wage as annually determined by the Comptroller of the city of New York will not be entitled to the Cooperative/Condominium Property Tax Abatements for its shareholders or unit owners.

MANY BUILDINGS STILL NEED TO FILE THE PREVAILING WAGE AFFIDAVIT FOR RESIDENTS TO RECEIVE THE COOP/CONDO TAX ABATEMENT

To receive the coop/condo property tax abatement in fiscal 2023 (which begins July 1st), all NYC cooperatives and condominiums of 30 units or more whose fiscal 2023 assessed value averages $60,000 or more per unit and all NYC cooperatives and condominium of fewer that 30 units whose fiscal 2023 assessed value averages $100,000 or more must file with the Department of Finance by May 2nd the affidavit stating that all building service employees shall be paid prevailing wage during fiscal 2023 EVEN IF THE BUILDING HAS NO BUILDING SERVICE EMPLOYEES.

Many otherwise eligible buildings have not yet filed this affidavit with the Department of Finance. Please check that your building is in compliance.

At 4 PM on Tuesday, April 19, 2022, Union and RAB leaders came to agreement on a four year contract for the members of Local 32BJ SEIU who work in residential buildings in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens and Staten Island.

In acknowledgement of their dedication and extraordinary service during the pandemic, and to help them cope with inflation, 32BJ members will receive a bonus of $3,000 once this contract is ratified. This bonus will NOT attach to any prevailing wage calculations.

Wage increases totaling $133 over the four year term of this contract will bring the wages for a Door Person or Porter close to $62,000 by the end of this contract. The weekly salary increases are $27 as of April 20, 2022; $33 as of April 20, 2023; $33 as of April 20, 2024 and $40 as of April 20, 2025. This contract expires at midnight on April 20, 2026.

Employers continue to fund health care, training fund and legal fund benefits for their employees. The 32BJ Health Fund is a nationally recognized model of efficiency in providing quality care. Jointly managed by 32BJ and the RAB, it provides excellent family health care for 32BJ members, including preventive care, management of chronic conditions, etc. Extremely careful management in the last 15 years has brought the Health Fund to a point where only modest increases in funding (averaging 3.5%) are needed in the course of this contract. Included in today's contract is a commitment to continued savings and to continuing efforts to bend the curve of high hospital costs.

The reserves of the Health Fund are now substantial, enabling both sides to agree to grant employers a two month holiday from health fund contributions. This saving covers the cost of the bonus to 32BJ members.

For full details of the terms of this contract, visit the website of the Realty Advisory Board on Labor Relations Inc. (the RAB) at www.rabolr.com

New York Association of Realty Managers, NYARM
Margie Russell, Executive Director f 212 216 0680 m 516 456 0313 mrussell@nyarm.com

Attention: Multi-family & Mixed Use Building
Decision Makers & Their Teams
Please Scroll for Upcoming Dates & Event Sponsors

• Mon May 16th Building Management Networking
4:30 to 8pm at IL Violino Trattoria, West 68th & Columbus Ave, Manhattan

• Cost
$ 0 for Coop/Condo Boards and Apartment Building Owners
$ 0 for NYARM's Current Members both companies and individuals
$80 for All Others

• Who Multi-Family Building: Owners, Management Companies, Property & Building Managers, Resident Managers & Superintendents, Ownership Entities, Coop/Condo Board Members, Vendors, Service Providers, P.E.s, Architects, CPAs, Attorneys
• What "Monthly In-Person RE Mgmt Industry Networking"
• Where IL Violino Trattoria ilviolinony.com very short walk # 1 Subway 180 Columbus Ave at West 68th Street, Manhattan
• When May 16th Monday, anytime between 4:30 to 8pm
• How Early RSVP is needed to hold a spot. Email/text to (516) 456 0313 mrussell@nyarm.com YOUR: phone #, company or, location affiliation & position.

• Food & Drink is your choice, order & pay from IL Violino's menu
• Dress Code is your preferred attire
Upcoming 2022 Networking June 6th, July 11th, Sept 12th, Oct 3rd, Nov 7th

• Zoom Login for Lunchtime Webinars, Description

• Tuesday May 17th • Friday May 20th • Tuesday May 24th
• Friday June 17th • Tuesday June 21st • Tuesday June 28th
No Cost for those interested in the topics and, wish to network with industry pros
Login https://us06web.zoom.us/j/5145535405
Meeting ID 514 553 5405 Dial 1 929 205 6099 (NY)
1 301 715 8592 (DC) 1 312 626 6799 (Chicago)
Waiting Room Opens at 12noon...Webinar 12:30 to 1:30pm

• Tuesday May 17 "Insuring Against Force Majeure Occourances"
https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/force_majeure
Moderator: Samantha Tucci, ACSR, Mackoul Risk Solutions
https://mackoul.com/about/meet-the-team/ Mackoul's Webinars LINK

• Friday May 20 "Maximizing the Benefits and, understanding the reasons behind, the EXTENSION of NYC's May 1st Benchmarking Filing Deadline, which was changed to May 31, 2022" NYC'S Announcement Link

• Tuesday May 24 "Protecting NYCs Water Supply From Cyber Attacks"
Moderator: Hershel Weiss, Ashokan Water Services
www.linkedin.com/in/hershel-weiss Ashokan's Water Conservation Project LINK
Among the Panelists: William Payne, P.E., O & S Associates
Henry J. Rosenwach MBA, CPA 7G, RPA, LEED GA
Rosenwach Companies Past & Present Delivery of NYC Water Video LINK
• Friday June 17 "Coordinating Elevator: Inspectors, Consultants, NYCDOB"
Moderator: Joe Caracappa, President & Founder, Sierra Consulting

• Tuesday June 21 "NYC Water Rates: A Geyser... or a Sprinkler?"

• Friday June 28 Breakout Rooms: "Creating Workable Neighborhood Labyrinths" to fast-track Carbon Footprint Reduction projects, allowing buildings to parallel-partner.

• Please advise Margie Russell if you have a specific expertise or, wish to suggest a topic for a NYARM webinar, of which there are approximately 40 each year.

• May 11th Wednesday the "Cooperator Expo New York"
@ New York Hilton, West 53rd & 6th Ave, Manhattan
Multiple continuing education seminars & exhibits
Visit Margie Russell at NYARM's Booth # 1909

Every year since this popular show's inception, NYARM Associate Members have regularly exhibited and, NYARM Building Management Members regularly attended.
To Exhibit and reserve a booth coopexpo.com/ForExhibitors.aspx

Approved Attendee Categories: Property Managers, Resident Managers, Facility Managers, Superintendents, Assistant Managers, Building Owners/Partners, Coop/Condo Board Members, and, similar Ownership Entities.

What makes this show different from others is that attendees must fall into one of the above listed Attendee Categories to be approved for entry. This distinction is very much favored by the exhibitors.
• To Attend and register for Wednesday May 11th coopexpo.com/Register

The NYC Department of Finance published tentative assessments in Mid-January. Cooperatives and Condominiums have until March 1st to protest excessive increases in these assessments. The final assessments will form the basis for property taxes payable by July 1, 2022, October 1, 2022, January 1, 2023 and April 1, 2024.

Prevailing Wage legislation signed into law on Labor Day means that this assessment triggers for many cooperatives and condominiums that wish to continue to receive the Coop/Condo Abatement, the need to attest that, as of July 1, 2022 all building service employees are paid prevailing wages. Affected are building of 30 or more units with assessed value that averages $60,000 or more per unit and building of fewer than 30 units with assessed value that averages $100,00 or more per unit. The attestation form is found on the Department of Finance website and must be filed along with the updated abatement information; the deadline for completion is February 15th. Click here for DOF lists of the buildings required to comply.

The NYC Accelerator offers free technical assistance to help buildings increase energy efficiency. The upgrades that they help you plan will help decrease pollution and carbon emissions, leading to better air quality and comfort for occupants, as well as compliance with local laws. Contact the NYC Accelarator at 212 656-9202 or info@accelerator.nyc.

CNYC extends holiday wishes to all its members, subscribers and friends. Governor Hochul has helped to brighten our holidays by signing into law this week, two bills important to New York housing cooperatives.

GOVERNOR HOCHUL SIGNS LIU/BRAUNSTEIN HSTPA LEGISLATION
RESTORING FLEXIBILITY TO HOUSING COOPERATIVES

New York State's Housing Stability and Tenant Protection Act of 2019 (HSTPA) inadvertently included housing cooperative in the stringent provisions of Part M on ‘all leases', because cooperatives have ‘proprietary leases.' Among other problems, Part M restricted the amounts of fees and escrows, which hampers the admissions process.

From the moment that HSTPA was passed, CNYC and fellow advocates for cooperatives have sought clarifying legislation to exempt housing cooperatives from Part M. Queens lawmakers John Liu and Edward Braunstein introduces the needed legislation. After multiple negotiations and amendments, their legislation was passed in June, clarifying that certain rules governing rentals do not apply in housing cooperatives when no landlord-tenant relationship exists. On December 22nd, Governor Hochul signed this bill, making it Chapter 789 of the Laws of 2021.

