Public Meetings - New Rochelle, New York

On March 27, 2026, the City of New Rochelle hosted the Fourth Annual First Story Event brunch at an unspecified location, honoring senior women in the community during Women's History Month. The event featured speeches from city officials, acknowledgments of sponsors and volunteers, and various activities for attendees. Speeches - Mayor [name not provided] welcomed attendees, expressing gratitude for the senior women's strength and resilience, and noting that the event has become a popular annual tradition that "isn't going anywhere." - City Manager Will Millennius addressed the crowd, reflecting on the contributions of women trailblazers and caregivers, and dedicating the event to senior residents whose stories and experiences inspire the community. He thanked event organizers and partners. Acknowledgments - Commissioner of Parks and Recreation (referred to as "Vin") was credited for organizing the event. - Monofjore was recognized as the official sponsor, providing DJ and photo booth services. - DJ Fuego was thanked for providing music. - The event committee (Michelle, Samantha, Peter, Maria, Warren, and Christine) was acknowledged. - City employees staffing the Backflower Station, along with representatives from Monofirm, Shaper Send the Care Center, Westchester County Department of Senior Services, Westtop Foster Grandparents Program, Office for the Aging, the Royal Center, Nurse Police Department, and New Rochelle Fire Department were thanked. Activities - Attendees were encouraged to pick up bouquets at the Backflower Station. - Informational tables from senior services and community organizations were available. - A DJ and photo booth provided entertainment. Key Outcomes No formal decisions, votes, or directives were made during this event. The brunch served as a community celebration with no business agenda.

The New Rochelle Municipal Civil Service Commission held a regular meeting on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at 3:41 PM in the Council Conference Room. Chairman Bishop Fetson Leak and Commissioner Margaret Chadwick were present; Commissioner Wadalupe was absent. The meeting was adjourned at 3:46 PM. All items were approved unanimously without discussion or public testimony. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved the minutes of the previous meeting held on January 28, 2026, as written. - Job Specification: Approved a new job specification for the New Rochelle Public Library for the Human Resource and Accountant Coordinator position. - Residency Requests: Approved a request from the Finance Department to change the residency requirement for the Purchasing Specialist position to Westchester County (due to only one applicant after a promotional posting). Approved requests from Public Works to post Engineering Technician and Construction Engineer positions as open competitive (only one candidate applied for one of the positions). - Eligible Lists Established: Approved the establishment of the following eligible lists for a period of one year until March 25, 2027: - Police Lieutenant (List 2705) - Police Captain (List 2706) - Budget Analyst (List 2707) - Assistant Superintendent of Sewers (List 2711) - Executive Director of the Office of IT (List 2712) - Infrastructure and Support Supervisor (promotion, List 2713) - Traffic Shop Foreman (promotion, List 2714) - Eligible List Extensions: Approved extensions of the following lists: - Assistant Custodian (List 2690) to March 19, 2027 (corrected from March 16, 2027) - Dispatch Clerk (List 2668) to April 16, 2027 - Recreation Supervisor (List 2608) to March 27, 2027 - Exam Schedule: An exam for Director of Security and Assistant to the Director of Security for the school district was noted for the upcoming Saturday, with approximately six candidates taking three different exams. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for April 15, 2026, at 3:30 PM. Key Outcomes - All agenda items were approved unanimously by the two attending commissioners. No opposition or public comments were recorded.

