By Penny Laughlin Launched in June 2021, NYC Business Quick Start is an interagency collaboration to help small businesses open—or reopen. The program cuts through red tape, responding to small business inquiries within 48 hours and reducing processing time by 50%. In addition, NYC Business Quick Start provides a concierge service… View more
By Sami Sallaway On December 17, 2021, Metropolis President Frank Fortino announced the winners of the company’s top awards at the annual holiday celebration, held at the Metropolis Group headquarters. Project Manager Hope Denon was honored as the 2021 Employee of the Year, and Managing Director Joe Bastone received the 2021… View more
By Katherine Baerga More than one year after its expiration, the New York City Council has extended the J-51 tax abatement and exemption program, which allows owners of older residential buildings to get a break in property taxes in exchange for conducting significant renovation work or converting a commercial building to a… View more
By Austin Regan, R.A. In zoning terms, health clubs, massage facilities, and other fitness establishments have long been known as “Physical Culture Establishments,” or PCEs. Historically, New York City has not allowed PCEs as of right virtually anywhere. Applicants are required to get a special permit from the Board of Standards… View more
By Andrew Pisani Despite the ongoing pandemic, New York City has stayed busy on the local law front. Here’s a reminder of relevant local laws that affect site safety, building inspection requirements, and property maintenance, along with their effective dates. Local Law 74 of 2021. This law amends Chapter 33 (Safeguards during… View more
By Joseph Bastone The FAIRER (Fines and Interest Reduction Enabling Recovery) program has been extended through March 20, 2022. Administered by the Department of Finance, the program allows customers to pay reduced amounts for eligible Environmental Control Board (ECB) judgments. Depending upon whether you had a hearing and whether the judgment… View more
By Frank Fortino Happy New Year, everyone! Here we are, starting our third year in a pandemic. As we continue to face the challenges of COVID, while trying to balance personal lives with families and friends with professional responsibilities, the psychological strain is taking a toll on all of us. Normally,… View more
