Attorney General James Preserves Dozens of Affordable Housing Units in Manhattan

 

560-568 Audubon Realty Violated Rent-Stabilization Laws; Has Agreed to Reverse Illegal Rent Increases and Refund Tenants

 New York Attorney General Letitia James announced an agreement with a landlord, real estate management company, and its owners to preserve affordable housing and secure refunds for rent-stabilized tenants who were overcharged. The agreement with 560-568 Audubon Realty LLC, Hayco Corp, and its principals — Fred Hay and Alex Hay — resolves an investigation into repeated violations of rent-stabilization laws at 560-568 Audubon Avenue in Manhattan and for overcharging dozens of tenants in rent. Under the terms of the agreement, 560-568 Audubon Realty and its affiliates are required to properly recalculate the legal rents for 59 rent-stabilized tenants in the building and issue tens of thousands of dollars in refunds to tenants who were overcharged, some since 2016. 

“Our state has been struggling with rising homelessness and an affordable housing crisis, and we must do all we can to keep New Yorkers in their homes,” said Attorney General James. “Too often, landlords exploit and harass vulnerable tenants to line their own pockets, but this should serve as a clear message that we will not tolerate this behavior. New Yorkers deserve better, and we will go after anyone who violates our laws or threatens peoples’ homes.”

The Office of the Attorney General’s (OAG) investigation, initiated in May 2019, was opened after the 560-568 Audubon Tenant Association and a group of tenants sued 560-568 Audubon Realty and its affiliates for violating multiple rent-stabilization laws. The OAG’s investigation found that 560-568 Audubon Realty and its affiliates were illegally raising rents; using unproven apartment improvements as excuses for the unlawful rent increases; and fraudulently providing tenants with unregulated leases for rent-stabilized apartments. Additionally, the companies were allegedly registering non-existing tenants on annual registration statements submitted to the New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR).

Under the terms of the agreement, 560-568 Audubon Realty and its affiliates will comply with all rent-stabilization laws; recalculate rent for rent-stabilized tenants and properly register stabilized units with DHCR; and provide refunds to tenants who were overcharged.

“I commend Attorney General James on her ongoing commitment to preserve affordable housing throughout our communities,” said U.S. Representative Adriano Espaillat. “Ensuring the availability and preservation of these housing options improves the quality of life for families and cements the economic vitality of our neighborhoods. I have the highest concentration of rent-stabilized housing in my congressional district and have long championed affordable housing to help keep residents in their homes. New Yorkers should never have to fear housing displacement due to the exploitation of landlords, and this settlement is an important step in our efforts to hold anyone who violates our housing laws accountable.”

“Wrongfully profiting off of tenants is disgraceful, especially in the face of an affordable housing crisis in New York City. Rent-stabilization laws are a key strategy to keeping people in their homes, and this must be a warning to any landlord who violates these laws,” said Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine. “I applaud Attorney General James for being an advocate for the tenants of 560-568 Audubon Avenue and securing tens of thousands of dollars in reimbursements for years of excessive rent.”

“NMIC strongly supports the work of Attorney General James to enforce the rights of tenants in our community,” said Maria Lizardo, executive director, Northern Manhattan Improvement Corporation (NMIC). “This case represents a significant step towards holding landlords accountable for systemic abuses that have resulted in thousands of tenants being displaced from affordable apartments seriously exacerbating New York City’s housing crisis. NMIC will continue to work with the Attorney General’s Office to build upon this outcome as the fight to preserve our communities continues.”

DEC ADVISES BACKCOUNTRY DOWNHILL SKIERS, SNOWBOARDERS, AND OUTDOOR ADVENTURERS OF AVALANCHE RISK IN ADIRONDACK HIGH PEAKS REGION

 

 Backcountry downhill skiers, snowboarders, and all outdoor adventurers who may traverse slides or steep, open terrain in the High Peaks region of the Adirondacks should be aware of and prepared for avalanche conditions, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos advised today.

“After a cold January, bluebird days and big snowfalls are attracting more recreational enthusiasts to the northern mountains to snowshoe, cross country ski, or simply enjoy the pristine surroundings,” Commissioner Seggos said. “We encourage anyone planning to ski, board, or traverse backcountry slides and other avalanche-prone terrain in the Adirondack High Peaks to exercise caution and be prepared for avalanche conditions.”

