Open Call for BRAC Independent Producers: Bronx River Sounds 2025!

BRONX RIVER ART CENTER

Celebrating 37 Years of Bringing Arts & Cultural Programs to the Bronx

Open Call for BRAC Independent Producers

Deadline March 31, 2025

The Bronx River Art Center (BRAC) is currently seeking applications from Independent Producers for its 2025 “Bronx River Sounds” music festival to take place in May and June. The selected producer will be responsible for contracting and sourcing all artists, writing promotional text, and facilitating the public performances. We encourage proposals by independent producers who are attuned to stretching boundaries and familiar with artists from the Bronx. This call for proposals aligns with our mission of supporting artists from underrepresented groups, such as women and artists of color and addressing relevant social and environmental issues. 

History of Bronx River Sounds program

The 2025 Bronx River Sounds Performing Arts Festival will be our 23rd annual music festival and our 6th supported by the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs’ Coalition of Theaters of Color program, which has allowed the festival to grow and flourish. 

The festival takes place in late May and June, normally encompassing 6-8 performances. Along with the performances the theme is expanded by including visual art, spoken word, or dance elements as workshops open to the community. All performances take place in BRAC’s ground floor event space, which includes a piano, drum set and monitor setup outdoors in our patio/garden area. Performances are recorded, and posted where licenses are in place.

For the last several years, the festival has been arranged with a theme. Previous themes have been: Rhythms of the Diaspora, Roots and Rhythm: Celebrating our Caribbean Diversity, Healing, Harmony and Rejuvenation, Song and Dance on the Move. Accordingly, the acts we booked all made selections from their collection of compositions that related to the overall cultural theme in a variety of styles from R&B, Dance, Hip Hop, Reggae, Bomba y Plena, Salsa, Jazz, Brazilian, Panamanian and Afro Futurist Jazz, and traditional music, among other styles that relate to Bronx and immigrant cultures.

Over the last 6 years this new funding has brought to life BRAC’s event space, which was added to our building as part of its 2018 gut renovation. At the end of construction, BRAC outfitted the space with AV equipment, to create a vibrant music experience in the Bronx. The festival promotion attracts an audience from throughout the metro area to join our community-based audience. 

Please visit our website to view current and past performances at https://www.bronxriverart.org/events-past https://www.youtube.com/@bxriverart

GUIDELINES

1. Proposals must be conceptually rigorous and focus on performances that are innovative, timely, challenging, and engaging.

2. We are looking for proposals that clearly demonstrate a unique and creative approach, as well as an awareness of the Bronx and Bronx communities.

3. Producers should include a variety of performers based on the theme. 

4. Bronx River Art Center strongly encourages applications that expand our mission and contribute to our ongoing commitment to emerging artists, social and environmental justice, and advocacy for artists.

5. Budget:

• Artistic Personnel budget = $20,000 which can include: stipends for performers, lecturers, and workshop facilitators. 
• Technical and Production budget = $20,000 which includes festival producers, video, sound and lighting engineers. 

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Please attach the following Information as a Word or PDF document and send by email to: opencall@bronxriverart.org with subject heading “Producer Open Call.”

• A detailed festival proposal with your name, address, phone number and email address, of up to 500 words that includes a statement of intent, proposed line-up of performers and production team indicating whether these contactors have been confirmed, festival goals and objectives, and budget proposal. We additionally encourage the proposal of a public program and/or community workshops (date and time to be determined if your proposal is selected). 
• A professional CV.
• Three professional references (names and contact info) describing previous production work/projects and/or related experience.

SELECTION PROCESS

Submission deadline is Monday March 31, 2025. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so early applications are encouraged.

Finalists will be contacted for an interview before selections are announced. All applications will be kept on our files for future reference. For technical inquiries email: opencall@bronxriverart.org. 

No phone calls inquiring about the status of your submission, please.

 

Permits Filed for 1004 Summit Avenue in Highbridge, The Bronx

 

Permits have been filed for a four-story residential building at 1004 Summit Avenue in Highbridge, The Bronx. Located between West 164th Street and Summit Avenue, the lot is near the 161 Street-Yankee Stadium subway station, served by the 4 train. Shaya Seidenfeld of MZS Realty is listed as the owner behind the applications.

The proposed 51-foot-tall development will yield 8,514 square feet designated for residential space. The building will have 12 residences, most likely rentals based on the average unit scope of 709 square feet. The concrete-based structure will also have a penthouse and a 20-foot-long rear yard.