At the annual meetings of the New Rochelle Industrial Development Agency (IDA) and the New Rochelle Corporation for Local Development (CLD), held consecutively on March 25, 2026, at 7:34 PM and 7:54 PM, respectively, in the City Council Conference Room, City Hall, New Rochelle, New York, boards approved financial statements, adopted updated policies, and appointed officers for the coming year. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The IDA unanimously approved the minutes of its March 11, 2026 meeting. The CLD unanimously approved the minutes of its October 29, 2025 meeting. - Appointment of Board Officers: For both the IDA and CLD, Shane O'Shignot Loyer was reappointed Vice Chair, Howard Greenberg as Treasurer, and Garrett Thielander as Secretary. Robert Balashandra was unanimously re-elected Chairman of both boards. - Committee Appointments: For both boards, all members were appointed to the Audit, Finance, and Governance Committees, except that the Treasurer does not serve on the Audit Committee. Discussion Items - Presentation of 2025 Financial Statements: Douglas Zimmerman of EFPR Group presented audit results for both the IDA and CLD. For the IDA: total assets decreased by approximately $25,000 to $280,000; net position decreased by $24,400 to $271,000; operating revenue increased by $148,000 due to larger project closings; operating expenses increased by $1,300 to $339,000. For the CLD: total assets decreased by $1.6 million to $57 million (primarily from lease-related adjustments); net position decreased by $475,000 to $677,000; operating revenue increased by $493,000 due to three project closings and social equity fees; operating expenses increased by $292,000 to $1.8 million, mainly due to job training and techno-urbanism initiatives. Both audits received unmodified (“clean”) opinions. One compliance finding was noted: the investment policy needed to be updated to specify qualifications of investment bankers, brokers, agents, dealers, and other advisors. - Adoption of Amended Investment Policy: The boards approved revised language addressing the audit finding, adopting the New York State–required specificity. Policies remain unchanged from 2022 except for this update. - Adoption of PAA (Public Authorities Accountability Act) Policies: The boards adopted the annual reauthorization of all IDA/CLD policies for 2026, incorporating the recently approved investment policy update. - LGRMIF Grant Shared Services Agreement (IDA only): The IDA authorized participation in a joint application with the City of New Rochelle for a New York State Local Government Records Management Improvement Fund grant of $250,000 (no local match). The grant would fund a consultant to assess records and develop a coordinated management plan for both the city and the IDA. Key Outcomes - All resolutions passed unanimously. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for April 29, 2026, at 7:30 PM. - Board Departure: Fiela Momaly was recognized for his ten years of service on the IDA and CLD boards; Keith Singletary was announced as a new IDA board member effective the April meeting. - New Finance Commissioner: Alice D. Featherstone was introduced as the Finance Commissioner and IDA Comptroller.

The New Rochelle Planning Board met on March 24, 2026, at 12:15 PM (UTC) to consider site plan application PB 2-2026 by Young Israel of Scarsdale for the demolition of portions of an existing synagogue (except the sanctuary), construction of a two-story addition, and expansion of parking at 1313 Weaver Street (R1-10A zone). After extensive public comment and board deliberation, the board approved the application with multiple conditions. Consent Calendar - None reported. Public Comments & Testimony - David Freeman (363 Daisy Farms Drive) spoke vehemently against the plan, citing chronic overflow parking from the existing synagogue that blocks driveways, fire hydrants, and intersections, making streets impassable. He questioned the feasibility of valet parking for 142 cars, the lack of a contract with the adjacent Simply the Best market, and the planned removal of mature trees. He argued the synagogue has been out of compliance since 1993 (56 spots vs. required 77) and that the congregation does not respect neighborhood parking. - Eliana Bednars (77 Harlan Drive) supported the renovation but objected to relocating the main entrance to face her home less than 100 feet away. She argued that noise from people gathering, security guards, valet operations, and late-night cleanup would disrupt her family’s quiet enjoyment, and that the original plan (spring 2025) had the entrance facing Daisy Farms Drive. She requested the entrance remain in its original location. Discussion Items - Applicant Presentation: - Ari Weinberger (president) explained the need for expansion to accommodate current membership (sanctuary unchanged at 525 seats), eliminate tent and refrigerated truck nuisances, and create a rooftop play space to keep children off the parking lot. The plan provides 77 on-site parking spaces (compliant with a 1993 variance) and valet parking for events exceeding 77 cars, using a written agreement with the adjacent Simply the Best market. - Foster Ting (engineer) detailed site improvements: widening drive aisles to 24 feet, adding 21 new parking spaces (from 56 to 77), tiered retaining walls (max 6 feet) with extensive landscaping (128 new trees, mostly evergreens, net gain of 60 trees), porous pavement for stormwater, and new LED lighting. The fire department requested widening the driveway