Public Meetings - New Rochelle, New York

The City of New Rochelle hosted its annual Champions of Change Award Ceremony on March 6, 2026, at City Hall. The event, organized by the New Rochelle Youth Bureau, the Youth Council, and the NAACP New Rochelle High School Youth Chapter, honored three adult and three youth leaders for their community impact. The evening featured performances, poetry, and remarks from city officials and youth leaders. Opening Remarks - Councilmember David Peters (Deputy Mayor) welcomed attendees, emphasizing the importance of truth and living authentically, referencing Black History Month. - Deputy City Manager Todd Costaldo greeted attendees on behalf of City Manager Will Melendez, thanking organizers and recognizing city officials present, including City Clerk Kim Jones, Police Commissioner Neil Reynolds, Human Resources Commissioner Michelle Oliveros, and Parks Commissioner Vin Parisi. He praised the Youth Bureau staff, Youth Council, and NAACP Youth Chapter for their leadership. - Representatives from Senator Shelley Mayer's office (Christine Fizeme and Luis Ochoa) and Jean Anderson were acknowledged. - Youth Council President Valeria Carmen and NAACP Youth Council President Harmony Hopwood served as mistresses of ceremony. Performances & Poetry - The New Rochelle Black Youth Chorus performed a piece on unity and strength. - Youth Council member Misha Lamb recited an original poem titled Who Taught You That, challenging internalized hatred of Black features. - Jaden Cooper sang the hymn Tis So Sweet. - Harmony Hopwood delivered an original poem, A History of Firsts, celebrating Black resilience and pride. - The event closed with a step performance by Leaked Steppers (also referred to as Trifecta Steppers), who highlighted their mission to empower youth through stepping. Adult Champion of Change Awards - Howard Golding – Presented by Youth Council member Malia Paris. Golding, a lifelong New Rochelle resident and educator, taught physical education and coached basketball at New Rochelle High School. He expressed gratitude for the recognition from "young Black kids of New Rochelle." - Stephanie Bartie Allen – Presented by Youth Council member Betsy Matthews. Allen, a community liaison and NAACP executive board member, works on food security, housing, and youth programming. She thanked Mr. Johnson (Kelly Johnson) for his support and stated her motto: "I need to do good by consistency." - Valerie Cadet Simpkins – Presented by Hollis Bugar. Simpkins, a first-generation Haitian American and assistant principal at New Rochelle High School, leads the Sisters Keeper program and advocates for educational equity. She noted she chose New Rochelle 22 years ago and appreciated being honored by the youth. Youth Champion of Change Awards - Brianna Sinckfield-Tyler – Presented by Amario Reed. A high school senior and national gold medalist in the NAACP ACT-SO competition, she founded "Hope Runs Red," raising $5,000 for blood disorder foundations. She plans to pursue an MD/PhD in hematology/oncology. - Kira Mulrain – Presented by Isaac Evans. Kira served as a student researcher for the 2025 Air of Truth exhibit, analyzing air quality and redlining links. She became a youth member of the City’s Ecology and Natural Resources Advisory Committee. - Storm Pride – Presented by Youth Council member Eliza Jennings. Storm developed a toxin-free hair growth oil and maintains a 4.0 GPA while balancing internships, mentorship, and fitness. He advised: "You should be comfortable with being uncomfortable." Closing Remarks - Kelly Johnson, Executive Director of the New Rochelle Youth Bureau, praised the youth for "taking over" the event in a positive way. He encouraged support for the upcoming Black History Month celebration on Saturday, March 7, at the Linda Kelly Theater. - Aisha Cook, President of the NAACP New Rochelle chapter, emphasized trusting youth with space to lead and thanked attendees for supporting the honorees. Key Outcomes - Six Champions of Change awards were conferred: three adults (Howard Golding, Stephanie Bartie Allen, Valerie Cadet Simpkins) and three youth (Brianna Sinckfield-Tyler, Kira Mulrain, Storm Pride). - Organizers announced a photo opportunity for all honorees and Youth Council members. - Refreshments were served following the ceremony. - The Leaked Steppers (Trifecta Steppers) performed, highlighting their nonprofit status and regional step championships.