Nikolai Katz Architect is listed as the architect of record.

Demolition permits have not been filed yet. An estimated completion date has not been announced.

Chinese National Sentenced for Smuggling Turtles from the United States to Hong Kong

 

Defendant Smuggled Thousands of Turtles Worth Millions of Dollars in Illegal Pet Trade

Sai Keung Tin, also known as Ricky Tin, was sentenced to 30 months in prison for his role in smuggling protected turtles from the United States to Hong Kong. Tin pleaded guilty in December to four counts of exporting merchandise contrary to law. 

According to the government’s filed sentencing memorandum and evidence presented during the hearing, Tin, a Chinese citizen, aided and abetted turtle smugglers in the United States from February 2018 to June 2023. During that time, Tin trafficked approximately 2,100 turtles to three addresses in Hong Kong for the illegal Asian pet trade. Based on a conservative, contemporary market valuation of $2,000 per turtle, the smuggled reptiles were valued at $4.2 million.  

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) agents arrested Tin on Feb. 25, 2024, on his arrival at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York. On March 8, 2024, a grand jury indicted Tin on the present charges, which focused on four packages shipped in June 2023 containing 40 eastern box turtles. USFWS wildlife inspectors at an international mail facility in Torrance, California, intercepted the packages which were falsely labeled as containing almonds and chocolate cookies. Three of the packages contained between eight and 12 live eastern box turtles each, all bound in socks to restrict movement to avoid alerting authorities. The fourth package contained seven live eastern box turtles and one dead one. 

USFWS agents obtained a search warrant to seize Tin’s cell phones, which indicated that Tin came to the United States to smuggle turtles. He planned to travel to New Jersey, Texas, and Washington — familiarizing himself with tourist locations to present a false story if apprehended. His ultimate plan was to pay for turtles in cash, ship turtles around the country, and eventually, illegally export them to Hong Kong. He had detailed information on how to soak turtles to reduce odors and bind them in socks with tape, all to avoid detection.

Tin was associated with international turtle smuggler Kang Juntao, of Hangzhou City, China, who was extradited from Malaysia in 2019 and later sentenced to prison after pleading guilty to money laundering. Kang caused at least 1,500 turtles — with a market value exceeding $2.25 million — to be shipped from the United States to Hong Kong, including to Tin.

Tin trafficked primarily eastern box turtles (Terrapene carolina carolina), a subspecies of the common box turtle and native to the United States. Turtles with colorful markings are highly prized pets, particularly in China and Hong Kong, and are protected by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). China and the Unites States are parties to CITES.

Acting Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD), Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph T. McNally for the Central District of California, and Assistant Director Douglas Ault of the USFWS’ Office of Law Enforcement made the announcement.

The USFWS investigated this case with assistance from Customs and Border Protection and Homeland Security Investigations.

DEC Reminds New Yorkers: Statewide Residential Brush Burning Prohibition Starts March 16

 

Annual Spring Burn Ban Reduces Wildfire Risks, Protects Lives and Property

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton announced the annual statewide ban prohibiting residential brush burning begins March 16 and runs through May 14. Since 2009, DEC has enforced the annual brush burning ban to prevent wildfires and protect communities and first responders during heightened conditions for wildfires.

“Prevention is best, and after a dry and windy winter season, DEC is encouraging New Yorkers to protect themselves and their communities by complying with the State’s two-month burn ban that starts this Sunday, March 16,” Acting Commissioner Lefton said. “As the seasons change, melting snow leaves behind dead leaves and brush more likely to catch fire and put our communities and natural resources at risk. In addition to protecting land and structures, the burn ban keeps DEC Forest Rangers and other firefighters safe and ready to respond to emergencies.”

Even though some areas of the state remain blanketed in snow, warming temperatures can quickly cause wildfire conditions to arise. Open burning of debris is the single-largest cause of spring wildfires in New York State. When temperatures warm and the past fall's debris and leaves dry out, wildfires can start and spread easily, further fueled by winds and a lack of green vegetation. Each year, DEC Forest Rangers extinguish dozens of wildfires that burn hundreds of acres. In addition, local fire departments, many of which are staffed by volunteers, too often have to leave their jobs and families to respond to wildfires caused by illegal debris fires. DEC continually updates a Fire Danger Map on DEC's website as a resource to view local conditions.