Avalanche danger increases during and immediately after major snowfalls and during thaws. Approximately three to four feet of snow has accumulated at high elevations in the High Peaks. Due to high winds, snow depths are deeper on leeward slopes or areas of snow deposits, such as gullies. As snow accumulates over time it develops distinct layers formed by rain and melt/freeze cycles. When new snow falls onto previous snowpack, it adds weight and downward pressure. Lower snow layers may be reactive to the added stresses of recent snows, creating conditions conducive to avalanches.

Avalanches can occur in any situation where snow, slope, and weather conditions combine to create the proper conditions. While the majority of steep, open terrain is found in the High Peaks region of the Adirondacks, avalanche-prone terrain is found on mountains throughout the Adirondacks, including Snowy Mountain in Hamilton County.

DEC reminds backcountry winter recreationists to take the following precautions when traveling in avalanche-prone terrain:

• Cross-country skiers and snowshoers should stay on trails and away from steep slopes on summit;
• Know the terrain, weather and snow conditions;
• Dig multiple snow pits to conduct stability tests. Do not rely on other people’s data;
• Practice safe route finding and safe travel techniques;
• Never ski, board, or climb with someone above or below you - only one person on the slope at a time;
• Ski and ride near trees, not in the center of slides or other open areas;
• Always carry a shovel, probes and transceiver with fresh batteries;
• Ensure all members of the group know avalanche rescue techniques;
• Never travel alone; and
• Always inform someone about where you are going and when you expect to return home.

If you are planning a trip to avalanche-prone territory, research the route ahead of time and contact a local DEC Forest Ranger for specific safety and conditions information, or contact a local guide (https://www.dec.ny.gov/about/667.html). Skiers and snowboarders should assess their own experience level before going into the backcountry and should be equipped with avalanche safety tools and knowledge, such as participation in an avalanche safety course.

Additional information on avalanche danger, preparedness, and safety precautions is available on the DEC website at https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/950.html.

Governor Hochul Urges New Yorkers to E-file in Order to Claim All Available Tax Benefits

Free Tax Filing Software Helps Eligible Taxpayers Claim Valuable Tax Credits

Nearly 255,000 Taxpayers Filed Tax Returns for Free Last Year through the NYS Tax Department Website, Saving a Combined $51 million in Preparation Fees 

 Governor Kathy Hochul today encouraged New Yorkers to take advantage of Free File software, which can help millions of taxpayers claim valuable tax credits without the cost of hiring a paid tax preparer. The software provides savings as well as puts money directly in your pocket by ensuring you claim the credits you deserve, including the earned income tax credit (EITC).

“In the wake of the pandemic, many working families have faced increased financial burdens, and I want to make sure all New Yorkers are taking advantage of the tax benefits that are available to them,” said Governor Hochul. “The Free File program can help individuals claim all the tax credits they deserve while saving them save hundreds in tax-preparation costs. The earned income tax credits can add up to nearly $9,100 – increasing the spending power for those who need it most as we continue to rebuild and recover from COVID-19.” 

New York State Acting Commissioner of Taxation and Finance Amanda Hiller said, “I encourage all eligible taxpayers to take advantage of Free File—a secure and efficient way to file and reap significant savings—and valuable tax credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit. These can provide a financial lifeline for working families, particularly those coping with the impact of the pandemic.”

Earned Income Tax Credits are worth up to $9,083 for a family with three or more children

EITC is a refundable credit for working taxpayers who earn less than $57,414. This means you get a refund even if the credit amount is more than what you owe in taxes.

In 2019, almost 1.64 million New Yorkers received the federal EITC, claiming more than $4.8 billion in federal, New York State, and New York City EITCs. Unfortunately, federal estimates show that almost 350,000 eligible New Yorkers may fail to claim the credit.

Every year, thousands of New Yorkers qualify for the EITC for the first time as their filing status or personal financial situation changes. Eligibility requirements for the Earned income credit (New York State) are explained on the Tax Department website.

More information about federal, state, and local earned income tax credits, including the value of available credits, is available here.

Ensure you claim the credits you deserve

You must file a personal income tax return to receive the credit, even if you don’t owe any taxes. E-filing is the easiest way to file your return and the fastest way to receive your refund.

Most New Yorkers can file using Free File software, available at no-cost on the Tax Department website.  If your 2021 household income is $73,000 or less, you can file both your federal and New York State returns at no cost through the Tax Department website using Free File. Nearly 255,000 taxpayers used this software last year, saving them a combined $51 million in tax preparation fees.

When you’re ready to file, gather your information and documentation. If you received unemployment compensation, request your Form 1099-G from the Department of Labor. Remember to include the full amount on your New York State personal income tax return.

Also, request direct deposit—it's the easiest and fastest way to get your refund.

The deadline to submit a completed personal income tax return is Friday, April 15, 2022.

After you file

Check your refund status at your convenience! Get the most up-to-date information about your refund and your return: use our online Check your refund status tool.

Free tax filing software is available in multiple languages

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Not eligible to Free File? Learn about other e-file options.

NY's Responsible Play Partnership Reminds Gamblers that Fun Comes First

 

New York Responsible Play Partnership Reminds Gamblers that Fun Comes First

 “When time is up, it’s time to go.”

“Set a spend limit. If you max out, walk away.”

New York’s Responsible Play Partnership is offering these and other practical tips to gamblers of legal age and others who may be gambling for reasons other than entertainment. The recommendations are part of a new public service campaign from the New York State Gaming Commission (Commission) who, together with the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS) and the New York Council on Problem Gambling (Council), comprise New York’s Responsible Play Partnership (RPP). This new player-focused version of the popular “Responsible Gifting is Always a Bright Idea” campaign that launched last fall, supports the RPP’s goal to advance New York's long-term commitment to preventing and treating compulsive gambling.

Commission Executive Director Robert Williams said, “The new advocacy campaign recognizes that gambling is a form of entertainment that should be pursued responsibly. As both a gaming regulator and operator, we want people to make responsible, informed choices and understand how setting time and spending limits can enhance the overall experience.”

Other guidance offered in the campaign counsels players to avoid chasing losses and reminds them that gambling is not a reliable source of income and should not lead them into debt.

Council Executive Director Jim Maney said, "Responsible gambling practices on both the part of the gaming industry, as well as individuals, are an important part of any prevention effort to reduce harm.  We applaud the campaign for bringing attention to the fact that safety is important when it comes to preventing problems with gambling."

Elements of the Responsible Play PSA collaboration include TV and radio plus general market out-of-home, retail, and social media. The campaign will run from mid-January to March when the RPP will launch another PSA initiative to spotlight the importance of National Problem Gambling Awareness Month.

Senator Biaggi's Week in Review: 1/31/22-2/4/22

 

Dear Community,

Happy February! February marks the start of Black History Month– a time to celebrate Black joy and excellence in our communities, and honor Black leaders, educators, artists, and changemakers who have shaped, and continue to shape, our nation and world for the better. Black History Month is also the time to reflect on the violent oppression and systemic racism faced by our Black communities, and recommit to fighting for a more just and equitable society. We must learn from our past, and continue to grow to make our country a better and safer place for all. Throughout February, my office will be highlighting notable Black leaders, organizations, and businesses on my Senate social media accounts who make District 34 so special. 

February also marks the start of Budget Season in Albany. Each year, the New York State Legislature negotiates the New York State Budget– one of the most important and impactful responsibilities of the Legislature– to determine what the State will prioritize and fund for years to come. The budget is an opportunity for our community’s voices to be heard, to further our values, and shape the future of New York. As a legislator, it is my responsibility to ensure that your voices are heard in the budget process and the process is as transparent as possible. 

This is why my office hosts Bronx and Westchester Budget Forums each year– ensuring that constituents have the opportunity to relay their priorities for the State Budget. My office hosted our Bronx Budget Forum yesterday, in collaboration with Bronx State Senators Gustavo Rivera, Luis Sepulveda, Jose M. Serrano, and Jamaal Bailey. If you missed the Forum, you can still watch it here. I’d like to thank everyone who attended and testified, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to ensure that your demands are heard. If you weren’t able to testify and still want to submit written testimony, please email biaggi@nysenate.gov with the subject line: 2022 Bronx Budget Testimony by February 10th.

The Westchester Budget Forums will take place on February 10th from 2-5 PM and February 15th from 6-8 PM. If you would like to testify, you can register here. 

With Gratitude,

State Senator Alessandra Biaggi

Bronx Man Sentenced To Over Eleven Years In Prison In Connection With 2018 Non-Fatal Shooting And 2020 Firearms Offense

 

 Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced today that PAUL THOMPSON was sentenced to 110 months in prison for his participation in a 2018 non-fatal shooting and 2020 possession of a loaded firearm.  THOMPSON pled guilty on March 31, 2021, before U.S. District Judge Lewis J. Liman, who imposed today’s sentence. 

