The ABC's of IDA's: Protecting Schools, Strengthening Communities

Thursday Nov. 6 | 6-8pm | Old Dutch Church, 272 Wall St, Kingston, NY

Understand the problem. Join the movement. Take action to stop corporate tax giveaways.

Join New Yorkers for Fiscal Fairness, Reinvent Albany, and the New York State Council of Churches on Thursday, November 6th from 6-8pm for the kickoff of our statewide “ABCs of IDAs” tour at the historic Old Dutch Church in Kingston!

This community forum will unpack how Industrial Development Agencies (IDAs)—originally created to spur local job growth—have expanded into housing projects that often divert school tax revenues, reduce public transparency, and fail to deliver real affordability or lasting jobs.

We’ll explore the findings of the new Cornell–Reinvent Albany report Policy Crossroads: Reconsidering IDA Housing Tax Breaks in New York, which reveals how IDAs across the state are using local tax dollars meant for schools and to subsidize market-rate housing projects—often without sufficient oversight or community input. Including case studies such as the Kingstonian.

Come learn, discuss, and strategize with local advocates, faith leaders, educators, and policy experts about how to ensure economic development truly serves the public good.

Register here‍