New York first enacted strict restrictions on open burning in 2009 to help prevent wildfires and reduce air pollution. The regulations allow residential brush fires in towns with fewer than 20,000 residents during most of the year but prohibit such burning in spring when most wildfires occur. Backyard fire pits and campfires less than three feet in height and four feet in length, width, or diameter are allowed, as are small cooking fires. Only charcoal or dry, clean, untreated, or unpainted wood can be burned. People should never leave these fires unattended and must extinguish them. Burning garbage or leaves is prohibited year-round in New York State. For more information about fire safety and prevention in homes and communities, go to DEC's FIREWISE New York webpage.

Some towns, primarily in and around the Adirondack and Catskill Parks, are designated "fire towns." Open burning is prohibited year-round in these municipalities unless an individual or group has a permit from DEC. To find out whether a municipality is a designated fire town or to obtain a permit, contact the appropriate DEC regional office. A list of regional offices is available on DEC's website.

Forest Rangers, DEC Environmental Conservation Police Officers (ECOs), and local authorities enforce the burn ban. Violators of the State's open burning regulation are subject to criminal and civil enforcement actions, with a minimum fine of $500 for a first offense. For search and rescue, reporting a wildfire or illegal activity on state lands and easements, call 1-833-NYS-RANGERS (1-833-697-7264). To report environmental law violations, call 1-844-DEC-ECOs (1-844-332-3267).

DEC released a new Public Service Announcement to help spread the word about the annual burn ban, available for download here: https://extapps.dec.ny.gov/fs/programs/press/ForestRangers/BurnBanPSA2025.mp4

Governor Hochul Directs State Agencies to Prepare for Heavy Rain and Potential Flooding This Weekend

Combination of Rainfall, Snow Melt and River Ice May Lead to Localized Flooding

Thunderstorms and Gusty Winds Possible Saturday Afternoon and Evening throughout Central and Western New York

1-1.5 Inches of Rain Expected Statewide Sunday with Isolated Totals of up to 2 Inches Possible

Flood Watch Issued for Sunday Morning through Monday Evening Across the North Country, Mohawk Valley and Capital Region

Governor Kathy Hochul directed State agencies to prepare for heavy rain and the potential for localized flooding, while cautioning New Yorkers, as parts of the state are forecasted to be impacted by periods of heavy rain this weekend. Saturday afternoon and evening could bring thunderstorms and gusty winds throughout portions of Central and Western New York. Sunday is expected to bring steady, locally heavy rain statewide with one to one and a half inches of rain forecast and isolated totals of up to two inches possible. There is also potential for gusty winds through areas in Western NY, the Finger Lakes, Central NY and Long Island. The Black River and other waterways within Jefferson and Lewis Counties could be at risk for flooding Sunday into Monday, as well as Oswego County which currently has snowpack as much as two feet deep in some areas. Flooding is also possible along parts of the Sacandaga, Mohawk and upper Hudson Rivers as well as the West Canada Creek into early next week.

“I have directed my Administration to mobilize and prepare for heavy rain and potential flooding this weekend as we work to ensure the safety and well-being of all New Yorkers,” Governor Hochul said. “I urge all New Yorkers to take precautions, monitor your local forecast, and stay weather aware as the storm impacts the state.”

Flood Watches have been issued for many areas of the state through Saturday. For a complete listing of weather alerts, visit the National Weather Service website at alerts.weather.gov. New Yorkers are also encouraged to sign up for emergency alerts by subscribing to NY Alert at alert.ny.gov, a free service providing critical emergency information to your cell phone or computer.

Agency Preparations

Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES)

The Division’s Office of Emergency Management is in contact with their local counterparts and is prepared to facilitate requests for assistance. State stockpiles are staffed and ready to deploy emergency response assets and supplies as needed. The State Watch Center is monitoring the storm track and statewide impacts closely.

Department of Transportation

The State Department of Transportation (DOT) is prepared to respond with more than 3,763 supervisors and operators available statewide. Department staff are actively monitoring known problem areas and are ready to take action as needed to mitigate flooding. Crews can be configured into any type of response needed, including flood response, chipper, load & haul, sewer jet, cut & toss, traffic signal, etc. DOT crews are also proactively checking and clearing drains and culverts.

Statewide equipment numbers are as follows:

• 1,607 large dump trucks
• 353 large loaders
• 89 chippers
• 84 wheeled and tracked excavators
• 14 vacuum trucks with sewer jets
• 11 tree crew bucket trucks

The need for additional resources will be re-evaluated as conditions warrant throughout the event.