Last spring, Senator Jackson and Assembly member Dinowitz introduced legislation to protect renters from legal fees. Although the bill was carefully and specifically worded to apply only to renters and their landlords, Assembly member Braunstein wanted to make absolutely certain that housing cooperatives wouldn't be swept into the proposed law. During hearings, he asked on the record whether this law was intended to apply to housing cooperatives and Assembly member Dinowitz firmly stated that it applies only in a landlord-tenant rental situation. The bill was passed by both Senate and Assembly, but, before signing it into law on December 21st, Governor Hochul reached an agreement with the legislature to make amendments to the bill to clarify that cooperative housing corporations can impose legal fees on shareholders (while simultaneously clarifying that the shareholder cannot impose fees on a tenant or subtenant).

CNYC applauds this trend toward better understanding of the nature and structure of housing cooperatives and the acknowledgement that cooperatives and condominiums are important forms of home ownership.

STOP INTRO. 2047 & PROTECT OUR RIGHT TO SAFE HOUSING

CONTACT YOUR CITY COUNCIL MEMBER TODAY

HAVE FRIENDS, NEIGHBORS, AND COLLEAGUES DO THE SAME

Several months ago, CNYC alerted members to the immense problems that could result if Intro. 2047 were to become law. Now it appears that the City Council could pass this bill NEXT WEEK. It would prohibit property owners, brokers, managers and boards from asking about criminal history or performing almost any sort of criminal background check on prospective residents of multiple dwellings - including cooperatives and condominiums.

This seriously flawed legislation could result in arsonists, embezzlers --- and worse! - becoming your neighbors. Please contact your City Council representative today to explain the danger of this legislation and ask that they oppose it. The bill currently has a majority of the Council as co-sponsors and your representative may be among them. If so, your rational explanation could/should help them see the issue more clearly and perhaps withdraw their name from supporting it. Explain this threat to the residents of your building and ask that they also contact your City Council representative. Intro. 2047 must be stopped.

The Rent Stabilization Association has generated a VoterVoice campaign that allows you to send messages directly to the bill sponsor and your City Council representative.

Please CLICK HERE to send your letter of opposition to the New York City Council, and share this link with anyone else who might be willing to participate in this campaign.

GOVERNOR HOCHUL SIGNS REVERSE MORTGAGE LEGISLATION

SENIORS IN NYS HOUSING COOPERATIVES SOON TO BE ELIGIBLE

Yesterday, Governor Hochul signed into law S.760/A1508 authorizing reverse mortgages for seniors in housing cooperatives in the State of New York. This will enable seniors to tap the equity in their homes for funds to maintain their quality of life.

CNYC extends heartfelt thanks to Assembly member Jeff Dinowitz, who has worked for years to pass this legislation and to Senator Biaggi who, upon her election, immediately understood the need for reverse mortgages for seniors in New York housing cooperatives and has pushed hard for passage.

This new law -- Chapter 643 of the Laws of 2021 -- takes effect in 180 days, during which time appropriate forms must be developed and approved and counsellors trained on issues specific to housing cooperatives. CNYC will do its best to follow the progress of these preparations and will alert members as soon as the groundwork is in place and loans can be sought.

We are writing to update you on important legislation in Albany and ask for your help in getting this legislation signed into law by the Governor.

S. 5105C / A. 350C corrects an egregious error in the Housing Stability and Tenant Protection Act of 2019 (HSTPA) that has resulted in co-ops and their shareholders being treated as if they are tenants in a rental building.

This legislation corrects this error by recognizing that no landlord-tenant relationship exists between housing cooperatives and their shareholders. Most importantly, HSTPA affects how shareholders handle applications, credit checks, and defaults, and limits the amount of escrow they may collect from marginal applicants.
While this bill has passed the legislature, it has not yet been signed by Governor Hochul.

By taking action today, you send the Governor a letter urging her to sign this bill and ensure she hears directly from her constituents across the state.

CNYC thanks all the speakers for their careful preparation and insightful presentations in the class that made up our 41st Annual (and second all-virtual) Housing Conference on Sunday, November 14, 2021. We also thank the registrants who attended these classes.

HONORED GUESTS:
ASSEMBLY MEMBER ED BRAUNSTEIN ANNOUNCED PLANNED LEGISLATION
BOROUGH PRESIDENT GALE BREWER ENUMERATED HELPFUL PROGRAM

At the PLENARY SESSION in the middle of the day, all registrants were invited to hear from CNYC leaders and from two elected officials who have long been champions for housing cooperatives and condominiums.

Assembly member Ed Braunstein told of his legislation that has passed both Senate and Assembly which corrects oversights in the HSTPA legislation of 2019 that imposed restrictions on cooperatives in situations where no landlord/tenant relationship exists. A.350-C/S.5105-C now awaits the Governor's Signature. Mr. Braunstein then told of another bill, where he saw that there could be confusion about its application to housing cooperatives. During committee debate he questioned the sponsor who clearly stated for the record that the legislation is not intended to apply to cooperatives. Mr. Braunstein plans to settle this issue once and for all with legislation that he will introduce when the Assembly reconvenes. His legislation will require that any legislation relating to multiple dwellings include a clear statement about its application to cooperatives. CNYC will work hard in support of this legislation and is honored that Mr. Braunstein first announced it at our Conference.

Borough President Gale Brewer spoke to the Plenary Session from Central Park where she had attended the opening of Wollman Rink. She told of many existing incentive programs available in New York City , plus new funding opportunities resulting from Federal legislation passed and proposed. Ms. Brewer is completing her second term as Borough President and will return to her City Council seat representing Manhattan's Upper West Side in January. She has long been a welcome guest at CNYC's annual Conference.

The Conference Program was distributed to all conference registrants. It includes a Directory of Products & Services, which is now posted on the CNYC website as a resource.

CNYC hopes to hold its 42nd Annual Housing Conference as an in-person event on Sunday, November 13, 2022. We hope to see you there.

Yesterday, Governor Hochul signed into law A.1237/S.1182 making permanent the ability to hold virtual meetings and to obtain electronic signatures in many instances, including the functioning of Boards of cooperatives and condominiums. Temporary provisions in place due to Covid would have expired on December 31st

ALL DAY SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 14th - SELECT AMONG 40 CLASSES
PLENARY SESSION WITH HONORED GUESTS
EARLY REGISTRATION RATES WILL END ON OCTOBER 20th
ALL PARTICIPANTS MUST BE REGISTERED BY MIDNIGHT ON NOVEMBER 12th
Click here to download the Conference Brochure. Click here to register online

New York City's drinking water comes from large reservoirs in the Catskills and the Hudson Valley via a complex system of aqueducts maintained by the NYC Department of Environmental Protection. For the next 15 weeks, the Catskill Aqueduct will be out of service for needed work to ensure its continued reliability when the Delaware Aqueduct is shut down for 5-8 months in 2022-2023, in the final phase of a rehabilitation program designed to ensure delivery of high quality water to New York City for the next 100 years.

During this time, the city will rely on additional water from the Delaware System and the Croton System. This will not impair the quality of our drinking water in any way, but discerning New Yorkers may notice changes in its appearance or smell. For additional information and an online form to report any changes in your water, click here. You can also report changes to 311

The HERO ACT requires owners to adopt and distribute to employees a detailed set of procedures to be implemented to cope with an airborne infectious disease. The model plan provided on the website of the NYS Department of Labor can be used. Employees are allowed to form a Safety Committee whose members may seek industry-specific training in infectious disease prevention. The Thomas Shortman Training Fund of Local 32Bj can provide this training as one of the many free classes that it provides to 32BJ members.

On Labor Day, Governor Hochul designated Covid as an Airborne Infectious Disease, subject to the provisions of the HERO Act, through the end of October. Governor Hochul may extend that designation.

City and State law require that employees receive annual anti-harassment training and to provide proof of having done so. October is the month of record. The Thomas Shortman Training Fund provides online and in-person classes for 32BJ members to recertify annually. The NYC Commission on Human Rights has developed an online training that will satisfy both City and State sexual harassment prevention training requirements. A certificate is provided at the end of the 45 - minute training.

STOP INTRO. 2047 & PROTECT OUR RIGHT TO SAFE HOUSING
CONTACT YOUR CITY COUNCIL MEMBER TODAY
HAVE FRIENDS, NEIGHBORS, AND COLLEAGUES DO THE SAME

Three weeks ago, CNYC alerted members to the immense problems that could result if Intro. 2047 were to become law. Now it appears that the City Council could soon pass this bill. It would prohibit property owners, brokers, managers and boards from asking about criminal history or performing any sort of criminal background check on prospective residents of multiple dwellings - including cooperatives and condominiums. At no stage in the process would it be legal to ask about or access the sex offender list or any criminal record information.

