The petition
The coordinated effort to sell a "bad deal" with good public relations has not worked. The Harlem Community is neither preserved nor protected by the negotiated modifications to the 125th St. Rezoning Proposal.
The negotiations FAILED the Harlem Community in the following ways. As modified, the plan
◘ increases the number of new housing units by 49% of the original proposal, from 2600 units to 3875 units,
◘ accounts for only 29% income-targeted housing, not the 46% touted in the negotiations press release,
◘ fails to accomplish the universal community demand for building height restrictions at 130ft. The Hotel Theresa, the capstone of the Harlem Community is 160ft,
◘ guarantees profits ($1,000,000)for brokers, while guaranteeing less ($750,000) in loans for the 71 businesses to be displaced,
◘ provides no affordable right of return for displaced businesses, and
◘ ignores the historic, cultural and political significance of 125th St's international recognition as an African American enclave.
We urge a No vote by the City Council on the 125th St Rezoning proposal such that a new planning process may begin — one that is an inclusive, empowering and rejuvenating redevelopment plan that stabilizes and honors the existing long-term residents and small business owners of the Harlem Community.
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