MAYOR ADAMS PRAISES DECISION TO ALLOW EMPIRE WIND 1 PROJECT TO MOVE FORWARD

 

Trump Administration Allows Project to Move Forward After Weeks of Advocacy by Mayor Adams 

Mayor Adams Spoke with President Trump About Project in Oval Office, Sent Letters to Trump Cabinet Officials, Conducted Interviews on Importance of Project

New York City Mayor Eric Adams today applauded the decision by the federal government to lift the stop-work order on Empire Wind 1. Following weeks of advocacy by the Adams administration — that included engaging over 60 stakeholders, official letters to Trump administration officials, and Mayor Adams personally sitting down with President Donald Trump in the White House to advocate for this project — the Trump administration agreed to lift the stop work order and allow construction to continue the Empire Wind 1 project, which will be delivered from the South Brooklyn Marine Terminal, in which the city will invest more that $160 million in city capital.

“New Yorkers elected me to fight for their values, and every single day, our administration does just that,” said Mayor Adams. “As part of our mission to make New York City the most innovative economic engine on the globe, I met with President Trump and members of his administration earlier this month in the White House to discuss New York City’s top priorities, including critical infrastructure projects. Today, I am proud to see direct results from our meeting, delivering a decision on a key topic we specifically discussed. During our meeting, one of my top priorities was to advocate for construction to resume on the Empire Wind 1 energy project. We also sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Interior and U.S. Department of Energy, met regularly with our partners at Equinor Renewables America, spoke about the crucial work of this project in countless interviews, and coordinated with stakeholders for weeks. We did all of this because the Empire Wind 1 energy project brings with it billions of dollars of investment in our economy and creates thousands of good jobs — both in New York City and through a U.S.-based supply chain across 20 states. Once completed, this project will produce enough energy to power more than 500,000 homes in New York City, or roughly 8 percent of New York City’s peak demand. I am thrilled that our hard work is paying off and construction on Empire Wind 1 may resume. I am grateful to President Trump and Secretary Doug Burgum for their thorough review, for hearing our requests to resume construction, and for working with the city, state, NYSERDA, and Equinor to get this project back on track. This is a strong sign of what we can accomplish when we work, instead of war, with the federal government to deliver for all Americans.”

Immediately after the stop work order was put in place, the Adams administration began setting up meetings and calls with elected officials on both sides of the aisle, including the entire New York City and Long Island congressional delegation.

In late April, within a week of the stop work order being issued, Mayor Adams and Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Adolfo Carrión Jr. held a meeting at City Hall with Executive Vice President for Renewables at Equinor Jens Økland to discuss the project and efforts to resume construction. 

Later, Adams administration officials spoke with offshore wind suppliers that are part of the Empire Wind 1 U.S.-based supply chain across multiple states — including Louisiana, Florida, Mississippi, South Carolina, and Texas — and delivered a formal request to Secretaries Doug Burgum and Chris Wright requesting that the stop work order be lifted.

Earlier this month, First Deputy Mayor Randy Mastro engaged with the White House to discuss the project, and Mayor Adams personally sat down with President Trump and members of his administration to discuss New York City priorities, including resuming construction on the Empire Wind 1 project. All throughout, the administration worked in frequent communication with New York Governor Hochul’s office, New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, and Equinor to coordinate efforts and engage with impacted labor unions, including the Building and Construction Trades Council, and the International Longshoremen’s Association. Altogether, the administration coordinated with more than 60 offshore wind stakeholders in New York City and elsewhere to make as strong a case as possible for this project to continue. 

Statement From Governor Kathy Hochul

“Thousands of jobs. Hundreds of thousands of homes powered by clean energy. That’s what Empire Wind 1 was poised to deliver until a stop work order was issued on April 16 by the Department of Interior. I knew this critical project needed to move forward and have spent weeks pushing the federal government to rescind the stop work order to allow the workers to return and ensure this important source of renewable power could come to fruition.

“After countless conversations with Equinor and White House officials, bringing labor and business to the table to emphasize the importance of this project, I’m pleased that President Trump and Secretary Burgum have agreed to lift the stop work order and allow this project to move forward. Now, Equinor will resume the construction of this fully-permitted project that had already received the necessary federal approvals. I also reaffirmed that New York will work with the Administration and private entities on new energy projects that meet the legal requirements under New York law. In order to ensure reliability and affordability for consumers, we will be working in earnest to deliver on these objectives.

“I want to thank President Trump for his willingness to work with me to save the 1,500 good paying union jobs that were on the line and helping get this essential project back on track.

“New York’s economic future is going to be powered by abundant, clean energy that helps our homes and businesses thrive. I fought to save clean energy jobs in New York — and we got it done.”

 

Correction Officers Charged With Years-Long Healthcare Fraud Scheme Following Use Of Force Incidents On Rikers Island

 

Jay Clayton, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York; Jocelyn E. Strauber, the Commissioner of the New York City Department of Investigation (“DOI”); and Lucy Lang, the Inspector General for the State of New York, announced today the unsealing of three Indictments charging one current and two former correction officers employed by the New York City Department of Correction (“DOC”) at Rikers Island with healthcare fraud, mail fraud, and false statements related to healthcare matters.  TODD FAUSTIN, JOVANNY CONCEPCION, and STEVEN MURPHY were arrested earlier today and presented this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Lehrburger.  Their cases are assigned to U.S. District Judges Loretta A. Preska and Lewis J. Liman. 

U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton said: “As alleged, the defendants defrauded New Yorkers by making hundreds of thousands of dollars in fraudulent workers compensation claims.  Today’s arrests demonstrate this Office’s continuing commitment to protecting New Yorkers from corruption at Rikers Island.” 

DOI Commissioner Jocelyn E. Strauber said: “New York City’s workers’ compensation system is a vital resource for City employees injured on the job.  These three current and former Department of Correction officers, as charged, defrauded that system of almost $1 million in total, through false claims about physical injuries.  To reduce the risk of future fraud, DOI recommends reforms to the DOC and the New York City Law Department’s policies and procedures, set forth in a report issued today.  I thank the Law Department for referring concerns about workers’ compensation claims to DOI, and for its assistance in this investigation.  I also thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York and our other law enforcement partners for their continuing commitment to protect City funds.”

New York State Inspector General Lucy Lang said: “Public trust in government requires that law enforcement acts with the utmost integrity. Lying about an ongoing injury to get workers’ compensation benefits while engaging in strenuous employment and activities, as alleged here, is an affront to the honest workers whom the system is built to protect.  With thanks in this case to our partnership with the Southern District of New York and the NYC Department of Investigation, we will continue to seek accountability for anyone who undermines New Yorkers’ trust by defrauding the workers’ compensation system.”

As alleged in the Indictments:1

The New York State Worker’s Compensation Board (the “Board”) administers New York State’s no-fault workers’ compensation system, which guarantees medical care and cash benefits to people who are injured at work, including DOC employees.  Payments by the Board made to DOC employees are paid from the New York City Treasury.  For years, FAUSTIN, a current DOC employee, and CONCEPCION and MURPHY, who were both formally employed by DOC, were  DOC correction officers assigned to work at Rikers Island.  During that time period, each defendant engaged in a years-long scheme to falsely claim that they were injured while on duty at Rikers Island during incidents with incarcerated individuals requiring the use of force. To effectuate this scheme, each defendant made false statements to the Board, their own physicians, and independent medical examiners claiming these fake injuries.  In total, FAUSTIN received $469,705.39 in benefits to which he was not entitled; CONCEPCION received $232,427.97; and MURPHY received $294,037.83.

CONCEPCION, 33, of New York, New York, is charged with one count of healthcare fraud and one count of mail fraud, each of which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, and one count of making false statements related to health care matters, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison.

MURPHY, 31, of New York, New York, is charged with one count of healthcare fraud and one count of mail fraud, each of which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, and one count of making false statements related to health care matters, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison.

FAUSTIN, 43, of New York, New York, is charged with one count of healthcare fraud and one count of mail fraud, each of which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, and one count of making false statements related to health care matters, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison.

The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the judge.

Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding investigative work of DOI, the New York State Office of Inspector General, and the Special Agents and Task Force Officers assigned to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York.  Mr. Clayton also thanked the New York City Police Department’s Internal Affairs Bureau and New York State Police for its cooperation and assistance.

The prosecution of this case is being handled by the Office’s Civil Rights Unit in the Criminal Division and the Public Corruption Unit.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kaiya Arroyo, Frank Balsamello, and Alexie Rothman are in charge of the prosecution.

The charges contained in the Indictments are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.    

1 As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Indictments and the description of the Indictments set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.

NYC PUBLIC ADVOCATE'S STATEMENT ON THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF MALCOLM X'S BIRTH

"Today marks the 100th Birthday of Malcolm X, a revolutionary leader who shaped our history, the ongoing movement for civil rights, and many of the people who look to him as an inspiration, including myself. 
 
"Malcolm X warned us that ‘If you’re not careful, the newspapers will have you hating the people who are being oppressed and loving the people who are doing the oppressing.’ Unfortunately, today, it is not one source but many, including our highest elected officials, aiming anger at the oppressed, mistreated, and exploited. Even some Black leaders are contributing to harmful narratives of blame and demonization that he would have rejected. 
 
"His mother and mine are Grenadian immigrants – I was honored to travel with Dr. Betty Shabazz to the island many years ago – I wonder what he would have said about the demonization of immigrants in our nation today, and the capitulation by many to feed harm. 
 
"Both truth and time are on the side of the oppressed, mistreated, and exploited, and on this centennial milestone, we recommit to the years ahead in the fight for justice." 

NEW YORK CITY AND ISRAEL SIGN DECLARATION OF INTENT TO LAUNCH NYC–ISRAEL ECONOMIC COUNCIL

 

Historic Declaration of Intent Reconfirms New York City’s Solidarity with Israel, 

Opens Five Boroughs to More Economic Opportunity 

New York City Mayor Eric Adams and Israeli Minister of Economy and Industry Nir Barkat today signed a Declaration of Intent establishing the New York City–Israel Economic Council, a joint initiative that will strengthen economic ties and promote innovation between the two governments. Starting today, the council will facilitate business partnerships between New York City and Israeli companies; support Israeli businesses looking to establish a presence in New York City; promote collaboration in key technological sectors, including environmental innovation, life sciences, and artificial intelligence; and coordinate participation in major business and technology conferences. 

  

“Today, our administration is proud to launch the New York City–Israel Economic Council to deepen economic ties between our governments and serve as a gateway to the U.S. market for Israeli businesses — forging partnerships with New York City companies; advancing innovation in areas like environmental tech, life sciences, and AI; and helping Israeli startups establish a home in the five boroughs,” said Mayor Adams. “Today’s announcement of a Declaration of Intent reflects a proud tradition of New York City mayors collaborating with Israel, and will drive innovation, create jobs, and strengthen the unbreakable bond between our two governments.” 

  

“It is a tremendous honor to establish this joint council with one of the world’s greatest cities: New York City. A global hub of innovation, creativity, and economic leadership, New York represents a powerful partner for Israel’s thriving business ecosystem,” said Israeli Minister of Economy and Industry Nir Barkat. “The creation of this council reflects a strong vote of confidence in the vitality of Israeli innovation and in New York’s position as a gateway to global markets. This agreement will have a very positive impact on the international exports from Israel’s market, establish a stronger presence of Israel’s renowned innovation in New York City, and open opportunities in sectors such as fintech, health tech and life sciences, high tech and software, defense and public safety, environmental innovation, and agro-food tech. This initiative opens new opportunities for Israeli companies to engage with the dynamic New York market, while contributing meaningful value to the city's diverse economy. We extend our deep gratitude to Mayor Eric Adams for his enduring friendship and partnership with Israel, his commitment to strengthening economic ties, and his unwavering support for Israel on the international stage.” 

  

The Mayor's Office for International Affairs is spearheading the initiative, partnering with the council made up of representatives from the New York City Mayor’s Office and Israel’s Economic Mission to the United States. While the Declaration of Intent is nonbinding, it underscores a strong mutual commitment and a long history of collaboration between the two governments.  

  

The council will meet regularly and follow jointly developed guidelines, and will focus on partnerships in economic development, emergency management, education, and technology. New York City is home to the largest Jewish population outside of Israel, and today’s agreement reinforces the longstanding bond between these two communities. 

  

Today’s announcement adds to the long history of collaboration between New York City and Israel and highlights the proud tradition of New York City mayors supporting the Jewish state. In May 2025, Mayor Adams established the Mayor’s Office to Combat Antisemitism — the first office of its kind established in a major city across the nation — to address an unprecedented rise in antisemitism and anti-Jewish hate in New York City, and to ensure Jewish New Yorkers feel safe 

  

“The launch of the New York City–Israel Economic Council is a powerful example of what’s possible when two innovative governments come together,” said Mayor’s Office for International Affairs Commissioner Ed Mermelstein. “This initiative not only strengthens the deep and historic bond between New York and Israel, but it also opens the door to real economic opportunity — from cutting-edge tech partnerships to job creation right here in our five boroughs. Today's announcement is a smart, strategic move that reflects this administration's steadfast support for our Jewish brothers and sisters, and our commitment to building a prosperous future in New York City.” 

 

“The NYC–Israel Economic Council represents both strategic partnership and moral clarity,” said Moshe Davis, executive director, Mayor's Office to Combat Antisemitism. “As antisemitism rises globally, New York City is responding with substantive collaboration in key sectors like environmental innovation and artificial intelligence. This council will not only drive opportunity and growth, it will demonstrate that the world's greatest city stands firmly with Israel and the Jewish people.” 

  

“The launch of an NYC-Israel Economic Council will pave the way for Israeli businesses and startups to establish a presence in New York City,” said NYCEDC President and CEO Andrew Kimball. “As the applied AI capital of the world and home to a robust tech ecosystem, New York is a place where Israeli startups and businesses can continue to thrive. With Israel’s strong tech sector and leadership in future-focused sectors, we look forward to the innovation and partnership that will come from this Economic Council.” 

  

“Today’s historic agreement is another example of the unbreakable bond between the State of Israel and the City of New York,” said Consul General from Israel in New York, Ofir Akunis. “Thank you, Mayor Adams, for your bold commitment to the people and the State of Israel” 

  

Office of the New York State Comptroller Reminder: You're Invited: Comptroller DiNapoli Celebrates AANHPI Heritage Month

 

49th Precinct Community Council Fellowship Breakfast

 

The 26th Annual Fellowship Conference Breakfast honoring our community's Police Officers and Citizens Awards for Outstanding Accomplishment by the 49th Police Precinct Community Council was held at Lubin Hall at Einstein College of Medicine Monday May 19, 2025. 

The 49th Precinct Cop of the year award went to a very deserving Community Affairs Detective who Commanding Officer Tawee Theanthong said was now doing the job of three people who were assigned to the community Affairs unit of the 49th Precinct. The Business of the Year Award went to Orange Bank who has been a community partner time and time again. The Auxiliary Officer of the Year Award went to Auxiliary Police Officer Jaun De La Cruz for his help in working community events, helping direct traffic in chaotic moments, or simply showing up day after day with humility and professionalism. The Explorer of the Year Award went to Emily Ventura who quickly stood out as a dedicated, driven, and inspiring leader of Explorers Post 2049. The Tom Twyman Citizen Award went to Ms. Ivy Moreno for her years of service, compassion, and unwavering dedication to her family and her community. The Civilian of the Year Award went to Ms. Debra Gadson, a former Corrections officer before joining the police department  in April of 2007 serving eighteen years as a Principal Administrative Assistant.

Elected officials on hand were Bronx District Attorney Darcel  Clark and Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson. City Councilwoman Kristy Marmorato was represented by her Chief of Staff April Cardena and Director of Community Affairs Lilyanna Pekic. Also on hand was Deputy Chief, borough Bronx, Osvaldo Nunez.

Community Affairs Detective Kandice Hall was the Mistress of Ceremony, who also would receive the 'Cop of the Year Award'.

49th Precinct Commanding Officer Tawee Theanthong spoke about the great job that all of his officers do and how proud he is of them.

Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson spoke for a while as this is an election year for her. In the background are Bronx Borough Deputy Chief Nunez and members of the 49th Precinct Community Council.

Detective Hall holds her Cop of the Year Award, as the elected officials, the 49th Precinct Community Council President, Deputy Inspector Theanthong, Bronx Deputy Chief Nunez and Ms. Pekic of Councilwoman Kristy Marmorato's office are in the photo.

 

Congresswoman Ocasio-Cortez Highlights Cuts to Medicaid on Energy and Commerce Committee

 

This week Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez continued the fight against major proposed cuts to Medicaid during the Committee on Energy and Commerce’s markup on legislation that would devastate access to health care and potentially cause local hospitals across the country to shut down. 

 

You can listen to the Congresswoman’s remarks below. 

In Service, The Office of Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez