PRESS RELEASE: City of Yonkers, Yonkers Board of Education and Yonkers Federation of Teachers Settle Contract

YONKERS, NY – December 28, 2016 – Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Edwin M. Quezada and Yonkers Federation of Teachers (YFT) President Patricia Puleo today announced that all parties have signed a memorandum of agreement between the Yonkers Board of Education (BOE) and the YFT. The contract will be before the YFT membership for ratification next week when the staff returns from holiday recess.

The new seven year contract retroactively covers all terms of employment for Yonkers Public School teachers dating back to July 1, 2014 and will extend through June 30, 2021.  With the negotiated contract complete, the YFT leaders on Friday will sign and submit the New York State’s new teacher-evaluation system, or Annual Professional Performance Review (APPR), to the New York State Department of Education which will allow for $30 million in State aid to the Yonkers School District. 

“This is a contract that works for our teachers and Yonkers taxpayers, and I am proud to say that we got it done,” said Mayor Mike Spano. “I applaud the teacher’s union leadership for negotiating in good faith and agreeing to a contract that is fair to our teachers but also reflects the reality of our economic times and what our taxpayers can afford.”

Contract reforms saving taxpayer dollars include an uncapped contribution to healthcare for new hires and an increase in healthcare insurance costs for all teachers.  Reform in worker’s compensation also has been agreed to which reduces paid compensation from 60 calendar days to 30 work days.

The new contract also calls for a 14.5% salary increase over seven years. Under the new agreement, YFT members also will see an increase in longevity stipends.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Edwin M. Quezada stated, “We are very pleased to have reached an agreement with the Yonkers Council of Administrators that was adopted by the Trustees at the December 21^st Stated Meeting of the Board.  Today’s tentative agreement with the Yonkers Federation of Teachers, when approved by the Trustees later this week and ratified by the union’s membership, brings closure to our APPR requirements.  These fair and equitable agreements provide five years of stability and enable us to competitively attract quality administrators and teachers.  Working with our school administrative teams and teachers we are ready to focus all efforts on improving teaching and learning through the implementation of the District’s 3 Year Strategic Plan.  These agreements are one more step in defining sustainable solution for students’ success in Yonkers.”

Dr. Quezada noted, “The negotiating team continues to work in good faith with the Civil Service Employees Association, Inc., Yonkers Non-Teaching Unit, 9169 (CSEA) and look forward to expeditiously reaching an agreement.”

“On behalf of the Trustees, I want to thank Dr. Quezada, the entire negotiating team from the Board of Education, the City of Yonkers and Mayor Spano for their relentless work,” stated Board of Education President Rev. Steve Lopez.  “Stabilizing the school district, as well as the community, by settling all of our bargaining unit agreements has been and will continue to be a priority of this Board.  We join Dr. Quezada and welcome an expeditious agreement with the CSEA.”

Upon securing this all-too-important memorandum of agreement, YFT President Patricia Puleo stated, “We are pleased we have come to an agreement that recognizes the hard work of our Yonkers teachers.  We could not have achieved such an agreement if not for everyone’s leadership throughout the negotiation process and I commend both negotiating teams for their efforts to the benefit of our students”.

“Our agreement with the YFT shows that when the City and union leaders come together, we can achieve compromise, savings and reforms, and do it all in a way that works for the taxpayers and the workforce. I want to thank our dedicated teachers for their commitment to our children and their future,” said Mayor Mike Spano.

YFT is made up of nearly 1,900 Yonkers Public School teachers.

Last week, the Yonkers Board of Education and the Yonkers Council of Administrators (YCA) came to a similar labor contract agreement. The Board of Trustees approved the YCA contract at its December 21 meeting. The YCA represents nearly 120 Yonkers Public School administrators and supervisors.

RIP: James Gary Pretlow II – In Memoriam – August 21, 1974 to December 21, 2016

MOUNT VERNON, NY — December 28, 2016 — New York State Assemblyman J. Gary Pretlow writes: “I am saddened to announce the passing of my son James Gary Pretlow ll at the age of 42. He transitioned on December 21, 2016, at his home in Johns Creek, Georgia. James, much-loved father and son, was born August 21, 1974, at Lennox Hill Hospital in New York City NY, to James Gary Pretlow and Yukiko E. Hubbard-Pretlow. He leaves behind his daughter: Ayala Mack – her mother: Victoria Mack-Bender, both of Covington, GA; Step-mother: Donna, Aunt Glorian; two half-brothers: David and Anthony; and a host of friends and other relatives.”
SERVICES:

Wake:
Thursday, December 29, 2016
6:00PM – 9:00PM
Lee Wood Funeral Home
23 East 2nd Street, Mount Vernon, NY 10550

Final Viewing:
Friday, December 30, 2016
9:30AM
Lee Wood Funeral Home

Funeral:
Friday, December 30, 2016
10:30AM
Lee Wood Funeral Home

Home-Going Reception:

REPAST OR FUNERAL SERVICE
Friday, December 30, 2016
12Noon – 2:00PM

Hosted by Macedonia Baptist Church
141 South 9th Avenue, Mount Vernon, NY 10550
Rev. Dr. Darren M. Morton, Senior Pastor

James “Jim” Pretlow will be given a formal Military burial immediately following the
REPAST OR FUNERAL SERVICE at:

Calverton National Cemetery, 210 Princeton Boulevard, Calverton, NY 11933`

Yonkers Board of Education Board of Trustees President Rev. Steve Lopez Calls Meeting pertaining to Collective Bargaining Agreement for Friday, December 30

NEW POST: Seussical Opens in Three Weeks

YONKERS, NY — December 27, 2016 — As we get closer to opening night, meet some of the incredible cast that is working so hard to bring the Seussiverse to the Grinton Will Library January 13th-15th.! Meet Moriel Behar, Sofia Newman and Adriana Nocco who play The Bird Girls!
SEUSSICAL opens January 13th and runs for four performances at the Grinton Will Library 1500 Central Ave, Yonkers NY (snow dates Jan 20th-22nd). 

