Housing Lottery Launches For Victory Commons At 1007 Union Avenue In Morrisania, The Bronx

 

The affordable housing lottery has launched for Victory Commons, aka Victory Baptist, a pair of six-story mixed-use buildings at 1007 Union Avenue in Morrisania, The Bronx. Designed by Aufgang Architects and developed by Michael Callaghan of Exact Capital, the structure yields 95 residences. Available on NYC Housing Connect are 79 units for residents at 130 percent of the area median income (AMI), ranging in eligible income from $17,452 to $132,400.

Amenities include parking for 58 vehicles, an on-site superintendent, bike storage lockers, a shared laundry room, storage, elevator, and a recreation room. Tenants are responsible for electricity and gas for cooking.

At 30 percent of the AMI, there is one studio with a monthly rent of $410 for incomes ranging from $17,452 to $32,040; nine one-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $521 for incomes ranging from $21,703 to $36,030; seven two-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $615 for incomes ranging from $25,920 to $43,230; and one three-bedroom with a monthly rent of $701 for incomes ranging from $29,898 to $49,650.

At 50 percent of the AMI, there is one studio with a monthly rent of $729 for incomes ranging from $28,389 to $53,400; nine one-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $919 for incomes ranging from $35,349 to $60,050; five two-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $1,094 for incomes ranging from $42,343 to $72,050; and two three-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $1,253 for incomes ranging from $48,823 to $82,750.

At 70 percent of the AMI, there are two studios with a monthly rent of $1,126 for incomes ranging from $42,000 to $74,760; eight one-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $1,416 for incomes ranging from $52,389 to $84,070; six two-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $1,689 for incomes ranging from $62,743 to $100,870; and three three-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $1,942 for incomes ranging from $72,446 to $115,850.

At 80 percent of the AMI, there are two studios with a monthly rent of $1,305 for incomes ranging from $48,138 to $85,440; 13 one-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $1,640 for incomes ranging from $60,069 to $96,080; eight two-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $1,958 for incomes ranging from $71,966 to $115,280; and two three-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $2,252 for incomes ranging from $83,075 to $132,400.

Prospective renters must meet income and household size requirements to apply for these apartments. Applications must be postmarked or submitted online no later than June 12, 2023.

BRONX MAN INDICTED IN DEATH OF DOG

 

Defendant Slammed Pup’s Head on Table, Killing Him Instantly

 Bronx District Attorney Darcel D. Clark today announced that a Bronx man has been indicted for Aggravated Cruelty to Animals for allegedly killing a 7-year-old Pomeranian dog during an argument with his ex-girlfriend.

 District Attorney Clark said, “This was a spectacularly brutal act of animal abuse. The defendant is being held accountable for allegedly causing multiple fractures to the little dog’s head, killing him instantly.”

 District Attorney Clark said the defendant, Victor Castillo, 32, of Webb Avenue, the Bronx, was arraigned Wednesday on an indictment charging Aggravated Cruelty to Animals, New York Agricultural and Markets Law section 353-a, a felony, before Bronx Supreme Court Justice Guy Mitchell. He is due back in court on May 4, 2023.

 According to the investigation, on February 9, 2023, Castillo had an argument with his exgirlfriend in her apartment on Arthur Avenue, when he picked up her pet dog, Ken-Shin, a 9 ½- pound Pomeranian, by the neck and slammed his head onto a wooden coffee table, causing blood to splatter around the room, and killing the dog instantly. A post-mortem examination of KenShin by the A.S.P.C.A. revealed that the blunt force trauma to his head caused him to have multiple skull fractures and lacerations to his brain which caused his death.

 District Attorney Clark thanked the A.S.P.C.A., specifically Dr. Deana Rowlison, and NYPD Detective Janet Ospina, of the Animal Cruelty Investigation Squad, for their work on this investigation.

An indictment is an accusatory instrument and not proof of a defendant’s guilt.

Governor Hochul Announces More Than $8.3 Million to Municipalities for Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure

 

Grants Support Nearly 250 New Public Charging Stations in 70 Communities Statewide

New York State to Build More Than 1,300 Charging Stations for Agency Fleet Over Next Five Years

Plans Build Upon State's Ongoing Investments in Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure and Emissions Reduction Initiatives

 Governor Kathy Hochul today announced more than $8.3 million to 70 municipalities to install electric vehicle charging stations for public use. The transportation sector is the second-largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in New York, and these electric vehicle charging stations will help the state achieve the ambitious greenhouse gas emission reduction requirements under the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. The announcement, made at the New York International Auto Show today, includes an EV infrastructure plan to build of more than 1,300 charging stations in support of a full transition to a zero-emission State fleet.

"New York has made remarkable progress advancing our transition from fossil fuels and reducing harmful vehicle emissions statewide as part of our nation-leading climate agenda," Governor Hochul said. "Thanks to initiatives like the Municipal Zero-Emissions Vehicle Infrastructure grants, communities across New York State are taking bold action to protect the environment and tackle the climate crisis. We will continue to invest in clean energy to improve the health and quality of life of New Yorkers and ensure a safe and sustainable future."

The 2022 round of the Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) Municipal Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Infrastructure Grant Program made 131 awards to 70 municipalities totaling $8.38 million to support the installation of 454 Level 2 charging ports and 28 direct current fast charger (DCFC) pedestals throughout New York State, the largest award amount since the program began in 2016. More than 42 percent of the grant funding was awarded for projects located in disadvantaged communities. The Climate Justice Working Group recently finalized criteria for disadvantaged communities that will ensure 35 percent, with a goal of 40 percent, of overall benefits of spending on clean energy and energy efficiency programs - one of several ways the Climate Act prioritizes climate justice.

Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos said, "DEC is proud to work with the communities and local leaders across the state investing in clean energy, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and building sustainable infrastructure. This funding will continue to grow New York's electric vehicle charging network in communities as we shift to zero-emissions vehicles to reduce emissions and improve the health and safety of New Yorkers. DEC applauds these communities working to address the climate crisis by acting locally to bolster the State's climate leadership."

Recipients of the 2022 Municipal Zero-Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Grant awards are as follows:

Capital Region

City of Albany, $499,769.60 for 28 Level 2 charging ports

Albany County, $65,970.80 for 14 Level 2 charging ports

City of Schenectady, $54,800 for eight Level 2 charging ports

Village of Menands, $32,934 for four Level 2 charging ports

Village of Catskill, $26,605.95 for eight Level 2 charging ports

Central New York

City of Oneida, $450,711 for eight Level 2 charging ports and two DCFC pedestals

Town of Dewitt, $261,800 for 16 Level 2 charging ports

Town of Salina, $199,400 for one DCFC pedestal

Town of Onondaga, $194,521.60 for 10 Level 2 charging ports

City of Auburn, $80,288 for six Level 2 charging ports

Village of Baldwinsville, $35,454.50 for four Level 2 charging ports

Finger Lakes

Village of Medina, $245,184 for two DCFC pedestals

Village of Clyde, $110,862.60 for four Level 2 charging ports

Town of Chili, $89,463 for 20 Level 2 charging ports

Town of Seneca Falls, $86,022 for 12 Level 2 charging ports

Town of Irondequoit, $79,028.10 for 14 Level 2 charging ports

Town of Brighton, $63,570 for eight Level 2 charging ports

Village of Sodus Point, $62,440 for 16 Level 2 charging ports

Village of Sodus, $44,950 for eight Level 2 charging ports

Town of Ogden, $31,328 for eight Level 2 charging ports

Town of East Bloomfield, $29,071.20 for eight Level 2 charging ports

City of Canandaigua, $28,820 for six Level 2 charging ports

Town of Lodi, $27,908 for eight Level 2 charging ports

Town of Macedon, $25,274.48 for four Level 2 charging ports

Town of Richmond, $22,216.50 for four Level 2 charging ports

Wyoming County, $20,800 for four Level 2 charging ports

Town of Lima, $13,720 for four Level 2 charging ports

Town of Pittsford, $12,502 for two Level 2 charging ports

Village of Albion, $10,500.00 for two Level 2 charging ports

Long Island

Town of Oyster Bay, $490,811.41 for 22 Level 2 charging ports and one DCFC pedestal

Town of Smithtown, $161,130 for two DCFC pedestals

Town of Huntington, $123,264 for 16 Level 2 charging ports

City of Glen Cove, $47,774.10 for two Level 2 charging ports

Village of Sea Cliff, $42,114 for two Level 2 charging ports

Mid-Hudson

City of Kingston, $268,644.54 for two DCFC pedestals

Town of Mount Pleasant, $250,000 for four DCFC pedestals

City of Poughkeepsie, $207,167.50 for four Level 2 charging ports and two DCFC pedestals

Village of Croton-on-Hudson, $149,266.78 for 12 Level 2 charging ports

Town of Amenia, $82,180.40 for two Level 2 charging ports

Village of Pleasantville, $43,644.01 for four Level 2 charging ports

Village of Sleepy Hollow, $38,100 for two Level 2 charging ports

Town of Esopus, $35,260 for four Level 2 charging ports

Village of Briarcliff Manor, $25,800 for four Level 2 charging ports

Town of Kent, $23,027.64 for four Level 2 charging ports

Village Wappingers Falls, $9,790 for two Level 2 charging ports

City of White Plains, $9,387.15 for two Level 2 charging ports

Mohawk Valley

City of Oneonta, $299,546 for 26 Level 2 charging ports

Montgomery County, $268,000 for 24 Level 2 charging ports

Village of Northville, $23,659 for two Level 2 charging ports

North Country

Town of Indian Lake, $236,686.50 for two DCFC pedestals

Village of Waddington, $117,375 for four Level 2 charging ports

Town of Clayton, $87,375 for four Level 2 charging ports

Town of Jay, $53,292 for six Level 2 charging ports

Village of Canton, $50,061 for one DCFC pedestal

Town of Newcomb, $49,452.50 for six Level 2 charging ports

Town of Chesterfield, $37,525.45 for two Level 2 charging ports

Town of Tupper Lake, $17,200 for two Level 2 charging ports

Town of Ausable, $14,675 for two Level 2 charging ports

Southern Tier

Chemung County, $500,000 for two DCFC pedestals

Village of Sidney, $80,632.32 for two DCFC pedestals

Village of Fleischmanns, $7,573.50 for two Level 2 charging ports

Western New York

City of Olean, $499,210 for 20 Level 2 charging ports

Town of Amherst, $470,683.20 for 14 Level 2 charging ports and one DCFC pedestal

Village of South Dayton, $209,750 for one DCFC pedestal

Village of Lancaster, $137,200.00 for two Level 2 charging ports and one DCFC pedestal

