1. Meeting Agenda 1.I. 7:00 PM April 20, 2026 | Agenda/Active Calendar Documents: 26 AGENDA-ACTIVE CALENDAR 0420.PDF 2. Supporting Legislation Legislation that is being introduced for the first time 2.I. 7:00 PM April 20, 2026 | Supporting Legislation Documents: 260420 SUPPORTING LEGISLATION.PDF 3. Active Legislation Legislation that was previously introduced and is now being considered by the body 3.I. 7:00 PM April 20, 2026 | Active Legislation Documents: 260420 ACTIVE LEGISLATION.PDF 4. Majority Consent (MC) 5. Supporting Document 6. Minutes 7. Written Comment 8. Active Calendar AGENDA FOR THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE ALBANY COMMON COUNCIL Monday, April 20, 2026 The Common Council meets the first and third Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m. (note: when Monday falls on a legal holiday or day of special observance, the Council meeting is ordinarily moved to the following Thursday). This meeting will be held in the Common Council Chambers in City Hall and live streamed on Facebook. If we experience any technical difficulties on Facebook, the video will be streamed to YouTube. For more information on how to be heard please visit our website. If you wish to speak during the meeting or provide written comments, they must be received by 12noon on the day of the meeting. All comments are memorialized on our Facebook page, website, and are subject to FOIL. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@albanycommoncouncil Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/albany.commoncouncil ORDER OF BUSINESS: Roll Call Welcome Pledge of Allegiance and Moment of Silence Communications from the Mayor, Department Heads and City Officials Public Hearings Initial Public Comment Period (Maximum of 1 Hour) Comments from Members Presentation of Petitions Approval of Minutes from Previous Meetings Reports of Standing Committees Reports of Ad Hoc Committees Consideration of Vetoes Consideration of Local Laws Consideration of Ordinances Consideration of Resolutions Additional Public Comment (30 Minutes) Miscellaneous or Unfinished Business Adjournment (Revised 4/10/2026) Page 1 of 7 Albany Common Council Active Calendar Monday, April 20, 2026 The Active Calendar is meant to indicate items which are anticipated to come up for action at the indicated Common Council meeting. Items on a committee agenda prior to the indicated Council meeting are included subject to committee action and recommendation. New items on the agenda for introduction, but which will not be acted upon on the evening of introduction is not included on the Active Calendar. This Calendar does not preclude the addition of items for action by Majority Consent of the Council. Items added by Majority Consent are those which were not available for the agenda within the required deadline but which cannot wait for the subsequent Council meeting for introduction and/or action. Legislation Prime Sponsor Subject Local Laws Held Hoey A LOCAL LAW ESTABLISHING AN OFFICE OF VIOLENCE PREVENTION AND AMENDING CHAPTER 183 (EQUITY AGENDA) F of 2026 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF ALBANY IN RELATION TO THE VIOLENCE PREVENTION TASK FORCE Local Laws Held Hoey A LOCAL LAW ESTABLISHING AN OFFICE OF VIOLENCE PREVENTION AND AMENDING CHAPTER 183 (EQUITY AGENDA) G of 2026 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF ALBANY IN RELATION TO THE VIOLENCE PREVENTION TASK FORCE Ordinances Held Balarin AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 375 (UNIFIED SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE) OF THE CODE OF 5.31.26 THE CITY OF ALBANY IN RELATION TO ADJUSTING THE *Pending Amendment* AFFORDABLE HOUSING REQUIREMENT AND ADDING EXCEPTIONS TO THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING REQUIREMENT Resolutions Introduced Johnson A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL CELEBRATING THE HARD WORK OF COACH GALAL CANCER WHO LED THE 29.42.26R CHRISTIAN BROTHERS ACADEMY TO A REMARKABLE WIN AT THE STATE CHAMPIONSHIP GAME Resolutions Introduced Powell A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL CELEBRATING THE 70TH SEASON OF THE WESTLAND HILLS BASEBALL AND 30.42.26R SOFTBALL Resolutions Introduced Anane A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL DECLARING APRIL 22, 2026 TO BE EARTH DAY IN THE CITY OF ALBANY AND 31.42.26R COMMEMORATING THE 56TH ANNIVERSARY OF EARTH DAY (Revised 4/10/2026) Page 2 of 7 Local Laws Held 1 Hoey *Under Consideration* Local Law F of 2026 A LOCAL LAW ESTABLISHING AN OFFICE OF VIOLENCE PREVENTION AND AMENDING CHAPTER 183 (EQUITY AGENDA) OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF ALBANY IN RELATION TO THE VIOLENCE PREVENTION TASK FORCE *Passed the Public Safety Committee | Discussed: 3/30/2026* 2 Hoey *Under Consideration* Local Law G of 2026 A LOCAL LAW ESTABLISHING AN OFFICE OF VIOLENCE PREVENTION AND AMENDING CHAPTER 183 (EQUITY AGENDA) OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF ALBANY IN RELATION TO THE VIOLENCE PREVENTION TASK FORCE *Referred to Public Safety* (Revised 4/10/2026) Page 3 of 7 Ordinances Introduced 1 Keegan Ordinance 8.42.26 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ARTICLE V (COMPLETE STREETS) OF CHAPTER 323 (STREETS AND SIDEWALKS) OF PART II (GENERAL LEGISLATION) OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF ALBANY IN RELATION TO GREEN STREET DESIGNS 2 Hoey Ordinance 9.42.26 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 375 (CITY OF ALBANY UNIFIED SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE) OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF ALBANY IN RELATION TO PERMITTING THE CONSTRUCTION OF COTTAGE COURTS (Revised 4/10/2026) Page 4 of 7 Ordinances Held 1 Balarin Ordinance 3.22.26 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 359 (VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC) OF PART II (GENERAL LEGISLATION) OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF ALBANY BY ADDING A NEW CLAUSE RESTRICTING THE PARKING OF COMMERCIAL VEHICLES TO TWO COMMERCIAL VEHICLES PER BLOCK PER HOUSEHOLD OR BUSINESS *Referred to Planning, Economic Development & Land Use* 2 Balarin *Pending Amendment* Ordinance 5.31.26 *Under Consideration* AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 375 (UNIFIED SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE) OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF ALBANY IN RELATION TO ADJUSTING THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING REQUIREMENT AND ADDING EXCEPTIONS TO THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING REQUIREMENT *Passed the Planning, Economic Development & Land Use Committee | Discussed: 3/18/2026* 3 Williamson Ordinance 7.41.26 AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE LEASE OF A PORTION OF 239 SECOND AVENUE (TAX MAP PARCEL NUMBER 76.62-3-32) TO SPRINTCOM LLC, A KANSAS LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY *Referred to Finance, Assessment and Taxation* (Revised 4/10/2026) Page 5 of 7 Resolutions Introduced 1 Lumpkin Resolution 28.42.26R A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF MOTHER CLARA LUMPKIN AND RENAMING A PORTION OF SOUTH SWAN IN HER HONOR 2 Johnson *Under Consideration* Resolution 29.42.26R A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL CELEBRATING THE HARD WORK OF COACH GALAL CANCER WHO LED THE CHRISTIAN BROTHERS ACADEMY TO A REMARKABLE WIN AT THE STATE CHAMPIONSHIP GAME 3 Powell *Under Consideration* Resolution 30.42.26R A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL CELEBRATING THE 70TH SEASON OF THE WESTLAND HILLS BASEBALL AND SOFTBALL 4 Anane *Under Consideration* Resolution 31.42.26R A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL DECLARING APRIL 22, 2026 TO BE EARTH DAY IN THE CITY OF ALBANY AND COMMEMORATING THE 56TH ANNIVERSARY OF EARTH DAY 5 Williamson Resolution 32.42.26R A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF REVEREND REGINALD E. GRAHAM AND RENAMING A PORTION OF SECOND AVENUE IN HIS HONOR 6 Anane Resolution 33.42.26R A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF ALBANY TO ADOPT A POLICY RELATED TO THE DISPOSAL OF COMPUTERS, COMPUTER SOFTWARE, AND COMPUTER EQUIPMENT (Revised 4/10/2026) Page 6 of 7 Resolutions Held 1 Hoey Resolution 19.32.26R A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL APPROVING A TRANSFER OF BUDGETED FUNDS AND A CHANGE IN THE AUTHORIZED POSITIONS INCLUDED IN THE 2026 CITY BUDGET, WHICH WILL AFFECT A SALARY RATE OR SALARY TOTAL *Referred to Finance, Assessment and Taxation* 2 Zamer Resolution 27.41.26R A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL CONSENTING TO THE APPOINTMENT OF JILL DELANEY AS A MEMBER OF THE ALBANY CONVENTION CENTER AUTHORITY BOARD *Referred to Planning, Economic Development & Land Use* (Revised 4/10/2026) Page 7 of 7 COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ALBANY SUPPORT LEGISLATION APRIL 20, 2026 ORDINANCES 8.42.26 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ARTICLE V (COMPLETE STREETS) OF CHAPTER 323 (STREETS AND SIDEWALKS) OF PART II (GENERAL LEGISLATION) OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF ALBANY IN RELATION TO GREEN STREET DESIGNS 9.42.26 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 375 (CITY OF ALBANY UNIFIED SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE) OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF ALBANY IN RELATION TO PERMITTING THE CONSTRUCTION OF COTTAGE COURTS RESOLUTIONS 28.42.26R A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF MOTHER CLARA LUMPKIN AND RENAMING A PORTION OF SOUTH SWAN IN HER HONOR 29.42.26R A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL CELEBRATING THE HARD WORK OF COACH GALAL CANCER WHO LED THE CHRISTIAN BROTHERS ACADEMY TO A REMARKABLE WIN AT THE STATE CHAMPIONSHIP GAME 30.42.26R A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL CELEBRATING THE 70TH SEASON OF THE WESTLAND HILLS BASEBALL AND SOFTBALL 31.42.26R A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL DECLARING APRIL 22, 2026 TO BE EARTH DAY IN THE CITY OF ALBANY AND COMMEMORATING THE 56TH ANNIVERSARY OF EARTH DAY 32.42.26R A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF REVEREND REGINALD E. GRAHAM AND RENAMING A PORTION OF SECOND AVENUE IN HIS HONOR 33.42.26R A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF ALBANY TO ADOPT A POLICY RELATED TO THE DISPOSAL OF COMPUTERS, COMPUTER SOFTWARE, AND COMPUTER EQUIPMENT Council Member Keegan introduced the following: ORDINANCE 8.42.26 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ARTICLE V (COMPLETE STREETS) OF CHAPTER 323 (STREETS AND SIDEWALKS) OF PART II (GENERAL LEGISLATION) OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF ALBANY IN RELATION TO GREEN STREET DESIGNS The City of Albany, in Common Council convened, does hereby ordain and enact: Section 1. Article V (Complete Streets) of Chapter 323 (Streets and Sidewalks) of Part II (General Legislation) of the Code of the City of Albany is hereby amended to read as follows: ARTICLE V Complete and GREEN Streets § 323-88. Legislative findings. A. The City of Albany Common Council finds that the mobility of freight and passengers and the safety, convenience, and comfort of motorists, cyclists, pedestrians, including