The fact that our government often subsidizes the profits of big corporations instead of investing in our communities isn’t new, but it’s time that we say enough is enough.  How are we going to tackle the tough problems facing our country when our state and local governments—often the places where we can make the greatest impact—are unaccountable and unable to implement the change we need?

New York City’s government frequently greenlights massive redevelopment projects that rely on millions of taxpayer dollars.  In one of the most expensive cities in the world, projects that reshape entire neighborhoods get approved without considering if they will meet community needs, or deliver good jobs and affordable housing. 

New York Jobs with Justice was part of a coalition that fought back during the rezoning of Coney Island to win significant community benefits, including 35% affordable housing units, money  to renovate the local hospital’s emergency room, land for a new school, and much more.

Right now, the Kingsbridge Armory project in the Bronx will saddle a community desperate for good jobs with a shopping complex that will create 1,200 permanent, primarily poverty-wage, part-time, no-benefit retail jobs unless NYC residents take action. The New York City Industrial Development

Continue reading Fighting for Accountable Development in NYC & Beyond