All four candidates and two hundred viewers joined us Tuesday night for the sole forum with candidates for the open 3rd Council District seat forum on preservation issues. Issues discussed included preserving the Tony Dapolito Recreation Center, city plans for 388 Hudson Street and the 600 ft. tall tower at “Gansevoort Square,” the proposed demolition of Chelsea Elliot and Fulton Houses, outdoor dining rules, upzonings, and more. We also asked candidates to respond to an extensive questionnaire about a variety of preservation and development issues.

The 3rd Council District stretches roughly from Spring to 55th Street west of Sixth Avenue, and includes the West Village, Chelsea, Hell’s Kitchen, the Theater District, and parts of Hudson Square. It was most recently represented by Erik Bottcher, who resigned earlier this year after being elected to the State Senate. A special non-partisan election with ranked choice voting will be held to fill the seat on April 28. As a 501(c)(3) organization, Village Preservation cannot endorse or recommend candidates. We can and do, however, provide you with an opportunity to learn more about their positions, records, and perspectives, so you can make informed decisions when you vote.