Civic Pulse: Why It Matters and Who’s in Office

Anti-Semitism, Affordable Housing, Kingsbrook Synagogue, Voting

Rabbi Yaacov Behrman interviewed Assembly Member Brian Cunningham, who represents the 43rd Assembly District, which includes Crown Heights, on the most pressing issues facing New York. They discussed anti-Semitism after October 7th, Black-Jewish relations, and the eviction of the 100-year-old synagogue at Kingsbrook Hospita, and voting turnout. News recently broke that he is being considered for lieutenant governor, and we asked him whether he wants the job. Tune in to hear a great conversation!

City of Yes: Housing, Development, and Displacement in NYC

This week, Rabbi Behrman speaks with Dan Garodnick, Chair of the City Planning Commission about the "City of Yes" zoning text amendment and its impact on New York. They discuss how these changes could legalize basement apartments and accessory dwellings, how the reforms might shape neighborhood development, and the potential for creating affordable housing while addressing the underlying causes of displacement.

Fair Housing, Fair Fees: The New Broker Fee Law

This week, we’re joined by Councilmember Chi Ossé of the 36th District (Bed-Stuy & North Crown Heights) to break down the FARE Act—a new law he sponsored to regulate broker fees in New York City. With the law set to take effect in June, Councilmember Ossé shares the motivation behind the bill, the challenges of getting it passed, and how it aligns NYC with practices already in place in cities like Chicago and Los Angeles. We explore the complexities of housing policy, broker fees, and the broader implications for both tenants and landlords. In conversation with Rabbi Yaacov Behrman, Councilmember Ossé engages with thoughtful questions and alternative perspectives, offering a nuanced discussion on legislative action and housing reform. Tune in for an insightful discussion on policymaking, civic engagement, and how local government is addressing fairness in NYC’s rental market amid an ongoing housing crisis. Disclaimer: The views expressed are those of Rabbi Behrman and his guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any organization or entity.

Will Congress pass the Federal Tax Credit Scholarship?

In the first episode, Yaacov Behrman interviews guest Yehoshua (Jason) Bedrick, a research fellow at the Heritage Foundation, a former New Hampshire state representative, a Chasidic Jew, and one of the nation’s foremost experts on school choice. The discussion focused on the latest legislation regarding a new federal tax credit for contributions to organizations that provide scholarships for elementary school students attending private schools. This legislation has a high probability of passing in the current budget and could have a major impact on Yeshivas. Will New York and other Democratic states that oppose school choice be included in the bill? Listen to the podcast to learn why your state may be included or excluded from the bill, and find out how you can play a role in what happens. Together, we can strengthen our communities and make a difference through voting, staying engaged, and getting involved. The views expressed in this podcast are solely those of Rabbi Behrman and his guests.