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NYC voters to decide on 5 ballot proposals this November: What to know

The proposals, introduced by the city’s Commission on Government Efficiency, aim to cut red tape, speed up city services and make government more efficient.

Natalie Hernandez

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Oct 14, 2026, 6:49 PM

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With early voting just around the corner, New York City voters will have five questions to answer when they flip their ballots this November.

The proposals, introduced by the city’s Commission on Government Efficiency, aim to cut red tape, speed up city services and make government more efficient.

The proposed changes touch on everything from outdoor dining and bike lanes to construction permits and city finances.

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.

The fifth proposal would establish a savings target equal to 12% of the city’s previous year’s tax revenue to help prepare for future financial emergencies.

Political consultant James Christopher says the proposals could have a direct impact on everyday New Yorkers but cautions that changes may take time.

“Voting for something and having the city say they’ll do it is different than it actually being implemented by the city,” Christopher said.

The proposals would also change certain public review and approval processes.

Voters can cast a yes or no vote on each question, which will appear on the back of their ballots.

Early voting begins Oct. 24, ahead of Election Day on Nov. 3.

For a full breakdown of the five proposals, visit NYC Votes.

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