With early voting just around the corner, New York City voters will have five questions to answer when they flip their ballots this November.<\/p>\n
The proposals, introduced by the city\u2019s Commission on Government Efficiency, aim to cut red tape, speed up city services and make government more efficient.<\/p>\n
The proposed changes touch on everything from outdoor dining and bike lanes to construction permits and city finances.<\/p>\n
One proposal could cut outdoor dining application times from eight months to two, according to city estimates. Others would streamline contracts for small businesses and nonprofits, fast-track certain street safety improvements and create a centralized system for building permits.<\/p>\n
The fifth proposal would establish a savings target equal to 12% of the city\u2019s previous year\u2019s tax revenue to help prepare for future financial emergencies.<\/p>\n
Political consultant James Christopher says the proposals could have a direct impact on everyday New Yorkers but cautions that changes may take time.<\/p>\n
\u201cVoting for something and having the city say they\u2019ll do it is different than it actually being implemented by the city,\u201d Christopher said.<\/p>\n
The proposals would also change certain public review and approval processes.<\/p>\n
Voters can cast a yes or no vote on each question, which will appear on the back of their ballots.<\/p>\n
Early voting begins Oct. 24, ahead of Election Day on Nov. 3.<\/p>\n