PRESS RELEASE: Yonkers Animal Shelter Will Waive Adoption Fees for Adult Dogs and Cats

YONKERS, NY – December 22, 2016 – Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano and the City of Yonkers Department of Parks, Recreation & Conservation today announced FREE ADOPTION DAYS later this month for adult dogs and cats at Yonkers Animal Shelter - 1000 Ridge Hill Boulevard – Yonkers, NY.  The adoptions will be offered to the public free of charge December 26 through December 31,  11AM-4PM.

“The staff, as well as the volunteers, at Yonkers Animal Shelter do an outstanding job caring for all of the stray dogs and cats that come in,” said Mayor Mike Spano. “My hope is that by waiving these adoption fees during the holidays, many animals will find loving homes as we head into the New Year.” 

Dog adoptions at Yonkers Animal Shelter typically cost $80 dollars and cat adoptions typically cost $65 dollars.  Adoptions between December 26^th and December 31^st also include spay or neater procedures, rabies shots, deworming, distemper shots and immunizations.

City residents wishing to adopt must also complete a questionnaire to be reviewed by the Yonkers Animal Shelter staff prior to the adoption.  The waived adoption fees do not include the mandatory $12.50 charge for mandatory dog licenses in New York.  

In September 2013, the 11,000 sq. ft. state-of-the-art Yonkers Animal Shelter was opened to the public featuring a welcoming public reception space, modern indoor and outdoor kennels, and updated medical facilities with inviting adoption areas.  

The shelter was made possible by the City of Yonkers, Westchester County, New York State, ASPCA, Building Hope and several other organizations, as well as donations from local residents. 

The Yonkers Department of Parks, Recreation & Conservation operates the Animal Shelter.  For further information, please contact Yonkers Animal Shelter at 914-377-6730.

PRESS RELEASE: Mayor Mike Spano Urges Residents To Recycle Throughout The Holiday Season

YONKERS, NY – December 21, 2016 – Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano today, along with Department of Public Works Commissioner Tom Meier, announced “Recycling Reminders” for city residents throughout the rest of the holiday season.  The City of Yonkers Recycling Center is located at 735 Saw Mill River Road, in Yonkers and is open Monday – Saturday -7:00 am – 4:00 pm – closed on Sunday.

“The holiday season produces additional opportunities to recycle for our city,” said Mayor Spano.  “Our focus remains on operating our city in an environmentally conscious manner through recycling.”

Holiday recycling reminders include:

·         Styrofoam from the packaging of toys & gifts can be recycled

·         Electronics are not permitted in the trash.  Please drop off at the Yonkers Recycling Center 

·         All electronics being thrown out can be recycled

·         A clothing bin for old clothes can be discarded at the Yonkers Recycling Center 

For the convenience of residents after the holidays, ALL electronics and Styrofoam may be picked up at curbside during December 27 – January 13 with an appointment (914-377-4357).These items also can be dropped off at the Yonkers Recycling Center throughout the year during regular operating hours.

“The Department of Public Works is working diligently to promote recycling whenever possible as waste disposal dramatically increases in the coming weeks,” said DPW Commissioner Tom Meier. “We encourage residents to review these holiday reminders and take part in helping Yonkers operate as effectively as possible.”

In addition, beginning Monday, January 9 and ending Friday, January 13, 2017 - residents may leave their bare, Christmas Trees out with their garbage to be picked up for proper environmental composting. Residents also can bring trees to the City’s Organic Yard at 610 Nepperhan Avenue between  7am-3pm, Monday-Saturday.

YONKERS TRIBUNE: Mayor Mike Spano to Lose $39 Million in State Funding to Yonkers Public Schools

YONKERS, NY — December 20, 2016 — Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano has played chicken for so long under the direction of others who run Yonkers City Hall in his name for so long, that the puppet masters have created a scenario where Mayor Mike Spano will be forced to blink. A few eggs will certainly crack over his self imposed tenuous position. After a full five years in office, the first two spent “straightening” things out by turning the independent Yonkers Public Schools into a Department of Education under his control, Mayor Mike Spano’s last three years to the present has denied the Yonkers Council of Administrators (YCA), the Yonkers Federation of Teachers (YFT), and CSEA Unit 9169 each a contract. In the past, Yonkers City Hall has asserted that they did not have the financial wherewithal to meet the demands of contracts that had or would soon lapse. To wit: drama, subterfuge, stall tactics, being dismissive of labor leaders, and waiting out the clock. The purpose has been and continues to be to dump the problem on the back of future administrations as the necessary funds to meet expiring contractual demands are instead used to meet the ever growing no-show patronage employment positions, and the  non-aggression pacts that manage the successful outcome of eventual political office holders through intimidation, retribution, or worse.

This while Mayor Mike Spano prepares to wait out his three last years of his second term as mayor should he not gain the necessary votes to succeed incumbent Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino in the 2017 November Election.

Perhaps Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano lost track of time. $39 million is at stake. The New York State funds would arrive in Yonkers from Albany for school curricula if the YFT would submit their New York State Teacher Certification Examinations™ by no later than December 29, 2016. But there is a fly in the ointment.

Teachers, represented by the YFT are not enamored by the certification examinations. Had the City of Yonkers (CoY) and the YFT sincerely engaged in contractual efforts the deadlines could have been met, even as soon as in the first week of December; today is December 20th.... 

http://www.yonkerstribune.com/2016/12/mayor-mike-spano-to-lose-39-million-in-state-funding-to-yonkers-public-schools-by-hezi-aris

PRESS RELEASE: Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano to Host Satellite Tax Offices at Three Locations Across the City

YONKERS, NY – December 19, 2016 – Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano today announced that he will again launch the Mayor’s Satellite Tax Office on Wednesday, December 28 at Will Library (1500 Central Park Avenue), Thursday, December 29 at Coyne Park Senior Center (777 McLean Avenue) and Wednesday, January 4 at Homefield House (911 Saw Mill River Road) .

