As the Republican-led Senate introduces legislation that could be the basis for a “big ugly” compromise on the 421a tax abatement, the coalition of organizations pushing for a prevailing wage is distancing itself from SEIU 32BJ’s opposition to the measure.
In a statement, SEIU President Hector Figueroa this week criticized the proposal — which also includes a linking of rent control regulations for New York City — as “an insult” and a “gift to the 1 percent.”
“We are telling the Legislature and the governor that they cannot leave Albany without passing an expanded 421-a program that increases affordability requirements and expands wage and benefits standards for building workers. Instead of engaging in a real discussion of those issues, both houses of the Legislature have offered proposals in the last few days that would only increase income inequality in our city,” Figueroa said. “Time is running out and we urge the Legislature and Governor Cuomo to show their commitment to good jobs and affordable housing by coming to an agreement that works for all of New York City’s working families.”
But UP4NYC’s Pat Purcell, the executive director of the GNY LECET Laborers & Employers Cooperation and Education Trust, disagreed with SEIU 32BJ’s approach to the measure, and called the rhetoric from the labor group unhelpful.
“I respect 32BJ for many reasons, but their rhetoric isn’t helpful right now,” he said in a statement. “This critical juncture is not the time for divisive stunts. The Senate bill acknowledges that wage standards must be part of any long-term solution on 421-a, and has identified a pathway for negotiations – all parties should consider a six month extender to fix a broken public subsidy program. Public funds should have public responsibilities – 421-a was intended to help working families – both with more affordable units, and by paying workers a prevailing wage. Everyone agrees it’s broken and wealthy developers are getting too much for too little. Let’s put standards on the bill that are fair to all working class New Yorkers, and not just a select few whose leadership is out of touch with the current situation.”
New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio sought to expand affordable housing in a 421a tax abatement renewal, but did not include a prevailing wage component for the construction industry, though a service industry prevailing was included.
Rent control and the abatement expired last week for several days and was renewed on a temporary basis. Both measures expire tonight at midnight.