This seriously flawed legislation could result in arsonists, embezzlers --- and worse! - becoming your neighbors. Please contact your City Council representative today to explain the danger of this legislation and ask that they oppose it (the bill currently has multiple co-sponsors - your representative could be among them. If so, your rational explanation could/should help them see the issue more clearly and perhaps withdraw their name from supporting it). Explain this threat to the residents of your building and ask that they also contact your City Council representative. Intro. 2047 must be stopped.

The Rent Stabilization Association has generated a VoterVoice campaign that allows you to send messages directly to the bill sponsor and your City Council representative.

Please CLICK HERE to see the legislation. Please share these links with anyone else who might be willing to participate in this campaign.

REALTY ADVISORY BOARD AND 32BJ REACH AGREEMENT
ON CAREFULLY DETAILED PROCEDURE FOR BUILDINGS
TO MANDATE VACCINATION FOR BUILDING SERVICE EMPLOYEES

Per an agreement signed yesterday, buildings have the right to require that their 32BJ employees who are not members of protected groups be vaccinated. First the building must notify employees in writing that it is considering a vaccination mandate and must collect (and keep confidential) vaccination information on all employees. For those who are not vaccinated, inquiry must be made as to the reason. If the employee is in a protected category (religious or health reasons prohibiting vaccination), the employer can require proof of PCR testing up to twice a week, on the employee's own time (available at no cost to members at the Union clinic).

When a building decides to impose a vaccination mandate, it must so inform the Union. Employees not in a protected category must be given four weeks to get vaccinated. If it is a two-shot procedure, they get another four weeks to get the second vaccination. Booster shots are encouraged as appropriate and paid time off is to be granted for them.

Employees in buildings mandating vaccination who remain reluctant to be vaccinated have three options:

Buildings that do not seek to mandate vaccination have the right to ask that their unvaccinated employees show proof of negative PCR tests up to twice a week on their own time.

Consult with Management and with the RAB for details before implementing this mandate. Advice from the RAB will be particularly helpful in instances where the building Super resists vaccination.

NEW ENERGY GRADES WILL BE AVAILABLE TODAY
DOWNLOAD AND POST YOUR BUILDING'S GRADE ON ALL PUBLIC ENTRIES TO THE BUILDING

All NYC buildings of 25,000 square feet or more must benchmark their energy and water use each year by May 1st. Beginning last year, letter grades have been assigned to each building. The new energy grade for your 2020 benchmarking will become available tomorrow. These grades must be downloaded from the Department of Building's DOB NOW Public Portal and posted prominently on all public entries to the building.

The Department of Buildings is verifying which building failed to download their Energy Efficiency Grade that was posted last October and is levying fines based on this failure.

The Sustainability Help Center provides free classes to help with benchmarking and also provides advice on improving your building's Energy Grade.

CONGRESSMEMBER JERROLD NADLER INTRODUCES H.R. 5298
TO MAKE COOPS & CONDOS ELIGIBLE FOR FEMA DISASTER RECOVERY GRANTS

Almost a decade ago, Super Storm Sandy devastated many buildings in New York and New Jersey. Housing cooperatives and condominiums found their boiler rooms flooded, electrical systems damaged or destroyed, and downed trees and other debris to be cleaned up. Soon it became clear that FEMA - the federal agency that provides disaster recovery to individual home owners-- was not authorized to fund disaster recovery grants to repair or replace building-wide systems nor to remove debris from within the cooperative or condominium or homeowner association. Congressman Nadler has worked ever since to work to change this.

On Friday, September 17th, Mr. Nadler and nine colleagues from all across the nation introduced the Disaster Assistance Equity Act, which, when enacted into law will make essential common elements such as a roof, exterior wall, heating and cooling equipment, elevator, stairwell, utility access, plumbing and electricity eligible for disaster recovery grants under FEMA's Federal Assistance to Individuals and Households Program and makes homeowner's associations (including cooperatives and condominiums) eligible under FEMA's requirements for the removal of debris in the aftermath of a major disaster.

At a time of unprecedented national disasters all across our nation, there is great need for this legislation to provide to housing cooperatives, condominiums and homeowner associations the same FEMA protection as private homes. Please urge your Congressional representatives to support

The prevailing wage bill signed into law by Governor Hochul on Labor Day affects ONLY those New York City condominiums and housing cooperatives larger than 30 units whose assessed value, as determined by the NYC Department of Finance averages $60,000 per unit or more and those buildings with 30 units or fewer whose assessed value averages $100,000 per unit or more. In order to have shareholders and unit owners for whom the cooperative or condominium is their primary residence to receive the co-op/condo abatement in Fiscal 2023 (which begins in July of 2022) this new law requires that the building pay ‘prevailing wage' to ‘all building service employees'.

The affected buildings are located in Manhattan and Brooklyn, and the vast majority already do pay ‘prevailing wage' which is the package of wages and benefits in the residential contract of Local 32BJ. Buildings with non-union employees, those with contracts with other unions, and those that employ security guards will need to examine this issue in detail and may have difficult decisions to make as to whether to reduce staff, increase carrying charges, or forego the co-op/condo abatement.

Looking to the future, CNYC is very concerned about buildings currently assessed at less than $60,000 per unit, when they cross the $60,000 threshold. When that happens, their tax burden will increase, the percentage of their abatement will decrease from 22.5% to 17.5% and the prevailing wage requirement will be imposed.

The Prevailing Wage law also gives individual home owners the responsibility to verify their primary residency to the Department of Finance in order to qualify for the abatement program. When the Department of Finance provides guidance on how it will implement this provision of the law, CNYC will pass on this information.

During the legislative session, CNYC worked hard in support of two important bills that have passed both houses but have not yet been signed into law Your e-mails to Governor Hochul to ask that she sign these important bills would be helpful.

S.5105 /A350. which Senator Liu and Assembly member Braunstein introduced to clarify that housing cooperatives are not subject to the provisions of Part M of the 2019 Tenant Protection Act in situations where there is no landlord/tenant relationship.

S.760 /A.1508 sponsored by Senator Biaggi and Assembly member Dinowitz would authorize reverse mortgages for seniors in housing cooperatives in the state of New York. Houses and condominiums can already access these helpful loans, cooperatives need this authorization to be able to do so.

September is here, and with it renewed vigor in the halls of government, bringing new laws, new hearings, and reawakening old issues where your cooperative or condominium may want to weigh in.

This legislation requires that all NYC cooperatives and condominiums with assessed value that averages $60,000 or more per unit wishing to have qualifying residents participate in the co-op/condo abatement program in Fiscal 2023 (which begins July of 2022) must pay prevailing wages to all building service employees. The Department of Finance will have to create a mechanism for all those building to so attest. This affects many buildings in Manhattan and a number in Brooklyn. The prevailing wage in those boroughs is the wages and benefits received by members of 32BJ through their Residential Agreement. If your building uses other labor, now is the time to check on your current costs and see if you face difficult decisions regarding labor costs vs. foregoing the abatement.

The prevailing wage legislation - now Chapter 422 of the Laws of 2021 - also provides that individual shareholders and unit owners are now responsible for verifying their primary residency to the Department of Finance.

CITY COUNCIL CONTEMPLATING ADDITIONAL REGULATIONS
CNYC ENCOURAGES MEMBERS TO CONTACT THEIR REPRESENTATIVES TO COMMENT ON THESE

Int. 2377 CALLS FOR EXTENSIVE ADDITIONAL INSPECTION OF GAS PIPES
Council members Cornegy and Holden are proposing significant increases in the scope of the periodic inspection and testing of gas lines to include ALL internal gas lines. While well-intentioned, CNYC believes this added inspection requirement will be burdensome, disruptive and costly and opposes its passage.

Int. 1796 PROPOSES COMMERCIAL RENT CONTROL FOR RETAIL AND OFFICE TENANTS
Council member Levin is supported by many of his colleagues in proposing detailed rent regulations for retail and office spaces up to 10,000 square feet, presumably occupied by small businesses. At a time of rising storefront vacancies, many cooperatives and condominiums have done their very best to work with their tenants during the pandemic to help those tenants survive. This bill would create a new commercial rent guidelines board that would completely tie the hands of our members with commercial tenants. CNYC is strongly opposed to this legislation. If this bill is passed, it will limit the ability of cooperatives and condominiums to set rents for their commercial spaces, which are critical to building finances. There are many alternative ways to promote and help small businesses.

Int. 2047 PROHIBITS CONSIDERATION OF ARREST OR CRIMINAL RECORD IN TENANT SCREENING
This proposed legislation would prohibit brokers, landlords, property managers, and individuals from questioning a prospective tenant or accessing any public records relating to arrest or criminal history of a prospective tenant. CNYC is opposed to the passage of this legislation which is sponsored by Council member Levin supported by many of his colleagues. It was the subject of a hearing a year ago, and therefore could be subject to a vote at any time. Please contact your City Council representative and ask that they oppose this legislation if it comes to the floor for a vote.