According to public filings and statements made in court:

On or about September 27, 2018, approximately two weeks after THOMPSON had been placed on federal supervised release following a 180-month prison sentence for narcotics and firearms offenses, THOMPSON got into a physical altercation with another individual (“Victim-1”) in the Bronx, New York.  During the altercation, THOMPSON shot Victim-1 and fled the scene.  THOMPSON then became a fugitive for approximately two years. 

On or about June 13, 2020, following a suspected drug deal with another individual (“Victim-2”) in the Bronx, THOMPSON threatened Victim-2 with a loaded firearm and also bit Victim-2’s face.  THOMPSON then attempted to discard the firearm and was apprehended by law enforcement.  While THOMPSON was being arrested, he told others on the scene to make sure Victim-2 and Victim-2’s family “get it,” because Victim-2 “snitched on me.” 

THOMPSON pled guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of ammunition in connection with the 2018 shooting and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm in connection with the 2020 assault.  In connection with his guilty plea, THOMPSON further stipulated to his involvement in the 2018 shooting.    

THOMPSON, 39, of the Bronx, New York, was sentenced to 110 months in prison for the 2018 shooting and the 2020 assault, to be followed by a consecutive sentence of 26 months in prison for his violation of the terms of supervised release in connection with the same conduct.  In addition to the prison term, THOMPSON was sentenced to three years of supervised release.

Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of the NYPD. 

Governor Hochul Updates New Yorkers on State's Progress Combating COVID-19 - FEBRUARY 4, 2022

 

7-Day Average of Cases Continues to Decline in All Regions

Nearly 50% Drop in Statewide Cases Over Past Seven Days

110 COVID-19 Deaths Statewide Yesterday

 Governor Kathy Hochul today updated New Yorkers on the state's progress combating COVID-19.

"We've made incredible progress in overcoming the winter surge in COVID cases because New Yorkers are doing the right thing and getting vaccinated." Governor Hochul said. "The vaccine is the most effective weapon we have in beating this pandemic, which is why it's so important that we continue to encourage New Yorkers to take advantage of this critical tool. It is also incredibly important that parents get their children vaccinated - it's free, easy to get, and most importantly, safe." 

Today's data is summarized briefly below:

• Test Results Reported - 176,231
• Total Positive - 7,759
• Percent Positive - 4.40%
• 7-Day Average Percent Positive - 5.22%
• Patient Hospitalization - 5,811 (-366)
• Patients Newly Admitted - 631
• Patients in ICU - 934 (-61)
• Patients in ICU with Intubation - 531 (-32)
• Total Discharges - 275,613 (+859)
• New deaths reported by healthcare facilities through HERDS - 110
• Total deaths reported by healthcare facilities through HERDS - 53,459

The Health Electronic Response Data System is a NYS DOH data source that collects confirmed daily death data as reported by hospitals, nursing homes and adult care facilities only.

• Total deaths reported to and compiled by the CDC - 66,730

This daily COVID-19 provisional death certificate data reported by NYS DOH and NYC to the CDC includes those who died in any location, including hospitals, nursing homes, adult care facilities, at home, in hospice and other settings.

• Total vaccine doses administered - 36,089,734
• Total vaccine doses administered over past 24 hours - 49,123
• Total vaccine doses administered over past 7 days - 330,612
• Percent of New Yorkers ages 18 and older with at least one vaccine dose - 91.0%
• Percent of New Yorkers ages 18 and older with completed vaccine series - 82.2%
• Percent of New Yorkers ages 18 and older with at least one vaccine dose (CDC) - 95.0%
• Percent of New Yorkers ages 18 and older with completed vaccine series (CDC) - 84.7%
• Percent of New Yorkers ages 12-17 with at least one vaccine dose (CDC) - 80.1%
• Percent of New Yorkers ages 12-17 with completed vaccine series (CDC) - 69.8%
• Percent of all New Yorkers with at least one vaccine dose - 80.3%
• Percent of all New Yorkers with completed vaccine series - 72.1%
• Percent of all New Yorkers with at least one vaccine dose (CDC) - 87.8%
• Percent of all New Yorkers with completed vaccine series (CDC) - 74.3% 

MAYOR ADAMS APPOINTS NYC PARKS LEADERSHIP

 

Susan Donoghue Appointed Commissioner

 

Iris Rodriguez-Rosa Appointed First Deputy Commissioner

 New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced the appointment of two officials who will carry out his vision for a more equitable parks system where all New Yorkers can enjoy the physical, mental, and emotional benefits that open space provides.