to 24 feet. - Alex Gorlin (architect) described the outdoor rooftop play space (not covered) designed for Sukkah use and as a safe area for children. - Board Questions and Concerns: - Parking & Valet: Members questioned the feasibility of processing 142 cars via valet within a short arrival window, queue lengths (entrance-to-road distance 75-300 feet), and potential spillover onto Weaver Street and Daisy Farms. The valet plan, reviewed by the building department, was submitted to the zoning board but not fully analyzed for intersection impacts. The board required a traffic impact analysis of the Weaver/Daisy Farms intersection as part of the valet plan. - Off-site Parking Agreement: Concern that Simply the Best market may be for sale; applicant acknowledged the property is subject to a lease but had no further details. The board noted that if the valet arrangement ceases, the applicant would need to return with an alternative. - Trees & Screening: Board member Doug Hewson pressed for preserving mature deciduous trees, suggesting reducing parking by three spaces to retain more trees. Staff noted the variance mandates 77 spots. The board was ultimately satisfied with the tiered wall, evergreen planting, and six-foot fence, which provide year-round screening over time. - Entrance Relocation: The primary pedestrian entrance shifts from Daisy Farms to the west side (facing Harlan Drive). The board heard public opposition but accepted the applicant’s rationale (security, better flow). - Pedestrian Circulation: Lack of dedicated sidewalks within the parking lot was raised; applicant argued it is typical for similar uses and noted that during events valet eliminates pedestrian-vehicle conflicts. - Traffic & Safety: During construction, the synagogue will relocate to Heathcote School. Board emphasized enforcement of noise and parking ordinances. Key Outcomes - Lead Agency Designation: Unanimously approved (motion by Doug Hewson, seconded by Kate Mercado). - Negative Declaration (SEQR): Unanimously approved, finding no significant adverse environmental impacts. - Site Plan Approval: Unanimously approved with the following conditions: 1. All work within city right-of-way to conform to DPW standards and require permits. 2. CCTV inspection of existing drainage sewer prior to building permit. 3. Unobstructed 24-foot fire apparatus access road. 4. Valet plan (subject to special permit from building department) including an analysis of impacts to the Weaver Street / Daisy Farms intersection. 5. Installation of netting around the outdoor play court. 6. Filing of a stormwater pollution prevention plan (SWPPP) with DPW. 7. Compliance with tree removal/replacement provisions of city code. 8. Exploration of adding a sidewalk along the Daisy Farms Drive frontage (conditions permitting). - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at approximately 2:30 PM (approximate duration from transcript). Other agenda items (PB 26-2023 and PB 18-2025) were adjourned to future dates.

On March 23, 2026, the New Rochelle Chamber of Commerce hosted a grand opening ceremony for Tai Chi Bubble Tea, a new bubble tea and Asian-inspired food establishment located in the Waikagill area. The event featured remarks from local officials, business owners, and community leaders, all celebrating the addition of the business to the city's growing corridor. Opening Remarks - Catherine White, Executive Director of the New Rochelle Chamber of Commerce, welcomed attendees and introduced the speakers, highlighting the spring season and the area's blooming business scene. Mayor's Remarks - Mayor Yadira Ramos-Herbert expressed excitement about the new business, noting that the owners, Amy and Aaron, previously operated a location in the Bronx and have ties to New Rochelle through their daughter attending Ursuline School. She emphasized the city's support for the business and its importance to the community. Congressman's Remarks - Congressman George Latimer congratulated the owners, pointing out the strategic location's accessibility to neighboring communities such as East Chester, Tuckahoe, Mamaroneck, and Larchmont, which he said helps grow New Rochelle's economy. He expressed his intention to return as a customer. Business Owner's Remarks - Aaron, co-owner of Tai Chi Bubble Tea, thanked the community for its warm welcome. He described how customers have already made the store their own by leaving drawings and kind words. He noted that the journey began with a Bronx location and that the community's embrace inspired them to grow. He expressed hope that the store would become a place for friends, families, and neighbors to gather. Corporate Representative's Remarks - Ken, representing the corporate side of Tai Chi Bubble Tea, described the brand as a New York State-born brand focused on bringing people together through drinks and food. He highlighted the menu, which includes handcrafted bubble tea, poke bowls, Japanese ramen, and Asian-inspired street food. He thanked the local team and the community for their support. Chamber Presentation - Carol Barella, from the New Rochelle Chamber of Commerce, offered a brief welcome and wished the business success, calling it a great addition to her hometown. Key Outcomes - The grand opening of Tai Chi Bubble Tea was celebrated with speeches and a ribbon-cutting (indicated by "Cheers" and "Two one! Woo!"). All speakers expressed strong support for the business and its positive impact on the community. No formal votes or decisions were made; the event was a ceremonial celebration.

