NY A08883

Allows public agencies, nonprofits, and limited-dividend organizations to submit a single application to local zoning boards of appeals for low or moderate income housing projects instead of separate applications to multiple local boards.

Requires local zoning boards of appeals to hold a public hearing within 30 days and render a decision within 40 days; applications are deemed approved if no decision is issued within the timeframe unless extended by mutual agreement.

Creates a state zoning board of appeals within the Division of Housing and Community Renewal, consisting of three members (the division commissioner or designee, one governor-appointed member with affordable housing experience, and one with local government experience), to hear appeals of denied or conditioned applications.

Permits applicants to appeal to the state board if an application is denied or granted with conditions making the project uneconomic; the state board may overturn local denials or remove conditions found to be unreasonable and inconsistent with local needs.

Directs the Division to study integrating low income housing tax credit applications with the zoning application process and submit findings and recommendations to the governor and legislature within one year of the act's effective date.