THE DEPARTMENT OF SANITATION WILL RESTART COMPOSTABLE COLLECTION IN OCTOBER
REGISTER NOW TO REQUEST COLLECTION

Before the pandemic struck, a good percentage of New Yorkers had been in the habit of separate compostable organic waste and setting it out in DSNY-provided brown bins for weekly collection. Taking organics out of the normal waste stream had the immediate benefits of reducing odors, discouraging rats from tearing open garbage bags. Now DSNY is preparing to restart this program. Its plan is to collect from those buildings that request collection. You can register your building at www.nyc.gov/organics; and you will be contacted as the program is about to start in your area.

The Sustainability Help Center at CUNY Institute for Urban Systems' Building Performance Lab provides classes to help building staff and boards comply with the City's many laws relating to energy efficiency. On September 23rd from 1 to 3 PM, their crash course on NYC Local Laws on energy issues will be offered at no cost to all those who are interested. Here is a link to the Eventbrite page for registration and further details.

In the aftermath of this unprecedented storm, the Department of Buildings has offered detailed and practical advice which we share with you below. May the holiday weekend be a time of recovery for us all.

New York, NY - The Department of Buildings today is advising building owners and property managers to take added precautions when surveying damage at their properties, after historic and deadly floods inundated neighborhoods across the city overnight. Heavy flooding conditions have the potential to cause structural damage, undermining concerns, hazardous mold, and deterioration of building electrical and gas plumbing systems, which can all pose a serious hazard to New Yorkers entering flood-damaged buildings.

"While the worst of the flooding has thankfully subsided, that doesn't mean that the potential for hazards is over," said Buildings Commissioner Melanie E. La Rocca. "Flood-damaged buildings can still pose a serious danger to New Yorkers. Take precautions, and if you spot any unsafe conditions, report it immediately."

Building owners and property managers are advised:

All New Yorkers are encouraged to call 311 to report any unsafe building conditions in their neighborhood. Call 911 for emergencies. For more information about building safety, please visit the Department's website at www.nyc.gov/buildings.

CNYC WEBINAR DELVES IMPLICATIONS OF FLORIDA CONDO COLLAPSE (SEQUEL SEMINARS WILL FOLLOW)

On Tuesday, July 27th, more that 500 board members, property managers, construction professionals and other interested parties logged on to this webinar (see video below) that addresses the implications for New Yorkers of the catastrophic building collapse in Florida. Attorney Stuart Saft, Chairman of CNYC hosted the presentation where structural, legal, insurance and financial concerns were addressed as well as the role of management in educating and guiding board. Click here. to view or download the slides used in the webinar by engineer Peter Varsalona, who serves on the Board of CNYC, property manager Michael Wolfe, also a CNYC board member , banker Casey Fannon, insurance expert Mark Kaufman. Additional webinars are planned to further explore the many issues broached in this webinar. CNYC will keep members advised as dates are selected.

June amendments to the New York HERO Act required the New York State Labor Department to publish model workplace safety plans to prevent the spread of airborne infectious diseases. Employers are required to adopt the model plan (or a more stringent version of their own) by August 5 2021. Employers must share their plans with employees within 30 days of adoption. A 9-page general model plan is now available on the website of the State Department of Labor https://dol.ny.gov/ny-hero-act by scrolling down the page. Below this general plan are industry specific templates, but there is not yet one specifically for residential buildings. Note that these plans must be adopted now, but they are to be put into effect only when an airborne infectious disease is designated by the NYS Commissioner of Health as a highly contagious communicable disease that presents a serious risk of harm to the public. No such designation is currently in place.

Local Law 97 of 2019 created the Climate Mobilization Act whose goal is an 80% reduction of NYC's 2005 carbon footprint by the year 2050. The legislation sets goals that buildings 25,000 square feet or larger must meet in 2024 and 2029 and an Advisory Board has been formed to recommend future goals and possible modifications/amendments to the law. Buildings are wise to begin now to consult with knowledgeable professionals and to prepare for the upgrading and eventual replacement of various building systems to endure carbon reduction. Here are some good sources of help.

HELP AND GUIDANCE FROM THE NYC ACCELERATOR
The NYC Accelerator has funding to help buildings understand their energy and carbon reduction needs and to find service providers and possible sources of funding for improvements. There is no cost for the services of the NYC Accelerator. Contact them at https://www1.nyc.gov/site/nycaccelerator/index.page.

RETROFIT NOW! A 4-DAY COURSE FOR PROFESSIONALS AND INTERESTED BOARD MEMBERS
The American Institute of Architecture is sponsoring an energy-conservation focused class to teach designers and other professionals how to retrofit buildings to comply with Local Law 97. It covers a broad array of strategies, including ones that will get buildings pretty far down the road without breaking the bank. Classes are being offered in July (19th, 20th, 26th and 27th) and August (23rd-26th) and monthly throughout the fall. For costs and further details go to https://calendar.aiany.org/2021/07/19/retrofit-now-reducing-carbon-and-complying-with-ll97-day-1-2/

On June 29, 2021, Governor Cuomo signed into law the bill introduced by Assembly Member Dan Quart and State Senator John Liu to extend through June 30, 2023 the property tax abatement program for qualifying home owners in housing cooperatives and condominiums in New York City, making it Chapter 184 of the Laws of 2021.

The Department of Finance had included these abatements on property tax bills mailed earlier this month and payable tomorrow, July 1st.

CNYC thanks our lawmakers, the Governor and the Department of Finance for the important parts that they have played in ensuring the seamless continuation of the abatement program. We will provide further updates as more of the legislation passed by both legislative houses is sent to the Governor and signed into law.

The Albany legislative session closed yesterday with a flurry of bills passed by both Senate and Assembly. Several of these are of importance to New York housing cooperatives and condominiums. None have yet been signed into law by Governor Cuomo:

CO-OP/CONDO ABATEMENT PROGRAM EXTENDED THRU JUNE 30, 2023. Passed last week, this legislation continues the abatement program for qualifying home owners in New York City whose cooperative or condominium is their primary residence. CNYC thanks Dan Quart who sponsored this legislation in the Assembly and John Liu for the Senate version.

PREVAILING WAGE LEGISLATION takes effect in July 2022. Sponsored by Brian Benjamin in the Senate and Carmen de la Rosa in the Assembly, this legislation requires that any cooperative or condominium of 30 units or less that is assessed at $100,000 or more and any cooperative or condominium larger than 30 units that is assessed at $60,000 or more to certify that it is paying the ‘prevailing wage' to all building service employees in order to qualify for the abatement program above. The prevailing wage published on the comptroller's website corresponds to the wages and benefits in the 32BJ residential contract. This legislation also gives shareholders and unit owners the responsibility of confirming to the Department of Finance that their units are their primary residences.

REVERSE MORTGAGES FOR SENIORS IN NEW YORK STATE HOUSING COOPERATIVES will become possible if Governor Cuomo signs legislation just passed. We are cautious because of his surprise veto of similar legislation two years ago. Once signed into law, this legislation will require that new forms and protocols be established before implementation can begin. CNYC has worked long and hard to enable seniors in housing cooperatives to tap the equity in their homes for funds to enable them to meet the costs of living on in those homes. Our thanks to Assembly Member Jeff Dinowitz and Senator Alexandria Biaggi for all their help with this important issue.

CLARIFYING PART M OF HSTPA - Senator John Liu and Assembly Member Ed Braunstein have passed legislation that clearly exempts most housing cooperatives from provisions of Part M of the stringent rent law HSTPA passed in 2019 in cases where no landlord/tenant relationship exists.

FINES FOR FAILURE TO POST ENERGY GRADES
Buildings of 25,000 square feet or more are required to benchmark their water and energy use annually using the EPA Portfolio Manager online portal. From this benchmarking information, the City of New York has derived Energy Grades, which buildings are required to download and to post prominently on all public entrances to the building. Enforcement has begun to track down buildings that have not yet downloaded their Energy Grades for posting. For information on remedying such a situation click here [June 10 notice from DOB)

OVERDUE FAÇADE REEPORTS AND LONG TERM SIDEWALK SHED
The Department of Buildings has reached out to CNYC for help contacting buildings whose Local Law 11 (FISP) reports are overdue and those where sidewalk sheds have been in place for more than five years. These are two of DoB's Trifecta of Non- Compliance. (happily, residential buildings are not subject to the sprinkler requirement that the City has imposed on commercial buildings higher than 100 feet.). See the CNYC website for a webinar on this issue, and watch the CNYC calendar for another such webinar where you can participate and get answers to your questions about FISP reports and sidewalk sheds.

The Department of Buildings has reached out to CNYC for help reaching those CNYC members who may be among those whose buildings need to be brought into compliance regarding sidewalk sheds or Façade Inspection Safety (FISP) requirements. Below is a video of the webinar describing DoB's TRIFECTA OF NON-COMPLIANCE (happily, residential buildings are not subject to the sprinkler requirement).

The Department of Buildings will hold another webinar on this topic where CNYC members will be able to ask all questions that they have relating to their FISP filing and long term sidewalk sheds. Watch the CNYC calendar for the announcement of the date of that webinar.