The event, co-sponsored by the City of New Rochelle and its employee resource group, celebrated Irish American heritage. Executive Director Catherine White of the New Rochelle Chamber of Commerce welcomed attendees. Mayor Yadira Ramos Herbert and City Manager Wilfredo Melendez gave remarks highlighting Irish American contributions. Barbara Davis delivered a historical presentation, and Deputy Commissioner of Parks and Recreation Lauren Falcone O'Connor was honored with proclamations. Opening Remarks - Catherine White welcomed attendees, noting the 250th anniversary of America and the importance of celebrating Irish American heritage in New Rochelle. - Mayor Yadira Ramos Herbert praised honoree Lauren Falcone O'Connor, describing her as dedicated and professional, and expressed pride in her service. - City Manager Wilfredo Melendez thanked the Diversity and Inclusion Office and the employee resource group. He cited statistics: nearly six million Irish immigrants since 1820, one-sixth of U.S. citizens tracing their heritage to Ireland, and 22 U.S. presidents with Irish heritage. Historical Presentation - Barbara Davis discussed Irish immigration to New Rochelle, noting that the first Irish arrived in the 1840s due to the potato famine (over one million killed). By 1865, 30% of New Rochelle's 4,000 residents were foreign-born, with 800 Irish (over a quarter). She highlighted anti-Irish sentiment and the founding of St. Matthew's Church in 1848. - She spotlighted Irish-born Patrick E. O'Connor, a Civil War veteran of the 69th Regiment (Irish Brigade) who survived a lung injury, later became a judge and New Rochelle's first Sewers Commissioner. He participated in the pursuit of John Wilkes Booth after Lincoln's assassination and served as an honor guard at Lincoln's funeral. Honoring of Lauren Falcone O'Connor - Lauren Falcone O'Connor, Deputy Commissioner of Parks and Recreation, accepted the honor. She thanked city officials and her department, noting her Irish ancestry: her great-great-great-grandfather John immigrated from Belfast in 1865 and worked as a blacksmith. She reflected on growing up with Irish cultural traits of family, hospitality, and work ethic. - Mayor Ramos Herbert read proclamations recognizing her leadership, enthusiasm, and commitment to recreation programs and community spaces, and honoring her family's legacy. The employee resource group began a tradition of displaying a proclamation on the wall for the month. Closing Remarks - The ceremony closed with remarks on the global Irish diaspora, mentioning notable Irish Americans and the spirit of welcome, emphasizing that everyone is welcome in Irish culture. Key Outcomes - No votes or decisions were made. The program served to recognize Irish American Heritage Month and to honor Lauren Falcone O'Connor with proclamations and community appreciation.