The Mayor’s Office of Constituent Services and the City’s Tax Department will be available from 9:00 am to 7:30 pm all three days to meet with Yonkers residents and accept City property tax payments, which are due Friday, January 6, 2016.

“Paying your City taxes is mandatory but the experience doesn’t have to be challenging. We’ve made a concentrated effort to make City Hall more accessible so residents can have a more enjoyable experience, said Mayor Mike Spano. 

For those residents who prefer to pay their tax bills at City Hall, Mayor Spano is once again offering a

one-stop for residents at City Hall, as well as  expanded visitor parking at the City Hall parking garage to include dozens of new parking spaces and one-hour parking.

The City Clerk, Cashier’s Office and Assessor’s Office are all conveniently located on the 1^st floor of City Hall, allowing constituents to pay their taxes, water bills, obtain birth and death certificates, marriage licenses, dog licenses and other permits in one easy location.

“City government belongs to the taxpayers and we want the experience here to be a positive one,” said Mayor Mike Spano. “Our main goal here at City Hall is that our residents, especially our seniors, will have a more productive overall experience.”

For more information, residents can contact the Office of Constituent Services at (914) 377-6010 during regular business hours. Residents can also contact the Mayor’s Help Line, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 377-HELP (4357) for assistance.

PRESS RELEASE: Yonkers Public School 5 Closed Monday, December 19, 2016

YONKERS, NY — December 18, 2016 — Superintendent of Schools Dr. Edwin M. Quezada notified parents and staff this morning via telephone message that Yonkers Public School 5 will be the ONLY school closed for all students and staff tomorrow, Monday, December 19th. YPS 5 is located at 118 Lockwood Ave., Yonkers, NY 10701

All staff will report to Saunders Trades & Technical High School. Dr. Quezada’s message noted, “School will be closed ONLY for School 5 students this Monday, December 19, 2016.

Last night, a standpipe in the new wing of the building burst in the upper floor affecting several classrooms and offices. The Facilities Management Department has been at the school assessing the damages and cleaning all affected areas.

Principal Dr. Pisacreta and I will keep you informed of all developments. Another telephone message will sent by 3:00 PM tomorrow with additional details. If you have specific questions, please feel free to call the Elementary Administration Department at 376-8066. I apologize for the inconvenience and thank you for understanding and cooperation.”

Information will also be available on the District’s website, www.yonkerspublicschools.org, Facebook, Twitter and TV station Cablevision Channel 75 and Verizon FiOS Channel 38.

PRESS RELEASE: United Way of Westchester Invites Yonkers Residents to Voice their Community Health Concerns

YONKERS, NY — December 17, 2016 — United Way of Westchester and Putnam is working with the New York State Department of Health to conduct a series of community listening sessions, the purpose of which is to get input from local residents on improvements that can be made to the healthcare system delivery and access.

The free sessions are open to anyone in Ossining, Yonkers, Mount Vernon and New Rochelle; breakfast and lunch are included.

“This is a wonderful chance for people to tell us what they think about the many factors that influence their health and well-being, what works and what doesn’t work in local health-care delivery systems and what we need to do make things better,” said Alana Sweeny, President and CEO, United Way of Westchester and Putnam (UWWP).

The four sessions will be held from 9am to 1pm in:

1. Ossining: Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2017, Ossining Public Library, 53 Croton Ave.
2. New Rochelle: Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2017, New Rochelle YMCA, 50 Weyman Ave.
3. Yonkers: Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2017, Yonkers Riverfront Public Library, 1 Larkin Center
4. Mount Vernon: Friday, Jan. 20, 2017, Boys and Girls Club of Mount Vernon, 350 South 6th Ave.

The New York State Health Department’s Minority Health Council and Office of Minority Health and Health Disparities Prevention is seeking the public’s comments to help draft new policies that improve health in low-income, ethnically diverse communities, advised Sweeny. Similar discussions – all volunteer-led – took place in other major cities throughout the state in 2016. Topics include: Women’s Health, Taking Charge of Your Health, Violence & Trauma, Spirituality & Health, Seeking Services in the Community, Youth & Adolescent Health, Aging & Elder Care, People with Disabilities, LGBTQ Health, Men’s Health and Open Topics.

Accomplish your attendance and gain further information by way of the appropriate hyperlink:

www.UWWP.ORG/HealthcareMtVernon,

www.UWWP.ORG/HealthcareNewRochelle,

www.UWWP.ORG/HealthcareOssining,

or helping lead a discussion in any of the locations, please visit: www.uwwp.org/

About United Way of Westchester and Putnam 
United Way of Westchester and Putnam (UWWP) helps local residents in Westchester and Putnam become self-sufficient and thrive in a stronger community by helping people in crisis through the 2-1-1 helpline, making sure children are reading on grade level by 3rd grade, providing job skills training and offering support programs for the nonprofit sector. UWWP works with agency partners, government, business and community leaders to solve complex problems. United Way’s 2-1-1, which covers Westchester, Putnam, Dutchess, Orange, Rockland, Sullivan and Ulster counties, answers thousands of online inquiries and calls each week ranging from tax, heating, and mortgage questions to childcare, basic needs, natural disaster and crisis calls.

