Senator Biaggi's Week in Review: 7/11/22-7/15/22

 

Dear Community,

On Sunday, Elijah Muhammad became the tenth detainee to die while imprisoned on Rikers Island. He lay dead inside a cell hours before correction staff members discovered his body. 

This incident follows an alarming trend of rising deaths among the Rikers prison population, which have spiked to an all-time high this year. These deaths are not isolated incidents; they are part of a pattern of negligence and lack of safety at Rikers.

Sending individuals to a prison complex should not be equivalent to a death sentence. Unfortunately, the deprivation of basic resources like food, beds, and medical attention, along with repeatedly mismanaged policies, have created an environment at Rikers that is often violent for detainees and staff, many of whom are awaiting trial or being detained for technical parole violations. 

Enough is enough. Despite the continued decreases in the Rikers prison population, conditions at the facility have not improved. The City has proven yet again its inability to create a safe, humane environment for individuals held at Rikers, so I am calling for management of the complex to be taken over by a federal receiver until the prison is closed. Read my full statement here.

This has gone on long enough, and we cannot afford to wait any longer. It is time for a new approach that solves this humanitarian crisis and values the safety of all individuals––detainees, staff, and medical workers––at Rikers Island.

With Gratitude,

State Senator Alessandra Biaggi

NYS Office of the Comptroller DiNapoli: Overtime Costs at State Agencies Reached All-Time High in 2021

 

Dept. of Corrections, Office of Mental Health and Office for People With Developmental Disabilities Accounted for Two-Thirds of OT Hours

The total cost of overtime in 2021 reached an all-time high at more than $924 million, up 8.7% from 2020, covering roughly 19.95 million overtime hours worked, or an increase of 4.3%, according to a report released today by State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli. Total overtime hours worked at state agencies have increased by 38% since 2012, while the number of employees has declined by more than 10% at ten major agencies.

“As state government grappled with the impacts of the pandemic, overtime costs set a new record in 2021,” said DiNapoli. “While the pandemic does not appear to have prompted a ‘great resignation’ from the state workforce in 2020, new hiring stalled, and the workforce declined more sharply in 2021 than in the prior decade. The state needs to continue to attract and retain a range of diverse employees to be responsive to 21^st Century needs, and to ensure that services are provided in a cost-effective manner without excessive use of overtime.”

Most of the state’s overtime in 2021 came from the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (Corrections) and the Office of Mental Health (Mental Health). The three agencies accounted for 66% of the overtime hours and 62% of the overtime earnings logged by all state agencies in 2021. Overtime also rose significantly at the Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) and the City University of New York (CUNY), where hours increased more than 25% and overtime earnings more than 45%.

Key Findings Related to Overtime in 2021

• State agencies accrued 19.9 million hours of overtime in 2021, 819,471 hours more than in 2020.
• Fewer than one in five state agency employees works overtime. However, seven state agencies had more than 25% of their workforce accruing overtime in 2021. OPWDD had the highest share, at 49.1%, followed by Veterans’ Homes at 48.6%.
• Pay per overtime hour averaged $46.33. The State Police paid the highest average hourly rate, at $83.13 per overtime hour. CUNY paid the next highest, at $63.38, followed by the Unified Court System at $59.41.

State Workforce Trends

During the ten-year period from 2012 to 2021 analyzed by DiNapoli’s office, the average number of employees working for the state, not including SUNY and CUNY, declined 9.1%. This decline included a drop from 160,487 employees in 2012 to almost 154,000 in 2020. In 2021 alone the workforce decreased by 5.3%, or 8,113 employees, from 2020.

During the period 2012 to 2021, Corrections, OPWDD and Mental Health had workforce reductions of 11.6%, 18.7%, and 13.2%, respectively. Employees at Corrections (1,844) and OPWDD (1,521) also shrank by the greatest number of positions between 2020 and 2021, while OCFS and Veterans’ Homes suffered reductions of almost 10%. Individual agency workforce count changes resulted from a variety of factors, including new initiatives, reductions due to efficiencies, transfers of functions between agencies and consolidation of functions within certain agencies.