people requiring mobility aids, transit riders, and neighborhood residents of all ages and abilities should all be considered when planning and designing Albany's streets. Integrating sidewalks, bike facilities, transit amenities, and safe crossings into the initial design of street projects avoids the expense of retrofits later. Streets are a critical component of public space and play a major role in establishing the image and identity of a city. By encouraging good planning, more citizens will achieve the health benefits associated with active forms of transportation while traffic congestion and auto-related air pollution will be reduced. The goal of this article is to improve the access and mobility for all users of streets in the community by improving safety through reducing conflict and encouraging nonmotorized transportation and transit. B. The City of Albany Common Council finds that the health and wellbeing of residents, workers, and tourists, should be considered when including Complete Street aspects by evaluating the addition of possible GREEN (Generating Resilient Environmentally Exceptional National Streets Act) streets elements when planning and designing Albany’s streets. Integrating vegetation into the design of street projects avoids the expense of more devastating urban heat impacts later. Streets are a critical component of public space and play a major role in establishing the image and identity of a city. By encouraging the addition of green spaces in complete street designs, more citizens will achieve the health benefits associated with vegetation, and the overall heat index will decrease. The heat index impacts all areas of the city but is shown to have a higher degree of impact on areas that have been historically Redlined and Yellowlined, as evidenced by the City of Albany heat map. This is largely due to not only density in these neighborhoods but also a lack of vegetation in part due to the paving over/removal of grass curbing. GREEN Streets has proven to be a positive solution to decrease these heat index issues as it adds vegetative aspects that are proven to have cooling effects, which helps with the health and wellbeing of these neighborhoods as well as the overall heat-based issues. § 323-89. Complete and GREEN street design. A. For all street construction, reconstruction, or resurfacing projects [as per Section C(2)] that are undertaken by the City and not covered under the New York State Complete Streets Law contained in § 331 of the Highway Law, the department responsible for planning such project shall consider the convenient access and mobility on the street by all users of all ages, including motorists, pedestrians, bicyclists, and public transportation users through the use of complete street design features in the planning, design, construction, reconstruction and resurfacing, but not including maintenance or emergency projects. B. Complete street design features are roadway design features that accommodate and facilitate convenient access and mobility by all users, including current and projected users, particularly pedestrians, bicyclists and individuals of all ages and abilities. These features may include, but need not be limited to, sidewalks, paved shoulders suitable for use by bicyclists, lane striping, bicycle lanes and improved bicycle parking and storage, share-the- road signage, street and sidewalk lighting, crosswalks or median refuges, road diets, pedestrian control signalization, bus pullouts and improved pedestrian access to bus stops, curb cuts, raised crosswalks and ramps and traffic-calming measures, and recognize that the needs of users of the road network vary. C. This section shall not apply if it has been determined and set forth in publicly available documents that one of the following exists: (1) Use by bicyclists and pedestrians is prohibited by law, such as within interstate highway corridors; or (2) The cost would be disproportionate to the need as determined by factors including, but not limited to, the following: land use context, current and projected traffic volumes, and population density; or (3) Demonstrated lack of need as determined by factors including, but not limited to, land use, current and projected traffic volumes, including population density, or demonstrated lack of community support; or (4) Use of the design features would have an adverse impact on, or be contrary to, public safety. § 323-90. Development of guidelines; reporting requirements. A. Guidelines will be developed by the Department of General Services, Division of Traffic Engineering, and the Division of Planning with stakeholder input and shall include street typologies, design guidance and implementation. A. “Complete and GREEN Streets” guidelines shall be developed by the Department of General Services, Division of Traffic Engineering, and the Division of Planning with stakeholder input and shall include street typologies, design guidance, and implementation. The Albany 2030 Comprehensive Plan and the Pedestrian Bike Master Plan shall serve as constituent parts of the “Complete and GREEN Streets” guidelines. B. No later than two years after the final adoption of “Complete and GREEN Streets” Guidelines and biennially thereafter, the Department of General Services shall publish a report showing how it has complied with this article and improvements made to the roadways of the City. § 323-91. Through § 323-95. (Reserved) § 323-91. GREEN streets design. A. For all street construction, reconstruction, or resurfacing projects that are undertaken by the City and not covered under the New York State Complete Streets Law contained in § 331 of the Highway Law, the department responsible for planning such project shall consider the impact of green space with regard to street design in an effort to improve air quality through the addition of green infrastructure and stormwater mitigation, as well as reduce the impact of urban heat. Focus should be made to those communities impacted by Redlining and Yellowlining in accordance with Chapter 183 (Equity Agenda). B. When planning a street for GREEN and Complete streets, the Department of Engineering shall evaluate the presence of green space, specifically the lack of and/or removal of vegetative curbing where the city paved over or placed concrete curbing onto what had previously been green space and replacing such space with vegetative curbing. Evaluation shall also include the evaluation of the tree canopy present and incorporate tree canopy elements into the street design. C. GREEN street design shall integrate natural and engineered systems to improve stormwater management, reduce urban heat, improve air quality, and enhance community aesthetics. These features include but are not limited to rain gardens, planted bioswales, street tree canopy improvements, permeable pavement, and bioretention infrastructure. D. This section shall not apply if it has been determined and set forth in publicly available documents that one of the following exists: 1. The cost would be disproportionate to the need as determined by factors including, but not limited to, the following: land use context, current and projected traffic volumes, and population density; or 2. Demonstrated lack of need as determined by factors including, but not limited to, land use, current and projected traffic volumes, including population density, or demonstrated lack of community support; or 3. Use of the design features would have an adverse impact on, or be contrary to, public safety. § 323-92. Enforcement of guidelines; reporting requirements. A. Evaluating tools and language shall be incorporated into all requests for proposals for street and sidewalk projects. The enforcement guidelines for GREEN and Complete Streets shall align with the goals in the City of Albany’s most recent Comprehensive Plan and the City of Albany’s most recent Bike/Pedestrian Master Plan. These guidelines will carry over to the process of evaluating and implementing GREEN and Complete Streets aspects in the streets and sidewalks of the City of Albany. B. The Department of Engineering, Division of Traffic Engineering, shall report on the incorporation and evaluation of GREEN and Complete Streets which shall be issued annually in accordance with the street and sidewalk bond requests. Reports shall include the GREEN and Complete Street checklists used to assess proposed street and sidewalk infrastructure projects, outline what if any GREEN and Complete Street enhancements are included in street and sidewalk infrastructure proposals, and those projects where the viability of incorporating GREEN and Complete Streets aspects is not feasible. § 323-93. through § 323-95. (Reserved) APPROVED AS TO FORM THIS 10TH DAY OF APRIL, 2026 ______________________________ Corporation Counsel To: Shaniqua Jackson, City Clerk From: Arianna Costello, 9th Ward Intern Re: Common Council Legislation Supporting Memorandum Date: April 9, 2026 Sponsor: Council Member Keegan ORDINANCE 8.42.26 TITLE AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ARTICLE V (COMPLETE STREETS) OF CHAPTER 323 (STREETS AND SIDEWALKS) OF PART II (GENERAL LEGISLATION) OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF ALBANY IN RELATION TO GREEN STREET DESIGNS GENERAL PURPOSE OF LEGISLATION The general purpose of this Legislation is to return green spaces to historically Redlined/Yellowlined communities. Through this process we are asking specifically to update the pre-existing City of Albany Complete Streets Legislation [Added 6-3-2013 by Ord. No. 2.11.131] to incorporate the GREEN Street Act proposed by Senator Markey (D-Mass S-2890) and Congressman Huffman (CA-02 HR-5465). Due to the history of Red and Yellowlining in the City of Albany many neighborhoods have had their grass curbs paved over and/or removed. This has caused and will continue to cause public health issues, including but not limited to poor air quality, increased risk associated with heat, and negative impacts on mental health. Furthermore, removal of porous surfacing has a negative impact on stormwater management for all citizens in the City of Albany. This lack of access to green space exacerbates the urban heat island effect which impacts the city as a whole but has a greater impact on lower income communities where infrastructure is more dense and there is less green space to absorb heat. This legislation is intended to counteract this effect, and help return green space to the City of Albany with a focus on equity. GREEN Streets has been successfully implemented in cities across the United States including San Antonio, Texas, and Seattle, Washington as well as the states of Vermont and New Jersey. Passage of this legislation would make the City of Albany one of the first municipalities in New York State to adopt GREEN Streets with the exception of New York City. The secondary goal of updating this legislation is to improve required reporting processes for our Complete Streets policy ensuring that street infrastructure projects are utilizing GREEN and Complete Streets checklists designed to improve pedestrian safety and multi model transit on all street infrastructure projects. This legislation proposes to do this through tying GREEN and Complete Street reports to street and sidewalk bond requests. Both the GREEN and Complete Streets components would gradually improve walkability, road safety, and green space access as street infrastructure is updated and replaced. This legislation utilizes the GREEN Streets Act (S-2890/HR-5465) proposed at the federal level as a guideline to incorporate vegetation into street infrastructure projects in the City of Albany. The model is a scientific backed solution for decreasing urban heat as vegetation is shown to have cooling effects in comparison to materials like concrete and brick which trap heat. Albany, like other urban corridors, is vulnerable to heat due to limited green space, denser development, and proximity to industrial development. Urban areas are shown to have an average air temp that can be 40-50 degrees higher than surrounding rural areas. Urban heat does not impact all parts of the city equally. High poverty areas that are adjacent to industrial zones, highways, and other major arterial roadways are often 20 degrees hotter than other areas of the city (Hibbard, K.A., F.M. Hoffman, D. Huntzinger, and T.O. West. 2017. Changes in land cover and terrestrial biogeochemistry. In Climate Science Special Report: Fourth National Climate Assessment, Volume I [Wuebbles, D.J., D.W. Fahey, K.A. Hibbard, D.J. Dokken, B.C. Stewart, and T.K. Maycock (eds.)]