Town of Grand Island, $50,148 for four Level 2 charging ports

Village of Hamburg, $49,100.80 for four Level 2 charging ports

Town of West Seneca, $31,475.70 for four Level 2 charging ports

Town Eden, $26,377.96 for two Level 2 charging ports

More information about the DEC Municipal ZEV Infrastructure Grant Program, as well as Municipal ZEV Rebates is available on DEC's website at: https://www.dec.ny.gov/energy/109181.html#ZEV

Greening New York State Fleets

The New York State Office of General Services is leading an effort to build more than 1,300 charging stations dedicated to fleet charging within five years at state facilities, beginning with the installation of 130 stations at OGS properties. These chargers will be a mix of networked Level 2 and fast chargers. OGS Resiliency and Sustainability is also partnering with the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority to develop a Clean Fleet Plan to identify critical infrastructure milestones required to meet this goal and recommend key policies and procedures to support and accelerate the transition to a zero-emission fleet.

EVolve NY Fast-Charging Progress

The New York Power Authority announced that the number of chargers in its high-speed EVolve NY network has reached more than 120 at 32 sites along major travel corridors. Working with other state agencies, the total is expected to climb to at least 800 statewide by 2025, ensuring that EV drivers don't have to worry about running out of charge. The Direct Current Fast Chargers can charge most of the battery capacity in any make or model of EV in as little as 20 minutes.

The EV announcements today complement other recent actions New York is taking to fast-track the transition to electric vehicles. In December, DEC announced the adoption of the Advanced Clean Cars II regulations which require all new passenger cars and light-duty trucks sold in New York State to be zero-emissions by 2035 to accelerate zero-emission car sales, resulting in improved air quality statewide, particularly in communities disproportionately impacted by transportation-related pollution. The regulation requires an increasing percentage of new light-duty vehicle sales to be zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) each year, starting with 35 percent ZEV sales in model year 2026, leading to 100 percent ZEV sales by 2035.

Adoption of Advanced Clean Cars II is included among the recommendations in the Climate Action Council's Scoping Plan and will be instrumental in achieving the greenhouse gas emissions reductions required in the Climate Act, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 85 percent by 2050 from 1990 levels. On Dec. 19, New York State's Climate Action Council adopted the Scoping Plan, which outlines recommended policies and actions to help meet the Climate Act's goals and requirements. The plan was the culmination of more than three years of collaboration, including contributions from the Council's Advisory Panels and Working Groups, since the enactment of the Climate Act in 2019.

Funding for the ZEV grants announced today was provided by the State Environmental Protection Fund. Among the many environmental victories in the 2022-23 State Budget, the EPF was funded at $400 million, the highest-ever level of funding in the program's history. The EPF supports climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts, improves agricultural resources to promote sustainable agriculture, protects our water sources, advances conservation efforts, and provides recreational opportunities for New Yorkers.

New York State's Nation-Leading Climate Plan

New York State's nation-leading climate agenda calls for an orderly and just transition that creates family-sustaining jobs, continues fostering a green economy across all sectors and ensures that at least 35 percent, with a goal of 40 percent, of the benefits of clean energy and energy efficiency investments are directed to disadvantaged communities. Guided by some of the nation's most aggressive climate and clean energy initiatives, New York is on a path to achieving a zero-emission electricity sector by 2040, including 70 percent renewable energy generation by 2030, and economywide carbon neutrality by mid-century. A cornerstone of this transition is New York's unprecedented clean energy investments, including more than $35 billion in 120 large-scale renewable and transmission projects across the state, $6.8 billion to reduce building emissions, $1.8 billion to scale up solar, more than $1 billion for clean transportation initiatives, and over $1.8 billion in NY Green Bank commitments. These and other investments are supporting more than 165,000 jobs in New York's clean energy sector in 2021 and a 2,100 percent growth in the distributed solar sector since 2011. To reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality, New York also adopted zero-emission vehicle regulations, including requiring all new passenger cars and trucks sold in the State be zero emission by 2035. Partnerships are continuing to advance New York's climate action with nearly 400 registered and 100 certified Climate Smart Communities, nearly 500 Clean Energy Communities, and the State's largest community air monitoring initiative in 10 disadvantaged communities across the state to help target air pollution and combat climate change.

