NYC Council Member Chris Marte likely to face 2025 YIMBY challenge

A new challenge might be brewing in Council Member Chris Marte’s backyard.

The council member who has represented Lower Manhattan since 2022 could be facing a competitive reelection next year, with at least one person exploring a run against the incumbent. And an activated pro-housing development community is turning its attention to the seat.

Community Board 1 member and lawyer Jess Coleman opened a campaign committee with the Campaign Finance Board in late July, and confirmed in a statement to City & State that he’s exploring a run for the council seat. “My neighbors all across Lower Manhattan are tired of waiting for results, and are looking for a champion to actually deliver for working families, seniors and young people alike,” Coleman wrote in an email. “New Yorkers deserve active representatives that will fight tirelessly for safe, affordable and vibrant neighborhoods that work for us all.”

Coleman didn’t specifically address Marte’s housing record in his statement to City & State, but he has previously taken aim at Marte’s criticism of Mayor Eric Adams’ “City of Yes” zoning plan. The mayor’s plan aims to incentivize new housing production across the city, and Coleman said Marte’s opposition puts him in alignment with Republicans in the council who oppose it.


https://www.cityandstateny.com/politics/2024/08/nyc-council-member-chris-marte-likely-face-2025-yimby-challenge/398643/