The Advisory Commission on Property Tax Reform for New York City will hold the second of five virtual hearings on the ten recommendations in its Preliminary Report on Thursday, May 27th at 6 PM. This is said to be the hearing for Brooklyn, but all interested New Yorkers are encouraged to attend any hearing that is convenient (or more than one) and to provide substantive testimony on the recommendations of the Commission. Click here to register for Thursday's hearing.

CNYC and the Action Committee for Reasonable Real Estate Taxes were represented at the Staten Island hearing on May 11th and testified on the Commission's recommendation that certain houses, cooperatives and condominiums receive a homestead exemption based on the finances of the owner. The Commission sees this homestead exemption as replacing the current abatement program for primary residents in cooperatives and condominiums. CNYC and the Action Committee expressed the strong opinion that EVERY home owner in the City for whom their home is their primary residence should get a homestead exemption. Thursday's testimony will address support for any property reform program that the Commission proposes to include and to expand ‘circuit breakers' designed to mitigate the tax burden on veterans, seniors, etc.

Three more hearings have now been scheduled. The Queens hearing will be on the evening of June 9th, the Bronx hearing on June 14th and Manhattan on June 16th. Any New Yorker is welcome to register and to testify in any one (or more) of these hearings.

Primary Day is June 22nd; and early voting can be done from June 12th thru June 20th. The new system of ranked choice voting allows each voter to select not only their first choice for the office, but up to five choices, ranked in order of preference. This avoids the cost of run-off elections which are often poorly attended, and ensures that the winning candidate receives a majority of the votes cast. It also demands more of the voter, in that one should now try to learn about ALL of the candidates running for each office.

To help members learn the views of Mayoral candidates on issues important to housing cooperatives and condominiums, Habitat Magazine, CNYC and the Presidents' Co-op and Condo Council are conducting candidate interviews which are posted with transcripts on the Habitat website www.habitatmag.com. The Mayoral interviews can be also be viewed by clicking here

The system of term limits in our city tends to result in a really big election every eight years as incumbents reach the end of their allotted two four-year terms. This year, New Yorkers will elect a new Mayor, a new Comptroller, several new borough presidents, many new City Council representatives, and more! The general election will occur in November but a significant portion of the decision making takes place in the Primaries which are held this year on June 22nd, with early voting from June 12th to 20th. Voters will be asked to use RANKED CHOICE VOTING, which encourages us to learn more about all of the candidates for each office.

Ranked choice voting is intended to eliminate slow and costly run-off elections which often have very low turnout. With Ranked Choice Voting, voters are asked to indicate not only their first choice candidate, but up to five candidates, arranged in preferential order. If one candidate receives over 50% of the vote as number one ranked candidate, the election is over. If, however, no one receives over 50% of first ranked votes, the candidate with the least votes is eliminated and the 2nd to 5th choices of their supporters are redistributed among the remaining candidates until a winner emerges with over 50% of the votes. This year, New York conducted a few Special Elections using Ranked Choice Voting, but the June primary will be the first time the system has been implemented citywide.

ON May 18th CNYC is one of the partners sponsoring a REBNY webinar on ranked choice voting. To register click here

The internet provides many opportunities to get to know the candidates, who all have their own websites and supporters. The various candidates can be found grouped by the office they aspire to or the City Council district in which they are competing to represent you. Additionally, various group are sponsoring interviews, panel discussions and debates that focus on their area of interest.

To learn the views of the leading Mayoral candidates on issues important to housing cooperatives and condominiums, CNYC has partnered with HABITAT Magazine and the Presidents Co-op and Condo Council to conduct a series of one-on-one interviews. These interviews will soon be posted online by all three interviewing entities.

In addition, the Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY) has invited CNYC to be part of its Tuesday afternoon series of interviews with candidates for the City Council and later for borough president. These take place via Zoom every Tuesday at 1 PM. Here is the link for tomorrow's interview with Gigi Li one of nine candidates running to represent District 1 at the southernmost tip of Manhattan.

ADVISORY COMMISSION HEARINGS ON PRELIMINARY REPORT
The Advisory Commission on Property Tax Reform appointed in 2018 by the Mayor and the City Council that issued its Preliminary Report on January 31, 2020, has announced the reopening of its 5-borough hearings on that report which had been postponed by the Covid-19 pandemic. Virtual hearings will be scheduled for all boroughs for comments on the 10 recommendations in the Preliminary Report, specifically whether they would achieve the goals of a fairer system, would be improved by certain modifications, or should be enhanced with additional recommendations. Presently scheduled are sessions for New Yorkers in
Staten Island at 6 PM on Tuesday, May 11th
Brooklyn at 6 PM on Thursday, May 27th
Anyone wishing to testify must register no later than 24 hours in advance on the Commission's website
It is important that home owners in cooperatives and condominiums participate in these hearings with specific comments on the recommendations in the report.

At the May 5 meeting of the Action Committee for Reasonable Real Estate Taxes the recommendations in the Advisory Commission Report will be discussed.

ASSEMBLY MEMBER DAN QUART INTRODUCES ABATEMENT EXTENDER
Legislation to extend the Property Tax Abatement program for qualifying home owners in New York City cooperatives and condominiums for two years in its present form has been introduced in the Assembly by Dan Quart (A.7126). CNYC strongly supports this legislation, while still requesting for a longer extender. Please encourage your Albany representatives to support this vital extender.

Since all designated funds have not yet been allocated, the Small Business Administration has extended the deadline to apply for Paycheck Protection Program Loans (qualifying portions of which can be converted to grants). These loans are available to housing cooperatives that have suffered financial loss due to the pandemic. For more information click here

The NYC Accelerator is back after a covid-imposed suspension. Launched in 2012 by the Mayors Office of Sustainability, this program provides advice and guidance to help buildings all across the City to lower pollution and carbon emissions. Experts at NYC Accelerator are prepared to help your building with clear explanations of compliance requirements, technical assistance, short and long term planning, information about financial incentives, and help finding skilled service providers. On Tuesday morning, April 20th from 9:30 to 10:00, the NYC Accelerator will conduct a Virtual Reconnect, where you can learn about how the program can help meet your building's needs. You will be able to schedule a one-on-one appointment with an energy expert. Click here to register.

Local Law 152 of 2016 requires all buildings to file certification of periodic inspection of exposed gas piping in non-tenant spaces performed by a licensed master plumber or a qualified individual working under the direct and continuing supervision of a licensed master plumber. This individual must certify whether conditions requiring correction were identified and whether additional time is required to correct those conditions. Compliance is staggered as described in the following chart and must repeated every four years

If the building does not contain a gas piping system a registered design professional (Professional Engineer or Registered Architect) must submit to the Department of Buildings on its online portal a Gas Piping System Periodic Inspection Certification stating that the building does not contain gas piping by December 31, 2021 that

As had been promised, the State budget sheltered housing cooperatives from any increase in the Capital Base Tax and followed prior phase out legislation in reducing this tax to zero for housing cooperatives, beginning this year.

PLEASSE ENCOURAGE YOUR ALBANY REPRESENTATIVES TO EXTEND THE COOP/CONDO ABATEMENT
The abatement program for qualifying home owners in housing cooperatives and condominiums sunsets on June 30, 2021 and needs to be extended. Because the Advisory Commission charged with suggesting property tax reform for New York City was unable to complete its work, CNYC asks your vocal support for a four year extender of the abatement program to give the new City administration time to address property tax reform. The abatement was enacted in 1996 as a first step towards property tax fairness for home owners in NYC cooperatives and condominiums; it has been repeatedly extended since that time and was modified in 2013 to apply only where the cooperative or condominium is the primary residence of its owner. Adjustments made that year also give higher percentage of abatement to homes of lower assessed value. At this writing, no legislation has yet been introduced. Updates will be provided at our April 21st Informational meeting and the May 5th Meeting of the Action Committee for Reasonable Real Estate Taxes.

PLEASE SUPPORT REVERSE MORTGATES FOR SENIORS IN HOUSING COOPERATIVES
In December of 2019, Governor Cuomo vetoed legislation that would have enabled seniors in New York housing cooperatives to tap the equity in their homes through reverse mortgages -- an option available to seniors in single family homes and in condominiums. The veto message expressed concern that HUD would not oversee these loans. Assembly member Dinowitz and Senator Biaggi have reintroduced their legislation (A.1508/S.760) which they hope to amend to meet the Governor's concern. The Covid pandemic has significantly increased the need for such legislation to enable seniors to afford to live out their lives in the cooperatives that have long been their homes.

LEGISLATION IS NEEDED TO CLARIFY THAT PART M of HSTPA DOES NOT APPLY TO COOPERATIVES
Stringent rent legislation passed in 2019 includes a Part M, which applies to ‘all leases'. Because cooperatives have Proprietary Leases, prudence has dictated that cooperatives comply with Part M until such time that it is clarified that Part M does not apply to housing cooperatives. A.4199 Braunstein/S.5105 Liu would accomplish this important goal.

