Adams faces tough questions on housing concerns at Harlem community forum

Mayor Eric Adams found himself at the center of a heated discussion during a well-attended public community forum held in Harlem on Sunday.

Co-hosted by Silent Voices United Inc. and the St. Nicholas Houses Resident Association, the forum drew dozens of concerned citizens, many of whom directed pointed inquiries at the mayor regarding issues ranging from affordable housing to accommodations for migrants.

A contentious topic of discussion was the recent decision to house asylum seekers in an unused luxury apartment building located at 2201 Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd. Residents voiced their discontent, citing existing challenges with homelessness in the area. “We already have a homeless shelter,” remarked Tyrone Ball of Harlem. “We don’t need another one.”

Throughout the forum, Mayor Adams fielded questions from the community while being surrounded by signs reflecting the sentiments of the attendees. Some signs expressed opposition to shelters for asylum seekers in Harlem, while others emphasized the allocation of local tax dollars towards community needs such as youth programs.

Leslie Johnson, President of the St. Nicholas Houses Resident Association, expressed appreciation for the opportunity to engage with Mayor Adams following a recent meeting to discuss community concerns. “We know that he cares,” she stated. “We know that he hears us. This is what we want.”

However, tensions ran high during the forum, leading to the removal of at least two individuals, including one who heckled the mayor. Despite the challenges, Mayor Adams remained focused on finding solutions, proposing a two-hour workshop on housing to channel the community’s passion into productive dialogue.

The mayor’s commitment to addressing housing issues in Harlem was evident as he acknowledged the concerns of residents and vowed to continue engaging with the community to find mutually beneficial solutions. The forum served as a platform for residents to voice their grievances and for Mayor Adams to reaffirm his dedication to addressing the housing needs of the community.