State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli's Weekly News - Juneteenth is a Time for Reflection and Celebration

 

Juneteenth Is a Time for Reflection and Celebration

Juneteenth is a time for reflection. We remember that our nation was built on liberty, but Black Americans were long excluded from that promise. We celebrate the joy of freedom but we will never forget the pain that led to it. Local Sales Tax Collections Up Slightly in May Local sales tax collections in New York State increased by 1.1% in May compared to the same month in 2022, according to an analysis released by State Comptroller DiNapoli. This is the third consecutive month in 2023 of less than 2% growth. Overall, local collections totaled $1.71 billion in May, up $18.4 million compared to last year. DiNapoli Audit Finds Hazardous Conditions Persist in Mitchell-Lama Developments New York State’s affordable housing agency, Homes and Community Renewal, is falling short in its oversight of several Mitchell-Lama developments, according to an audit released by State Comptroller DiNapoli. Auditors found unsafe conditions at facilities that went unaddressed, sometimes for years, and questionable spending. Former Chatham Rescue Squad Business Manager Charged With Stealing Over $17k From Squad State Comptroller DiNapoli, Columbia County District Attorney Paul Czajka, and the New York State Police announced the indictment of former Chatham Rescue Squad Business Manager Sara Thorne, of Forest City, North Carolina, for allegedly stealing more than $17,000 from the rescue squad. State Comptroller DiNapoli, Senator Cooney and Assemblymember Solages Urge Governor to Sign Contract Legislation State Comptroller DiNapoli, Senator Jeremy A. Cooney, and Assemblymember Michaelle C. Solages urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that passed both houses at the end of session enhancing transparency and accountability for State contracts awarded during a state of emergency, such as those that were not made transparent to the public during the COVID pandemic, as well as those contracts that are otherwise exempted from the Comptroller’s review. ALSO IN THE NEWS THIS WEEK Note: Some news links may require a paid subscription.  New York comptroller urges Hochul to approve transparency in contracting measure Op-ed | The double-edged sword of pandemic-driven technological acceleration Audit identifies unsafe conditions, financial mismanagement at two Bronx Mitchell-Lama complexes Ex-Chatham Squad official indicted   Tweet of the Week Tom DiNapoli @NYSComptroller

Housing Lottery Launches For 2279 Barker Avenue In Allerton, The Bronx

 

The affordable housing lottery has launched for 2279 Barker Avenue, a seven-story residential building in Allerton, The Bronx. Designed by Dome Architecture, the structure yields 23 residences. Available on NYC Housing Connect are 22 units for residents at 130 percent of the area median income (AMI), ranging in eligible income from $99,086 to $198,250.

Amenities include bike storage lockers, a shared laundry room, recreation room, and virtual doorman. Residences come with dishwashers, air conditioning, energy-efficient appliances, intercoms, and name-brand kitchen countertops and finishes. Tenants are responsible for electricity.

At 130 percent of the AMI, there are six studios with a monthly rent of $2,890 for incomes ranging from $99,086 to $146,900; 13 one-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $3,059 for incomes ranging from $104,880 to $165,230; and three two-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $3,599 for incomes ranging from $123,395 to $198,250.

Prospective renters must meet income and household size requirements to apply for these apartments. Applications must be postmarked or submitted online no later than August 9, 2023.

Governor Hochul Announces Free Fishing Weekend in New York June 24-25

 

New Yorkers Encouraged to Explore Opportunities Close to Home during Free Freshwater Fishing Days

 

 Governor Kathy Hochul today encouraged New Yorkers to take advantage of the year's second Free Fishing Weekend on June 24 and 25, when New York State waives the requirement for a freshwater fishing license. Fishing is considered one of the most therapeutic outdoor activities, making it an ideal activity for all New Yorkers looking to get outside and enjoy the outdoors.

"As summer approaches, fishing New York's world-class waters is arguably one of the best ways to spend the weekend," Governor Hochul said. "New York's Free Fishing Days give New Yorkers and visitors alike the opportunity to cast a line and enjoy the abundant natural beauty found in every corner of the Empire State."

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos said, "Seasoned anglers know New York offers some of the world's best fishing and Free Fishing Days are the perfect time to introduce these tremendous recreational opportunities to family, friends, and visitors. New York continues to make it easier than ever for residents and visitors to come out and experience all our waters have to offer."

New York's Free Fishing Days program began in 1991 to give those who might not fish the chance to try the rewarding sport at no cost and learn about a new hobby. This no-cost opportunity also encourages people to support the management of the State's freshwater fisheries by purchasing a New York State fishing license.

Additional Free Fishing Days in 2023 include: National Hunting and Fishing Day on Sept. 23, and Veterans Day on Nov. 11. During these designated Free Fishing Days, residents and non-residents are permitted to fish in freshwater for free without a fishing license. 

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and its partners also hold free fishing clinics throughout the year. In addition to learning about local fishing opportunities, participants are taught about the fish they can catch, how to cast a fishing rod, fishing safety, aquatic resource stewardship, and fishing regulations. Upcoming events include June 22 in Islip, June 24 in Orchard Park, June 29 in Manhattan, and July 5 in Queens. A full list of clinics can be found at https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/27123.html#Events. Check the list regularly as additional events are added throughout the year.

Free fishing day participants are reminded that although the requirement for a freshwater fishing license is waived during Free Fishing Days, all other fishing regulations remain in effect. For beginner anglers interested in getting started, the I FISH NY Beginners' Guide to Freshwater Fishing provides information on everything from rigging up a fishing rod to identifying a catch and understanding fishing regulations. DEC's Places to Fish webpages are a reliable source of information for those planning their next fishing trip.

Last year DEC added a new feature to the official HuntFishNY app called "The Tackle Box." Fishing regulations, fishing access, and stocking information are all available in the app within a map-based interface from the convenience of a smart phone. Other features include driving directions to State-operated fishing access sites and an offline feature that allows users to access information when cell coverage isn't available. The HuntFishNY app is available for download through Google Play or the App store. For more information visit the DEC website.

DEC's Bureau of Fisheries recognizes catches of big sportfish, including state records, through the Angler Achievement Awards Program. Anglers who catch a big fish this year are encouraged to advise DEC. Visit the DEC website for program rules, including minimum qualifying lengths and weights.