PLEASE HELP CNYC OPPOSE LEGISLATION TO CONTROL THE ADMISSIONS PROCESS IN COOPERATIVES
Three bills seek to control the admissions process which is vital to a cooperative's ability to welcome members who will share in the responsibility of operating their home and their community. CNYC opposed these attempts to impose a one-size-fits all time frame on the admissions process and to require reasons when candidates are denied admission. Please ask your Albany law makers to oppose passage of S.1449- Saunders/A.6510 Walker, which would amend Civil Rights law to require reasons when an applicant is not accepted by a cooperative, A.5856 Lavine/S.2846 Kavanaugh, which imposes time frames on the process, and A.1623 Perry/S.2874 Kavanagh, which imposes both time frame and reasons requirement.

‘REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION' NOTIFICATION REQUIRED - BUT DEADLINE POSTPONED
New York State Human Rights law was amended in December to require that tenants and prospective tenants - including shareholders and unit owners - be proactively notified of their right to ‘reasonable accommodation' for physical or mental disabilities. Notice was to be provided by April 1st, but Governor Cuomo has postponed this deadline pending the promulgation of rules by the Division of Human Rights (with a common period before the rules are implemented). CNYC will keep members apprised of progress.

COOPERATIVES NOT TO FACE CAPITAL BASE TAX INCREASE
As we prepare this notice, State budget negotiations are still ongoing, but CNYC has had assurances that housing cooperatives are not the target of any increase in the Capital Base Tax that may be part of this budget.

PLEASE HELP PUSH TO EXTEND THE PROPERTY TAX ABATEMENT
The top priority of CNYC and the Action Committee for Reasonable Real Estate Taxes is to ensure a multi-year extender of the Property Tax Abatement Program for Qualifying Home Owners in NYC Cooperatives and Condominiums before its sunset date of June 30, 2021. This program was initiated in 1996 as a small first step toward property tax fairness for these home owners, while awaiting a long term plan to treat all New York City taxpayers fairly and equitably. In the intervening years, abatement program has been extended multiple times, while still awaiting tax reform. The pandemic halted efforts by the latest Commission convened for this purpose. We are hopeful that a 4 year extender of the abatement program would give the new city administration time to put forth a fair and equitable property tax plan for New York City. Please urge your Albany representatives to support a 4 year extender of the abatement.

STATE YOUR OPPOSITION TO ALL BILLS SEEKING TO CONTROL CO-OP ADMISSIONS
Listed on the CNYC website and described in previous e-blasts are a number of bills that seek to impose time frames on co-op admissions and to require reasons when candidates are rejected. CNYC has long argued that there cannot be a one-size-fits-all framework for this important procedure for ensuring prospective member of the cooperative community are qualified. Please urge your elected representatives to cease sponsorship of such legislation and to oppose any that come before them.

Please contact their local offices, introduce yourself, tell them about your cooperative or condominium and ways that they could be helpful to you. Suggest that they might come to one of your meetings or social events once we get past the pandemic. In your conversation, please be sure to make the following points.

ASSESSMENTS FOR FISCAL 2021/2022
On January15th the Department of Finance published the tax rolls for Fiscal 2021/2022, While the new assessments are significantly lower than those for the prior year, it must be noted that last January's assessments predated the Covid-19 Pandemic and were therefore an increase over the prior year. Multi-family buildings have until March 1st to protest their assessments by filing appropriate forms with the City. This will be a topic at the February 10th meeting of the Action Committee for Reasonable Real Estate Taxes as will the urgent importance of a strong grass roots effort with Albany law makers to ensure that the property tax abatement program for qualifying home owners in housing cooperatives and condominiums will be extended beyond its June 30, 2021 sunset date.

EXEMPTIONS APPLICATIONS MUST BE FILES WITH DoF BY MARCH 15th
Please remind those who have received NYC exemptions as qualifying seniors, veterans, clergy or people with disabilities in your cooperative or condominium that they must now register annually with the Department of Financer in order to continue to qualify. Details are posted on the CNYC website.

SOME LENDERS IMPOSE CONDITIONS ON PPP APPLICATIONS
As housing cooperatives make application for PPP Loans, some lenders are requiring personal information about shareholders. Senator Schumer and Representative Nydia Velasquez are looking into the matter on our behalf.

PLEASE SUPPORT REVERSE MORTGAGE LEGISLATION
Assembly member Dinowitz and State Senator Biaggi have reintroduced the reverse mortgage legislation that they piloted through the legislature last year, only to have it vetoed by Governor Cuomo. The pandemic has further accentuated the urgent need for seniors in housing cooperatives to be able to access the equity in their homes through reverse mortgages in order to afford to stay in their homes. Please call your State Senator and Assemblymember and ask that they support A.1508/S.760 which would enable seniors in housing cooperatives to access reverse mortgages.

PLEASE HELP CNYC OPPOSE LEGISLATION INIMICAL TO CO-OPS & CONDOS
In these early days of the new legislative session, lawmakers are re-introducing legislation that CNYC has opposed in the past. The following five have already been introduced in this session. As more appear, CNYC will share their bill numbers with you. Please contact your State Senator and Assembly representative and ask that they oppose these bills. If they are the sponsors, please explain to them how the law they are proposing would be detrimental to your condominium or cooperative.

HOUSING COOPERATIVES SUFFERING FINANCIAL LOSS DUE TO COVID ARE NOW ELIGIBLE FOR PPP LOAN PROGRAM

The Small Business Administration, in consultation with the Treasury Department, has recently released additional PPP forms and guidance:

SBA, in consultation with the Treasury Department, has recently released additional PPP guidance:

The long debated and long awaited Federal Stimulus legislation passed last night provides help to individuals, hospitals, and businesses, extending and expanding Small Business Administration lending programs, enhancing vaccine distribution, and providing funds to bolster public transportation, cultural institutions and restaurants. Senator Chuck Schumer has worked relentlessly to bring this relief to the people and institutions of our nation.

When the first stimulus bill was passed last March, we learned to our dismay that cooperative housing was not zeligible for the SBA PPP loans that were made available to businesses. Senator Schumer and the New York Congressional delegation made sure that the HEROES Act passed by the House of Representatives in May included a provision correcting this. And the stimulus passed by both Senate and House yesterday expands PPP eligibility to housing cooperatives. If your cooperative has experienced financial hardship due to the pandemic, consult with management or with your bank to be prepared to apply once the SBA website is updated to provide forms.

The board and staff of CNYC wish you and your families a pleasant, prudent holiday season and a happy, healthy New Year. Let's all remember to thank the people who helped make this incredibly difficult year more bearable.

On Wednesday at 1PM two committees of the City Council will consider Int. No. 1146-B which would require all existing buildings over 40 feet in height to retrofit their entire interior with sprinkler systems within a nine year period and to provide interim reports along the way. The astronomical cost of such an endeavor is equaled only by the stress of chopping into each and every room in the building to install the sprinkler system. CNYC will testify in opposition to this bill.

Most of the affected buildings are non-combustible. The FDNY has a sterling record for its quick response, its ability to quickly control fires within affected apartments and to save lives.

Mandating the tremendous capital expenditure for sprinklers will surely divert scarce funds and attention from other urgent goals of carbon reduction, energy conservation, etc. with minimal impact on public safety.

Please contact your City Council representative and ask that they oppose Int. No. 1146-B. The Real Estate Board of New York has shared this helpful link which quickly gives you the address of your own Council members plus the sponsors of this legislation. https://www.votervoice.net/REBNY/campaigns/78372/respond

Int. No. 1146-B is one of fifteen pieces of legislation that will be considered at this hearing, which you can watch at https://council.nyc.gov/livestream in Room 2. Written testimony may be submitted by e-mail to testimony@council.nyc.gov up to 72 hours after the close of the hearing.

All initial and renewal benefit applications must be submitted to the Department of Finance (DOF) by the March 15, 2021, deadline.

Property owners who have questions about the renewal applications should contact the Department of Finance at recertify@finance.nyc.gov, or call 311.

More information about the various programs and applications is available on DOF's Benefits for Property Owners webpage.

The Department of Finance has mailed a total of 38,620 renewal reminder notices to these populations, comprising 35,836 SCHE notices and 2,784 DHE notices.

The clergy exemption must be renewed annually. Clergy property tax exemption renewal applications have been mailed to 1,321 clergy exemption recipients. Completed applications must be returned to DOF by March 15, 2021.

Click here for the location of your early voting place and the times that it will be open.

FDNY promulgated rules many years ago requiring property owners to distribute signs to residents stating whether their buildings were combustible or non-combustible and listing procedures to cope with a fire in each case. These notices were to be affixed to the inside of the front door of apartments, but CNYC and others were successful at the time in arranging that the boards of cooperatives and condominiums would simply be responsible for distributing the notices to residents and replacing them if requested.

