Governor Kathy Hochul Signs Important Housing Legislation at Dayspring Community Center

Monday, August 8, 2022 – Governor Kathy Hochul chose the Dayspring Community Center as the location for the signing of legislation that will make homeownership more attainable for tens of thousands of New Yorkers. The governor signed three pieces of legislation:

• Legislation S.3085A/A.3956A Provides a Local Option to Expand Eligibility for the Property Tax Exemption for People Over 65 and People with Disabilities and Limited Income
• Legislation S.8890/A.9135 Extends Local Option to Provide Property Tax Exemption to First-Time Home Buyers
• Legislation S.9193/A.10271 Increases the Timeline for Completion and Amount Spent on Emergency Home Repairs for Low-to-Moderate Income Seniors Through RESTORE

Taken together, this legislation effectively protects seniors and people with disabilities by offering them a tax break on their homes. It also allows similar tax breaks to new homeowners, making homeownership more realistic and affordable for first-time buyers. The bill has been passed as a relief measure for some of the most vulnerable residents of New York State as inflation, rising costs, and other factors drive a nationwide affordability crisis. 

During her remarks, Governor Hochul mentioned Westhab’s incredible work renovating the church structure that houses the Dayspring Community Center. “This is extraordinary for your entire organization. To see the possibilities in a building or church that has been here for over 150 years, and to bring new life and activity and a sense of hope and purpose to it. Children and seniors alike who walk through these doors will have a better day following a venture into this space. I want to thank you, and I want to see places like this replicated all over the state.”

Rich Nightingale, President & CEO of Westhab, shared thanks for choosing Dayspring to serve as host for this important legislation. “Westhab was so happy to have Governor Kathy Hochul and other elected officials at the Dayspring Community Center for the signing of a bill that will help homeowners across New York State. We are thrilled to see the Dayspring Community Center serving as the hub of community activity for Yonkers and the broader community. It is the perfect setting to celebrate big strides in making New York State more affordable.”

As one of the largest and most reputable providers of affordable and supportive housing in Westchester and NYC, the Governor could not have picked a more perfect location than Westhab’s Dayspring to sign legislation to make homes more affordable for New Yorkers. Since its inception in 1981, Westhab has created 1,094 homes, placed 9,149 homeless households into permanent housing, and provided youth and employment services to its clients. Westhab’s mission is to build communities and change lives. Governor Hochul’s legislation will help New Yorkers all over the state do just that.

See photos from the Governor’s visit to Dayspring below.