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Press Conference 56k or 300k |
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."
www.nyc.gov
Contact: | Edward
Skyler / Jerry Russo (212) 788-2958 |