UWWP is located at 336 Central Park Ave., White Plains, NY 10606. Phone: 914-997-6700 Website: www.uwwp.org. Facebook: (www.facebook.com/UnitedWayWP) and Twitter (@UnitedWayWP)

PRESS RELEASE: Mayor Spano Presents Rosemarie Ann Siragusa School With School Of The Month Award For November 2016

YONKERS, NY – December 15, 2016 – Mayor Spano today joined members of Yonkers City Council and Superintendent of Schools Dr. Edwin M. Quezada to present the School of the Month Award for November 2016 to the deserving administration, faculty, staff, parents and students at Rosemarie Ann Siragusa School. Under the leadership of Principal Anthony Cioffi, the Siragusa School is achieving great success with their Global Academy program and in standardized testing. During the 2015-2016 school term, Rosemarie Ann Siragusa School experienced an increase in their New York State English Language Arts scores, rising by 10 percentage points.

“Over the course of just a year, Rosemarie Ann Siragusa School has changed their learning culture, while making significant strides in their standardized testing scores,” said Mayor Spano. “The continued investment in our students is a key component to their future success at any school, and it starts at the top. I would like to commend Principal Cioffi, as well as the administrators, teachers and staff for their unwavering support and commitment to our students. It’s quite clear our future is bright with our up and coming stars of tomorrow. Congratulations to each one of our students, as this award is a reflection of their hard work and dedication.”

Board of Education President Rev. Steve Lopez noted, “The administrators, teachers and support staff at the Siragusa School must be applauded for fostering a school environment in which students thrive academically as well as learn the importance of community service.  On behalf of the Board of Education Trustees, we congratulate the entire Siragusa School community on receiving this well-deserved award and we celebrate the activities they are doing to share the holiday spirit.”

“Rosemarie Ann Siragusa School Principal Cioffi and the teachers magnificently embraced their new Global Academy theme and transformed the learning community,” according to Superintendent of Schools Dr. Edwin M. Quezada.  “Through project-based learning students pursue self-reliance, active scholarly success and responsible citizenship; everyone learns and achieves together.”

Mayor Spano’s School of the Month recognition program began in January 2014 as a way to celebrate the significant academic success, extracurricular achievements and community volunteerism of Yonkers’ students, teachers, administration and staff at Yonkers Public Schools.

PRESS RELEASE: Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano Announces Warming Centers As Region Battles Frigid Temperatures

YONKERS, NY – December 15, 2016 – Mayor Mike Spano today announced the City of Yonkers will designate several locations around the city as warming centers over the next two days as the region battles frigid temperatures. The northeast will see an arctic blast bringing temperatures into the 20s, with wind chills 15-20 degrees below zero. 

“As we enter the winter season, we will make warming centers available to all residents in need of a warm place to rest,” said Mayor Spano. “I especially encourage our city’s older adults, residents with medical conditions and those working outside to please stay safe and utilize a warming center located nearest to you if needed.”

The Mayor has released the following list of locations that will be open as warming centers during specified hours for all residents beginning today and remaining open through tomorrow, December 16:

Peter Chema Center435 Riverdale Avenue
Yonkers
9am-5pm

Coyne Park Community Center777 Mclean Avenue
Yonkers
9am-5pm

Nodine Hill Community Center140 Fillmore Street
9am-5pm

Yonkers Riverfront Library1 Larkin Center
Thursday: 9:00am-8:00pm
Friday: 9am-5pm

Grinton I. Will Library1500 Central Park Avenue
Thursday: 9:00am-8:00pm
Friday: 9am-5pm

Crestwood Library16 Thompson Street
Thursday: 10am-9pm
Friday: 9am-5pm

To ensure safety, the Mayor is also raising awareness of precautions residents should take during periods of extreme cold:

· Keep anything that can burn at least three-feet away from heating equipment, like the furnace,
fireplace, wood stove or portable space heaters.

· Extension cords should not be used in conjunction with a space heater. 
Careful not to overload outlets with space heaters.

· Do not use an oven or hot plate for heating.

· Ensure both smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are present and working.

For more information on City’s warming centers or for any additional assistance, call the Mayor’s Help Line at 377-HELP.

PRESS RELEASE Yonkers Resident Liam Perry Indicted for Head-on Collision Death

WHITE PLAINS, NY — Acting Westchester County District Attorney James A. McCarty announced that Liam Perry (DOB 08/05/93) of 5 Troy Lane, Yonkers, New York, was arraigned today on an indictment charging him with:

• one count of Vehicular Manslaughter in the First Degree, a class “C” Felony,
• one count of Vehicular Manslaughter in the Second Degree, a class “D” Felony,
• one count of Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated Per Se, an unclassified Misdemeanor

in the death of Pedro Martinez.

On August 11, 2016 at approximately 9:20 p.m., the victim was driving in a 1995 Lincoln Town Car towards Bronxville on Palmer Road in Yonkers. At the same time, the defendant was behind the wheel of a 2005 Toyota Camry traveling in the opposite direction.

When the vehicles reached the intersection of Palmer Road and Sunnybrook Road, the defendant crossed the double yellow line and struck the victim’s car head on.

Perry had to be extracted from his car by the Yonkers Fire Department. Both the victim and the defendant were taken to Jacobi Medical Center in The Bronx. The victim was later pronounced dead from injuries sustained in the crash.

The defendant’s BAC was .27%.

The defendant pled not guilty to the charges.

Bail was previously set at $25,000 cash or bond. The defendant’s remand continues.

The next court date is January 18, 2017.

The defendant faces a maximum of fifteen years in state prison.

Assistant District Attorney Joseph Servino of the Superior Court Trial Division is prosecuting the case.

In compliance with the Rules of Professional Conduct, Rule 3.6, you are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

PRESS RELEASE: City of Yonkers Declares Victory After Westchester County Discontinues Its Lawsuit Regarding County-Funded Homeless Shelter at 101 North Broadway

YONKERS, NY – December 14, 2016 -- Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano today declared victory after Westchester County agreed to discontinue its lawsuit against the city regarding the unsafe conditions at 101 North Broadway in Yonkers, a county-funded shelter. As a condition of the settlement, Westchester County has made the necessary repairs and rectified all major fire and building code violations that were ignored for months and now the property has been granted a Certificate of Occupancy by the City.

