Cuomo Threatens 'State of Emergency' to Fix NYC Public Housing

The city must come up with a plan to fix the struggling public housing authority by April 1 or risk intervention by the state, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said at a press conference Monday.

He added that he may declare a "state of emergency."

Meanwhile, Cuomo said, he'll withhold $200 million in funds for NYCHA until the city comes up with an independent mechanism to fund repairs.

He floated the idea of a new independent arm of government tasked with making repairs to NYCHA buildings, similar to the city's School Construction Authority, which fixes city schools, and could be overseen by a state independent monitor. The governor said the state's Health Department will begin an investigation into hazards like roaches, mold and lead paint.

City officials fired back quickly, saying that  the state already owes the city $200 million that was set aside in last year's budget for repairs to NYCHA.

"I don't see how that's an emergency declaration," said Deputy Mayor Alicia Glenn. "That's doing your job, if you want to actually help us with the issues we're confronting at NYCHA."

Touring a roach-infested apartment in Andrew Jackson Houses, the governor seemed incredulous at the conditions he encountered there.

"Look at these cockroach eggs," he said. "This is unbelievable...The ceiling is collapsing and it's infested with cockroaches everywhere. It's much worse than anyone would imagine."

Jahari Blyther, 19, who is raising a 14-month-old son in the apartment Cuomo called "unbelievable," said she hopes the governor's visit would amount to more than a photo op.

"I just want him to actually keep his promises that he made and make sure that not only myself but other residents in Jackson get the help that they need," she said.