The COVID-19 pandemic does not appear to have accelerated attrition from the state workforce through 2020. Attrition includes retirements and other separations (consisting of resignations, terminations, layoffs and deaths). During this ten-year period, attrition grew and peaked during 2018, with 14,142 people leaving the state workforce. Attrition declined to 13,427 in January 2020, and was slightly lower, 13,357, in January 2021, which reflects the first year of state government operations during the pandemic.  

Attrition outpaced new hiring between Jan. 1, 2012, and Jan. 1, 2021. After a low for this period of roughly 5,700 in 2012, new hires peaked at 13,483 on Jan. 1, 2019, and then decreased to 7,435 in 2021.

Report

New York State Agency Use of Overtime and State Workforce Trends, 2012-2021

Governor Hochul Signs Legislation Banning Smoking in Public Parks and Beaches

 

Legislation S.4142/A.5061 Prohibits Smoking in Public Parks and Beaches

 Governor Kathy Hochul today signed legislation (S.4142/A.5061) prohibiting smoking in all state-owned beaches, boardwalks, marinas, playgrounds, recreation centers, and group camps. Smoking in these designated areas will be punishable with a civil fine of $50. The bill exempts the Adirondacks and Catskills from the ban as well as parking lots, sidewalks adjoining parks, and areas not used for park purposes.

"Smoking is a dangerous habit that affects not only the smoker but everyone around them, including families and children enjoying our state's great public places," Governor Hochul said. "I'm proud to sign this legislation that will protect New Yorker's health and help reduce litter in public parks and beaches across the state."

Many municipalities and local governments already have restrictions or bans on smoking in public spaces. This additional penalty will enforce a statewide prohibition and includes a fine that will be collected by localities.

In addition to the health risks posed by secondhand smoke, cigarette butts are a major environmental hazard due to the non-biodegradable filters that are discarded. They are the leading item found during cleanup projects. Through this prohibition, parks and beaches will be kept cleaner and safer as will our local ecosystems.

DEC Tracking New Threat to Beech Trees

 

Public Encouraged to Report Potential Beech Leaf Disease Infections

 The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today announced that Beech Leaf Disease (BLD), which affects all species of beech trees, was identified in 35 counties in New York State to date. DEC began tracking BLD in 2018 after it was confirmed in Chautauqua County. Fourteen of the counties with BLD were confirmed in 2022, and more are likely to be identified.

“Many American beech trees are already heavily impacted by beech bark disease, but Beech Leaf Disease appears to be an even bigger threat,” said DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos. “The decline of beech in New York could have far-reaching consequences, including significant changes to the composition of our northern hardwood forests and the loss of a valuable food source for wildlife. Beech Leaf Disease affects all beech, so the impacts would also be felt in our urban forests where ornamental beech trees, including the popular copper beech cultivar, are widely used for landscaping and street trees.” 

Much is still unknown about BLD, including how it spreads, but it can kill mature beech trees in six to 10 years and saplings in as little as two years. There is no known treatment for infected trees. BLD symptoms are associated with the nematode Litylenchus crenatae mccannii. It is unknown whether the nematode causes all of the damage, or if it is in association with another pathogen such as a virus, bacteria, or fungus.

DEC is working with the Cornell Plant Disease Diagnostic Clinic, the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service, neighboring states, and New York’s Partnerships for Regional Invasive Species Management (PRISMs) to survey for new infections, track disease progression using long-term monitoring plots, and investigate the nematode’s role in the disease. More information is needed to develop an effective treatment.

DEC’s Forest Health Diagnostic Lab is experiencing a recent surge in requests for BLD diagnosis and treatment options as landowners begin to notice a rapid decline in the health of their beech trees. Most of the reports are from Suffolk and Westchester counties where BLD is widespread. DEC is asking the public to submit reports through NYimapInvasives if they encounter a beech tree showing signs of BLD, especially for counties where BLD has not yet been confirmed. 