MAYOR ADAMS ANOINTS KATHLEEN CORRADI AS NYC’S FIRST-EVER ‘RAT CZAR’

 

Citywide Director of Rodent Mitigation Will Be First Dedicated Member of Mayor’s Office Working Solely on Rat Reduction — Major Quality-of-Life and Health Challenge

 

Adams Administration Accelerates Rat Reduction Work in Harlem with Combined $3.5 Million Investment to Fight Rats Across Agencies

New York City Mayor Eric Adams appointed Kathleen Corradi as the city’s first-ever citywide director of rodent mitigation, also known as the ‘rat czar.’ In this newly created role, Corradi will coordinate across city government agencies, community organizations, and the private sector to reduce the rat population in New York City — building a cleaner, more welcoming city and tackling a major quality-of-life and health issue. Mayor Adams also announced the new Harlem Rat Mitigation Zone and a $3.5 million investment starting in Fiscal Year 2023 (FY23) to expand and accelerate rat reduction work across Harlem.

 

“New York City has done a lot recently when it comes to fighting public enemy number one: rats. But it was clear we needed someone solely focused on leading our rat reduction efforts across all five boroughs, and today I’m proud to announce Kathy Corradi as New York City’s first-ever ‘rat czar,’” said Mayor Adams. “Kathy has the knowledge, drive, experience, and energy to send rats packing and create a cleaner more welcoming city for all New Yorkers. Beginning with this $3.5 million investment toward rodent mitigation in Harlem, Kathy will take the lead on our multi-agency effort to test new mitigation techniques, expand outreach and education efforts, and increase maintenance and remediation work. The rats are going to hate Kathy, but we’re excited to have her leading this important effort.”

 

“Rats are more than just a quality-of-life issue — they are a symbol of systemic issues that for too long have plagued New Yorkers, particularly low-income and communities of color,” said Chief of Staff Camille Joseph Varlack. “I’m thrilled to have Kathy Corradi as our first rat czar, who will coordinate across agencies, bring a scientific, data-driven approach to the role, and deliver on Mayor Adams’ vision to finally control our rat population. It will take each and every New Yorker working together to create the rat free New York City we all want, and Kathy is the right person to lead us forward.”

 

“Every New Yorker — regardless of their zip code, income level, or any defining factor — deserves to live in a city free from rats,” said First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright. “I’m thrilled to have Kathy Corradi as the city’s first ever rat czar, who with a background in science and expertise in rodent mitigation, will help deliver an equitable quality of life experience for all New Yorkers. Through Kathy’s leadership and each and every New Yorker playing their own part, we can write a new chapter in our city on cleanliness and ending the rat crisis.”

 

“On behalf of all New Yorkers, we welcome Kathy to the war on rats,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “She will lead a team of experts with focus and energy, every day diligently depriving rats of food, water, and shelter. And the rest will be history!”

 

“No person or family should have to deal with rats in their home, in any significant way in their neighborhood, or elsewhere across the city,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “I am excited to continue the work of this interagency effort and welcome Kathy Corradi on board to tackle what is a serious quality of life issue affecting many communities across the city.”

 

“Rat mitigation is more than a quality-of-life issue for New Yorkers,” said Citywide Director of Rodent Mitigation Kathleen Corradi. “Rats are a symptom of systemic issues, including sanitation, health, housing, and economic justice. As the first director of rodent mitigation, I’m excited to bring a science- and systems-based approach to fight rats. New York may be famous for the Pizza Rat, but rats, and the conditions that help them thrive will no longer be tolerated — no more dirty curbs, unmanaged spaces, or brazen burrowing. I’m honored to lead this work, grateful to Mayor Adams for this opportunity, and look forward to sending the rats packing.”

 

As the citywide director of rodent mitigation, Corradi will lead and implement a unified strategy to reduce rats in neighborhoods across New York’s five boroughs, with a focus on innovative ways to cut off rats’ food sources, as well as through testing and deploying new technologies to detect and exterminate rat populations. Corradi will play a vital role in developing and executing the city’s rat mitigation efforts, harnessing both the expertise and operational capacity of several city agencies including the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH), the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation (NYC Parks), the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA), the New York City Department of Education (DOE), the New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY), and the New York City Department of Small Business Services (SBS), in addition to different private sector partners.

 

Harlem Rat Mitigation Zone

As part of today’s announcement, Mayor Adams also announced four city agencies will invest $3.5 million starting in FY23 to launch the Harlem Rat Mitigation Zone — an accelerated rat reduction plan covering Community Boards, 9, 10, and 11, and which includes 28 NYCHA properties, 73 NYC Parks locations, nearly 70 DOE schools, and over 10,000 private properties. DOHMH, NYC Parks, NYCHA, and DOE will receive this funding to accelerate critical rat mitigation work in Harlem and to test new and emerging technologies to fight rats, including:

• 19 full-time staff and 14 seasonal staff to inspect, exterminate, and maintain or clean public spaces to prevent “mischiefs” of rats.
• New equipment, like tilt trucks, to better contain and manage waste and extermination supplies, such as bait, traps, sensors, fumigation machines (including Burrow RX and CO₂ machines); Rat Ice; and exclusion methods, like wire lathe around structural rat burrows and landscaper fabric designed to keep pests out.
• Eight new “Rat Slabs” at NYCHA Douglass Houses and Johnson Houses, a rat mitigation tool to harden earthen floors and prevent rat burrowing.

