New City, NY — The City of New York’s latest effort to address its ongoing homelessness crisis has ignited controversy and concern among counties outside the city. The move, which involves exporting homeless residents while offering housing vouchers to low-income individuals, is seen by many as a way for the city to circumvent its homelessness and Sanctuary City policies.
New York City’s Department of Social Services (NYCDSS) has introduced a plan known as CityFHEPS, which permits city-issued housing vouchers to be used statewide by its low-income residents. This initiative aims to alleviate homelessness, which the city has struggled to manage effectively. Under CityFHEPS, participants secure 5-year leases and pay 30% of the housing costs, with NYCDSS covering the remainder. Additionally, landlords are provided with three months’ rent upfront and a 15% bonus, potentially inflating housing costs in localities.
County Executive Ed Day criticized the move, stating, “This is another attempt by the City of New York and Mayor Eric Adams to circumvent the laws and shift a problem resulting from its failed homeless and Sanctuary City policies to other municipalities.” Day expressed concerns that this plan could incentivize more illegal immigration, with migrants seeking the free housing, food, and services provided by the city.
The New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (NYSOTDA) consulted with Department of Social Services offices across the state regarding this city strategy. Departments highlighted the challenges of placing low-income individuals in housing within their current counties due to existing housing shortages.
Rockland County Department of Social Services Commissioner Joan Silvestri noted, “Any such plan would drive our housing prices higher in an already unaffordable market and create competition among local programs.” She emphasized that the responsibility for housing homeless individuals lies with the municipality where they reside.
County Attorney Thomas Humbach added, “The City of New York created the policies that are fueling these problems. Their solution is to avoid responsibility by encouraging their homeless to move to other counties.” He expressed concerns about potential financial burdens on new counties if homeless individuals require additional public funding.
In a joint call between the 57 counties outside New York City and City Department of Social Services Commissioner Molly Wasow Park, county executives expressed concerns about the lack of cooperation from the city and criticized the potential additional costs, including those related to education, healthcare, and more.
County Executive Day emphasized the need for comprehensive immigration reform and warned landlords considering participation in this plan. He stated, “Landlords considering participating in this be forewarned; it is my opinion this directly violates our State of Emergency as a misdemeanor carrying a daily fine of $2000.” Day vowed to protect residents from being displaced or forced into overcrowded conditions due to the city’s policies.
Please read press release from Rockland County Government here.