For real-time travel information, motorists should call 511 or visit https://www.511ny.org/#:Alerts, New York State's official traffic and travel information source.

Thruway Authority

The Thruway Authority has 693 operators and supervisors prepared to respond to any flood or weather-related issues across the State with small to large plow/dump trucks, medium sized excavators, large loaders, vacuum trucks, portable pumps, chainsaws, brush chippers and other equipment. In addition, Division Maintenance crews are proactively inspecting, clearing and maintaining ditches, culverts and storm drains to effectively channel storm water away from road surfaces and roadbeds to prevent flooding on the roadway.

Variable Message Signs and social media are utilized to alert motorists of weather conditions on the Thruway. The Thruway Authority encourages motorists to download the mobile app which is available for free on iPhone and Android devices. The app provides motorists direct access to real-time traffic information, live traffic cameras and navigation assistance while on the go. Motorists can also sign up for TRANSalert e-mails and follow @ThruwayTraffic on X for the latest traffic conditions along the Thruway.

New York State Department of Public Service

New York's utilities have about 5,500 workers available statewide to engage in damage assessment, response, repair and restoration efforts across New York State, as necessary. 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 have instructed all Troopers to remain vigilant and will deploy extra patrols to affected areas as needed. All four-wheel drive vehicles are in service and all specialty vehicles and watercraft are staged and ready for deployment.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC)

DEC Emergency Management staff, Environmental Conservation Police Officers, Forest Rangers, and regional staff remain on alert and continue to monitor weather forecasts. Working with partner agencies, DEC is prepared to coordinate resource deployment of all available assets, including first responders, to targeted areas in preparation for potential impacts due to heavy rain and flooding.

DEC reminds local officials to watch for ice jams and potential flooding in their communities. Ice jams are a major hazard that occurs when ice is broken apart and the pieces prevent a stream from flowing, leading to rapidly rising river stages and flooding. Municipalities are encouraged to undertake local assessments of potential ice jams in flood-prone areas and to remove any accumulating ice or woody debris. DEC permits and authorization are not required to remove debris unless stream banks or beds will be disturbed by debris removal and/or the use of heavy equipment. Municipalities and local governments are advised to contact DEC's Regional Permit Administrators if assistance is required and to help determine if a permit is necessary

If a permit is necessary, DEC can issue Emergency Authorizations to expedite approval of projects in place of an individual permit. DEC approves Emergency Authorizations for situations that are deemed an emergency based on the immediate protection of life, health, general welfare, property, or natural resources. DEC coordinates with agency partners—including DHSES and DOT—on monitoring and response to potential ice jams.

Additional information on ice jam flooding, contact information for emergency assistance, and permit requirements is available on the DEC website.

Unpredictable weather and storms in the Adirondacks, Catskills, and other backcountry areas can create unexpectedly hazardous conditions. Visitors should be prepared with proper clothing and equipment for rain, snow, ice, and the cold to ensure a safe outdoor experience. Trails have mixed conditions of snow, ice, slush, and mud.

Hikers are advised to temporarily avoid all high-elevation trails, as well as trails that cross rivers and streams. Hikers in the Adirondacks are encouraged to check the Adirondack Backcountry Information webpages for updates on trail conditions, seasonal road closures, and general recreation information. Backcountry visitors should Hike Smart and follow proper safety guidelines. Plan trips accordingly. In an emergency, call 9-1-1. To request Forest Ranger assistance, call 1-833-NYS-RANGERS.

With warmer temperatures expected through the weekend into next week, DEC reminds outdoor enthusiasts to be mindful of conditions when hiking and to use caution when venturing onto ice. While some waterways may appear frozen, DEC advises outdoor enthusiasts to review ice safety guidelines before heading out.

Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

New York State Park Police and park personnel are on alert and closely monitoring weather conditions and impacts. Park visitors should visit parks.ny.gov, check the free mobile app, or call their local park office for the latest updates regarding park hours, openings and closings.

Steps New Yorkers can take before and during a flood to stay safe:

• Know your area's type of flood risk - visit FEMA's Flood Map Service Center.
• Have a flood emergency plan in place that includes considerations for your children, pets and neighbors,
• If you live in a flood-prone area, document your belongings and valuables. Keep important documents in a waterproof container. Create digital, password-protected copies of important documents, pictures, and other items.
• Obtain flood insurance coverage under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Homeowner's policies do not cover flooding.
• Monitor your local weather forecast and follow any warnings that may be broadcast.
• If you are advised by emergency officials to take immediate action such as evacuation, do not wait - follow all orders promptly.
• Traveling during a flood can be extremely dangerous. One foot of moving water can sweep a vehicle away. Never walk, swim or drive through flood waters. If you have doubts, remember: “Turn Around, Don't Drown!”
• Consider those with access and functional needs to determine if they are prepared for a flood emergency where they live and work.