. U.S. Global Change Research Program, Washington, DC. pp. 277–302. doi: 10.7930/J0416V6X). These communities lack cooling resources such as efficient HVAC systems to provide cooling thereby increasing the risks associated with urban heat. In the City of Albany our hottest corridors have also been the areas that are most deeply impacted by drug overdose and community violence. These neighborhoods align with historic mapping of Red and Yellow-lined communities in the City of Albany. GREEN Streets stands for ‘Generating Resilient Environmentally Exceptional National Streets Act’. GREEN Streets aims to bring green spaces back to cities in the hopes of decreasing heat, slowing overall global warming and its events, and overall increasing human health. This plan was designed to include greenery into streets throughout cities to help with many issues including helping with water draining, and decreasing the overall heat index in urban areas. Aligning the City of Albany with the GREEN Streets initiative improves our climate resiliency and supports our overarching climate action goals. In addition, this legislation is intended to align with the policy goals and values set for us in the city's equity agenda. Access to nature and green space should not be a luxury afforded to more affluent areas of the city. The prime sponsor of this bill, Ward 9 Councilmember Meghan Keegan, met with community groups all over the City of Albany to solicit feedback prior to the introduction of the bill. Concerns that may need to be addressed as implementation proceeds include but are not limited to vacant properties, absent landlords, and overall maintenance issues. Community members expressed an interest in incorporating native plants that may require less ongoing maintenance. Community members also noted the need to ensure that curb vegetation allows for those with mobility impairments, strollers, etc be able to access curbing, being mindful of vegetation height in such projects. NECESSITY FOR LEGISLATION AND CHANGES TO EXISTING LAW An ordinance is required for amending the Code of the City of Albany. Legislative findings are expanded, guideline creation defined to include additional items, and GREEN streets design information added. FISCAL IMPACT The fiscal impact is to be determined, however it is expected that there may be increased costs associated with street and sidewalk projects and that the impact should be addressed through the feasibility assessment for street and sidewalk infrastructure maintenance projects. In addition, there may be increased reports of routine maintenance neglect that could strain resources for the Department of General Services particularly in those neighborhoods with high rates of vacant buildings that may impact labor costs. Utilizing low height perennial native species that do not require weekly mowing may help to offset these concerns. Council Member Hoey introduced the following: ORDINANCE 9.42.26 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 375 (CITY OF ALBANY UNIFIED SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE) OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF ALBANY IN RELATION TO PERMITTING THE CONSTRUCTION OF COTTAGE COURTS The City of Albany, in Common Council convened, does hereby ordain and enact: Section 1. Section 375-602 (Definitions) of Article VI (Rules of Construction; Definitions) of Chapter 375 (Unified Sustainable Development Ordinance) of Part II (General Legislation) of the Code of the City of Albany is hereby amended by adding a new definition, to be inserted into the section in its proper alphabetical place, to read as follows: COTTAGE COURT A residential development consisting of a cluster of small, detached single-unit dwellings arranged around a shared common open space. Cottage courts are designed to provide a community-oriented living environment while maintaining a scale and character compatible with surrounding residential neighborhoods. A cottage court may be developed on individual lots or with a common form of ownership. Section 2. “Household Living” of Section 375-302 (Permitted Use Table) of Article III (Use Regulations) of Chapter 375 (Unified Sustainable Development Ordinance) of Part II (General Legislation) of the Code of the City of Albany is hereby amended to read as follows: Table 375.302.1 Permitted Use Table P=Permitted Use | C=Conditional Use | A=Accessory Use | T=Temporary Use Residential Mixed-Use Special Purpose Use- MU-FW MU-FM MU-CH MU-NC MU-CU MU-NE MU-DT MU-FC MU-FS MU-CI Specific R-1M R-1L R-M Zoning District R-V R-T R-2 Standard in LC I-1 I-2 Article III LAND USE CATEGORY RESIDENTIAL USES Household Living Dwelling, single-unit detached P P P[12] P[12] P P P P P § 375- 303(2)(a)(i) Dwelling, two-unit detached C[2] P P[12] P P P p P § 375- 303(2)(a)(ii) Dwelling, three-unit detached P P P P P P § 375- 303(2)(a)(iii) Dwelling, townhouse C[2] C P[12] P P P P P P P P P P P P § 375- 303(2)(a)(iv) Dwelling, live-work C[2] C[2] C[2] C C P P P P P P P P P P P P § 375- 303(2)(a)(v) Dwelling, multi-unit C[2] C[2][3] C[2][3] P P P P P P P P P P P C § 375- 303(2)(a)(vi) Cottage Court P P Section 3. Clause ‘a’ (Household living) of Subsection 2 (Residential uses) of Section 375- 303 (Use-specific standards) of Article III (Use Regulations) of Chapter 375 (Unified Sustainable Development Ordinance) of Part II (General Legislation) of the Code of the City of Albany is hereby amended to read as follows: (a) Household living. (i) Dwelling, single-unit detached. (Reserved) (ii) Dwelling, two-unit detached. (Reserved) (iii) Dwelling, three-unit detached. (Reserved) (iv) Dwelling, townhouse. (Reserved) (v) Dwelling, live-work. A. The building may be used as both a dwelling and a business that does not qualify as a home occupation being conducted by a resident of the building, but shall not include the following business activities: 1. Any lodging use; 2. Any motor vehicle-related use; 3. Animal agricultural or animal-related use; 4. Any food, beverage, or indoor entertainment use; 5. Adult retail; 6. Liquor store; 7. Funeral home or crematorium; 8. Outdoor storage as a principal use; or 9. Any industrial use except artisan manufacturing. B. Portions of the structure used for residential and nonresidential uses shall have a connection between them located inside the building. C. In residential zoning districts, a wall sign no more than two square feet in size and located no higher than the first story of the building is permitted. (vi) Dwelling, multi-unit. A. Any multi-unit dwelling containing more than 20 dwelling units: 1. Shall include outdoor or indoor passive or active recreation space(s) that total at least 10% of the site area; and 2. Shall provide on-site laundry facilities. within each individual dwelling unit or as a shared facility on premises accessible to residents of the building. B. In the area bounded by Myrtle Avenue, Lark Street a perpendicular line drawn 100 feet southerly of the Madison Avenue right-of- way, and the rear boundary of lots fronting on New Scotland Avenue, this use is only permitted in a new structure constructed after June 1, 2017. (vii) Cottage Court. A. A minimum of 20% of the total site area shall be dedicated to common open space accessible from the sidewalk, which may include garden plots and up to a maximum of 50% of which can be as a result of Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) practices but shall exclude parking, driveways, and stormwater detention in the form of wet ponds and dry ponds. A minimum of 60% of the common open space shall consist of one contiguous area. Section 4. Table 375.401.1 of Section 375-401 (Dimensional Standards) of Article IV (Development Standards) of Chapter 375 (Unified Sustainable Development Ordinance) of Part II (General Legislation) of the Code of the City of Albany is hereby amended to read as follows: Table 375.401.1 Residential District Dimensional Standards Zoning District R-1L R-1M R-2 R-T R-M R-V Lot Standards Lot area, minimum 6,500 3,500 2,250 1,150 N/A N/A (square feet) Lot depth, 110 100 90 55 N/A N/A minimum (feet) Lot width, 70[1] 40[1] 25[1] 18[1] 22[1] 100[1] minimum Table 375.401.1 Residential District Dimensional Standards Zoning District R-1L R-1M R-2 R-T R-M R-V (feet) Impervious lot 30%[9] 40%[9] 70% 80% 80% 50% coverage, maximum Setbacks Front yard, 25[2] 15[2] 10[2] 0[2] 0[2] 10[2] minimum (feet) Side yard, 5 0[3] 0[3] 0 0[3] 15 minimum (feet) Combined side 20 feet 10 feet 10% of lot 0 feet 0 feet[4] 40 feet yards, minimum width Side yard, N/A N/A N/A 3.5 feet N/A N/A maximum Rear yard, 40 feet 25 feet 20% of lot 10% of lot 15 feet 20 feet minimum depth depth Building Height[5] Principal structure Height maximum 2.5[10] 2.5[10] 2.5 3.5 4 5[7] (stories) Height, maximum 35[11] 35[11] 35 45[6] 55[6] 65 (feet) Accessory structure Height, maximum 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 (stories) Height, maximum 16 16 16 16 16 16 (feet) Number of dwelling units Dwelling units, 1[12] 1[12] 2 3[8] 1 per 750 Per building maximum square feet code of gross floor area NOTES: [1] For infill development, where more than 50% of the lots on a block face are improved with a principal structure, each lot shall have a minimum width equal to no less than 75% of the established minimum. [2] Where the subject lot is adjacent to developed lots facing the same street and having a principal building located within 25 feet of the lot line, the required front setback shall be no closer nor further back from the street than the structures on the adjacent lots. [3] Structures must be setback a minimum of three feet from any principal building on abutting lot. [4] Where the subject lot has one or more adjacent lots facing the same street with a primary building between one and five feet from the side lot line, the required side setback on the subject lot shall not be closer than the side setback on the adjacent improved lot. [5] Building height cannot exceed either the specified number of stories or feet and the more restrictive shall control. [6] The height of any principal structure shall be limited to three stories or 35 feet in height for the portions of the structure: 1. Within 100 feet of a side or rear lot line of an abutting R-1L or R-1M Zoning District. 2. Within 25 feet of a side or rear lot line of an abutting R-2 Zoning District [7] Any portion of a principal structure located within 500 feet of an abutting R-1L or R-1M Zoning District boundary is limited to a maximum of three stories or 40 feet in height. [8] One dwelling unit is allowed per noncommercial building story, up to three. [9] Where the residential use is a cottage court, the impervious lot coverage maximum shall be no more than 80% [10] Where the residential use is a cottage court, the height maximum (stories) shall be no more than 1.5 stories. [11] Where the residential use is a cottage court, the height maximum (feet) shall be no more than 16 feet. [12] Where the residential use is a cottage court, the number of dwelling units shall be 1 per 800 square feet of total site area. Section 5. “Household Living” of Table 375.405.1 of Section 375-405 (Parking and loading) of Article IV (Development Standards) of Chapter 375 (Unified Sustainable Development Ordinance) of Part II (General Legislation) of the Code of the City of Albany is hereby amended as follows: Table 375.405.1 Minimum and Maximum Off-Street Parking GFA = Gross Floor Area; NLA = Net Leasable Area Minimum Number of Spaces Maximum Number of Land Use Category Required Spaces Allowed RESIDENTIAL USES Household Living Dwelling, single-unit detached 1 n/a Dwelling, two-unit detached 2 n/a Dwelling, three-unit detached 3 n/a Dwelling, townhouse 0 n/a Dwelling, multi-unit 1 per unit 1.5 per unit Dwelling, live-work 1 per unit 1.5 per unit Cottage Court 1 per unit 1.5 per unit Section 6. “Household Living” of Table 375.405.5 of Section 375-405 (Parking and loading) of Article IV (Development Standards) of Chapter 375 (Unified Sustainable Development Ordinance) of Part II (General Legislation) of the Code of the City of Albany is hereby amended as follows: Table 375.405.5 Minimum Required Bicycle Parking Bicycle Parking Spaces Land Use Category Required Enclosed Spaces Required Household Living 2 or 10% of required Dwelling, multi-unit vehicle spaces, whichever Minimum 60% enclosed is greater Cottage Court 1 per dwelling unit Minimum 60% enclosed Section 7. This ordinance shall take effect immediately. APPROVED AS TO FORM THIS 10th DAY OF APRIL, 2026 ________________________________ Corporation Counsel To: Shaniqua Jackson, City Clerk From: Bryan Jimenez, Legislative Director Re: Common Council Legislation Supporting Memorandum Date: April 10, 2026 Sponsor: Council Member Hoey ORDINANCE 9.41.26 TITLE AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 375 (CITY OF ALBANY UNIFIED SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE) OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF ALBANY IN RELATION TO ALLOWING THE CONSTRUCTION OF COTTAGE COURTS GENERAL PURPOSE OF LEGISLATION This ordinance would permit the construction of cottage courts—small clusters of single family housing around a common open space—intended to provide lower cost home ownership opportunities without disrupting the character of the neighborhoods in which they are built. The common open space will create a safe recreation space for cottage court residents that will help build neighborhood cohesion. NECESSITY FOR LEGISLATION AND CHANGE TO EXISITING LAW In order to effect a change to the USDO, an ordinance would be required alongside all requisite reviews and public hearings. FISCAL IMPACT None. Council Member Lumpkin introduced the following: RESOLUTION 28.42.26R A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF MOTHER CLARA LUMPKIN AND RENAMING A PORTION OF SOUTH SWAN IN HER HONOR WHEREAS, Clara Lumpkin has devoted her life to serving others through her dedication to her faith and her passion for ministering as a member of the New Jerusalem Home of the Saved Church under Dr. Timonthy L. Harper; and WHEREAS, in 1979, Mother Lumpkin began her prison ministry with the goal to help Albany resident in need, leading to three successful decades of joining incarcerated believers in fellowship and today, continues to provide spiritual support over correspondence; and WHEREAS, Clara Lumpkin started her professional career at the New York Division of Military Navy affairs before joining the New York Office of General Services in 1969, where she worked until her retirement in 1996; and WHEREAS, in addition to her prison ministry, Mother Lumpkin started her retirement as a volunteer with the Pastoral Care Department at Albany Medical Center from 1996-2020 and currently continues volunteering by preparing and distributing meals for the homeless with God’s Soup Kitchen; and WHEREAS, Mother Lumpkin expanded the work of her ministry by traveling to California and Africa to distribute food in 2002 and through supporting couples on the joyful occasion of a wedding day, officiating weddings in jails, judges’ chambers, churches, and homes; and WHEREAS, in 2015, Mother Lumpkin was presented with the Albany County’s Volunteer of the Year award, demonstrating her continual devotion to the betterment of the community that surrounds her; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Common Council of the City of Albany honors Clara Lumpkin’s ongoing life, enduring legacy, and dedication to the people of Albany by renaming a portion of the South Swan in her honor; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Common Council directs that a sign shall be produced reading “Mother Clara Lumpkin Way” which shall be placed in consultation with the Division of Traffic Engineering. To: Shaniqua Jackson, City Clerk From: Carly Johnson, Junior Legislative Aide Re: Common Council Legislation Supporting Memorandum Date: March 12, 2026 Sponsor: Council Member Lumpkin, 3rd Ward RESOLUTION 28.42.26R TITLE A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF MOTHER CLARA LUMPKIN AND RENAMING A PORTION OF SOUTH SWAN IN HER HONOR GENERAL PURPOSE OF LEGISLATION This resolution officially recognizes the contributions to the City of Albany made by Mother Clara Lumpkin and directs the creation of an honorary street sign at the proposed location. NECESSITY FOR LEGISLATION AND ANY CHANGE TO EXISTING LAW Pursuant to § 323-63.2 (B) of the Code, the Council shall effectuate honorary street renamings “through the adoption of a resolution of the Common Council.” FISCAL IMPACT None. MAP OF PROPOSED HONORARY STREET SIGNS Council Members Johnson, Flynn, and Robinson introduced the following: RESOLUTION 29.41.26R A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL CELEBRATING THE HARD WORK OF COACH GALAL CANCER WHO LED THE CHRISTIAN BROTHERS ACADEMY TO A REMARKABLE WIN AT THE STATE CHAMPIONSHIP GAME WHEREAS, the Christian Brothers Academy (CBA) supports their student-athletes, as athletics are an integral part of student life, playing an essential role in developing character and demonstrating the importance of self-discipline, commitment and teamwork; and WHEREAS, on Saturday, March 21, 2026 in Binghamton, NY, CBA won the Class AAA title with a 78-67 win over Fairport, leading the team to sectional, regional, and state championship; and WHEREAS, their Coach ensured that the players would reach their 2025-2026 season goal of state championship by training daily and repping drills in the offseason to perfect the team’s defensive intensity, which strengthened their diligence as players and people; and WHEREAS, the CBA basketball team – a team full of undefeated and gifted players – has experienced an exceptional season, winning all 25 of their games and drumming up a large community following, who the boys are honored to show out for; and WHEREAS, the team of relentless competitors secured the program’s second state title, with the first being earned 16 years ago when the current coach, Galal Cancer, was the star player; and WHEREAS, Cancer, an exemplary Albany resident who played at the Division I level for Cornell and Kent State and is now coaching at his alma mater, stresses the importance of defense and playing meticulously; and WHEREAS, the team’s top scorer Osinski now ranks No. 1 in CBA’s history in points, shared that Cancer has given him a multitude of pointers and instilled in him a great level of confidence in deciding the correct play to make; and WHEREAS, Coach Cancer, who has dedicated years of professional work to basketball as well as Albany County as a Deputy Commission of Human Resources, instilled the team with trust and the will to win, leading them to overcome some mental lapses, proving him to be a model both on and off the court; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Albany Common Council celebrates the Christian Brothers Academy boys’ basketball team in their claim of a trio of titles in Class AAA play at the NYSPHSAA state championship under the coaching of Galal Cancer. To: Shaniqua Jackson, City Clerk From: Carly Johnson, Junior Legislative Aide Re: Request for Common Council Legislation Supporting Memorandum Date: March 25, 2026 Sponsor: Council Member Johnson, 2nd Ward Council Member Flynn, 8th Ward Council Member Robinson, 5th Ward RESOLUTION 29.41.26R TITLE A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL CELEBRATING THE HARD WORK OF COACH GALAL CANCER WHO LED THE CHRISTIAN BROTHERS ACADEMY TO A REMARKABLE WIN AT THE STATE CHAMPIONSHIP GAME GENERAL PURPOSE OF LEGISLATION To celebrate the CBA basketball team’s victory at the NYSPHSAA state championship, which earned them three titles this season; and to honor the dedication of Coach Cancer, who is now coaching at his alma mater after playing Division 1 in college. FISCAL IMPACT None. Council Member Powell introduced the following: Resolution Number 30.42.26R A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL CELEBRATING THE 70TH SEASON OF THE WESTLAND HILLS BASEBALL AND SOFTBALL WHEREAS, in 1956, Westland Hills Baseball and Softball was established by two teams playing on a field located at the corner of Brevator Street and Washington Avenue, laying the foundation for the success of the program; and WHEREAS, in 1962, due to the construction of the Harriman State Campus, Westland Hills Baseball and Softball took up residence in Westland Hills Park between Austain Avenue and Colvin Avenue in the City of Albany; and WHEREAS, in the late 1970s, Westland Hills Baseball and Softball helped to remove barriers for young female athletes by becoming one of the first Little League organizations in the nation to add a girls softball program; and WHEREAS, in 1993, in honor of Frank Waterson, Sr., who served as League President for 34 years, Westland Hills Park was renamed Frank Waterson Park; and WHEREAS, Westland Hills Baseball and Softball has enjoyed broad community support over the years with hundreds of local businesses contributing to their efforts to provide safe fields and facilities for Albany children to enjoy the sports of baseball and softball; and WHEREAS, for 70 