The New Rochelle Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) held a meeting on March 3, 2026, at 11:00 AM ET, chaired by Erica Eisner. The board heard seven cases including variances for legalizations, new construction, and one administrative reinstatement. Public comments addressed concerns about flooding, parking, and neighborhood character. The board voted on six cases, approving five with conditions and denying none, with one case adjourned for revised submission. Public Comments & Testimony - Case 28-2025 (93 Glenwood Ave): Several neighbors spoke. Eric Cruz (42 Vaughn Ave) questioned whether the property is actually a single-family home due to multiple cars and past unpermitted work. Amy Jackson (84 Glenwood) expressed concerns about increased impervious surface and water runoff pushing onto neighbors, as well as utility (garbage cans) pushed to the street. Eileen Remerschmid (45 Vaughn Ave) opposed the proposed wall, stating it would stop water flow onto her property and noted the basement appeared to be occupied by non-relatives. Henriette Moreau (105 Glenwood Ave) supported the application, describing severe flooding at her own property and the applicant’s house, and argued that water management is necessary even if some runoff is diverted to the street. - Case 7-2026 (516 Pelham Road): No public speakers were present; however, the board noted receiving multiple opposition letters. - Case 8-2026 (Island View Place): No public opposition or support was voiced. - Case 9-2026 (2 Larchwood Road): No public speakers; the applicant noted the neighbor agreed to the gravel driveway remaining if not paved. - Case 10-2026 (179 Brookdale Ave): No public opposition. The applicant and architect described severe flooding from storms Ida and subsequent events, with 8 feet of water in the basement, driving the need to move mechanicals and laundry to the first floor. - Case 11-2026 (26 Disbrow Circle): No public comments. Discussion Items - Case 28-2025 – 93 Glenwood Ave (Sandra Peterson): Applicant Willie Zambrano presented revised plans with planters for stormwater retention, a shed, and removal of parking from the front yard. The only variance before the board was for FAR (0.54 vs. permitted 0.35) to legalize the attic conversion. Board members discussed water diversion, but City Attorney Paul Vaca clarified that drainage issues are addressed at the building permit stage. After an executive session, Chair Eisner confirmed the board’s jurisdiction was limited to the FAR variance. Motion to approve passed 4-1 (Eisner dissenting). - Case 7-2026 – 516 Pelham Road (Owner): Attorney Mark Blanchard and architect Tom Abilama presented a revised plan reducing the number of units from four to three, eliminating two of seven variances. Board members noted the FAR reduction was only 700 square feet (from 7,142 to 6,402 SF) despite removing an entire unit. The board suggested eliminating a parking variance (third outdoor spot) as unnecessary. The applicant requested and received an adjournment to the April 7, 2026 meeting to resubmit corrected plans. - Case 8-2026 – Island View Place (Owner): Architect Mike McCann requested five variances to legalize an existing non-conforming concrete and wood deck. The lot is oddly shaped with a gas station adjacent. The board noted building code requirements for fire rating near property lines. Motion to approve passed unanimously. - Case 9-2026 – 2 Larchwood Road (Ted Ugetta): Architect Gregory Lewis and owner Ted Ugetta sought a variance to legalize a gravel driveway with a zero-foot setback (required 3 feet). The driveway pre-dated the owner’s 19-year tenure. The board added a condition for edging to retain gravel on site. Motion to approve passed unanimously. - Case 10-2026 – 179 Brookdale Ave (Jason Labate): Architect Gregory Lewis and owner Jason Labate requested five variances to convert a small garage to laundry, mudroom, and mechanicals; add two driveway parking spaces; and legalize a pre-existing patio—all due to severe flooding. Board members expressed concern about a new curb cut for a second parking space, but the applicant argued it would not reduce on-street parking. Motion to approve passed unanimously. - Case 11-2026 – 26 Disbrow Circle (Ben Schueb): Architect John Woodruff requested variances for rear yard setbacks to legalize an enclosed screen porch and construct a low deck (3 feet high) with stairs. The deck is placed between an existing porch and garage due to driveway access from the rear. Motion to approve passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Case 28-2025 (93 Glenwood Ave): Approved (4-1). Variance for FAR to legalize attic as habitable space. Conditioned on compliance with building code regarding drainage. - Case 7-2026 (516 Pelham Road): Adjourned to April 7, 2026 meeting for revised submission eliminating one parking variance. - Case 8-2026 (Island View Place): Approved unanimously. Five variances to legalize existing non-conforming deck and related setbacks. - Case 9-2026 (2 Larchwood Road): Approved unanimously with condition to install edging to retain gravel driveway on site. - Case 10-2026 (179 Brookdale Ave): Approved unanimously. Five variances for garage conversion, driveway parking, and patios to mitigate flooding. - Case 11-2026 (26 Disbrow Circle): Approved unanimously. Two variances for rear yard setbacks for screen porch and deck. - Administrative Item (99 Wilmot Road): Approved unanimously (5-0). Reinstatement of resolution number 36-22 for 12 months to permit subdivision of vacant lot for single-family dwelling.

On February 26, 2026, the City of New Rochelle hosted a Lunar New Year celebration at City Hall, organized by the Office of Diversity and Inclusion. The event featured cultural performances, remarks by city and community leaders, and a focus on the Year of the Horse (Fire Horse), which returns for the first time in 60 years. The celebration highlighted New Rochelle's diversity and unity, with attendees encouraged to enjoy the festivities and prepare for an upcoming snowstorm. Speakers & Remarks - Sam Gomez (Director of Diversity and Inclusion) – Thanked City Manager Wilfredo Melendez, Mayor Yadira Ramos Herbert, the LCA, city staff (Samantha Vargas, DPW team), and the Employee Resource Group (ERG) volunteers for their support. