Why are there five proposals on the ballot?

Charter amendments are often developed by a Charter Revision Commission, a temporary body tasked with reviewing the Charter and recommending changes. The commission holds public hearings, gathers feedback from New Yorkers, and studies potential reforms before deciding which proposals to put before voters.

This year, the Commission on Government Efficiency (COGE) has proposed five amendments for New York City voters to consider. Each question addresses a different aspect of city government, from permitting and public space to street safety, contracting, and financial planning.

What is the City Charter?

The New York City Charter is the framework that defines how our city government works. It establishes the powers and responsibilities of the Mayor, City Council, city agencies, and other parts of city government, and sets out many of the procedures they must follow.

Like any governing framework, the Charter needs to evolve as the city changes. Amendments can update how government operates, improve public services, and change the processes used to make decisions that affect New Yorkers.

New Chelsea Democrats recommends voting YES on all five proposals.

We encourage voters to review the questions, understand what each change would do, and make their voices heard this November.