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Saturday, November 12, 2022
Bronx Chamber of Commerce - Bronx Business News You Can Use
Friday, November 11, 2022
Attorney General James and DEC Commissioner Seggos Ask Court to Require Norlite to Immediately Cease Harmful Emissions
Following Lawsuit, AG James Files Motion for Preliminary Injunction against Cohoes Facility to Protect the Health and Wellbeing of Surrounding Community
New York Attorney General Letitia James and New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos today took action to protect New Yorkers from air pollution caused by harmful emissions. Following their October 2022 lawsuit against Norlite, LLC (Norlite) to force the company to stop polluting the air with contaminants from its Cohoes facility, Attorney General James and Commissioner Seggos asked the court to require Norlite to immediately cease harmful emissions and suspend certain operations when emissions levels approach thresholds established to preserve public health.
“Air pollution from the Norlite plant has made it impossible for community members to open a window or walk outside without fearing for their health and safety,” said Attorney General James. “Last month, Commissioner Seggos and I filed a lawsuit to protect Cohoes residents and force an end to Norlite’s long history of environmental violations. Today, we are taking action to stop Norlite from continuing to endanger the neighboring community, and we remain committed to restoring safe, clean air for all New Yorkers.”
“The joint legal action taken by DEC and Attorney General James to prevent Norlite’s air pollution was an important step in the state’s commitment to help protect the health of local residents and our environment,” said DEC Commissioner Seggos. “While the fight to hold Norlite accountable continues, this new filing seeks to implement additional oversight and monitoring or halt the company’s operations to prevent any additional harmful airborne contaminants from affecting the Cohoes community.”
Industrial operations at Norlite cause high levels of emissions containing crystalline silica and particulate matter, which pollute the air in the surrounding community and endanger residents’ health. The state conducted an intensive monitoring program at the facility in 2021 and 2022, which determined that levels of particulate matter and crystalline silica in the air in the community surrounding Norlite exceed levels established to protect against harmful health impacts. The monitoring also confirmed Norlite to be the primary cause of the elevated levels of particulate matter and crystalline silica in the local community’s air.
In the filing for a preliminary injunction, the state asserts that Norlite has persistently engaged in conduct causing harmful air pollution despite receiving repeated warnings. The facility is located roughly 100 feet away from Saratoga Sites Apartments — a 70-unit public housing complex that as of October 2022 was home to approximately 100 residents, including 43 children. Residents have observed clouds of dust migrating from Norlite and descending over Saratoga Sites and complain of myriad health concerns related to air pollution including but not limited to upper respiratory issues, sinus problems, high blood pressure, headaches, eye irritation, sore throats, chest pains, asthma, COPD, and cancer.
The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) and DEC are asking the New York Supreme Court in Albany County to order Norlite to implement a program to closely monitor crystalline silica and particulate matter emissions from the facility, publicly report the results, and immediately cease operations when emissions approach prescribed health-based thresholds. The motion also asks the court to order Norlite to engage an independent engineer to identify facility upgrades and operational adjustments options for permanently eliminating harmful emissions.
MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES CITY HALL, MULTIPLE MUNICIPAL BUILDINGS TO BE LIT GREEN IN HONOR OF VETERANS DAY
New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced that City Hall and other municipal buildings will be lit green in recognition of Veterans Day and as part of Operation Green Light, a nationwide initiative that raises awareness about the challenges faced by veterans and their families.
“Today, as we emerge from some of our darkest days, we find inspiration in our veterans whose dedication shows us how to come together as one people, one city, and one nation,” said Mayor Adams. “Americans sit under a tree of freedom that veterans have watered with their sacrifice, and I am dedicated to ensuring that no veteran or family member is left behind in our city. Your contribution to our nation and our city does not end on the battlefield and we are forever indebted to you. Your city thanks you for your service on this Veterans Day and every other day.”
“For many New Yorkers, Veterans Day is about recognizing and remembering their own service or that of a brother, a sister, a mom, a dad, or a grandparent,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “It is also a day that we acknowledge and appreciate all of our veterans whether they are part of our family or part of our larger community. So, to every veteran amongst us, thank you for your service and your sacrifice. We appreciate and support you.”