 

Susan Donoghue will serve as the commissioner of the City of New York Parks & Recreation. In that role, she will oversee more than 30,000 acres of land under the agency’s purview, including parks, playgrounds, recreational facilities, and beaches. A staunch advocate for parks equity, Donoghue will ensure that the agency’s mission of preserving and expanding well-maintained parkland is aligned with the mayor’s goal of reducing long-standing disparities in access to greenspace.

 

Iris Rodriguez-Rosa will serve as the first deputy commissioner. As first deputy commissioner, Rodriguez-Rosa will manage the agency’s efforts to improve parks throughout the city and create more high-quality greenspaces. A veteran of NYC Parks who currently serves as the Bronx borough commissioner, Rodriguez-Rosa has been a steadfast champion for better parks in underserved areas.

 

“Parks are more than places for recreation and enjoyment — they are powerful tools for equity,” said Mayor Adams. “For too long, many communities throughout our city have been denied easy access to these vital spaces. Under the leadership of Sue Donoghue and Iris Rodriguez-Rosa, we will work to ensure that every New Yorker can enjoy the myriad benefits greenspaces can provide.”

 

“In between our concrete and asphalt are New York's most precious assets, it's free public green spaces,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi.  “Sue and Iris' unwavering commitment to nurturing, and growing our precious parks, ensuring they are available for all and fortifying them against climate crisis will make ours a stronger and more beautiful city.”

 

“Our parks and open spaces are critical to the quality of life of all New York City residents. They improve the air we breathe, enhance our physical and mental health, and strengthen our communities. I am extremely honored and humbled to take on this role as NYC parks commissioner and work alongside the dedicated and essential workers who care for our 30,000 acres of parkland. Mayor Adams and his administration understand the importance of safe and equitable access to parks for all New Yorkers, and I’m committed to joining the team and ensuring that parks and open spaces across New York City are accessible and welcoming for all,” said incoming Commissioner Susan Donoghue. 

 

“I have dedicated my career to making the New York City park-going experience one that helps connect communities to amazing open spaces that provide mental, physical, and emotional benefits to all. I am thankful to Mayor Adams, his administration, and Commissioner Donoghue for allowing me the opportunity to continue to serve the City as its new NYC Parks first deputy commissioner. It is my honor to join the agency’s leadership team and I look forward to continuing to work with our invaluable Parks staff in their steadfast commitment to our great park system,” said incoming First Deputy Commissioner Iris Rodriguez-Rosa.

 

“Across our city, parks and public spaces will be essential to meeting the multiple challenges New York City faces, from public health to climate change and more. From her time at the Prospect Park Alliance and NYC Parks, Commissioner Susan Donoghue brings unmatched expertise and passion for our city's parks. I'm excited to work with Commissioner Donoghue and Deputy Commissioner Rodriguez-Rosa to ensure we deepen our investment in public spaces for all neighborhoods and for future generations,” said New York City Councilmember Shekar Krishnan, chair, Committee on Parks and Recreation.

 

“During the pandemic, New Yorkers gained new appreciation for the incredible resources our parks provide local residents. From fresh air to play space, parks have been lifelines to so many in our communities, and ensuring they continue to be maintained and improved is critical to the health, happiness and success of our City. Both Sue Donoghue and Iris Rodriguez-Rosa will bring incredible knowledge, strong records of service, and a deep commitment to equity to their new roles. I look forward to working with Commissioner Donoghue and First Deputy Commissioner Rodriguez-Rosa to ensure our City's Parks remain the best in the world,” said New York State Assemblymember Danny O'Donnell, chair, Committee on Tourism, Parks, Arts, and Sports Development.

 

“In a challenging time for our city, when New Yorkers relied more than ever on their parks as spaces for recreation, social life, and exercise, Sue Donoghue tapped into the love for Prospect Park and channeled volunteer energy to address staffing shortages and leaned into making the park more inclusive and accessible. I commend the Mayor on a great choices in Sue Donoghue as Parks Commissioner and Iris Rodriguez as Deputy Commissioner, both of whom will bring to our parks a strong emphasis on ensuring all New Yorkers can enjoy them for years to come,” said New York City Comptroller Brad Lander.

 

“Congratulations to Susan Donoghue and Iris Rodriguez-Rosa on their new roles leading our New York City Department of Parks and Recreation,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. "Having quality public park facilities and spaces has always been a priority of mine as we continue to work to build a healthier Bronx, and First Deputy Commissioner Iris Rodriguez-Rosa has been a champion of parks in The Bronx for years. I look forward to working with both of these dynamic women, and Mayor Adams, to ensure every neighborhood has equitable access to green space and resources in our city.”