New FDNY rules now seek to better ensure that Fire Safety Notices are in place. They require owners of multiple dwellings (or their representatives) to inspect each dwelling unit at least once evey three years to confirm the presence of a Fire Safety Notice in every unit and to replace missing or damaged notices. In a multiple dwelling with a cooperative or condominium form of ownership, the FDNY offers the alternative that the shareholder or unit owner either post the notice that the board provides or signs a written certification that includes a statement from the Fire Department regarding the importance of the Fire Safety Notice confirming that they have received the Fire Safety Notice.

If a shareholder or unit fails to return the certification which confirms that the fire safety notice has been received and is posted on the inside of the mail entrance to their apartment, the board must have the unit inspected and any missing Fire Safety Notice replaced.

In April of 2019, the City Council passed several laws that further strengthen the City's strict lead paint requirements and better protect young children from lead paint poisoning . Local Laws 66 and 70 are of direct concern if your building was built before 1960, when lead paint was outlawed in New York.

Local law 66 lowers by 50% the allowable blood lead levels triggering concern in small children and similarly reduces acceptable levels of lead in paint,, paint chips and lead dust on floors and window sills. As of June 1, 2021 the lead dust definition for floors and window sills will be further reduced. This means that units and buildings that have previously qualified as Lead Free by XRF testing may have to be retested to ensure that they meet the new requirements.

Local Law 70 expands lead inspection and record keeping requirements in all multiple dwellings built before 1960 where a child under 6 resides. It expands the definition of ‘resides' to include any dwelling where a child under 6 spends 10 hours or more per week. Apartment units meeting these qualification are to be inspected annually for deteriorating lead paint and any problems found must be remedied at once, using approved protocols (including certified contractors for work covering more than two square feet) and a dust wipe clearance at the end of every job. Records of every lead related job are to be maintained for a period of 10 years and can be audited by HPD at any time. HPD has developed forms which can be used (but are not required) for this record keeping.

When an apartment where a child under six resides is a cooperative or a condominiums, responsibility for this inspection and remediation belong to the shareholder or unit owner who owns the unit, but, if the unit is rented, the board is now responsible for ensuring that both inspection and remediation take place.

Individual units or whole buildings can become exempt from the annual inspection requirement after an XRF inspection applying the new maximal allowable lead levels results in certification that they are LEAD FREE (For further information visit safework@health.nyc.gov).

The New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is offering funding for water efficiency projects through the Water Conservation and Reuse Grant Pilot Program. The Program reimburses water efficiency projects totaling greater than $50,000 on a single private property that include conventional fixture retrofits and/or innovative water saving technologies, such as on-site water reuse. It is anticipated that up to $1 million will be available, to be distributed amongst selected applicants that agree to the terms of DEP's Grant Funding Agreement.

NEW STIMULUS - STILL NO PPP LOANS FOR HOUSING COOPERATIVES OR CONDOMINIUMS NOR FUNDING FOR STATES

Yesterday Congress passed a new injection of federal stimulus funding; although funding available for hospitals and small businesses is greatly enhanced, the legislation did not alter eligibility to include housing cooperatives and condominiums for Payroll Protection Plan (PPP) loans. New York lawmakers continue efforts to correct this in the next stimulus legislation. CNYC thanks members for your efforts to make this a priority with your elected officials, and ask that you continue to do so. A resolution introduced on Wednesday in the City Council by Queens Council Member Paul Vallone (Res 1289) calls upon Congress to help housing cooperatives and condominiums. The resolution is co-sponsored by 24 other Council Members. Please make sure that your Council member supports this resolution as you continue to raise this issue with your Washington representatives as well.

Additional funding was allocated to the Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) program, which may now be able to fund more loans that housing cooperatives and condominiums seek. Unlike the PPP loan, where a portion of the loan is eligible for forgiveness, EIDL loans simply defer the commencement of interest payments (which cannot exceed 4%) and have a term of up to 30 years.

This stimulus does not provide any funding to help states defer the enormous unanticipated expenses of fighting this pandemic. Please include in your message to Congress the plea that funding be provided to the states in proportion to the costs of fighting Coronavirus.

With the City budget and personnel stretched by the demands of Coronavirus, the Department of Sanitation has had to suspend curbside pick-up of organics as of May 4th, scheduling the program to recommence at the end of June of 2021. The RefashioNYC program is also suspended as no new pick-up appointments are being scheduled due to current Coronavirus concerns.

CNYC has also cancelled evening meetings in these difficult times. We are now exploring postponement dates for the meetings scheduled in May. These will soon be posted on the CNYC website. We hope to see you in person at many of those events.

CARES ACT CURRENTLY DOES NOT ALLOW HOUSING COOPERATIVES OR CONDOMINIUMS TO ACCESS PAYROLL PROTECTION PROGRAM LOANS

Interim Regulations issued Thursday night (April 2) by the Small Business Administration state that "Businesses that are primarily engaged in owning or purchasing real estate and leasing it for any purpose are not eligible" and that "Apartment buildings and mobile home parks are not eligible", and that "Residential facilities that do not provide healthcare and/or medical services are not eligible."

Locally and throughout the country groups are working to change this to enable housing cooperatives and condominiums to access these loans. Our communities should have this much needed help to keep afloat in these trying times!

Please contact your Congressional Representative and U.S. Senators and ask that they expand the CARES act to enable housing cooperatives and condominiums to access PPP Loans. Point out the lost or deferred revenue you are facing and the extra expenses the pandemic is imposing on the functioning of your community. Ask also that additional funding be provided, since the current program will soon be depleted.

Use this link to Democracy.io to find your Members of Congress and contact them TODAY! https://democracy.io/#!/

As the challenging days of empty streets and social distancing continue, a variety of concerns arise in our community. CNYC will try to provide some direction here on frequently asked questions we have received.

STAFFING YOUR BUILDING
Building service workers have been acknowledged as essential service providers and management companies have been working diligently to keep buildings running as smoothly as possible, and Local 32BJ whose members work in many of our buildings has been very cooperative in helping meet issues as they arise, as have other unions.

CNYC members run the gamut from small, self-managed buildings to large buildings with the unionized workforce. Our smaller members are using creative strategies to meet the challenges inherent in ‘shelter in place' orders and the need for enhanced cleanliness. Larger members are facilitating temporary pandemic-related work arrangements to meet essential needs without compromising worker protection. Relevant agreements may be found on the website of the Realty Advisory Board on Labor Relations Inc. (the RAB) at www.rabolr.com in the box at the right about COVID-19; these add flexibility to your ability to adjust schedules either to allow longer hours in fewer days for some staff members (with their agreement) or to stagger shifts for better social distancing.

If members of your own staff are not able to come to work and you seek reliable help in keeping the building clean, on the RAB website in the COVID-19 box the title Contractors has a list of companies that clean office buildings whose workers would be happy for temporary work during the pandemic.

PAYMENT ISSUES
The shocking increase in unemployment over the past two weeks affects our community. Cooperatives and condominiums with retail and professional space are receiving requests for deferral or abatement of rents. Shareholders and unit owners experiencing economic hardship may not be able to make full maintenance payments on time. These factors can threaten the ability of the cooperative or condominium to make timely payments itself.

Boards need to anticipate the likely impact of this prolonged emergency on their residents and finances and develop to manage these challenges. Encourage shareholders/unit owners to discuss their situation - with management or the board treasurer - early rather than fail to pay carrying charges. Try to be practical and accommodating in structuring payment plans.

Commercial tenants forced to close or to severely curtail their revenue-producing operations may be able to make partial payments during the pandemic, and then quickly get up and running afterwards.

ANNUAL MEETING
Another casualty of the pandemic is the Annual Meeting which many cooperatives and condominiums hold in the spring. Many are simply postponing their Annual Meeting to the summer or fall, while others are arranging virtual Annual Meetings. Either should be acceptable (check with your attorney regarding necessary specifics).

Whether online or in-person, your Annual Meeting this year should be the occasion to report on the special efforts of staff and management - and, yes, the board! - and their ingenuity and goodwill in meeting the many challenges of this unprecedented situation.

Governor Cuomo's Executive Order requiring a 100% reduction in on-site personnel for non-essential businesses specifically lists as ESSENTIAL SERVICES those of cleaning and maintaining buildings as well as security functions.

STAFFING YOUR BUILDING DURING THE PANDEMIC
While your cooperative or condominium is surely considering various scenarios that could occur in the rapidly changing landscape of the coronavirus pandemic, the Executive Order makes it clear that those service employees who are able to come to your building have a right to do so.
Consider providing a letter to each employee confirming that their presence is essential to the running of your building. Remember to thank your employees for their service to your building and to be considerate of those unable to appear because of the illness or of child care issues.

Efforts are underway to compile lists of individuals willing to fill in to help keep buildings clean and safe during this crisis when they are unable to go to work at their regular jobs. CNYC will keep members advised as these lists become available. Details will also be found on the website of the Realty Advisory Board on Labor Relations Inc. (The RAB) at www.RABOLR.com.