years, Westland Hills Baseball and Softball has sought to provide every child with the opportunity to play baseball and softball regardless of skill level, geographic location, or financial means, providing children with equipment bags and endless support; and WHEREAS, throughout its history, the programs and facilities of Westland Hills Baseball and Softball have been managed entirely by volunteers who have dedicated their time to ensuring that local children had the opportunity to play baseball and softball; and WHEREAS, since its founding, board members, coaches and other volunteers at Westland Hills Baseball and Softball have endeavored to firmly instill core values in our community’s children, such as good sportsmanship, honesty, loyalty, courage and respect, helping to mold future generations of great character; and WHEREAS, Westland Hills Baseball and Softball has stayed true to its mission of providing a wholesome, enjoyable and rewarding opportunity for children to participate in the sports of baseball and softball; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Albany Common Council recognizes and celebrates the 70th anniversary of Westland Hills Baseball and Softball and the thousands of players and coaches over the years that have ensured that America’s pastimes games of baseball and softball are alive and well in the City of Albany. To: Shaniqua Jackson, City Clerk From: Rachel Powell, 12th Ward Council Member Carly Johnson, Junior Legislative Aide Re: Common Council Legislation Supporting Memorandum Date: March 19, 2025 Sponsor: Council Member Powell, 12th Ward Resolution 30.42.26R TITLE A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL CELEBRATING THE 70TH SEASON OF THE WESTLAND HILLS BASEBALL AND SOFTBALL GENERAL PURPOSE OF LEGISLATION To officially celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Westland Hills Baseball and Softball. April 20, 2026 marks the opening of their 70th season as a pillar in the City of Albany. This resolution honors the thousands of players, coaches, and board members who have been a part of these leagues that have created community, leading to the establishment of the “Legacy Committee” that will organize a series of events and activities to continue to celebration this season. FISCAL IMPACT None. Council Members Anane introduced the following: Resolution Number 31.42.26R A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL DECLARING APRIL 22, 2026 TO BE EARTH DAY IN THE CITY OF ALBANY AND COMMEMORATING THE 56TH ANNIVERSARY OF EARTH DAY WHEREAS, Earth Day was first celebrated on April 22, 1970, when United States Senator Gaylord Nelson called on the people of the United States to hold elected officials accountable for failing to adequately protect the natural environment; and WHEREAS, after witnessing years of environmental neglect and mistreatment, Americans have gathered in cities across the nation each April 22nd to demand basic protections for our planet and have made a commitment to leave behind a healthier, more vibrant world for generations to come; and WHEREAS, Earth Day has spurred legislative and grassroots activity aimed at changing the way we interact with the environment, including the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency and the passage of the Clean Water Act, the Clean Air Act, and the Endangered Species Act; and WHEREAS, Earth Day serves as a reminder for people to engage in projects and initiatives to protect and restore the planet by doing such things as planting trees, removing litter, cleaning local parks, conserving water and energy, and other environmentally responsible actions – the same mission Earth Day has had for more than fifty years; and WHEREAS, new and continuing challenges, including climate change, polluted oceans and waterways, and loss of forests, wetlands, and other habitats, reinforce the need for adequate protections for the air we breathe, the water we drink, the land we inhabit, and the animals with which we coexist; and WHEREAS, Earth Day serves to reaffirm our personal responsibility as citizens of Earth to partake in a global effort to combat climate change and protect our plant; and WHEREAS, Earth Day encourages a need for greater environmental and climate literacy to not only strengthen environmental and climate protections but to also accelerate the development of green technologies and the creation of green jobs; NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Albany Common Council hereby declares April 22, 2026, to be Earth Day in the City of Albany and calls upon the citizens of this great city to engage in environmentally responsible behaviors on a daily basis; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Common Council of the City of Albany, renews its commitment to reduce waste, increase the use of green technologies throughout the City, and ensure that the environmental impact of legislative action is always a top concern and priority. To: Shaniqua Jackson, City Clerk From: Carly Johnson, Junior Legislative Aide Re: Request for Common Council Legislation Supporting Memorandum Date: March 30, 2026 Sponsor: Council Member Anane, 10th Ward RESOLUTION NUMBER 31.42.26R TITLE A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL DECLARING APRIL 22, 2026 TO BE EARTH DAY IN THE CITY OF ALBANY AND COMMEMORATING THE 56TH ANNIVERSARY GENERAL PURPOSE OF LEGISLATION To declare April 22, 2026 Earth Day in the City of Albany, commemorate the 56th Anniversary, and to encourage citizens of Albany to be environmentally conscious on a daily basis. NECESSITY FOR LEGISLATION AND ANY CHANGE TO EXISTING LAW To resolve to make such declaration on behalf of the Common Council as described above. FISCAL IMPACT(S) N/A Council Member Williamson introduced the following: RESOLUTION 32.42.26R A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF REVEREND REGINALD E. GRAHAM AND RENAMING A PORTION OF SECOND AVENUE IN HIS HONOR WHEREAS, Reverend Reginald E. Graham is a proud pastor, who has dedicated many years to bettering his neighborhood, and Albany as a whole, for he is firmly planted in the City as a mechanic, teacher, barber, spiritual leader, plumber, electrician, carpenter, mason; and WHEREAS, he grew up navigating the challenges of life in the South End of Albany, that ultimately shaped his character and instilled in him a profound understanding of resilience and faith, leading him to mentor his community; and WHEREAS, Rev. Graham became an ordained deacon in 2004, a role that led him to becoming involved in leading the Men's ministry, youth ministry, Sunday school, and transportation ministry, and is now a senior pastor at Riverview Baptist Church; and WHEREAS, in June 2001 – 25 years ago – the desire to serve extended beyond personal devotion, and Rev. Graham created a space in which he could uplift and act as a role model through the establishment of Village Barber & Beauty; and WHEREAS, on May 13, 2023, there was a drive-by shooting at Village Barber & Beauty, resulting in one killed and two injured, that left the community with heartache, fear, and the need for healing; and WHEREAS, the barbershop and community supported another, under the leadership of Rev. Graham, who currently supports his community by serving at the Capital City Rescue Mission and connecting those in need to resources including transitional housing, free haircuts, odd jobs with pay, and clothing; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Common Council of the City of Albany honors Reverend Reginald E. Graham’s life, enduring legacy, and dedication to the people of Albany by renaming a portion of Second Avenue – in the heart of the neighborhood where he has committed many years of his life to being an exemplar member of the community– in his honor; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Common Council directs that two signs shall be produced reading “Rev. Reginald E. Graham Way” which shall be placed in consultation with the Division of Traffic Engineering. To: Shaniqua Jackson, City Clerk From: Carly Johnson, Junior Legislative Aide Re: Common Council Legislation Supporting Memorandum Date: March 12, 2026 Sponsor: Council Member Williamson, 1ST Ward RESOLUTION 32.42.26R TITLE A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF REVEREND REGINALD E. GRAHAM AND RENAMING A PORTION OF SECOND AVENUE IN HIS HONOR GENERAL PURPOSE OF LEGISLATION This resolution officially recognizes the contributions to the City of Albany made by Reverend Reginald E. Graham during the time in which he will celebrate 25 years of business of Village Barber & Beauty and directs the creation of honorary street signs at the proposed location. NECESSITY FOR LEGISLATION AND ANY CHANGE TO EXISTING LAW Pursuant to § 323-63.2 (B) of the Code, the Council shall effectuate honorary street renamings “through the adoption of a resolution of the Common Council.” FISCAL IMPACT None. MAP OF PROPOSED HONORARY STREET SIGNS Council Members Anane and Balarin introduced the following, which was approved: Resolution Number 33.42.26R A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF ALBANY TO ADOPT A POLICY RELATED TO THE DISPOSAL OF COMPUTERS, COMPUTER SOFTWARE, AND COMPUTER EQUIPMENT WHEREAS, the City of Albany desires to adopt a policy related to the disposal of surplus computers, computer software, and computer equipment, pursuant to the provisions of section 104- c of the New York State General Municipal Law; and WHEREAS, the Common Council must authorize the adoption such policy under the above-referenced provisions; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Common Council of the City of Albany authorizes the City of Albany to adopt a policy related to the disposal of computers, computer software, and computer equipment; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this resolution shall take effect immediately. To: Shaniqua Jackson, City Clerk From: Martha Mahoney, Senior Assistant Corporation Counsel Re: Request for Common Council Legislation Supporting Memorandum Date: April 10, 2026 SPONSOR Council Member Anane RESOLUTION 33.42.26R TITLE A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF ALBANY TO ADOPT A POLICY RELATED TO THE DISPOSAL OF COMPUTERS, COMPUTER SOFTWARE, AND COMPUTER EQUIPMENT GENERAL PURPOSE OF LEGISLATION This resolution authorizes the City of Albany to adopt a policy related to the disposal of surplus computers, computer software, and computer equipment, pursuant to the provisions of section 104- c of the New York State General Municipal Law. Such policy will require that the donated items must be to public schools, public libraries, and other public and private institutions for secular educational use, and to not-for-profit institutions for use by individuals with disabilities, senior citizens, or low-income individuals, upon proof of need by such institution and subordinate to the requirements of the public schools and libraries of the state. NECESSITY FOR LEGISLATION AND ANY CHANGE TO EXISTING LAW The Common Council must authorize such a policy pursuant to Section 104-c of the New York State General Municipal Law. FISCAL IMPACT(S) None. COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ALBANY ACTIVE LEGISLATION PREVIOUSLY INTRODUCED LEGISLATION NOW