“We want to make sure our veterans and their families know that New York City is grateful for their sacrifices, and that it is now our turn to serve them,” said New York City Department of Veterans’ Services Commissioner James Hendon. “These green lights will shine in solidarity with other cities across the country as a beacon of respect and support for our military families. The New York City Department of Veterans’ Services stands ready to help our veterans by providing crucial information about benefits and services, care coordination, and various special programs designed to uplift and empower our community.”
In addition to City Hall, the following city buildings will be lit up green tonight:
- Bronx County Courthouse
- The David N. Dinkins Manhattan Municipal Building
- Queens Borough Hall
- Staten Island Borough Hall
Operation Green Light is a collaboration between the New York State Association of Counties, New York State Council of Educational Associations, the New York County Veteran Service Officers' Association, and the 62 counties across New York state. Its mission is to show support for veterans of all military conflicts, as well as raise awareness about the challenges faced by many veterans and the resources that are available at the city, state, and federal level to assist veterans and their families.
In addition to lighting municipal buildings, New York City residents and businesses are encouraged to join in showing support for the veteran community by changing one outdoor light to a green bulb. By shining a green light, New York City will let veterans know that they are seen, appreciated, and supported.
For more information on November’s Veterans Month campaign, subscribe to the New York City Department of Veterans Services newsletter.
New York City veterans are encouraged to visit New York City's veterans page or call (212) 416-5250 to learn more about the resources the Department of Veterans’ Services has to offer.
Governor Hochul Directs State Agencies to Prepare Emergency Response Assets as Tropical Storm Nicole Moves North this Weekend
Remnants of Nicole Are Expected To Begin Impacting the State Friday Night and Continue Through Saturday
2-3 Inches of Rain Expected in Central New York, Finger Lakes, Western New York and North Country Regions with Minor Flooding Possible in Flood-Prone Areas
New Yorkers Urged To Monitor Local Weather Forecasts and Pay Attention to National Weather Service Alerts
Governor Kathy Hochul today directed state agencies to prepare emergency response assets as the remnants of Tropical Storm Nicole are expected to impact New York as early as Friday evening, bringing the potential for heavy rain and flooding. The largest rainfall totals of two to three inches, with some localized higher totals, are expected in the Central New York, Finger Lakes and Western New York regions, as well as areas in the Tug Hill plateau in the North Country region. Minor flooding in flood-prone areas is likely and maximum wind gusts up to 40 mph are possible, with higher windspeeds expected downstate. Governor Hochul urged New Yorkers to closely monitor local forecasts over the next few days for weather conditions, and to follow any potential emergency orders issued before or during extreme weather events. New York State agencies and authorities have already engaged local government partners throughout the state and stand at the ready to respond, as needed.
"Starting Friday night, a late-season weather system has the potential to dump three inches or more of rain in some locations, and I urge all New Yorkers to prepare in the event of a flooding situation," Governor Hochul said. "If you are planning to travel Friday and Saturday, please use caution and check local weather conditions before heading out."
New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said, "Nicole is moving north and there is the potential for heavy rains and wind gusts over the next few days in parts of the state. Governor Hochul and I are asking New Yorkers to prepare in advance, pay attention to local forecasts, make a plan if your area will be affected, and remember to check on your vulnerable neighbors and loved ones this weekend."
State Agency Preparations
Department of Transportation
The Department of Transportation is prepared to respond with more than 3,280 supervisors and operators. All field staff are available to fully engage and respond. Staff can be configured into any type of response crews that are needed (flood response, chipper, load & haul, sewer jet, cut & toss, traffic signal, etc.). In preparation, crews are checking and clearing drainage structures to make sure they are free of debris and clogs. Statewide equipment numbers are as follows:
- 1,516 large dump trucks
- 333 large loaders
- 79 tracked and wheeled excavators
- 72 chippers
- 18 graders
- 14 vacuum trucks with sewer jets
- 14 tree crew bucket trucks
Thruway Authority
The Thruway Authority is closely monitoring the weather for the upcoming storm and has 651 operators and supervisors prepared to respond to any wind or flood related issues across the state. There are excavators, plow/dump trucks, large loaders, portable VMS boards, portable light towers, generators, pumps and equipment hauling trailers as well as signage and other traffic control devices available for deployment for any detours or closures. Variable Message Signs and social media are utilized to alert motorists of weather conditions on the 570-mile Thruway.
