All New Yorkers and every industry have been affected by the pandemic. Proven time and time again, New Yorkers are resilient and regardless the situation, we rise to the occasion. With that said, we must collectively thank the COVID-19 heroes–including all healthcare workers, firefighters, and police for their selfless act to save lives. We should also recognize the federal, city and state officials for doing their best in providing the healthcare system with the tools they need to contain and mitigate this virus.
As a result of the shelter in place, BOMA New York has transformed all programs from in-person to online. We are focused to ensure that BOMA New York continues to add value to its members, industry, and community. Everything from the BOMA NY signature monthly Lunch & Learn, to our Green & Wellness accredited classes to the BOMI curriculum are available online via scheduled webinars.
For example, on May 14th, BOMA New York conducted an interactive webinar for its Emerging Leaders focused on COVID-19. The panel discussed and answered questions regarding how to prepare commercial buildings for re-occupancy, while also ensuring tenant safety. The discussion was led by BOMA New York’s Preparedness Committee chair, Lou Trimboli of RXR Realty, along with Walter Ulmer III, of Croker Risk Management. BOMA New York’s officer, Patrick Dolan, of The Durst Organization, shared his own insights on how he plans to prepare 1WTC for when business resumes. From emergency preparedness to energy conservation to risk management – the BOMA New York digital calendar is packed with value.
New York is the primary factory of global innovation. BOMA New York is dedicated to the continued vibrancy of New York City. As such, our leadership has been working with REBNY and other partner organizations, alongside elected officials, to advocate for the commercial real estate industry and advise best practices to move business forward. The following is a snapshot of those ongoing efforts.
Collectively, we are working on a pro-business plan to activate the economy with a thoughtful return to our buildings. BOMA New York established a task force of thought leaders to develop the operational guidelines for re-occupancy of office buildings. We shared the vetted plan with city and state officials and will continue to update the working document to reflect new public guidelines – with a two-prong goal of keeping people safe and maximizing business productivity.
Together with many partner associations that represent the built environment, BOMA New York requested the city and state to temporarily modify their property tax requirements, with the following recommendations:
- Develop a payment plan
- Reduce interest payments; and/or
- Declare a freeze on property tax increases.
Please join BOMA New York as we partner with more than 20 cities throughout the United States for the upcoming National Flag Day Initiative on June 14th – a nationwide effort organizing a Red, White and Blue Light Up the Night/Weekend – as we remember those who have perished due to Coronavirus, as well as honor the men and women who have worked hard during the crisis to keep America safe.
Hani Salama, P.E., LEED AP is with Capital Properties, and is BOMA NY chair & CEO, New York, N.Y.