UNDER CONSIDERATION APRIL 6, 2026 LOCAL LAWS F OF 2026 A LOCAL LAW ESTABLISHING AN OFFICE OF VIOLENCE PREVENTION AND AMENDING CHAPTER 183 (EQUITY AGENDA) OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF ALBANY IN RELATION TO THE VIOLENCE PREVENTION TASK FORCE G OF 2026 A LOCAL LAW ESTABLISHING AN OFFICE OF VIOLENCE PREVENTION AND AMENDING CHAPTER 183 (EQUITY AGENDA) OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF ALBANY IN RELATION TO THE VIOLENCE PREVENTION TASK FORCE ORDINANCES 5.31.26 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 375 (UNIFIED SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE) OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF ALBANY IN RELATION TO ADJUSTING THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING REQUIREMENT AND ADDING EXCEPTIONS TO THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING REQUIREMENT Material in strikethrough to be deleted. Matter underlined is new material. Council Member Hoey introduced the following: LOCAL LAW F OF 2026 A LOCAL LAW ESTABLISHING AN OFFICE OF VIOLENCE PREVENTION AND AMENDING CHAPTER 183 (EQUITY AGENDA) OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF ALBANY IN RELATION TO THE VIOLENCE PREVENTION TASK FORCE Be it enacted, by the Common Council of the City of Albany, as follows: Section 1. Chapter 42 (Departments and Commissions) of Part I (Administrative Legislation) is hereby amended by adding a new Part 45 entitled “Violence Prevention Commission” as follows: § 42-419 Establishment. There is hereby established an office known as the "Office of Violence Prevention." § 42-420 Appointment of Coordinator. There shall be appointed by the Mayor, to serve at their pleasure, a Violence Prevention Coordinator, who shall be the head of the Office and whose appointment shall be evidenced by a certificate, in writing, signed by the Mayor and filed in the office of the City Clerk. § 42-421 Vacancy in office. Whenever a vacancy occurs in the Violence Prevention Coordinator, the Mayor shall appoint, in their discretion, a person deemed by them to be suitable and competent to fill the same. § 42-422 Additional appointments and promotions. The Coordinator shall make all appointments, promotions and changes of status of the employees of the Office of Violence Prevention in accordance with the provisions of the Civil Service Law of the state and as prescribed by the Board of Estimate and Apportionment, except as otherwise provided herein. § 42-423 Functions. The Office of Violence Prevention shall: A. Coordinate policy initiatives and programs that advance the City's anti-violence initiatives; Material in strikethrough to be deleted. Matter underlined is new material. B. Support the development of comprehensive community-based anti-violence initiatives within all City Departments; and C. Collaborate with community organizations and governmental agencies to implement such anti-violence initiatives across the City; D. Produce an annual report regarding the City’s anti-violence initiatives. § 42-424 Violence Prevention Task Force. The Office of Violence Prevention will oversee a Violence Prevention Task Force. The Violence Prevention Task Force will be responsible for convening stakeholders periodically to develop action items in preparation for summer months in anticipation of an uptick in violence. This task force will be composed of seven members, four of whom shall be appointed by the Mayor and three of whom shall be appointed by the Common Council. Members shall be appointed for three-year terms, provided, however, that: 1. Of members initially appointed by the Common Council: one shall be for a term of one year; one shall be for a term of two years; and one shall be for a term of three years. 2. Of members initially appointed by the Mayor: one shall be for a term of one year; one shall be for a term of two years; and two shall be for a term of three years. § 42-425 Programmatic funding. Funding will be allocated annually to violence prevention programming and initiatives in wards with the highest incidence and prevalence of violence. The funds will be allocated based on prioritization through a community participatory budgeting process with involvement from the Violence Prevention Task Force. A separate budget line within the City of Albany's annual budget will be created and titled "Violence Prevention Task Force Funding." § 42-426 (Reserved) § 42-427 When effective. This article shall take effect immediately. Section 2. Paragraph (B) of Section 183-2 (Equitable Budgeting) of Chapter 183 (Equity Agenda) of Part II (General Legislation) of the Code of the City of Albany is hereby amended to read as follows: B. Violence prevention. (Reserved) (1) The Albany Common Council's Public Safety Committee will establish a Violence Prevention Task Force. The Violence Prevention Task Force will be responsible for convening stakeholders every fall to develop action items in preparation for the upcoming summer in anticipation of an uptick in violence. This task force will be composed of members of the Albany Common Material in strikethrough to be deleted. Matter underlined is new material. Council's Public Safety Committee, community members from wards disproportionately impacted by violence, at least one youth representative, representatives from the Albany Police Department, the Mayor's office, the Albany City School District, clergy and members from violence-prevention-related organizations. (2) Funding will be allocated annually to violence prevention programming and initiatives in Wards with the highest incidence and prevalence of violence. The funds will be allocated based on prioritization through a community participatory budgeting process with involvement from the Violence Prevention Task Force. A separate budget line within the City of Albany's annual budget will be created and titled "Violence Prevention Task Force Funding." Section 3. This Local Law shall take effect upon final passage, public hearing, and filing with the Secretary of State. APPROVED AS TO FORM THIS 6th DAY OF MARCH, 2026 ___________________________ Corporation Counsel Material in strikethrough to be deleted. Matter underlined is new material. To: Shaniqua Jackson, City Clerk From: John Reilly, Counsel to the Mayor Re: Common Council Legislation Supporting Memorandum Date: March 6, 2026 Sponsor: Council Member Hoey, 15th Ward LOCAL LAW F OF 2026 TITLE A LOCAL LAW ESTABLISHING AN OFFICE OF VIOLENCE PREVENTION AND AMENDING CHAPTER 183 (EQUITY AGENDA) OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF ALBANY IN RELATION TO THE VIOLENCE PREVENTION TASK FORCE GENERAL PURPOSE OF LEGISLATION The purpose of the legislation is to establish an Office of Violence Prevention within the Office of the Mayor. The Office of Violence Prevention will bring together City, intergovernmental, and community- based stakeholders to address the root causes of violence, such as poverty, lack of education and limited access to mental health services, placing an emphasis on trauma-informed services. The office shall work alongside existing community programs, including efforts to reduce gun violence and to provide focused support for those with mental illnesses and substance abuse issues. Offices of Violence Prevention have been established in more than seventy municipalities nationwide.1 Offices serve as a central hub for municipalities to coordinate historically separate programming and identify new ways to collaborate and identify resources. Cities, such as Richmond, CA, and South Bend, Indiana, have experienced significant reductions in gun violence following establishment of such offices. Further, this legislation will transfer oversight of the existing Violence Prevention Task Force to the Office of Violence Prevention. The Office of Violence Prevention will provide administrative support to the Task Force and assist with the production of an annual report required. Appointing authority to the Task Force will be shared by the Common Council and Mayor’s Office. NECESSITY FOR LEGISLATION AND ANY CHANGE TO EXISTING LAW Section 504 (Departments, Offices and Commissions.) of the Charter of the City of Albany empowers the Common Council "to create…offices…and to prescribe or modify their powers and duties by a duly enacted local law." FISCAL IMPACT This legislation has no fiscal impact as it transfers an existing body to the Office of the Mayor. 1 National Offices of Violence Prevention Network. https://ovpnetwork.org/ Material in strikethrough to be deleted. Matter underlined is new material. Council Member Hoey introduced the following: LOCAL LAW G OF 2026 A LOCAL LAW ESTABLISHING AN OFFICE OF VIOLENCE PREVENTION AND AMENDING CHAPTER 183 (EQUITY AGENDA) OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF ALBANY IN RELATION TO THE VIOLENCE PREVENTION TASK FORCE Be it enacted, by the Common Council of the City of Albany, as follows: Section 1. Chapter 42 (Departments and Commissions) of Part I (Administrative Legislation) is hereby amended by adding a new Part 45 entitled “Office of Violence Prevention” as follows: § 42-419 Establishment. There is hereby established an office known as the "Office of Violence Prevention." § 42-420 Appointment of Coordinator. There shall be appointed by the Mayor, to serve at their pleasure, a Director of Violence Prevention, who shall be the head of the Office and whose appointment shall be evidenced by a certificate, in writing, signed by the Mayor and filed in the office of the City Clerk. § 42-421 Vacancy in office. Whenever a vacancy occurs in the Director of Violence Prevention, the Mayor shall appoint, in their discretion, a person deemed by them to be suitable and competent to fill the same. § 42-422 Additional appointments and promotions. The Director shall make all appointments, promotions and changes of status of the employees of the Office of Violence Prevention in accordance with the provisions of the Civil Service Law of the state and as prescribed by the Board of Estimate and Apportionment, except as otherwise provided herein. § 42-423 Functions. The Office of Violence Prevention shall: A. Coordinate policy initiatives and programs that advance the City's anti-violence initiatives; B. Support the development of comprehensive community-based anti-violence initiatives within all City Departments; and C. Collaborate with community organizations and governmental agencies to implement such anti- violence initiatives across the City; D. Produce an annual report regarding the City’s anti-violence initiatives, which shall be provided to the Mayor, Common Council and public prior to March 31st of each year; E. Produce a brief quarterly report every three months containing data and updates on City violence prevention programming; F. Post such reports along with office goals on the City of Albany website. § 42-424 Violence Prevention Advisory Task Force. The Office of Violence Prevention will oversee a Violence Prevention Advisory Task Force. The Violence Prevention Advisory Task Force will be responsible for convening stakeholders periodically to develop action items in preparation for summer months in anticipation of an uptick in violence. Material in strikethrough to be deleted. Matter underlined is new