As part of this work in Harlem, private properties will be inspected twice annually for rat-related violations, and issued violations accordingly. City locations will be inspected monthly. The city will also offer Harlem-specific rat academies in Community Boards 9, 10, and 11 in the coming months. New Yorkers can learn more about how to prevent rats at their properties at Rat Academies hosted by DOHMH. The best way for New Yorkers to prevent rats is to adhere to the following common-sense tips:

• Keep homes clean and secure trash:
• Store trash in containers and follow DSNY’s new trash set-out times to reduce the time that trash sits out;
• Do not feed wildlife; and
• Pick up after dogs.

• Destroy potential rat homes:
• Seal cracks or holes around buildings, sidewalks, and under doors;
• Keep green spaces around a property clean and maintained; and
• Cover or destroy earthen rat burrows (also known as rat holes.)

The newly established Harlem Rat Mitigation Zone.

Rodent Control Gift

The Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City also recently received a generous donation of over 1,000 Tomcat rodent control products, including 100 bait stations, 1,000 rat snap traps, and refillable bait for use in NYCHA, NYC Parks, and DOE gardens for use.

 

“We appreciate the opportunity to support New York City's mitigation efforts,” said Jodi Lee, vice president of controls, Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, which owns Tomcat. “Rodent control starts with preventive measures, such as removing access to water and food sources, and includes proven rodent control products for challenging settings. Tomcat's solutions are an effective tool in the fight to stem rodent infestations.”

 

Today’s announcement builds on historic investments in rat mitigation and cleanliness that the Adams administration has made, including the launch of ‘Get Stuff Clean,’ that invested $14.5 million to clean neglected spaces, ending New York City’s ‘5 o’clock shadow’ by drastically reducing the hours that black trash bags sit on the curb, and implementing the nation’s largest curbside composting program citywide.

 

About Kathleen Corradi

 

Kathleen Corradi brings over a decade of community engagement, program development, and facilities operations to the Adams administration at the first-ever citywide director of rodent mitigation. Spearheading sustainability, sanitation, rodent and pest mitigation, and space utilization projects, Corradi has dedicated her career to developing effective systems in service of a more equitable and resilient New York City.

Corradi began her career as an elementary teacher in Central Brooklyn and program lead at Brooklyn Botanic Garden. At the DOE’s Office of Sustainability, Corradi developed New York City’s Zero Waste Schools program, the nation’s largest zero waste program that reached over 350,000 students, and led the agency's rodent reduction efforts, coordinating and implementing pest mitigation plans across nearly 120 public schools that led to 70 percent compliance on the Neighborhood Rodent Reduction taskforce. Most recently she has served as DOE’s Queens Director of Space Planning, managing $500 million in capital development funds to optimize New York City public schools’ building utilization and ensure fair distribution of resources.

 

Corradi earned Bachelor of Science in Biology from Eckerd College, and a Master of Science in Urban Sustainability from The City College of New York.

 

Corradi will report to Chief of Staff Camille Joseph Varlack, and will work closely with Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi and Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom.

“Today marks a new era in our battle against the scourge of rats in New York City,” said DOE Chancellor David C. Banks. “With the hiring of our first citywide director of rodent mitigation, we are taking a significant step forward in protecting the health and safety of our students both at home and at school. I am confident that under the leadership of the new rat czar, we will make great strides in controlling the rat population and creating a cleaner, more livable city for future generations of New Yorkers.”

 

“Rats are the sworn enemies of public health,” said DOHMH Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan. “DOHMH is proud to have a leading role in the city’s pest-fighting partnership, and we are confident that, together, we will drive these detested rodents from the five boroughs and take back our city. We are especially excited to have the rat czar’s leadership, and we welcome her to the frontlines of this critical battle for health and quality of life for all New Yorkers.”

 

“While we respect all creatures that call New York City home, managing the rodent population is vital to maintaining a healthy urban ecosystem,” said NYC Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue. “Kathy’s appointment as rat czar shouts, rather than squeaks, our city’s commitment to addressing this issue thoughtfully and effectively, and I look forward to working with her and our partner agencies to keep our city greenspaces safe and sanitary for all New Yorkers.”

 

“Improving our ability to substantially reduce the presence of pests, including rats, is not only a key component of our agreement with HUD, but also a critical part of enhancing conditions and quality of life for NYCHA residents,” said NYCHA Interim CEO Lisa Bova-Hiatt. “The transformative work that has been underway at NYCHA goes hand-in-hand with these larger citywide mitigation efforts, as we all come together to combat rodent issues across the five boroughs.” 

 

“Our commercial corridors should be thriving with businesses and shoppers, not rats,” said SBS Commissioner Kevin D. Kim. “Through our work on the Interagency Rat Task Force, and educating local businesses and community organizations about rat mitigation, SBS remains committed to tackling this quality-of-life and health issue. We look forward to working closely with Kathy.”

 

“Congratulations to Kathy Corradi on this historic appointment,” said Mayor’s Office of Operations Director Dan Steinberg. “It’s a trademark of the Adams administration to attack our city’s most intractable problems with new ideas, technology, and talent. The city's rat reduction agenda is bolder and more creative than ever thanks to the interdisciplinary work of the Rat Reduction Task Force. We’re thrilled to now have a dynamic leader at City Hall to drive this work into the future.”

