by Cindy Goldstein -
Just one year ago the Village of Mamaroneck Board of Trustees (BOT) established the 7 member Ad Hoc Task Force on Fair and Affordable Housing. They were charged with 4 tasks: 1) explore and recommend strategies to increase housing options, 2) to describe and quantify the need for and benefits of affordable housing, 3) the definition of affordable housing, and 4) why Village residents should care about it and increase community “buy-in.” See Resolution HERE.
The BOT determined the group was needed after the Hunter Tier affordable housing project was paused due partially to the lack of community support. The proposed project was also criticized due to lack of transparency and process which raised the ire of residents.
Task Force Presents Phase 1 Findings
On February 25, 2025, the Task Force held a public meeting to present the results of their review of reports and studies needed to answer basic questions about affordable housing. Chairperson Andrene Smith kicked it off by giving some background and introduced members of the Task Force who each presented portions of the report. A snapshot of the Village of Mamaroneck shows that almost 1,500 households are spending more (and sometimes much more) than 30% of their total income on housing and utilities. Both renters and homeowners are impacted: 32% of homeowners and 45% of renters are cost burdened resulting in 37% of all households. See Presentation HERE. See full report HERE.
Benefits of AH
Some overall community benefits to affordable housing (AH) include economic vitality and growth, job creation, enhanced public safety and social stability and sustainability. Flooding issues can also be addressed with stormwater management controls required in both new and renovated units. More residents in safe, secure and affordable housing leads to less stress and more disposable income available to spend in the community. The reports also describe how property values in both high and lower income areas increase and that property tax revenue increases.
Addressing Community Concerns
Chair Smith outlined four common concerns for affordable housing: 1) school enrollment, 2) density and parking, 3) infrastructure and services, and 4) stereotypes and misconceptions. She explained that there is no quota for AH in the Village of Mamaroneck and although there are 4,370 affordable units there are still 2,574 households in crisis.
Data presented shows that AH units do not add many children to the school district. A Village parking study from 10 years ago needs to be updated but studies show that AH residents have fewer cars. Smith stressed the need for proper planning of any real estate project but that there are significant benefits “across the board.”
Money from NYS
Governor Kathy Hochul has set aside $750 million of grant money available to communities who are Pro Housing Communities. The funds would be available for building/renovating AH along with necessary infrastructure and other improvements. Mayor Sharon Torres said the Village has applied for this status.
Phase 2 Begins
The Task Force continues its work and expects to present recommendations to BOT. Follow their progress HERE.
