How to Work Successfully with an Agency

If a community developer’s message is not getting through to an agency, it should consider seeking assistance from an agency that can play an Ombudsman role with other agencies or from agencies that can resolve development challenges. Key agencies that can assist CBOs as they navigate the planning and development process are described below. Community developers should take advantage of the in-house, no-cost expertise and guidance of these agencies as they implement their development plans.

Click a topic, or press the enter key on a topic, to reveal its answer.

NYC Mayor's Office of Environmental Remediation (OER)

OER delivers a wide range of programming encouraging the revitalization of vacant, contaminated land in the City of New York. The office provides planning grants and technical support to non-profit community developers and supports the redevelopment of vacant, underutilized properties throughout the five boroughs. OER can serve as an effective liaison for community planners with New York City agencies.

Related Case Studies

Borough Offices of the NYC Department of City Planning (DCP)

DCP’s borough offices have proven to be strategic, willing partners for community planners, and are an indispensable partner if a community group’s planning calls for area-wide rezoning.

Related Case Studies

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC)

DEC regional staff can be key partners for community planning groups pursuing development and infrastructure projects on brownfields and in waterfront communities. If wetlands or bulkheads are involved, a community group should meet with DEC early in the process to discuss permitting issues that will arise when a development project reaches construction. If a community group seeks financing for remediation, DEC determines whether the project is eligible for enrollment in the state Brownfield Cleanup Program and can acquire state brownfield tax credits.

Related Case Study