Westchester County had been utilizing the 101 North Broadway as a shelter despite it being condemned and deemed unfit for human habitation by city building inspectors. The county-funded facility was continually cited with numerous housing, building and fire code violations including overcrowding.

Mayor Spano commented, “Given the recent tragic headlines in Oakland, CA and Hunts Point, NY concerning the loss of life at properties that did not comply with local fire and building codes, I am pleased with this outcome. We will rightfully continue to hold the County to task on its constitutional obligation to secure the safety and well-being of our region’s homeless.”

Mayor Spano noted, “Today’s settlement puts the County on notice. We, as enforcers of local building and fire codes and protectors of our residents’ safety, are watching to ensure the County adheres to the codes that could prevent other potential tragedies.”

Yonkers fire and housing officials noted that on September 21, 101 North Broadway, operated by the Sharing Community and funded by Westchester County, had no current certificate of occupancy for the basement. In addition, despite not holding the required City of Yonkers Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) since 2014, the county shelter continued to house individuals in the facility. The TRP ensures that all required safety inspections are performed before the building is occupied and that the occupancy limits are honored.   Unsafe conditions at 101 N. Broadway included structural deficiencies, dead vermin, unsanitary spaces, little to no lighting, fire hazards caused by faulty and exposed wiring, overloaded electrical outlets, combustible objects near the boiler and soot residue indicating insufficient venting and possible carbon monoxide build up.  

“The City can’t in good conscience, ignore the housing conditions and the obligation to the health and safety of these individuals and surrounding residents,” Mayor Spano added. “We will continue to monitor the conditions at 101 North Broadway and be sure that the properties are maintained so that they meet the habitable standards of the State of New York and the City of Yonkers.”

Moving forward, Mayor Spano plans on introducing legislation to the Yonkers City Council early next year that would require on-site operators at county shelters located in the City of Yonkers to be trained as fire guards. Similar to New York City, this legislation would give these on-site operators the responsibility to eliminate fire hazards and assist in the evacuation of occupants during drills and in cases of emergency.

PRESS RELEASE: Yonkers Joins RXR Realty and Rising Development in Goundbreaking for Larkin Plaza Redevelopment

YONKERS, NY – December 14, 2016 – Marking a major step in the redevelopment of Yonkers’ scenic and historic downtown, RXR Realty and Rising Development joined Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano and city officials in a groundbreaking ceremony for the $190 million Larkin Plaza mixed-use development project.  

The project, among the largest private developments in downtown Yonkers in decades, will complement the substantial public and private investment that has occurred in the city’s downtown in recent years.  These have included commercial and residential development projects, a new downtown public library, a renovated train station, a landscaped esplanade along the Hudson River, and the “daylighting” of the Saw Mill River, in which that decked-over body of water was re-exposed, with walkways and parks along its banks.

The Larkin Plaza development will consist of 439 apartments, together with 35,000 square feet of on-site space for shops, restaurants and other retailers. The residential units will be in two towers – one 25 stories and the other 17 stories – both offering unmatched views of Van Der Donck Park, the exposed Saw Mill River, the Hudson River, the Palisades Cliffs and the Manhattan Skyline.  The project is located steps from Yonkers’ train station, offering service to Penn Station via Amtrak and Grand Central via Metro-North.  It also has easy access to Routes 9/9A, Saw Mill Parkway, Cross County Parkway, and I-87. 

The two towers will share a landscaped roof terrace with outdoor amenities, including a terrace amphitheater and movie screen. Each feature additional first-class amenities indoors, such as attended lobby and concierge services; state-of-the-art resident lounges with media centers, dining rooms and kitchens; and resident business centers with Wi-Fi.  As part of the project, the landscaped roof terrace will be named in memory of Nick Sprayregen, founder of Rising Development and a visionary advocate for Yonkers.  

An additional two-story building along Van Der Donck Park, which is also part of the project, will house much of the project’s retail space, activating the long dormant frontage along the park.  A separate, three-story structure will house parking for 539 vehicles in an attended parking facility.  Partners RXR Realty and Rising Development began demolition and site work several months ago, with vertical construction now set to begin immediately.  Completion is expected in the fourth quarter of 2018.  The project is being financed in part through a loan from Capital One Bank and Santander Bank.

“We are so proud to be breaking ground on the Larkin Plaza development,” said Scott Rechler, Chairman and CEO of RXR.  “Building on the work of so many, Yonkers is well-positioned, once again, to be one of Westchester’s great economic and social hubs.  We are thrilled that our project will play an important role in the rebirth of this great city, providing a top-quality alternative to the high-priced housing in New York City, while creating new jobs, services and tax revenue for the people of Yonkers.  In addition to the many other thanks that are due, we especially want to thank Mayor Spano and the entire city team for all of their hard work and assistance in making this project a reality.”

“Nick would be proud to see his vision for Yonkers materializing here today,” said Tim Rutledge, CFO of Rising Development, said of the company’s late founder, Sprayregen.  “He loved this city and believed that with some creativity and hard work, we could create a true city-center in the downtown.  We all look forward to completing his dream.”

“Today’s groundbreaking marks another monumental step in the revitalization efforts of our Yonkers waterfront,” said Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano. “This is the type of development we need in Yonkers to meet a growing demand for people who want to live, work and play in a diverse and urban environment.  Thank you to RXR Realty, Rising Development and Empire State Development for investing in Yonkers so it remains a destination for years to come.” 

The Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council (REDC) awarded the Larkin Plaza project a $1 million grant in both 2014 and 2015, in Rounds IV and V of Governor Cuomo’s Regional Council Initiative.

“The Larkin Plaza mixed-use development will create hundreds of direct and indirect jobs in downtown Yonkers, a short walk from the Metro North train station,” said Mid-Hudson REDC Co-chairs Leonard S. Schleifer, MD, Ph.D., Founder, President and CEO of Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, and Dennis Murray, President Emeritus and Professor of Public Policy at Marist College.  “Under Governor Cuomo’s leadership, downtowns and urban centers throughout the Mid-Hudson region are attracting investment and being revived as economic engines for their communities.”  

The Larkin Plaza project is part of RXR’s Public/Private Partnership Strategy, which, with other transit-oriented projects the company is developing across the region.  These projects will provide affordable, quality housing options to the region’s residents, including young professionals and empty nesters.  RXR currently has approximately 3,000 units in its development pipeline, with projects in Yonkers, New Rochelle, Connecticut, on Long Island and in Brooklyn.

About RXR

RXR Realty LLC (“RXR”) is a vertically integrated private real estate operating company with expertise in investment management, property management, development, design, construction, leasing and financing. RXR’s core growth strategy is focused on New York City and the surrounding tri-state area markets. The Company is one of the largest owners, managers, and developers in the New York Tri-State area. RXR’s operating platform manages 90 commercial real estate properties and investments comprising approximately 25.1 million square feet with an aggregate gross asset value of approximately $15.0 billion as of September 30, 2016. In addition, RXR has a residential development pipeline of approximately 3,200 multi-family and for sale units in the New York metropolitan area.

About Rising Development

Rising Development has been committed to the redevelopment of downtown Yonkers and the birth of a true go-to city-center ever since its founder Nick Sprayregen first heard in 2006 about the promise of the daylighting of the Saw Mill River. Even at that time, Mr. Sprayregen was able to appreciate the important steps that had already been undertaken by both the private and public sectors in bringing about the beginning chapter of the turnaround of the downtown.

The eventual creation of Van Der Donck park on what had been for almost a century a municipal parking lot named Larkin Plaza, combined with the much-needed rezoning of the downtown then laid the groundwork for Mr. Sprayregen, along with other developers, to continue the revitalization efforts.

At this time, Rising Development is proud to be moving forward with its two major redevelopment projects – the rehabilitation of its Mill Street and Main Street properties as well as the new mixed-use Larkin Plaza development project with RXR Realty, on its main assemblage overlooking the Van Der Donck park. These combined efforts will help contribute to a vibrant, vital engaging 21st Century transit-oriented downtown – SOYO.

PRESS RELEASE: Groundbreaking Ceremony for Larkin Plaza Redevelopment

YONKERS, NY – December 14, 2016 – Marking a major step in the redevelopment of Yonkers’ scenic and historic downtown, RXR Realty and Rising Development joined Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano and city officials in a groundbreaking ceremony for the $190 million Larkin Plaza mixed-use development project.

The project, among the largest private developments in downtown Yonkers in decades, will complement the substantial public and private investment that has occurred in the city’s downtown in recent years. These have included commercial and residential development projects, a new downtown public library, a renovated train station, a landscaped esplanade along the Hudson River, and the “daylighting” of the Saw Mill River, in which that decked-over body of water was re-exposed, with walkways and parks along its banks.

The Larkin Plaza development will consist of 439 apartments, together with 35,000 square feet of on-site space for shops, restaurants and other retailers. The residential units will be in two towers – one 25 stories and the other 17 stories – both offering unmatched views of Van Der Donck Park, the exposed Saw Mill River, the Hudson River, the Palisades Cliffs and the Manhattan Skyline. The project is located steps from Yonkers’ train station, offering service to Penn Station via Amtrak and Grand Central via Metro-North. It also has easy access to Routes 9/9A, Saw Mill Parkway, Cross County Parkway, and I-87.

The two towers will share a landscaped roof terrace with outdoor amenities, including a terrace amphitheater and movie screen. Each feature additional first-class amenities indoors, such as attended lobby and concierge services; state-of-the-art resident lounges with media centers, dining rooms and kitchens; and resident business centers with Wi-Fi. As part of the project, the landscaped roof terrace will be named in memory of Nick Sprayregen, founder of Rising Development and a visionary advocate for Yonkers.

An additional two-story building along Van Der Donck Park, which is also part of the project, will house much of the project’s retail space, activating the long dormant frontage along the park. A separate, three-story structure will house parking for 539 vehicles in an attended parking facility. Partners RXR Realty and Rising Development began demolition and site work several months ago, with vertical construction now set to begin immediately. Completion is expected in the fourth quarter of 2018. The project is being financed in part through a loan from Capital One Bank and Santander Bank.

“We are so proud to be breaking ground on the Larkin Plaza development,” said Scott Rechler, Chairman and CEO of RXR. “Building on the work of so many, Yonkers is well-positioned, once again, to be one of Westchester’s great economic and social hubs. We are thrilled that our project will play an important role in the rebirth of this great city, providing a top-quality alternative to the high-priced housing in New York City, while creating new jobs, services and tax revenue for the people of Yonkers. In addition to the many other thanks that are due, we especially want to thank Mayor Spano and the entire city team for all of their hard work and assistance in making this project a reality.”

“Nick would be proud to see his vision for Yonkers materializing here today,” said Tim Rutledge, CFO of Rising Development, said of the company’s late founder, Sprayregen. “He loved this city and believed that with some creativity and hard work, we could create a true city- center in the downtown. We all look forward to completing his dream.”

“Today’s groundbreaking marks another monumental step in the revitalization efforts of our Yonkers waterfront,” said Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano. “This is the type of development we need in Yonkers to meet a growing demand for people who want to live, work and play in a diverse and urban environment. Thank you to RXR Realty, Rising Development and Empire State Development for investing in Yonkers so it remains a destination for years to come.”

The Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council (REDC) awarded the Larkin Plaza project a $1 million grant in both 2014 and 2015, in Rounds IV and V of Governor Cuomo’s Regional Council Initiative.

“The Larkin Plaza mixed-use development will create hundreds of direct and indirect jobs in downtown Yonkers, a short walk from the Metro North train station,” said Mid-Hudson REDC Co-chairs Leonard S. Schleifer, MD, Ph.D., Founder, President and CEO of Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, and Dennis Murray, President Emeritus and Professor of Public Policy at Marist College. “Under Governor Cuomo’s leadership, downtowns and urban centers throughout the Mid-Hudson region are attracting investment and being revived as economic engines for their communities.”

The Larkin Plaza project is part of RXR’s Public/Private Partnership Strategy, which, with other transit-oriented projects the company is developing across the region. These projects will provide affordable, quality housing options to the region’s residents, including young professionals and empty nesters. RXR currently has approximately 3,000 units in its development pipeline, with projects in Yonkers, New Rochelle, Connecticut, on Long Island and in Brooklyn.

About RXR 
RXR Realty LLC (“RXR”) is a vertically integrated private real estate operating company with expertise in investment management, property management, development, design, construction, leasing and financing. RXR’s core growth strategy is focused on New York City and the surrounding tri-state area markets. The Company is one of the largest owners, managers, and developers in the New York Tri-State area. RXR’s operating platform manages 90 commercial real estate properties and investments comprising approximately 25.1 million square feet with an aggregate gross asset value of approximately $15.0 billion as of September 30, 2016. In addition, RXR has a residential development pipeline of approximately 3,200 multi- family and for sale units in the New York metropolitan area.

About Rising Development 
Rising Development has been committed to the redevelopment of downtown Yonkers and the birth of a true go-to city-center ever since its founder Nick Sprayregen first heard in 2006 about the promise of the daylighting of the Saw Mill River. Even at that time, Mr. Sprayregen was able to appreciate the important steps that had already been undertaken by both the private and public sectors in bringing about the beginning chapter of the turnaround of the downtown.

The eventual creation of Van Der Donck park on what had been for almost a century a municipal parking lot named Larkin Plaza, combined with the much-needed rezoning of the downtown then laid the groundwork for Mr. Sprayregen, along with other developers, to continue the revitalization efforts.

At this time, Rising Development is proud to be moving forward with its two major redevelopment projects – the rehabilitation of its Mill Street and Main Street properties as well as the new mixed-use Larkin Plaza development project with RXR Realty, on its main assemblage overlooking the Van Der Donck park. These combined efforts will help contribute to a vibrant, vital engaging 21st Century transit-oriented downtown – SOYO.

PUBLIC NOTICE: Yonkers City Council Regular Meeting – Tuesday, December 13th

YONKERS, NY — December 10, 2016 — The Yonkers City Council released the agenda that will come before them at their regularly scheduled meeting. As noted below, no backup information is appended to the agenda that will come to a vote on December 13th.

YONKERS EVENT: Chabad of Yonkers Menorah Workshop at The Home Depot – Sunday, December 11th

PRESS RELEASE: Yonkers Mayor Spano Calls for Members to Apply for Yonkers Joint School Construction Board

YONKERS, NY – December 7, 2016 – Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano today announced his call for submissions to fill three of the nine positions on the new Yonkers Joint Schools Construction Board, the official steering committee authorized to oversee the repairing and rebuilding of Yonkers’ 39 schools. The creation and convening of the board was signed into law this fall by New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo. 

According to the legislation, the board will be comprised of nine voting members, three of whom will be joint appointees of the Yonkers Mayor and Superintendent of Schools. The remaining board members include the Mayor, the President of the Yonkers Public Schools Board of Trustees, the Superintendent of Yonkers Public Schools, Yonkers Council of PTAs designee, Yonkers City Council designee/majority and Yonkers City Council designee/minority.

Mayor Spano stated, “I encourage qualified and committed Yonkers residents to apply to the School Construction Board. This new board will make significant and impactful decisions that will establish modern, healthy educational environments that will affect our City and children for generations to come.”

“The School Construction Board’s work is truly significant as we move towards sustainable solutions for student success.  Board President Rev. Lopez and I look forward to working with this coalition of leaders as we move the education agenda in Yonkers,” noted Superintendent of Schools Dr. Edwin M. Quezada.  “We cannot expect students to perform at high levels in school buildings that are substandard.  Research shows that safe, healthy environments with access to 21st Century technology and instructional space for art, music and libraries are essential components of successful teaching and learning to prepare students for college or work.”

Board of Education President Rev. Steve Lopez stated, “The Trustees are ready and enthusiastic to begin the repairs and rebuilding of our schools.  We are grateful for Mayor Spano’s relentless commitment to Rebuild Yonkers Schools and the support of the City Council.  And join him in thanking Governor Cuomo, Senators Stewart-Cousins and Latimer, Assembly members Mayer and Pretlow and our school district staff and parents for their efforts.”

In selecting the three designees to serve the board, the new law provides that preference will be granted to those with expertise or experience in school construction, school financing and education policy. The members also may not be employed or have been employed by the City of Yonkers or the Yonkers Public Schools in the past two years. 

Mayor Spano added, “Thank you to Governor Cuomo, our Yonkers state delegation, our Yonkers Board of Education and all our local advocates for lending their voices in making this first step of establishing this board possible. Now we have a strong foundation to start the next phase of the process, which should include state reimbursements to fund the project.”

Yonkers proposes to rebuild all 39 existing public schools and build three new schools in Yonkers over the course of four phases and 13 years. The average age of Yonkers Public Schools is 75 years old with many as old as 100 years old, making them some of the oldest in New York State. The District is also one of two districts in New York with a growing enrollment teaching 27,000 students, which is currently 4,500 seats over capacity. As a result, students are being taught in spaces that were never intended to serve as classrooms such as basements, libraries and auditoriums. Alternate classroom accommodations including annexes and mobile trailers also have become overcrowded. 

