Lawsuit against NYC zoning changes filed in Staten Island

Dozens of politicians and community groups have filed a lawsuit against Mayor Eric Adams' administration over its zoning changes. The 60-page suit was submitted in Staten Island Supreme Court. It claims the city rushed through significant alterations to zoning laws without considering environmental impacts. The coalition includes members of the Council’s Common Sense Caucus, community organizations from all five boroughs, and other lawmakers, like Staten Island Representative Nicole Malliotakis. The lawsuit criticizes the “City of Yes” housing plan, which aims to add 80,000 housing units in 15 years. The plan would loosen restrictions on parking and allow apartments above stores and in basements. It also includes a $5 billion investment for building new homes. Supporters, including Adams, view the plan as historic, passing the Council with a 31-20 vote after extensive negotiations. Critics argue the changes do not respect environmental laws and threaten the character of neighborhoods. Curtis Sliwa, a Republican mayoral candidate who is part of the lawsuit, called the initiative a "land grab" that disregards working class interests. He insisted that New Yorkers will not be ignored by their government.