 

“Mayor Adams has made it clear that the rats don't run this city, we do,” said DSNY Commissioner Jessica Tisch. “I'm looking forward to working with Kathy to send these pests packing!”

 

Announcing SAGE Equity Innovation Lab Grant Recipients for LGBTQ+ Aging Work

 

Six awardees throughout the U.S. will receive financial and technical support from SAGE  

SAGE, the world’s largest organization dedicated to improving the lives of LGBTQ+ elders, is thrilled to announce the inaugural six recipients of its new Equity Innovation Lab program. An external selection panel chose The San Gabriel Valley LGBTQ+ Center, T.R.A.N.S., Hualapai Tribal Council Senior Services, Love Wins Food Pantry, and the radical healing lab out of a competitive array of organizations from elder communities across the country.    

SAGE’s Equity Innovation Lab offers financial and technical support to multiply-marginalized and historically under-resourced LGBTQ+ elder communities nationwide. The program provides a $5,000 grant and year-long technical assistance. Additionally, SAGE will facilitate community-building opportunities to foster learning and build trust-based collaborations among the grant recipients.  

“We are overjoyed to announce the SAGE Equity Innovation Lab grants to these remarkable organizations,” declared SAGE CEO Michael Adams, “With this program, we are taking a pivotal step towards empowering and uplifting marginalized LGBTQ+ elder communities nationwide.” Continued Adams, “wWe are deeply passionate about supporting community, elder-driven innovation by sharing resources and power to support initiatives emerging from particularly marginalized LGBTQ+ elder communities, and we’re excited to see how our Equity Innovation Lab can accelerate community-driven progress.”  

The following six awardees were selected to receive support from SAGE’s Equity Innovation Lab:    

The San Gabriel Valley LGBTQ Center in California has developed a plan to enhance support for its elder community members, particularly those in rural areas. Their peer support programs play a crucial role in this effort by creating a culturally and geographically competent resource list that addresses the specific needs of LGBTQ+ elders in rural communities. The Center also intends to expand its peer support services, both in-person and online, to provide more opportunities for LGBTQ+ elders to connect and receive support.   

T.R.A.N.S., led by activist Tanya Walker, is a project that assists houseless and formerly homeless trans elders in New York City. T.R.A.N.S has identified BIPOC and TGNC communities as the most impacted and therefore aims to provide support specifically for members of these communities. The project will plan and host an intergenerational masquerade event that brings community members together and helps connect them to resources. By creating this safe and supportive environment, T.R.A.N.S. hopes to address the unique challenges faced by trans elders in New York City, particularly those who are homeless or formerly homeless. Through these efforts, T.R.A.N.S aims to empower and uplift community members and ensure their voices and needs are heard.   

The Hualapai Tribal Council Senior Services, headquartered in Peach Springs, Arizona, is a group that supports and unites tribal elders and they will leverage the program to extend its support to LGBTQ+ elders. The project recognizes this community’s unique challenges and needs, particularly those tribal LGBTQ+ elders who live in rural areas. The organization will use the grant for various activities and initiatives to create a supportive and inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ tribal elders. In particular, the program will initiate a Talking Circle for LGBTQ+ elders to connect with each other and LGBTQ+ youth, engage in storytelling, and access resources offered by Hualapai Tribal Council Senior Services. Additionally, outreach efforts are conducted to engage and involve the elders in the community while also discussing the historical trauma experienced by the LGBTQ+ tribal community.   

Golden Rainbows of Illinois South, Inc. (GRIS) aims to support rural LGBTQ+ people in southern Illinois. GRIS conducts outreach, hosts educational and social events, and works on legislation to help raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ elders in rural communities. Guided by elder LGBTQ+ community members, GRIS uses grant funding to organize and host a resource and information summit. The summit, and subsequent survey and roundtable discussion, will identify areas for improvement and encourage the inclusion of LGBTQ+ specific policies throughout their community. Moreover, the summit will also allow GRIS to update a much-needed resource guide for the aging LGBTQ+ population.   

The Love Wins Food Pantry will utilize support from SAGE’s Equity Innovation Lab to understand the nutritional needs of BIPOC LGBTQ+ elders in New York City. Love Wins Food Pantry prides itself in creating a safe space for LGBTQ+ and gender non-conforming people especially, but they eagerly help all those in need. The organization understands that not all people are comfortable going to church-based food pantries, so they operate out of an LGBTQ+ bar, Friends Tavern, in Jackson Heights, Queens – one of New York City’s most ethnically diverse neighborhoods –  to meet the needs of BIPOC LGBTQ+ elders.   

The radical healing lab is embarking on a project to bridge support and intercommunal relationships with and for queer elders of color in Chicago, Illinois. The project’s goal is to create a safe and inclusive space where BIPOC and TGNC elders can come together and share their experiences, challenges, and wisdom with younger members of the community. By fostering intergenerational connections, the project aims to support the well-being and resilience of queer elders of color.    