The New Rochelle City Council held its regular legislative meeting on March 17, 2026 (St. Patrick's Day). The meeting was called to order at 11:15 AM with all council members present. The council approved minutes from prior meetings, adopted a consent agenda of routine items, and voted on two resolutions. The meeting concluded with a motion to enter executive session on a personnel matter. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approved: The council approved the minutes for the regular legislative meeting of January 20, 2026, and the committee of the whole session of February 10, 2026. (Motion by Stern and Kay; unanimous vote) - Consent Agenda Items 2–11: Adopted without discussion or objection. (Motion by Kay and Oshan Loyer; unanimous vote) Discussion Items - Resolution 12 – Appointment of Participatory Budget Steering Committee Chairperson: Councilmember Storin expressed gratitude for the appointee's service. The resolution was adopted unanimously. (Motion by Stern and Peters; all aye) - Resolution 13 – Authorization to Submit Shared Services Grant Application: The council considered a proposed authorization for the city manager to submit a shared services grant application to the New York State Local Government Records Management Improvement Fund for up to $150,000. The grant would support digitization of the city's archives. Councilmember Peters praised City Clerk Kim Oliveros for researching the opportunity. The resolution was adopted unanimously. (Motion by Lopez and Kay; all aye) Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: January 20, 2026 regular meeting and February 10, 2026 committee of the whole. - Consent Agenda (Items 2–11): Adopted unanimously. - Resolution 12: Adopted – appointment of the participatory budget steering committee chairperson. - Resolution 13: Adopted – authorization to apply for a New York State shared services grant (up to $150,000) for archive digitization. - Executive Session: The council voted unanimously to move into executive session on a personnel-related matter, with no return to public session.

On March 11, 2026, at 7:34 PM, the New Rochelle Industrial Development Agency (IDA) held a meeting at City Hall to consider the assignment of the IDA project at 277 North Avenue from the original sponsor (Fisher) to 277 North Avenue GP LLC, an affiliate of Lincoln Property Company. The meeting included a public hearing, presentations from the applicant and financial advisor, and a board vote resulting in approval with one abstention. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The board unanimously approved the minutes from the November 19, 2025 committee meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Serge Vetcher (25 Lira Place): Expressed support for the project, noting the developer's reputation and the need to activate a dormant site. However, he questioned whether the city's finances and the original assumptions still hold, given that the project offers only the minimum 10% affordable housing at 80% AMI. - Sean Wayowatsky (25 Leroy): Opposed the tax incentives, arguing that the project does not provide tangible benefits to the community. He noted that 10% of units at 80% AMI is not affordable for the average New Rochelle resident (who earns 50% AMI) and criticized the lack of enforceable local hiring requirements. - Jim Kelleher (unstated address): Called for a PILOT for homeowners to reduce their taxes, emphasized the need for local job mandates (20% or more), and urged the IDA to require signed retail tenants before approving projects. He also suggested using affordable housing funds to build tiny homes for residents. - Michael Yellen (New Rochelle Alliance for Justice): Argued that the city's development policies have put developers first. He stated that 80% AMI units do not meet the needs of most renters, citing a Hudson Valley Patterns for Progress report, and that 44% of New Rochelle households live below the poverty line or are working poor. He called for project labor agreements and stronger apprenticeship requirements for local residents. - Maxine Gouls (unstated address): Raised concerns about inadequate parking (433 spaces for 442 units, assuming no family has more than one car) and no dedicated parking for retail. She also urged the IDA to plan for traffic mitigation during the 30-month construction period. Discussion Items - Project Presentation: Brian Cinsiba (attorney for the applicant) presented the project history, noting that the original approval was in 2018, but the Fisher group lost financing due to COVID and cost increases. The project cost has risen from $170 million to $250 million. The developer, Lincoln Property Company, is a large national firm with experience in similar mixed-use developments. Jared Toothman (Lincoln) emphasized the need for a PILOT to make the project financially feasible, given high construction costs in Westchester compared to Hudson County. He also discussed the brownfield cleanup program and the importance of transit-oriented development. - Financial Analysis: Kevin Grams (Grow America) presented the cost-benefit analysis. The same 20-year PILOT as approved in 2018 (75% abatement in years 1-2, then phased, overall 46% tax savings) is proposed. Total incentives are $29 million (12% of project budget), with a net public benefit of $14 million over 20 years. The project is expected to generate 300 construction jobs and 27 operational jobs. The student impact analysis estimated 18 new students, with PILOT payments in year 3 ($737,000) exceeding the cost of those students ($220,000+). - Board Discussion: - Board member Miguel O'Malley (who recused himself from voting due to a conflict of interest) asked about local hiring and union participation. Jared Toothman responded that the contractor (Swinterton) is aware of requirements and that Lincoln is open to union labor where economically feasible. - Vice Chair Ianusy questioned the per-student cost used in the analysis ($19,492), noting that actual costs may be higher (mid-$30,000s). Executive Director Adam Salgado replied that the cost is based on a 2015 study and that the city is working with the school district to update the calculation. He also noted the five-year lookback provision for reconciliation. - Chair Rob praised the project and emphasized partnership. He noted that the social equity fund (about $157,000) is a new benefit not available in 2018. Key Outcomes - Vote on Motion: The board voted on a motion to approve the assignment and transfer of the project to 277 North Avenue GP LLC, including the PILOT and all related documents as set forth in the resolution. The motion passed with 5 in favor and 1 abstention (O'Malley). The vote was: aye from Chair Rob, Vice Chair Ianusy, and three other members; abstention from O'Malley. - Next Meeting: The next IDA meeting is scheduled for March 25, 2026, at 7:30 PM.

The New Rochelle City Council held a Committee of the Whole meeting on March 10, 2026, at 20:45. The meeting included a presentation from the Police Department, discussions on several resolutions and ordinances, an update on the Pratt Landing project, and a public comment period. Key topics ranged from public safety initiatives and downtown development to trust account amendments and grant acceptances. The public hearing on the Downtown Overlay Zone (DOZ) amendments was rescheduled to April 14, 2026. Consent Calendar - Dog Park Trust Account (Item 2): Amended resolution to allow use of Paul’s Place Dog Park trust funds for broader capital improvements, ecological restoration, trails, and related park improvements at Ward Acres Park. Moved to consent agenda. - Playground Donation (Item 3): Accepted donation of a new playground structure for Nanafrio Park valued at $399,642.69 from Lou and Sandra Montalione. Moved to consent agenda. - Grandpa’s United Grant (Item 4): Accepted a grant award from the White Plains Youth Bureau to support the Grandpa’s United program. Moved to consent agenda. - Tree Replacement Fund (Item 5): Amended Chapter 301 of the City Code to restrict the Replacement Tree Fund to tree acquisition and planting, removing maintenance costs. Moved to consent agenda. - Participatory Budget Steering Committee (Item 6): Appointed members; the designation of a chairperson was removed for executive session discussion. Moved to consent agenda. - State Aid Resolution (Item 7): Adopted a resolution supporting increased New York State aid to municipalities, advocating for continued and enhanced funding. Moved to consent agenda. - CLG Grant (Item 8): Accepted a $40,000 New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Certified Local Government grant for historic district design guidelines. Moved to consent agenda. - Iona University Hub (Item 9): Authorized an agreement with Iona University for an economic and small business development hub at 500 Main Street, funded by $286,000 from the community benefit bonus fund. Moved to consent agenda. - IDA Appointments (Item 10): Reappointed Miguel Ayala, Howard Greenberg, and Garrett B. Lander to the Industrial Development Agency; welcomed new member Keith Singletary. Moved to consent agenda. - Purchase of 38 First Street (Item 12): Authorized purchase of real property at 38 First Street for parking; moved to consent agenda. - Lead Agency for 38 First Street (Item 13): Voted to designate lead agency for the acquisition; adopted. Public Comments & Testimony - John Delfs (Residents of Park Neighborhood Association): Expressed admiration for downtown transformation but urged focus on livability, green space, and human-scale design in DOZ amendments. - Serge Vecker (Enough is Enough Group): Criticized the approval of 570 Main Street luxury tower, citing lack of affordable housing, overconcentration in DOZ2, and poor labor practices by developers. Urged council to prioritize real affordable housing and local union jobs. - Jim Calorin: Raised quality-of-life issues including traffic deaths, crimes, racial graffiti, and lack of city offices downtown. Called for changes to development policies. - Michael Yellen (New Rochelle Alliance for Justice): Stated that the city’s planning policies have prioritized developers, failing to deliver affordable housing, union jobs, and green space. Noted that less than 3% of work on certain projects went to New Rochelle residents despite a 20% goal. Called for labor standards. - Aiden Lilly: Supported union contracts and apprenticeships for downtown projects. - Carlos Barragan: Noted that union carpenters have not worked in New Rochelle in 10 years; urged inclusion in development. - Sean McGee: Also a union carpenter; requested local union participation in projects. - Pedro Galavis: Representing Union Carpinteros local; requested union inclusion. - Miriam Decime: Criticized snow removal, lack of dog waste management, and the city’s failure to address development concerns. Questioned the timing of a moratorium discussion after the 570 Main Street approval. - Sean Wayowatsky: Opposed the 570 Main Street project; noted 31 public comments and a 4-hour planning board meeting. Called for fundamental changes to the development plan. - Vincent Malfatano: Criticized the planning board for meeting in executive