Thunderstorm Safety Tips:

• If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to the storm to be struck by lightning. Go to a safe shelter immediately.
• Move to a sturdy building. Do not take shelter in small sheds, under isolated trees, or in convertible automobiles.
• If lightning occurs and sturdy shelter is not available, get inside a hard top automobile and keep windows up.
• Get out of boats and away from water.
• Telephone lines and metal pipes can conduct electricity. Unplug appliances not necessary for obtaining weather information. Avoid using the telephone or any electrical appliances.
• Do not take a bath or shower.
• Turn off air conditioners — power surges from lightning can overload compressors.
• Get to higher ground if flash flooding or flooding is possible.
• Do not attempt to drive to safety — most flash flooding deaths occur in automobiles.
• If outdoors, find a low spot away from trees, fences, and poles.
• If you are in the woods, take shelter under short trees.
• If you feel your skin tingle or your hair stands on end, squat low to the ground on the balls of your feet; place your hands on your knees with your head between them; make yourself the smallest target possible; and minimize your contact with the ground.

For more preparedness information and safety tips from DHSES, visit dhses.ny.gov/safety. The National Weather Service website also includes Flood Safety Tips and Spring Safety Resources.

 

MAYOR ADAMS CELEBRATES NEW ALL-TIME HIGH TOTAL JOBS RECORD, FOR TENTH TIME UNDER HIS ADMINISTRATION

 

Unemployment Down Across All Demographics  

  

Milestone Follows Mayor Adams' 2025 State of the City Commitment to Make New York City Best, Most Affordable Place to Raise a Family

New York City Mayor Eric Adams celebrated that New York City has, once again, set another record for an all-time high total number of jobs in the city's history, with 4,861,813 total jobs, according to new data released by the New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL). Thanks to newly revised data from the NYSDOL, the city broke the record again in January 2025, the 10th time the Adams administration has broken the all-time high jobs record since Mayor Adams entered office. Included in the all-time high jobs number is an all-time high private-sector job record as well, with 4,258,376 jobs. Finally, unemployment remains down across all demographics.  

 

"The legacy of the Adams administration will be the records we continue to break," said Mayor Adams. "For the 10th time since we’ve come into office, we have broken the all-time high jobs records in our city. Record small businesses, record amount of affordable housing, record number of tourists, record declines in crime, and the list goes on. We are continuing to move the needle on the issues that every day, working-class New Yorkers care about: creating a safer, more affordable city with new opportunities in every borough. We know that our best days lie ahead as we continue to work to make New York City the best place to raise a family." 

  

In January 2024, the Adams administration first broke records for the most jobs in city history — six months ahead of schedule. Since breaking that first record, the administration has gone even further to help create jobs, including by connecting nearly 8,500 job seekers to employment, free training, and workforce development through its "JobsNYC" initiative. The Adams administration also unveiled the Green Economy Action Plan to support nearly 400,000 "green-collar" jobs by 2040 and secured the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final and other matches for the New York-New Jersey region that will have a $2 billion economic impact and help create over 14,000 jobs. To ensure that every New Yorker has the chance to compete for city business, the Adams administration awarded a record $6.4 billion in minority-or women-owned business enterprise (M/WBE) contracts in Fiscal Year 2024 and ensured the highest agency utilization of M/WBEs in city history. 

  

Under the Adams administration, New York City has a record 183,000 small businesses, with one in five current small business formed since the start of the Adams administration. The administration's Small Business Opportunity Fund has awarded more than $85 million in capital to over 1,000 small businesses since launching in 2023, while storefront vacancy rates have dropped for five consecutive quarters.

  

In June 2024, Mayor Adams celebrated the passage of his "City of Yes for Economic Opportunity" proposal, a set of citywide zoning changes the Adams administration introduced that will further fuel New York City's economic recovery and pave the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future for New York businesses. Together, the proposed set of changes will help businesses find space and grow, support entrepreneurs and freelancers, boost growing industries, and enable more vibrant streetscapes and commercial corridors — all helping contribute to more jobs in New York City. 