Statewide available equipment numbers are as follows:
- 349 Large and Small Dump Trucks
- 63 Loaders
- 30 Trailers
- 7 Vac Trucks
- 14 Excavators
- 8 Brush Chippers
- 100 Chainsaws
- 21 Aerial Trucks
- 22 Skid Steers
- 84 Portable Generators
- 65 Portable Light Units
The Thruway Authority encourages motorists to download its mobile app which is available to download for free on iPhone and Android devices. The app provides motorists direct access to live traffic cameras, real-time traffic information and navigation assistance while on the go. Motorists can also sign up for TRANSalert emails which provide the latest traffic conditions along the Thruway.
Follow @ThruwayTraffic on Twitter and visit thruway.ny.gov to see an interactive map showing traffic conditions for the Thruway and other New York State roadways.
Department of Environmental Conservation
DEC Environmental Conservation Police Officers, Forest Rangers, Emergency Management staff, and regional staff are on alert and monitoring the developing situation and actively patrolling areas and infrastructure likely to be impacted by severe weather. All available assets, including swift water rescue teams, are positioned to assist with any emergency response.
Department of Public Service
New York's utilities have approximately 7,125 workers available to engage in damage assessment, response, repair, and restoration efforts across New York State for this event. This includes an additional 1,500 workers secured by Con Edison and Orange & Rockland and an additional 125 workers secured by National Grid's upstate division. Agency staff will track utilities' work throughout the event and ensure utilities shift appropriate staffing to regions that experience the greatest impact.
New York State Police
State Police are prepared to deploy additional Troopers, as needed, to affected areas. All State Police specialized vehicles, including four-wheel drive vehicles and Utility Task Vehicles, are staged and ready for immediate response. All Troop emergency power and communications equipment has been tested.
Safety Tips
- Prepare for severe weather:
- Know the county in which you live and the names of nearby cities. Severe weather warnings are issued on a county basis.
- Learn the safest route from your home or business to high, safe ground should you have to leave in a hurry.
- Develop and practice a 'family escape' plan and identify a meeting place if family members become separated.
- Make an itemized list of all valuables including furnishings, clothing and other personal property. Keep the list in a safe place.
- Stockpile emergency supplies of canned food, medicine and first aid supplies and drinking water. Store drinking water in clean, closed containers.
- Plan what to do with your pets.
- Have a portable radio, flashlights, extra batteries and emergency cooking equipment available.
- Keep your automobile fueled. If electric power is cut off, gasoline stations may not be able to pump fuel for several days. Have a small disaster supply kit in the trunk of your car.
- Have disaster supplies on hand, including:
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Battery-operated radio and extra batteries
- First aid kit and manual
- Emergency food and water
- Non-electric can opener
- Essential medicines
- Checkbook, cash, credit cards, ATM cards
For more safety tips, visit the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Safety Tips web page at www.dhses.ny.gov/oem/safety-info/index.cfm.
Permits Filed For 2556 Briggs Avenue In Fordham Manor, The Bronx
Permits have been filed for a five-story residential building at 2556 Briggs Avenue in Fordham Manor, The Bronx. Located between East Kingsbridge Road and East 194th Street, the lot is near the Kingsbridge Road subway station, serviced by the B and D trains. Moses Freund of The Vaja Group is listed as the owner behind the applications.
The proposed 68-foot-tall development will yield 21,224 square feet designated for residential space. The building will have 31 residences, most likely rentals based on the average unit scope of 684 square feet. The concrete-based structure will also have a cellar, a 32-foot-long rear yard, cellar, basement, and 16 enclosed parking spaces.
S. Wieder Architect is listed as the architect of record.
Demolition permits will likely not be needed as the lot is vacant. An estimated completion date has not been announced.
Convicted Felon Sentenced to 37 Months in Prison for Trying to Bring Loaded Gun on Plane at Newark Liberty International Airport
A Newburgh, New York, man was sentenced to 37 months in prison for possessing a stolen and loaded firearm that he tried to get through security at Newark Liberty International Airport, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.
Desmond Herring, 48, previously pleaded guilty by videoconference before U.S. District Judge Claire C. Cecchi to an information charging him with one count of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon and one count of carrying a weapon on an aircraft. Judge Cecchi imposed the sentence today in Newark federal court.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
On Nov. 29, 2021, Herring submitted a carry-on bag for inspection at Newark Liberty International Airport. During the screening of Herring’s luggage, a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agent identified ammunition and a suspected firearm and contacted the Port Authority Police Department. Upon seeing that his bag had attracted additional attention, Herring left the security checkpoint area without his bag and walked to a departure gate for his flight to Atlanta, Georgia.
Further investigation of Herring’s bag revealed that it contained a 9 millimeter pistol, 10 rounds of 9 millimeter ammunition loaded into a magazine, and 150 additional rounds of 9 millimeter ammunition. Herring was prohibited from possessing a firearm due to a 2010 federal conviction for conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Cecchi sentenced Herring to two years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy in Newark; officers of the Port Authority Police Department, under the direction of Superintendent Edward Cetnar; and officers of the TSA with the investigation leading to this sentencing.
Three New York City Correction Officers Charged with Fraud for Lying to Stay on Sick Leave for Over a Year
Two of the Defendants Allegedly Forged Medical Documents
Two criminal complaints were unsealed in federal court in Brooklyn charging three correction officers employed by the New York City Department of Correction (DOC) at Rikers Island with federal program fraud. Correction Officers Steven Cange, Monica Coaxum and Eduardo Trinidad were arrested earlier today, and their initial appearances are scheduled for this afternoon before United States Magistrate Judge Vera M. Scanlon.
Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, Michael J. Driscoll, Assistant Director-in-Charge, New York Field Office (FBI), and Jocelyn E. Strauber, Commissioner, New York City Department of Investigation (DOI) announced the charges.
“As alleged, in the midst of an ongoing staffing crisis at Rikers Island, the defendants defrauded New Yorkers by fraudulently obtaining their full salaries while taking over a year of sick leave. These correction officers abandoned their oath to protect inmates and put the safety of their fellow correction officers at risk” stated United States Attorney Breon Peace. “Today’s arrests demonstrate that this Office remains committed to rooting out corruption at Rikers Island and protecting New Yorkers from public officials who steal their tax dollars.”
“As alleged, the defendants deliberately violated their oath when they participated in an elaborate scheme to defraud our community. The FBI and our partners are committed to disrupting these fraudulent scams and holding the public officials who perpetuate them accountable,” stated FBI Assistant Director-in-Charge Driscoll.
DOI Commissioner Jocelyn E. Strauber said, “As charged, these New York City Correction Officers feigned illness and submitted false medical documentation to take sick leave during a staffing crisis, defrauding the City of New York of hundreds of thousands of dollars. Today’s arrests hold these Correction Officers accountable for the shameful dereliction of duty alleged in the Complaints. I thank the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York and the Federal Bureau of Investigation for their continuing partnership and efforts to bring to justice those whose misconduct jeopardizes the safety and stability of the City’s jails.”
As alleged in one complaint, New York City Correction Officer Steven Cange fraudulently obtained more than $160,000 in salary by being on sick leave from March 2021 to the present. Although Cange claimed that he suffered from symptoms of vertigo and side effects from the COVID-19 vaccine, evidence obtained by law enforcement demonstrates that Cange was able to work. During his sick leave, Cange submitted more than 100 fraudulent medical notes to DOC demonstrating that he was at physical therapy or another medical provider when records subpoenaed from those providers demonstrate that Cange was not at those appointments. Law enforcement also observed Cange engaging in normal life activities with no apparent difficulty.
As alleged in a separate complaint, New York City Correction Officer Monica Coaxum fraudulently obtained more than $80,000 in salary by being on sick leave from March 2021 to May 2022, and her fiancée, Correction Officer Eduardo Trinidad, fraudulently obtained more than $140,000 in salary by being on sick leave from June 2021 to November 2022. Although Coaxum claimed to suffer from multiple injuries, evidence collected by investigators shows that she was able to work. During her sick leave, Coaxum submitted nearly 50 fraudulent medical notes to DOC stating that she had gone to a medical appointment at times law enforcement determined she was elsewhere. Additionally, evidence shows that on some occasions where Coaxum claimed to be injured and at home, she was traveling and at parties. When approached by law enforcement, Coaxum admitted to forging some medical documents.
Trinidad likewise obtained more than $140,000 by claiming to be too injured to work for over a year. Although he went to medical appointments with DOC wearing some combination of a sling, cane, and/or boot, photographic and video evidence during the same period showed Trinidad doing normal life activities like home improvement work, bowling and traveling abroad, without any difficulty or help from equipment like a boot, sling or cane.
The charges in the complaints are allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, the defendants each face a maximum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment.