A Local Law in relation to establishing a pilot program to make vacant commercial premises suitable for use by child care programs

This local law establishes a 7-year pilot program to convert vacant commercial premises into suitable spaces for child care programs. An administering agency, designated by the Mayor, will provide loans, grants, in-kind services, or materials to property owners for necessary alterations to meet New York City Health Code standards. The program will focus on areas with both a low number of child care slots and a high number of vacant commercial premises.

The Commissioner of Buildings will waive all associated fees for applications, permits, and inspections for work conducted under this program. The administering agency must approve or reject applications within 90 days and will also assist participants in finding child care operators to lease the converted spaces. The program is set to commence no later than 1 year after the law's effective date. This initiative is sponsored by Speaker Menin and Council Members Stevens, Farías, Joseph, Louis, Hanif, Cabán, and Morano.