  

As of November of 2024, the Adams administration had connected young New Yorkers to over 15,000 apprenticeship opportunities, more than halfway to the administration's moonshot goal of 30,000 apprenticeships by 2030 ahead of schedule. Additionally, in 2024, more than 100,000 young people participated in the city's Summer Youth Employment Program. 

 

This news marks a key milestone in the Adams administration's successful record of making New York City a safer, more affordable city. Yesterday, Mayor Adams celebrated new census data showing that New York City's population grew in each of the past two years, and now stands at 8,478,000 people with all five boroughs gaining in population. Last December, Mayor Adams announced a new end-of-year tourism forecast that shows the city's continued strong economic growth and reputation as a global tourist destination. In 2024, nearly 65 million visitors came to New York City — the second-highest figure in city history and a 3.5 percent increase from the previous year. The city is on pace to surpass pre-pandemic levels in 2025, marking a full economic recovery. 

  

Finally, Mayor Adams and New York Police Department Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch announced that New York City continued to experience an overall decline in major crime, including on the subways, and broke a 30-year record for the fewest number of shooting incidents in the first two months of a year combined between January and February 2025. 

 

NYC Council Passes Resolution Calling on New York State Legislature to Enact Charter Revision Protection Legislation

 

State bill would address vulnerabilities in NYS law that allow mayors to block voters’ ballot access to propose charter revisions

The New York City Council passed a resolution to call on state lawmakers in Albany to enact legislation that protects the City’s charter revision process. Resolution 740, sponsored by Council Member Lincoln Restler and co-sponsored by Speaker Adrienne Adams, calls on the New York State Legislature to pass, and Governor Kathy Hochul to sign, S.590/A. 3665, which would protect ballot access for charter revision proposals from being blocked by mayoral-enacted charter revision commissions and increase transparency requirements for commissions. The state legislation would address vulnerabilities in state law governing the process for localities to revise their charters.

Current state law establishes practically no transparency standards and empowers the political weaponization of Charter Review Commissions by mayors. Recent extreme exploitation of the gaps in state law has established a dangerous model for mayors to manipulate and weaponize the process to weaken local democracy. This state legislation protects local democracy and the ability for New Yorkers to offer ballot proposals and more clearly understand such proposals.

“New Yorkers deserve a government that is accountable to them, and this bill would ensure that the process for charter revisions is transparent and doesn’t allow for New Yorkers’ ballot access to be blocked,” said Speaker Adrienne Adams. “Charter Revision Commissions should undertake a serious, thoughtful, and inclusive process to develop proposals that improve our government, not be political weapons to undermine democracy. We urge the State to pass this bill to restore faith in good governance and prevent it from being diminished.”

“I’m proud to sponsor this resolution encouraging our partners in Albany to pass legislation that prevents Mayors from blocking good government reforms from reaching the most important decision makers – the voters,” said Council Member Lincoln Restler. “It is essential that we allow the City Council and every day New Yorkers to propose smart ideas that can improve City government for the better – without the interference of the Mayor. Thank you to Speaker Adams, Senator Krueger, Assembly Member Simone, and former Assembly Member Gottfried for championing this critical measure.”

For years, New York City mayors have exploited gaps in state law to block charter revision proposals offered by the City Council or voters from access to the ballot. However, last year, Mayor Adams weaponized this authority in a far more extreme way to block a legislatively proposed charter revision ballot proposal. The mayor created a Charter Revision Commission that bypassed meaningful democratic process and transparency, rushing its completion in less than two months and approving specific proposals less than two days after their public release without any opportunity for public input. Mayor Adams’ 2024 Commission even revised its proposals hours before voting on them without making any clear public announcement, then just days later submitted them for the ballot.

Without transparency or safeguards to ensure accuracy of the ballot language describing such proposals, voters approved most of them based on misleading descriptions and extremely limited information about their true impact of reducing government accountability, oversight, and transparency. As a result, the City’s budget process was made less transparent and legislative oversight of city agencies was weakened.

Months later, after the Council announced plans to initiate a Charter Revision Commission through its authority granted by state law, the Mayor empaneled another Commission to block ballot access for proposals developed by the Council’s commission. A mayor’s authority to propose charter revisions should not include the power to block ballot access for other stakeholders in local democracy or be unfettered to bypass transparency. Changes to state law can clarify and strengthen the charter revision process to protect local democracy.