material. § 42-425 Programmatic funding. Funding will be allocated annually to violence prevention programming and initiatives in wards with the highest incidence and prevalence of violence. The funds will be allocated based on prioritization through a community participatory budgeting process with involvement from the Violence Prevention Advisory Task Force. A separate budget line within the City of Albany's annual budget will be created and titled "Violence Prevention Advisory Task Force Funding." § 42-426 (Reserved) Section 2. Paragraph (B) of Section 183-2 (Equitable Budgeting) of Chapter 183 (Equity Agenda) of Part II (General Legislation) of the Code of the City of Albany is hereby amended to read as follows: B. Violence prevention. (Reserved) (1) The Albany Common Council's Public Safety Committee will establish a Violence Prevention Task Force. The Violence Prevention Task Force will be responsible for convening stakeholders every fall to develop action items in preparation for the upcoming summer in anticipation of an uptick in violence. This task force will be composed of members of the Albany Common Council's Public Safety Committee, community members from wards disproportionately impacted by violence, at least one youth representative, representatives from the Albany Police Department, the Mayor's office, the Albany City School District, clergy and members from violence-prevention-related organizations. (2) Funding will be allocated annually to violence prevention programming and initiatives in Wards with the highest incidence and prevalence of violence. The funds will be allocated based on prioritization through a community participatory budgeting process with involvement from the Violence Prevention Task Force. A separate budget line within the City of Albany's annual budget will be created and titled "Violence Prevention Task Force Funding." Section 3. This Local Law shall take effect upon final passage, public hearing, and filing with the Secretary of State. APPROVED AS TO FORM THIS 6TH DAY OF APRIL, 2026 Corporation Counsel Material in strikethrough to be deleted. Matter underlined is new material. To: Shaniqua Jackson, City Clerk From: John Reilly, Counsel to the Mayor Re: Common Council Legislation Supporting Memorandum Date: April 6, 2026 Sponsor: Council Member Hoey, 15th Ward LOCAL LAW G OF 2026 TITLE A LOCAL LAW ESTABLISHING AN OFFICE OF VIOLENCE PREVENTION AND AMENDING CHAPTER 183 (EQUITY AGENDA) OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF ALBANY IN RELATION TO THE VIOLENCE PREVENTION TASK FORCE GENERAL PURPOSE OF LEGISLATION The purpose of the legislation is to establish an Office of Violence Prevention within the Office of the Mayor. The Office of Violence Prevention will bring together City, intergovernmental, and community-based stakeholders to address the root causes of violence, such as poverty, lack of education and limited access to mental health services, placing an emphasis on trauma- informed services. The office shall work alongside existing community programs, including efforts to reduce gun violence and to provide focused support for those with mental illnesses and substance abuse issues. Offices of Violence Prevention have been established in more than seventy municipalities nationwide.2 Offices serve as a central hub for municipalities to coordinate historically separate programming and identify new ways to collaborate and identify resources. Cities, such as Richmond, CA, and South Bend, Indiana, have experienced significant reductions in gun violence following establishment of such offices. The Office of Violence Prevention will endeavor, where possible, to implement evidence- based programs and interventions and collect the requisite data to allow for model fidelity and determine if intended outcomes are achieved. Further, this legislation will transfer oversight of the existing Violence Prevention Task Force to the Office of Violence Prevention. The Office of Violence Prevention will provide administrative support to the Task Force and assist with the production of an annual report and quarterly briefings. Whenever possible the Task Force should include civic leaders and representatives from relevant non-profits, community organizations, Albany County, the Albany School District, and law enforcement agencies with jurisdiction in the city. NECESSITY FOR LEGISLATION AND ANY CHANGE TO EXISTING LAW Section 504 (Departments, Offices and Commissions.) of the Charter of the City of Albany empowers the Common Council "to create…offices…and to prescribe or modify their powers and duties by a duly enacted local law." FISCAL IMPACT This legislation has no fiscal impact as it transfers an existing body to the Office of the Mayor. 2 National Offices of Violence Prevention Network. https://ovpnetwork.org/ Council Members Balarin, Adams, Anane, Farrell, Flynn, Hoey, Johnson, Keegan, Lumpkin, Robinson, Williamson, and Zamer introduced the following: ORDINANCE 5.31.26 (Pending Amendment 4/6/2026) AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 375 (UNIFIED SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE) OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF ALBANY IN RELATION TO ADJUSTING THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING REQUIREMENT AND ADDING EXCEPTIONS TO THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING REQUIREMENT The City of Albany, in Common Council convened, does hereby ordain and enact: Section 1. Subsection 5 (Incentives and affordable housing requirements) of section 375- 401 (Dimensional Standard) of Article IV (Development Standards) of Chapter 375 (Unified Sustainable Development Ordinance) of Part II (General Legislation) is hereby amended to read as follows: (5) Incentives and affordable housing requirements. The following incentives apply to new development and redevelopment in residential, mixed-use, and special purpose zoning districts. Inclusion of the following types of building or site features will enable the applicant to vary the dimensional standards otherwise applicable to the project as described in this § 375-401(5). Only one of these incentives may be used on a single lot or parcel. (a) Energy efficient development. New development of a principal building that is registered, designed, and documented for a LEED Platinum or LEED Gold certification, or equivalent as determined by the Chief Planning Official, shall receive the following benefits. (i) The project may increase the maximum impervious lot coverage by 20%; and (ii) The project may increase the maximum height of any principal building (or part of a principal building) located more than 100 feet from a residential zoning district other than the R-M district by one story. (b) Affordable housing incentive. New residential or mixed-use development of a site in which at least 20% 10% of all new dwelling units are rent or deed restricted so that they are affordable to households earning no more than 80% 70% of the area median household income for the Albany-Schenectady-Troy Metropolitan Statistical Area for the City of Albany as determined by affordability methods used by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, shall receive the following benefits: (i) The minimum number of off-street parking required by § 375-405 may be reduced by 100%; and (ii) The project may increase the maximum height of any principal building (or part of a principal building) by one story. (iii) In any permitted three-or-more unit dwelling, a development shall be allowed to exceed the maximum number of dwelling units otherwise permitted by the Unified Sustainable Development Ordinance, but in no event by more than 20%. (c) Affordable housing requirement. Each new residential or mixed-use development or redevelopment containing 20 or more new dwelling units shall be required to sell or rent a portion of its new dwelling units at sales or prices affordable to persons earning no more than 60% of the area median household income, as determined by affordability methods used by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development for the Albany-Schenectady-Troy, New York, Metropolitan Statistical Area. The minimum portion of affordable dwellings for each development or redevelopment shall be determined by the following standard: (i) Applicability. Each new residential or mixed-use development or redevelopment containing 20 or more new dwelling units shall be required to sell or rent 5% of its new dwelling units at sales prices or base rents respectively, affordable to persons providing proof of their earning no more than 70% of the area median household income for the Albany-Schenectady- Troy Metropolitan Statistical Area for the applicable household size, as determined by affordability methods used by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development. for the Albany-Schenectady-Troy, New York, Metropolitan Statistical Area. The minimum portion of affordable dwellings for each development or redevelopment shall be determined by the following standard. (i) 7% of new dwelling units shall be affordable for developments or redevelopments with 20 or more but no more than 49 new dwelling units; (ii) 10% of new dwelling units shall be affordable for developments or redevelopments with 50 or more but no more than 60 new dwelling units; (iii) 12% of new dwelling units shall be affordable for developments or redevelopments with more than 60 but no more than 75 new dwelling units; (iv) 13% of new dwelling units shall be affordable for developments or redevelopments with 76 or more new dwelling units. (ii) Alternative compliance. A. An applicant for development or redevelopment with more than 20 units may reduce the number of units that shall be affordable to 0% by paying, on or before, but no later than ninety days from the date of issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy, $50,000.00 per unit that would otherwise be required to be affordable pursuant to subparagraph (i) of this subsection. B. Payments required pursuant to clause A of this subparagraph shall be payable to a Housing Trust Fund of the Albany Community Development Agency, which Agency shall put no less than 50% of Housing Trust Fund payments toward tenant-related assistance programs and the remainder of such funds toward homeowners’ assistance programs, which shall include but shall not be limited to homeownership down payment assistance programs, homeownership emergency repair programs, or other housing grant programs administered by the Albany Community Development Agency as determined by the Commissioner of the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services and the Housing Trust Fund Advisory Board. C. The failure of the applicant to submit the payment required pursuant to this clause within ninety (90) days of the date of issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy shall render said applicant unable to participate in the alternative compliance method prescribed by clause A of this subsection and require adherence to the affordable housing requirement pursuant to subparagraph (i) of this subsection. (iii) Exceptions to the affordable housing requirement. Subparagraph (i) of this subsection shall not apply to the creation