“There is nothing more powerful than supporting elder LGBTQ+ communities already doing the work and aspiring to do more,” said Elise Hernandez, Director of Research and Impact at SAGE and head of the program. “I’m excited to see these groups take their critically needed and innovative projects to the next level and to help uplift their knowledge and insights so others can learn from them.”    

SAGE is dedicated to creating a world where LGBTQ+ elders can live with dignity, honor, and respect. Learn more about the SAGE Center of Excellence and SAGE’s Equity and Innovation Lab at http://sageusa.org/excellence.   

ABOUT SAGE:  

SAGE is the world’s oldest organization dedicated to advocacy, services, and innovations to ensure lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer and/or questioning (LGBTQ+) elders everywhere age with the dignity and respect they deserve. Founded in 1978, SAGE offers supportive services and consumer resources to LGBTQ+ older people and their caregivers, advocates for public policy changes, provides education and technical assistance for aging providers and LGBTQ+ community organizations through its National Resource Center on LGBTQ+ Aging, and cultural competency training through SAGECare. SAGE is headquartered in NYC with collaborative partnerships across the United States and globally. Learn more at sageusa.org. 

AIR QUALITY HEALTH ADVISORY ISSUED FOR LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK CITY METRO, LOWER HUDSON VALLEY, EASTERN LAKE ONTARIO, CENTRAL AND WESTERN NEW YORK

 

In Effect for Friday, April 14, 2023

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos and State Department of Health (DOH) Commissioner Dr. James McDonald issued an Air Quality Health Advisory for the Long Island, New York City Metro, Lower Hudson Valley, Eastern Lake Ontario, Central and Western New York regions for Friday, April 14, 2023.  

The pollutant of concern is: Ozone 

The advisory will be in effect 11 a.m. through 11 p.m. 

DEC and DOH issue Air Quality Health Advisories when DEC meteorologists predict levels of pollution, either ozone or fine particulate matter are expected to exceed an Air Quality Index (AQI) value of 100. The AQI was created as an easy way to correlate levels of different pollutants to one scale, with a higher AQI value indicating a greater health concern. 

OZONE 

Summer heat can lead to the formation of ground-level ozone, a major component of photochemical smog. Automobile exhaust and out-of-state emission sources are the primary sources of ground-level ozone and are the most serious air pollution problems in the northeast. This surface pollutant should not be confused with the protective layer of ozone in the upper atmosphere. 

People, especially young children, those who exercise outdoors, those involved in vigorous outdoor work and those who have respiratory disease (such as asthma) should consider limiting strenuous outdoor physical activity when ozone levels are the highest (generally afternoon to early evening). When outdoor levels of ozone are elevated, going indoors will usually reduce your exposure. Individuals experiencing symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain or coughing should consider consulting their doctor. 

Ozone levels generally decrease at night and can be minimized during daylight hours by curtailment of automobile travel and the use of public transportation where available. 

New Yorkers also are urged to take the following energy-saving and pollution-reducing steps: 

• use mass transit or carpool instead of driving, as automobile emissions account for about 60 percent of pollution in our cities; 
• conserve fuel and reduce exhaust emissions by combining necessary motor vehicle trips; 
• turn off all lights and electrical appliances in unoccupied areas; 
• use fans to circulate air. If air conditioning is necessary, set thermostats at 78 degrees; 
• close the blinds and shades to limit heat build-up and to preserve cooled air; 
• limit use of household appliances. If necessary, run the appliances at off-peak (after 7 p.m.) hours. These would include dishwashers, dryers, pool pumps and water heaters; 
• set refrigerators and freezers at more efficient temperatures; 
• purchase and install energy efficient lighting and appliances with the Energy Star label; and 
• reduce or eliminate outdoor burning and attempt to minimize indoor sources of PM 2.5 such as smoking. A toll-free Air Quality Hotline (1-800-535-1345) has been established by DEC to keep New Yorkers informed of the latest Air Quality situation.

 Additional information on ozone and PM 2.5 is available on DEC's website and on DOH's website. To stay up-to-date with announcements from DEC, sign up for DEC Delivers: DEC's Premier Email Service.

The Friday, April 14 Air Quality Health Advisory regions consist of the following: Long Island, which includes Nassau and Suffolk counties; New York City Metro, which includes New York City, Rockland, and Westchester counties; Lower Hudson Valley, which includes Sullivan, Ulster, Dutchess, Orange, and Putnam counties; Eastern Lake Ontario, which includes northern Cayuga, Jefferson, Monroe, Oswego, and Wayne counties; Central New York, which includes Allegany, Broome, southern Cayuga, Chemung, Chenango, Cortland, Delaware, southern Herkimer, Livingston, Madison, Onondaga, Oneida, Ontario, Otsego, Tioga, Tompkins, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, and Yates counties and Western New York, which includes Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Genesee, Niagara, Orleans, and Wyoming counties.

Community Food Distribution Norwood

 

Dear Friends, Together with Council Member Eric Dinowitz and District  Leader Sandra Pabon in partnership with NY Common  Pantry we are holding a Community Food Distribution. When: Friday, April 14th, 2023 at 1:00pm. Where: 204th Street & Hull Avenue. If you have any questions please contact my community  office at (718) 409-0109.