The main symptom to look for on beech foliage is darkened striping between the veins, which is best seen when looking up through the canopy. Leaves with severe symptoms can be heavily banded and crinkled, with a thickened leathery texture.

At this time there are no specific recommendations for managing trees that are infected with BLD, however, DEC encourages the public to report potential BLD infections using iMapInvasives to help track the disease while research is ongoing.

For more information about beech leaf disease, visit DEC’s website at https://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/120589.html. For more information on iMapInvasives, visit https://www.nyimapinvasives.org. For questions about potential tree pests or pathogens, email photos and a description to foresthealth@dec.ny.gov.

New York State Senator Gustavo Rivera - Announces Endorsements From New York State Senate Colleagues

 

Gustavo’s latest endorsement announcements are the latest updates as the campaign maintains real momentum in the lead-up to the August primary.

 New York State Senator Gustavo Rivera’s re-election campaign announced the support of key allies in the State Senate, including Senator Gianaris and Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins. With a strong coalition of elected officials, labor, and community support, Gustavo is ready to keep fighting for the people of District 33.

Senator Gustavo Rivera is also announcing the support of his colleagues in the Bronx: City Council Member Althea Stevens, and Assemblywoman Chantel Jackson. 

"I am honored to have received the distinguished support of Senate Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins, Deputy Leader Gianaris, Senator Krueger,  Senator Liu, Senator Ramos, Senator Comrie, Senator Biaggi, Senator Jackson, Senator Salazar, Senator Harckham, and Senator Brisport as trusted colleagues. Together we have passed comprehensive legislation and delivered millions of dollars to communities in the Bronx, changing the lives of thousands of New Yorkers. I’m deeply grateful for their belief in my campaign and look forward to building upon the work that we have accomplished thus far,” said Senator Gustavo Rivera. 

Senator Mike Gianaris:

• "I have known and worked with Senator Gustavo Rivera since we were freshman Senators. As the chair of the health committee, Senator Rivera has led on meaningful legislation to provide better access to healthcare, invest in our New York by taxing billionaires, guarantee reproductive healthcare by state law, and prevent gun violence. We've worked together to make New York a more equitable place to live, work, and raise a family and I look forward to continuing that work together. I am proud to endorse him."

Senator Liz Krueger:

• “Senator Gustavo Rivera is an extraordinary legislator who fights for the people of the Bronx every day. He is willing to take on the powerful forces to make government work for those who often get no place at the table. An honest and principled person whom I proudly endorse."

Statement from City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams and Mental Health Committee Chair Linda Lee on the Launch of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

 

“Supporting New Yorkers with accessible mental health care and support is critical, especially in light of the challenges exacerbated by the pandemic. With the launch of the National 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, individuals experiencing mental health-related distress finally have an easy way to reach the help they need. This new dialing code serves as an alternative to 911 for mental health crises, which will result in a more appropriate response for those seeking assistance. I encourage all New Yorkers to spread the word that if you are struggling with mental health challenges, please call 988 and get connected to the support you need.”

Background:

In 2020, Congress designated the new 988 dialing code to operate through the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The White House then increased funding for the 988 program by $282 million to scale up the program through increased language access and staffing at local call centers. 

Today, 988, administered by Vibrant, will finally launch, connecting individuals across the country who experience mental health-related distress to accessible care and support. Examples of distress include but not limited to: thoughts of suicide, mental health or substance use crisis. Upon dialing 988, callers will be connected to a live crisis center trained to identify their needs, offer support, and connect them to nearby services as necessary. The national hotline provides translation in English and Spanish, and local network providers offer services in over 250 languages, depending on the area.

To learn more, visit the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services’ United States Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration official site on 988. 

New York City Comptroller Lander Debuts Audit Recommendations Tracke

 

In a step toward greater transparency and accountability, New York City Comptroller Brad Lander launches a new dashboard to track the outcomes from audits of New York City agencies that the Comptroller’s Bureau of Audit issued on or after January 1, 2022 .