of new residential or mixed-use development or redevelopment containing 20 or more new dwelling units that are wholly senior living facilities, including: A. Independent living; B. Assisted living; C. Nursing homes or skilled nursing facilities; or D. Continuing care retirement communities. (iv) Administration of the affordable housing requirement. A. The Albany Community Development Agency, in coordination with the Fair Housing Officer, as determined by the Commissioner of the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services shall be responsible for administering the affordable housing requirement of this subsection by: 1. Maintaining a public listing of dwelling units subject to this section, including by publishing such listing by means of the internet; 2. Collecting information from the developer of each development or redevelopment, including an affordable housing compliance plan detailing the methodology utilized by such developer to ensure that sales and rentals are conducted in conformance with the affordability requirements established by this section; and 3. Publishing a report annually, by January 31st of each year, regarding new residential or mixed-use development or redevelopment subject to subparagraph (i) of this subsection. which shall include but shall not be limited to information regarding the affordable units created pursuant to this subsection and the disbursement of the Housing Trust Fund payments. B. Affordable Housing Compliance Plan. Compliance with subparagraph (i) of this subsection shall be demonstrated through an Affordable Housing Compliance Plan that specifies the following information: 1. The total number of affordable ownership and rental dwelling units planned within the project; 2. The number, unit configuration, and size of each affordable dwelling unit, with unit configuration defined by the number of bedrooms, occupancy type, and ownership or rental status. Affordable units shall correspond in key features, finishes, and floor area to market-rate units of the same configuration within the development; 3. Unit floor plans, schematics, and phasing details for the entire project, including the sequence in which affordable and market- rate units will be constructed; 4. The name and address of the entity responsible for the development or management of the project; 5. A description of the manner in which the required affordable units will be marketed or advertised, including efforts to reach eligible households; and 6. Any additional information necessary to verify compliance with the requirements of this subsection, as determined by the Chief Planning Official. C. No project-specific development approval, building permit, or certificate of occupancy shall be issued for projects subject § 375- 401(5)(c) unless an affordable housing compliance plan has been submitted. If the owner or developer violates Section 375-401(5)(c), including but not limited to by not constructing the required affordable housing units, the City may deny, suspend, or revoke any and all development approvals and pursue penalties as provided for in § 375- 507 of the USDO. Decisions regarding compliance with the Affordable Housing Compliance Plan, including the approval, suspension, or revocation of permits, may be appealed according to the appeals procedures set forth in Section 375-504(12). Section 2. Part 46 (Housing Trust Fund Advisory Board) of Chapter 42 (Departments and Commissions) of Part I (Administrative Legislation) is hereby added as follows: PART 45 HOUSING TRUST ADVISORY BOARD § 42-418. Establishment of Board. There is hereby established within the City of Albany a Housing Trust Fund Advisory Board to provide recommendations regarding the administration and use of the City’s Housing Trust Fund, authorized by §375-401(5)(c)(ii)(B), including programs eligible for funding, allocation priorities, and performance benchmarks. The Board shall work with the Albany Community Development Agency and Department of Neighborhood and Community Services in fulfilling its responsibilities. § 42-419 Membership; term; vacancies. A. The Board shall consist of ten members: 1. Three members appointed by community-based organizations, designated by resolution of the Common Council to make such appointment, that primarily support low-income residents; 2. Three members appointed by the Mayor of the City of Albany; 3. One member appointed by the Albany Common Council President; 4. One member appointed by the Albany Common Council President Pro Tempore; 5. One member appointed by the Albany Common Council Majority Leader; and 6. One member appointed by the Albany Common Council Majority Whip. B. Terms of office. Members shall be appointed for three-year terms, provided, however, that: 1. Of members initially appointed by designated community-based organizations, one shall be for a term of one year; one shall be for a term of two years; and one shall be for a term of three years. 2. Of members initially appointed by the Mayor: one shall be for a term of one year; one shall be for a term of two years; and one shall be for a term of three years. 3. Of members initially appointed by the Common Council: a. That of the Albany Common Council President and Majority Leader shall be for a term of three years; b. That of the Albany Common Council President Pro Tempore and Majority Whip shall be for a term of two years. Members shall continue to serve beyond the expiration of their terms until a new member is appointed or such serving member is reappointed. C. Vacancies. A vacancy occurring in the membership of the Board for any reason shall be filled by the appointing authority for the vacated seat for the duration of the seat's unexpired term. Vacancies shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointment for the remainder of the unexpired term. § 42-420 Powers and duties. The Board shall have the following powers and duties: A. Advise on the types of programs, initiatives, and expenditures eligible for Housing Trust Fund support; B. Recommend priorities for use of Housing Trust Fund revenues, including but not limited to tenant assistance programs, homeowner assistance, homeownership down payment assistance, emergency repair programs, and other housing grant programs; C. Consult with the Albany Community Development Agency and Department of Neighborhood and Community Services regarding annual and multi-year fund allocations; and D. Report at least annually to the Common Council on the Board’s recommendations, actions, and evaluation of fund performance. § 42-421 Organization and procedures. A. The Board shall elect a Chair and Vice Chair from among its members. B. Meetings shall be held at the call of the Chair or upon request of a majority of the Board’s members. A. A majority of the members of said Board shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. B. The Board shall adopt rules for the conduct of its meetings and affairs consistent with applicable law and city policy. § 42-422 Administrative support. The Department of Neighborhood and Community Services shall provide administrative support to the Board as reasonably necessary to fulfill its duties. Section 3. This ordinance shall take effect immediately. APPROVED AS TO FORM THIS ___ DAY OF APRIL ___________________________ Corporation Counsel To: Shaniqua Jackson, City Clerk From: John Reilly, Esq., Counsel to the Mayor Re: Common Council Legislation Supporting Memorandum Date: February 20, 2026 Sponsor: Council Member Balarin, 11th Ward Council Member Adams, 7th Ward Council Member Anane, 10th Ward Council Member Farrell, 13th Ward Council Member Flynn, 8th Ward Council Member Hoey, 15th Ward Council Member Johnson, 2nd Ward Council Member Keegan, 9th Ward Council Member Lumpkin, 3rd Ward Council Member Robinson, 5th Ward Council Member Williamson, 1st Ward Council Member Zamer, 14th Ward ORDINANCE 5.31.26 TITLE AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 375 (UNIFIED SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE) OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF ALBANY IN RELATION TO AJUSTING THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING REQUIREMENT AND ADDING EXCEPTIONS TO THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING REQUIREMENT GENERAL PURPOSE OF LEGISLATION This ordinance intends to address the current housing market in the City of Albany by restructuring existing affordable housing incentives and adding certain exceptions related to housing for senior citizens to the affordable housing requirement. This legislation seeks to increase development and redevelopment of affordable, workforce, and market-rate housing across the City, following a period of limited activity. Additionally, the legislation would establish a Housing Trust Fund, which would utilize payments received from the alternative compliance option to generate funds for tenant-assistance programs, first-time homeownership assistance and emergency repair programs. NECESSITY FOR LEGISLATION AND CHANGE TO EXISTING LAW The December 2025 Housing Audit released by the City of Albany Office of Audit and Control identified issues surrounding the City’s aging housing stock, increased demand for housing, and shortage of supply for nearly all levels of housing, including affordable, workforce and mark-rate development and redevelopment. Notably, the Audit revealed that City population continues to age due to the loss of young professionals in part due to the lack of new affordable housing units. Further, the City’s existing housing stock continues to age, with only 0.5% of housing units of the City’s current housing stock constructed since 2020. The audit concludes that “[t]he (current inclusionary zoning) policy is not producing housing at the income levels where affordability pressures are most severe and is simultaneously constraining market-rate development that the City needs to attract new residents and grow its population and tax base. In its current form, the IZ framework has become economically unsustainable, underscoring the need for recalibration….”3). On February 13, 2026, Governor Hochul and Empire State Development released the Downtown Albany Strategy report in connection with the Championing Albany’s Potential (CAP) Initiative. The report further highlighted the need for adjustments to Albany’s affordable housing requirement to address the shortage of mixed-income housing.4 This legislation intends to properly calibrate Albany’s inclusionary zoning policy to best leverage CAP funding while addressing the existing lack of supply in Albany’s housing stock. An ordinance is required to amend the City’s Unified Sustainable Development Ordinance. FISCAL IMPACT Additional development and redevelopment properties created under the amended affordable housing requirement could increase the amount of property tax revenue realized by the City, strengthening the City’s overall fiscal position. 3 City of Albany, NY Housing Audit, December 3, 2025 (p. 21) (https://albanyny.gov/DocumentCenter/View/13572/2025-Housing-Audit-Report-PDF). 4 Downtown Albany Strategy Report, February 13, 2026 (p. 74) (https://downtownalbanystrategy.com/wp- content/uploads/2026/02/Downtown-Albany-Strategy_Final-Report_021326.pdf).