The Living Wage Mandate Works

A 2003 policy that mandated that subsidized developements grant jobs at living wages has not hampered development, according to one official.

1 minute read

December 7, 2011, 6:00 AM PST

By Judy Chang

"One of the main arguments marshalled by opponents of living wage in New York City, including some unions, is that it will deter development in low-income areas where development is already difficult enough.

The wage requirements would apply to developers who receive city subsidies and whose annual revenue is greater than $5 million.

In his testimony last week, Tokumbo Shobowale, chief of staff to the deputy mayor for economic development, argued that 'incentive programs have been created specifically to encourage investments in job-creating projects in neighborhoods where these kinds of investments have not historically been made.'

'The effect of this bill would be to act as a disincentive to those investments," he continued. "Instead of making it easier to create jobs, this wage mandate would make it harder.'"

FULL STORY: L.A. Living Wage Mandate Hasn't Stifled Development

Tuesday, November 29, 2011 in Capital New York

Community / Economic Development Government / Politics Social / Demographics Urban Development California Los Angeles Living Wages View More

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Start Learning

Advertise with us

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.