HOW MULTI-FAMILY BUILDING OWNERS, COOP AND CONDO BOARDS, AND MANAGING AGENTS SHOULD DEAL WITH COVID-19

Owners of multi-family buildings, boards of condominiums and cooperatives and their managing agents should be aware of their legal obligations that arise from the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). In general, owners, board members and managing agents must do what a reasonably prudent person would do when faced with a similar problem. The federal, state and city governments and their agencies are recommending procedures to be followed to minimize health risks to the public and to employees, to deal with individuals infected with the COVID-19 virus, and to be followed by those having come into close contact with such individuals. Deviating significantly from these standards can result in potential claims.

The Center for Disease Control (the "CDC") maintains that a majority of people have a low risk of being exposed to the COVID-19 virus. The CDC detailed that the following individuals are at an elevated risk of exposure to COVID-19:

New York State has declared a state of emergency due to the increasing number of COVID-19 cases in our state. Until we are advised that the virus is under control and the state of emergency has been ended, we believe that all multi-family buildings and managing agents are expected to implement reasonable procedures and protocols in order to mitigate risks and potential claims. We recommend that the following steps be taken in most situations.

I. Standard Protocols for keeping Buildings, Building Staff and Residents Safe

A. Building and Resident Safety

GOVERNOR'S VETO DASHES CURRENT HOPES FOR REVERSE MORTGAGES FOR SENIORS IN CO-OPS

On Friday the 13th, Governor Cuomo issued his Veto #213, disappointing hundreds of seniors who supported this important legislation as they aged in place in New York housing cooperatives. Many of these seniors call CNYC on a regular basis for progress reports on the legislation that would have enabled them to live out their lives in the homes and communities dear to them. Now many will be forced to sell their cooperatives for the funds to cover their living and medical expenses in their ‘golden years".

CNYC has worked for years to enable seniors in housing cooperatives to use the equity in their homes through reverse mortgages. This year, Assembly Member Jeff Dinowitz and Committee Chair Kenneth Zembrowski, brought together organizations such as AARP and those involved specifically with mortgage foreclosure prevention. All those involved recognized the vital need to help seniors in housing cooperatives. We worked with good will to understand one another's concerns and to produce legislation with ample consumer protections.

With our thanks to the law makers and organizations who worked for this important legislation, and deepest aplogies to the seniors whose hopes have been dashed by this veto, please know that CNYC will continue its efforts to enable seniors in housing cooperatives to access reverse mortgage-type loans.

Congressman Jerrold Nadler (NY-10) has issued the following press release following the introduction of the Disaster Assistance Equity Act for common interest communities including cooperatives and condominiums:

Washington, D.C. - Today, Congressman Jerrold Nadler (NY-10) introduced H.R. 5337, the Disaster Assistance Equity Act, along with Representatives David Rouzer (NC-7), Joe Cunningham (SC-1), Lee Zeldin (NY-1), Eliot Engel (NY-16), and Peter King (NY-2). This bipartisan legislation will ensure that common interest communities, including co-ops and condominiums, are eligible for the same FEMA assistance available to other homeowners.

The bill accomplishes this by making two key changes to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief Act:

"Seven years ago, thousands of New Yorkers and other Americans were shocked to learn that FEMA's eligibility rules left them with no way of restoring their homes in the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy," said Congressman Jerrold Nadler. "Since that time, common interest communities across the country have faced similar hardships. This is simply unacceptable. A natural disaster doesn't care what type of home you live in, and FEMA should treat all homeowners equally. I am proud to join Representatives Rouzer, Cunningham, Zeldin, Engel, and King in re-introducing this critical bill, which will ensure that every American can rebuild their home after a natural disaster."

Since June, when the Housing Stability and Tenant Protection Act of 2019 (HSTPA) became State law, inadvertently including housing cooperatives in stringent new provisions imposed by Part M on "all leases", CNYC has urged members to contact theirAlbany lawmakers to seek clarifying legislation exempting cooperatives from Part M.

HSTPA is directed at protecting tenants in landlord/tenant situations. Coopertatives are swept into Part M of HSTPA only because the relationship between shareholders and the cooperative is governed by a ‘lease' - the proprietary lease. However, the relationship is not the same as that between landlords and rental tenants. In a cooperative the shareholders are also the owners.

Iimplementing Part M against cooperatives will have a materially adverse impact on the ability of cooperativess to function efficiently, will increase the cost of operations, decrease fee income causing increases to operating budgets, and will reduce the quality of life for residents.

Please continue to work for the exemption of cooperatives from Part M of HSTPA. Here are petitions that your board or your shareholders can complete and return to CNYC to help show the grass roots strength behind our push for legislation to exempt cooperatives from Part M. If your board opts to circulate the petition to shareholders, here is a sample letter that you may wish to use.

New York State law requires that Con Edison perform an inspection of all gas service lines from the service to the outlet of the meter. This aligns the state with federal code. Customers in business districts must be surveyed every 15 months and residential districts every 36 months.

The inspection work will include a gas leakage survey and a visual inspection for atmospheric corrosion on all exposed piping to the outlet of the Con Edison gas meter inside each home or building.

How often are you finding a safety concern? We're very worried about being turned off

We have found very little corrosion (less than 0.5%) and a low percentage of leaks (less than 3 percent). Of the leaks we have found, most of them have been easily remedied. Actual shutdowns of service have been extremely rare. Our primary concern is the safety of your building and residents, but the results from tens of thousands of inspections that have been completed thus far show that you do not need to fear the inspection process.

What happens if I refuse to have an inspection done?
Since this inspection work is required by law, if we are unable to gain access, a $500 no-access fee will be charged to each account.

Who can I call to schedule an appointment?
We have hired a contractor, Precision Pipeline Solutions, to assist us with performing this work. All Precision Pipeline Solutions technicians carry a Con Edison photo ID. For your safety, if you would like to verify the status of the contractor at your door, you can call 1-800-75 CONED.

You can help us obtain access by calling the following numbers to schedule an appointment.

The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene ("DOHMH" or "the Department") is writing to inform you that effective June 11th, NYC will have new lower lead in dust standards. Local Law 66 of 2019 outlines new lead reference/action levels and standards relating to lead-based paint hazards.

The new standards for lead dust clearance and lead dust hazard risk assessment testing in New York City are as follows:

The new standards apply to all clearance dust wipe samples collected in New York City on or after June 11, 2019. Please see the attached document for more important information.

Should you have any questions about the above requirements, please email questions to the DOHMH's Healthy Homes Program at safework@health.nyc.gov referencing "New lead in dust standards." Please also provide your name and phone number with your inquiry.

DEP is launching a new Water Conservation and Reuse Grant program this July. Conservation projects must propose a one million gallon water saving per year and will cover costs for replacement of inefficient fixtures and more. Building owners may save substantial costs by participating. Applications will be open till October.

On May 18th the City Council has passed Int. 1253-C which Mayor DeBlasio is expected to sign into law on Earth Day, April 22nd. While well-intentioned, this legislation unfairly forces larger coop and condo buildings to bear a disproportionate share of the burden of reducing the City's carbon footprint by 40% in 2030 and 80 % in 2050. CNYC members whose buildings are 25,000 square feet or larger and have no rent regulated tenants will be forced to invest millions of dollars to meet greenhouse gas emission caps or face draconian fines, making necessary capital improvements even further out of reach.

CNYC will continue to advocate for an approach that includes all buildings, setting realistic but challenging goals for progressive percentage reductions in energy use and carbon output. As the legislation is implemented, CNYC will continue to work for these modifications.

STATE BUDGET EXPANDS TAXATION OF REAL PROPERTY INCREASING TRANSFER FEES ON LARGE REAL ESTATE SALES

New York State has delivered a budget on time, and one that depends in part on an escalating transfer taxes on the sales of individual homes, cooperatives, condominiums.

The This Real Property Transfer Tax is payable by the seller. The rate of this tax is 0.4% of one percent of the purchase price up to $2,9999,99. This tax has been increased for sales of $3 million dollars and more to or more the tax is 0.65% of the purchase price.

The "Mansion Tax" to be paid by the purchaser is increased from 1% for all residential sales of over $1 million dollars in municipalities of more than a million people to

This graduated transfer tax supplants the proposed pied-a-terre tax that has been extensively discussed in the press.

In 2018 both the NYS Legislature and the NYC Council adopted new legislation to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace. Guidance and information on the new requirements, which apply to ALL employers, are available at CNYC's November 11 Conference in "Anti-Harassment Policies and Training: Don't be the Next Headline."

NYC Building Operator Training:
No-Cost Energy Efficiency Training for Multifamily Operations & Maintenance

Get FREE LED lighting upgrades for common areas in your multifamily building (5+ units) and save big. Last year, Con-Ed upgraded 450 buildings - at no cost to the customer - saving each building an average of $4,300 in electric costs each year.

Read the latest NYC ZeroWaste newsletter, with information on how to "Dispose of Harmful Household Products" and "Schedule Electronics Pick-ups".

CNYC accepts VISA, MASTERCARD and DISCOVER credit card payment for membership, subscriptions and event registrations.