“The goal for our audits of City agencies is not a one-day headline – it’s to help make New York City government work better. That requires following up to see whether agencies are implementing our recommendations. Our new Audit Recommendations Tracker provides public transparency on this important question,” said Comptroller Brad Lander.

Audits are a critical tool to promote efficiency, integrity, performance, and equity in City government. Now, New Yorkers have a way to track how agencies have responded to specific auditor recommendations to improve financial management or program operations, and whether agencies agreed or disagreed with the Comptroller’s recommendations for improving performance. The Comptroller’s office will update and track the status of implementation periodically.

In addition to the tracking of audit outcomes, the portal also invites members of the public to suggest agencies or programs for the Comptroller’s office to audit.

The Comptroller has the authority to audit all matters relating to City finances. Under the New York City Charter, the Comptroller’s Bureau of Audit is required to conduct at least one audit of every City agency at least once every four years. Audits determine whether agencies expended or utilized funds efficiently and whether programs achieve intended goals, results, or benefits.

Since January 2022, the Comptroller’s office has released 25 audits and audit letters focused on how New York City agencies can make the best use of their resources to serve New Yorkers. For example, the office’s audits have shone a spotlight on how:

1. The New York City Economic Development Corporation (EDC) underreported nearly a quarter of a billion dollars in NYC Ferry expenditures. The audit recommended issuing a new RFP to operate the system, in time for the expiration of the current contract in September 2023. EDC agreed to implement this recommendation.

1. The Department of Homeless Services’ (DHS’) lack of due diligence denied homeless families shelter placements. The audit recommended that DHS update its written guidelines for staff research on applicants’ prior housing history, and DHS agreed to do so. However, DHS disagreed with the recommendation to contact or visit shelters or community board organizations where applicants reported having stayed.

1. The Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) can learn from pandemic price-gouging to be better prepared for future crises. The audit recommended developing a plan for moving quickly to price-gouging enforcement in future emergencies, learning lessons from the pandemic, and DCWP agreed to do so.

1. The New York City Police Department (NYPD) can accelerate its civilianization initiatives to make better use of resources. The audit recommended that the NYPD ensure that when it identifies duties performed by uniformed personal that are appropriate for civilian personnel, it convert those duties to civilian jobs within a reasonable time frame. The NYPD disagreed with this recommendation.

All audits issued since January 2022 can be found here.

Watch our Audit Recommendations Tracker video here:

Statement From Governor Kathy Hochul on 32,785 Additional Monkeypox Vaccine Doses to New York State and New York City

 

I spoke with Dr. Ashish Jha of the White House as part of our ongoing push to make sure that New York receives its fair share of monkeypox vaccine supply, especially for those New Yorkers in communities with high transmission rates. 

“New York State and New York City have already received more than 28,000 doses to date, and I’m pleased to share that will now receive another 32,785 vaccine doses next week to continue our efforts in responding to and meeting the needs of our most at-risk populations. 

"While the national supply remains limited, New York State will continue its strenuous advocacy to secure additional allocations that meet the needs of New York given the disproportionate number of monkeypox cases, especially within our LGBTQ+ communities, which have been hit especially hard. We will continue to work closely with the Biden Administration to ensure New York gets its fair share of monkeypox vaccines. As part of our overall monkeypox response, my team and I are committed to working around the clock to secure as many vaccines as possible for New Yorkers, ensure equitable resource allocation within our LGBTQ+ communities, and distribute the latest tools and information.   

“I am grateful to President Biden, Dr. Jha and other Administration officials for their help in securing additional vaccine doses, and I look forward to continuing our work together to protect our most vulnerable communities and keep New Yorkers safe.”   

Permits Filed For 60 Buchanan Place In University Heights, The Bronx

 

Permits have been filed for a six-story residential building at 60 Buchanan Place in University Heights, The Bronx. Located between Grand Avenue and Aqueduct Avenue C, the lot is two blocks from the 183rd Street subway station, serviced by the 4 train. Armin Jadadic of Sheko Inc. is listed as the owner behind the applications.

