Yuksel is a 20-year veteran developer who specializes in revamping burnt-out multifamily buildings. "When I initially pitch my plan, people tend to be taken aback," laughs Yuksel in an exclusive interview with GlobeSt.com. "But in the end, the owner realizes that extreme expense can be spared when undertaking this plan."

Opposition to this notion is strong among labor advocates. "This action will cut costs, but when it comes to professional firms in New York City, they want skilled labor who will be on time and provide good-grade work," says one such opponent, Stephen McInnis of the District Council of Carpenters. "This program just isn't doing justice to the worker or the consumer."

Aware of his critics, Yuksel counters with his experience leading Habitat for Humanity with all volunteers and working under the Dinkens administration in the Doe Fund. "Humans are living beings that need a solid self-esteem to be productive, something I'm providing my workers with by letting them know that I think they're good enough to do quality work," explains Yuksel. He adds that he provides housing and food for each individual while the project is in development.

"I'm giving people that others will ignore the chance to succeed, and I'm putting out a quality product as well," argues Yuksel. "In my opinion, everyone is winning."

McInnis counters, "There are also health risks that have to be considered because just sending people out there to do work is very dangerous and can lead to death if people don't know what they're doing." McInniss also sites the availability of several institutions that provide similar services and give the average worker a better break.

"The State of New York has apprentice programs that will give people a skill as well," McInnis contends. "Also, the District Council of Carpenters has established schools to give people on-the-job training and give them a salary at the same time, with benefits workers can take with them as they move on to future jobs."

Instant Insights /

Controversial Construction Plan Cuts Costs for Owners, Labor Unions Cry Foul

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