MAYOR ADAMS REMINDS NEW YORKERS TO FILE TAXES DURING LAST WEEK OF TAX SEASON

 

New York City Mayor Eric Adams today issued a reminder to New Yorkers to remember to file their taxes as the city and the nation enter the last week of the 2023 tax season. The reminder comes on the heels of Mayor Adams’ successful push last year in Albany to expand and enhance the New York City Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), which is available to eligible New Yorkers this year.

 

“The end of tax season is around the corner, which is why we are encouraging all New Yorkers to take advantage of all the resources available to them and file their taxes as soon as they can,” said Mayor Adams. “Thanks to our expansion of NYC Free Tax Prep, more New Yorkers can get free tax help and get their taxes filed quickly and easily. And with the increase our administration secured in the New York City Earned Income Tax Credit, eligible New Yorkers can expect to get more money back on their return and in their pockets. Let’s finish this tax season strong.”

 

“As we approach the final days of tax season 2023, we want to remind all New Yorkers to file their taxes as soon as possible and to take advantage of NYC Free Tax Prep services if you qualify,” said New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection Commissioner Vilda Vera Mayuga. “Thank you to Mayor Adams for expanding the New York City EITC, helping more New Yorkers get even more of their hard-earned money back to help with essentials, and to all of our NYC Free Tax Prep partners for helping thousands of residents get their full refund!”

 

NYC Free Tax Prep helps New Yorkers meet the full potential of their refunds, including valuable tax credits like the enhanced New York City EITC, at no cost to them. Single-filing New Yorkers who earned $56,000 or less in 2022, or families who earned $80,000 or less, are eligible for NYC Free Tax Prep. The new NYC Free Tax Prep for self-employed New Yorkers provides year-round tax preparation services for gig workers, freelancers, and small business owners who often struggle to file taxes and manage financial record-keeping and who face limited access to capital, banking services, and loans. Self-employed individuals and owners of businesses can work with specially trained preparers on their annual return and, later this year, quarterly estimated tax filings, including workshops, one-on-one consultations, and other resources on record-keeping and tax filing. Services are available in-person, online, and through drop-off, and in multiple languages. For more information about NYC Free Tax Prep, tax credits, and more, New Yorkers can visit the New York City’s tax prep website or call 311 and say “Tax Prep.”

 

NYC Free Tax Prep Services include:

• In-Person Tax Prep — sit down with a volunteer preparer: At in-person tax prep sites, knowledgeable Internal Revenue Service (IRS)-certified Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)/Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) volunteer preparers help eligible filers complete an accurate tax return. Over 140 sites are currently open across the city.
• Drop-off Service — drop off documents and pick up completed returns later: With drop-off service, filers can drop off their tax documents and pick up their completed returns later.
• Virtual Tax Prep — like in-person free filing but online: Virtual Tax Prep is an online service where an IRS-certified VITA/TCE volunteer preparer will video conference with eligible filers to help prepare their tax return using a secure digital system. Filers can submit photos or scans of tax documents to the preparer, confirm their identity, and complete their return by video call with a preparer. Filers will need access to a computer, tablet, or smartphone; a stable internet connection; and the ability to download secure video conference software.
• Assisted Self-Preparation — free online tax prep on one’s own or with help: Assisted self-preparation allows filers to complete their tax return online on their own, and an IRS-certified VITA/TCE volunteer preparer will be available by phone or email to answer questions. Filers will need access to a computer, tablet, or smartphone; a stable internet connection; an email address; and their 2021 adjusted gross income or self-select PIN.

 

New Yorkers can call 311 or visit New York City’s tax prep website to choose the best filing option for themselves and find the most convenient location if choosing in-person or drop-off tax prep. A checklist of what documents New Yorkers need to bring with them to file and multilingual information about the services are available online. In-person services are available in English, Arabic, Armenian, Bengali, Chinese, French, Haitian Creole, Hebrew, Korean, Russian, Spanish, and Urdu. Over-the-phone interpretation for other languages is also available.

 

Last year, thanks to efforts by Mayor Adams, the state Legislature, and the City Council, the adopted state budget increased the state and city match to the federal EITC for the first time in nearly 20 years. After the city committed $250 million annually to the New York City EITC, it received a one-time state payment of $100 million. Under the city’s expansion of this program, a single parent with one child and an annual income of $14,750 or less will see their benefit rise from $187 to $933 — a 400-percent increase. A married couple with two children and an annual income of $25,000 will see their New York City benefit grow from $308 to $925 under the city payment — a 200-percent increase. The expansion of the New York City EITC will help approximately 800,000 New Yorkers be able to better afford essential items like food, rent, and utilities, as well as promote a more equitable recovery across the city.

 

Last month, Mayor Adams announced the launch of a $1.5 million multimedia marketing campaign to promote the expanded New York City EITC. The marketing campaign is running on television, radio, social media, in print, and out-of-home advertising (i.e. billboards, posters, or any other forms of media consumed outside the home) to promote the enhanced benefit and provide information on how eligible New Yorkers can access it.