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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 15, 2002
PR-269-02
www.nyc.gov


MAYOR MICHAEL R. BLOOMBERG SIGNS BILL TO STRENGHTHEN BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICTS


Remarks by Mayor Bloomberg at a Public Hearing on Local Laws


"The first bill before me today is Introductory Number 248-A, sponsored at my request by Council Members Weprin, Comrie, Jackson, Kopell, Monserrate and Nelson. The bill authorizes an increase in the amount to be expended annually in nineteen of the City's forty-four Business Improvement Districts (BIDs). BIDs are a proven example of how public/private partnerships can promote economic development. This bill will further the fundamental role that BIDs have played in the renaissance of New York City.

"BIDs are community organizations that are voluntarily formed to promote business development and improve quality of life in neighborhoods across the City. Established by local law, BIDs are self-funded through assessments on property owners located within the BID and provide services such as sidewalk sweeping, public safety officers, street landscaping and guides for restaurants and shopping in the district. The City's Department of Business Services oversees the BID program. The services provided to the communities have been essential to ensuring those small businesses and the neighborhoods in which they operate are given every opportunity to succeed. This bill is necessary because operating costs have increased and BIDs have plans for enhanced services and programs for their communities. Most of these BIDs have not increased their budgets for at least four years and this is the first increase for six of the BIDs.

"BIDs have played an integral role in the economic development of our neighborhoods and signing this bill is indicative of the support my Administration is providing to the key role BIDs will play in the City's future growth."

 

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Contact: Edward Skyler / Jerry Russo
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