The proposed 69-foot-tall development will yield 19,942 square feet designated for residential space. The building will have 11 residences, most likely condos based on the average unit scope of 1,812 square feet. The masonry-based structure will also have a 39-foot-long rear yard.

Anthony Cucich Architect is listed as the architect of record.

Demolition permits were filed in March for the two-story building on the site. An estimated completion date has not been announced.

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES ADDITIONAL KEY APPOINTMENTS TO CITY HALL TEAM

 

New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced the appointments of Mir Bashar, Crystal Price, and Alexandra Silver to his City Hall leadership team. Bashar serves as chief administrative officer and is responsible for the day-to-day finances, budgets, contracts, and general administration of City Hall. Price serves as director of Federal Legislative Affairs and pushes the advancement of the federal priorities for each citywide agency. Silver serves as director of the Mayor’s Office of Animal Welfare and is a dedicated liaison between City Hall and the animal advocacy community, in addition to working to promote a vision for a fairer city for animal welfare.

 

“As we work to take our city to new heights, we need people who are committed to all New Yorkers and will fight to support and protect their interests,” said Mayor Adams. “I am proud to announce Mir, Crystal, and Alexandra to these key appointments on my team, confirming my administration’s wide breadth of tremendously talented public servants working to ‘Get Stuff Done’ for the people of this city.”

 

“This administration continues to build a cabinet of diverse and talented New Yorkers who are committed to the people of this city and we are incredibly proud to welcome Mir, Crystal and Alexandra to City Hall,” said Chief of Staff Frank Carone. “With this team, we will ensure that our work will have the best impact that will reflect the needs of all New Yorkers.”

 

About Mir Bashar

Mir Bashar currently serves as the chief administrative officer in the Office of the Mayor. Bashar has a significant role in the day-to-day finances, budgets, contracts, and general administration of City Hall. He is also responsible for streamlining processes and finding efficiencies while maintaining financial controls. 

 

Prior to his current role, Bashar was the senior director of Budget and Financial Planning in 2015, helping City Hall agency heads strategize to meet their vision and goals. Bashar has also led an impressive career as a public administrator, budget, and procurement professional for 25 years while working in New York City government. 

 

Bashar graduated with a Master of Public Administration focused on Public Administration from Long Island University. 

 

Bashar reports directly to Chief of Staff Frank Carone. 

 

About Crystal Price 

Crystal Price currently serves as director of Federal Legislative Affairs. Price manages the advancement of federal priorities for each citywide agency. 

 

Before joining the Adams administration, Price served as a deputy director of Federal Legislative Affairs in the de Blasio administration, overseeing New York City’s arts, entertainment, economic development, health, housing, infrastructure, and transportation portfolios. Price was also critical to procuring millions of dollars in federal grant funding for vital citywide capital repair projects and developing and implementing advocacy strategies to advance and protect the city’s federal response to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

 

Price is a lifelong New Yorker, who received a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from the University of the District of Columbia. 

 

Price serves on the Intergovernmental Affairs team under Chief of Staff Frank Carone. 

 

About Alexandra Silver 

Alexandra Silver currently serves as the director of the Mayor’s Office of Animal Welfare. 

 

Previously, Silver served as a community outreach & engagement manager at Animal Care Centers of NYC (ACC), the city’s animal shelter provider. For 10 years, Silver connected with other organizations, stakeholders, and elected officials, working to raise awareness about how all New Yorkers can make a difference for animals. Her experience there afforded her perspective on the breadth of animal issues in New York City. 

 

Passionate about animal welfare since childhood and a vegan since 2016, she shares her home with cats Lucas and Freddie Mercury, both adopted from ACC’s Manhattan center, as well as the occasional foster animal. 

 

Silver received her Bachelor of Arts degree in comparative literature from Princeton University. 

 

Silver reports directly to Community Affairs Unit Commissioner Fred Kreizman.