session after the 570 Main hearing. Called for a new mayor and planning board. Also discussed rising electric bills and state policies. - Malik Mohammed: Expressed personal grievance regarding a trespassing charge and alleged failure of officials to uphold the Constitution. - Lorraine Carl: Opposed restricting Councilmember Tarantino’s vote on DOZ amendments, as he represents District 2. Criticized zoning and planning board decisions and IDA tax exemptions costing the school district. - Paul Martin (Sutton Manor Association): Opposed proposed DOZ amendments, demanding community input and support. Raised concerns about removal of storefront requirements (appeared to be citywide, not just side streets) and removal of waterfront access fees. Called for a strategic pause. Discussion Items - Police Department Presentation: Chief presented a detailed overview of 2025-2026 operations. Index crimes (part one offenses) are down year-to-date; calls for service are up. Double parking summonses increased over 100% year-to-date due to targeted enforcement. Upcoming initiatives include foot patrols in downtown, education for delivery drivers, exploring double-parking cameras, red-light camera program restart, school speed zone cameras (surveys within 1-2 months), community mental health outreach, a “Strive and Thrive” boxing mentorship program for at-risk youth, public safety advisory meetings (police, fire, DPW), body-worn cameras for Community Service Officers, and an interactive online statistics dashboard (including officer demographics and civilian complaints). Also noted: boat christening and police memorial rededication during Police Week (May 13-15). Council members expressed appreciation for enforcement and community engagement. Councilmember Stern asked about de-escalation training; Chief confirmed it is part of annual in-service training (February-May). - Dog Park Trust Account Amendment (Item 2): Councilmember Kay proposed broader language to include capital improvements, ecological restoration, trails, and related park improvements at Ward Acres. Amended and moved to consent agenda after discussion of the trust’s scope. Councilmember Peters noted that Ward Acres is the city’s only actual dog park; other sites are pocket dog runs. - Downtown Overlay Zone (DOZ) Public Hearing (Item 11): The public hearing originally scheduled for March 10 was postponed to April 14, 2026, due to notice requirements. The comment period remains open; residents can submit written comments to Kevin Kane (development) or the Department of Development. The final adoption of the supplemental generic environmental impact statement (DGEIS) and zoning amendments is targeted for June 2026, depending on the volume and complexity of public comments. - Pratt Landing Update (Item 14): Commissioner of Development provided an update. Since planning board approval in January 2025, the project has been working through land acquisition, state reverter lifting for the armory parcel, veteran community demands for design tweaks, revised building code requiring subterranean parking garage redesign (increasing costs), and rising construction costs (20% increase). Developers have not requested changes to density, height, or unit count. The site plan approval has a two-year window (one year as-of-right, plus one-year extension). Councilmember Tarantino expressed concern about public perception and asked for periodic updates. Key Outcomes - Police Department Initiatives: Noted as ongoing; no formal vote needed. - Consent Agenda Items (2-10, 12): All moved to consent agenda and voted on collectively, with a unanimous “aye” from all present council members (Lopez, Tarantino, Peters, Asiloye, Kay, Sturge). - Item 13 (38 First Street Lead Agency): Adopted unanimously. - Item 14 (Veterans Tax Exemption): Update only; no council action required. The exemption will take effect for the tax cycle beginning September 2027; veterans can apply in December 2026 for the April 2027 roll. - Public Hearing Rescheduled: The DOZ public hearing is set for April 14, 2026. - Executive Session: Held to discuss appointments; public comment portion of the meeting resumed at 7 p.m. - Call to Action: Multiple public speakers urged the council to incorporate stronger labor standards, affordable housing requirements, and community input into the DOZ amendments.