In the coming months, Mayor Spano will continue to advocate in Albany for the state reimbursement needed to fund the rebuilding of Yonkers Public Schools.

Interested applicants are encouraged to apply at www.yonkersny.gov/boards

YONKERS TRIBUNE: Yonkers PBA Trustees Aide and Abet P.O. WIlliam Pataky to Create an Animal Lover Image Despite Him Being Factually Soiled, Despised, and Not Trusted

YONKERS, NY — December 6, 2016 — Upon officially adopting a 5-month-old kitten from the Yonkers Animal Shelter on Thursday, December 1st, P.O. William Pataky said, “You just feel it… this was the right thing to do.” The black and white kitten first met up with P.O. Pataky when he nine days earlier was working with an SPCA of Westchester Investigator to solve the case of an abandoned apartment on Cliff Street. Pataky is said to have estimated the kitten was abandoned in an unheated apartment with broken windows and without food or water. He took the kitten for treatment at a veterinary hospital; the kitten was dehydrated, underweight, and infested by fleas.

Pataky returned to the Yonkers Animal Shelter to check on the kitten’s condition and decided he would give the kitten a place in his home alongside his six-year-old cat Vegas, another shelter adoptee.

Yonkers Police Commissioner Charles Gardner congratulated P.O. Pataky with an “atta boy” slap on the back. The imagery was anathema to Pataky’s 18-years checkered past. The Journal News featured Officer William Pataky as having numerous Federal Lawsuits involving alleged brutality and questionable arrests and procedures; he is still roaming the streets.

Sources note that Olson staged an incident and reportedly had his union “thug” trustees stand at the entrance door to the Dunwoodie Hall as members entered into the room. One of those trustees was Police Officer William Pataky of the Fourth Police Precinct, chatter reportedly defines Pataky to be then Captain John Mueller’s go to guy to put down any precinct union issues. In return, Mueller allegedly feeds Pataky with overtime over other precinct members; this is the definition of pension padding.

It was back in 2014 that inside sources advised that during a Yonkers Police Benovolent Association meeting, PBA member Ray Montero while attempting to make his way to the men’s room, Yonkers PBA President Olson yelled out, “Don’t let that guy leave the room, this next issue pertains to him”. Words were thereafter exchanged between Olson and Montero who continued to make his way out of the meeting. As Montero reached the exit door, PBA Union Trustee William Pataky attempted to verbally, and physically impede Montero’s need to depart for the men’s room. This is the same William Pataky that was featured in the Erik Shilling article published in The Journal News on April 7, 2014, entitled: “2 Yonkers Cops Named in 14 Misconduct Lawsuits.”

Pataky was clearly heard spitting epithets, explicit profanity toward Yonkers Police Det. Ray Montero. Pataky told Montero he could not leave the room and ordered Montero to stay because PBA President Det. Keith Olson was not finished with him. Sources and witnesses report that Pataky was clearly motioning his hands towards Monteros’ face in a threatening manner. Other union trustees who were with Pataky were heard yelling, “Hold him”. As any normal person would expect, mayhem broke out between union officials and attending members.

A melée ensued. Montero was finally able to depart the scene to attend to relieving his bladder. It was then finally clear to all the members why Olson and his Union “thug” Trustee Pataky wanted him to stay. Yonkers PBA union leader Olson introduced, and read by-laws to begin the expulsion procedures against Detective Raymond Montero of the Yonkers Police Department’s Narcotics/Gang unit, a former Yonkers PBA Vice President, and a twenty-five-year, recognized and well-decorated Police Detective who reports indicate pulled two wounded New York State Troopers from a fire fight during an early morning raid in which the suspect was shot and killed in The Bronx. The now deceased Det. Frank Fernandez was first to propose Montero be ousted from the union; Det. Joseph Galinski, a 4th Precinct Trustee, seconded the motion.

The recent adulation over the success of the Yonkers Police Department being recognized to be the second most safe city in America among cities of from 190,000 to 250,000 population is a con. Pataky is indicative of why there are less reported crimes in the City of Yonkers. While there are police officers who still attend the salt mines; their word is not trusted. That being the case, while there are the same number of police officers on the force, many are constrained from functioning as police officers. It follows that if there are less police on the street, the likelihood of capturing those engaged in illegal conduct is diminished. Simply put, the Yonkers Police Department is not reporting the crimes that do take place because the Yonkers Police Department is not reporting all the crimes that are taking place. It therefore seems as though crime is down because less crimes are reported. Less crimes this year when compared to last year implies that the Yonkers Police Department have reduced crime by 30 percent. No way, no how!

In 2014, when crime statistics reached an all time, the reason was because the Westchester County District Attorney had to throw out many cases due to the admission of two YPD personnel who were admitted perjurers. The investigation created a sense of dread and fear in the department.

Will Mayor Mike Spano ever clean up the swamp he has allowed his brother Nick Spano to create? How long will that take? While the Yonkers taxpayers wait for the toxic waste to be cleansed from this corruption, must the taxpayer also suffer the pension padding you permit at the taxpayer’s expense?

The silence is deafening Mr. Mayor. If after 5-years of your failed administration, evoking your vision for the City of Yonkers, is it reasonable to believe that New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo will be supportive of your candidacy for Westchester County Executive? While the desire may be there, your capacity to do just that is constrained by your lack of accomplishment. There seems little time to take corrective course now. You simply waited too long. 

http://www.yonkerstribune.com/2016/12/yonkers-pba-trustees-aide-and-abet-p-o-william-pataky-to-create-an-animal-lover-image-despite-him-being-factually-soiled-despised-and-not-trusted-by-hezi-aris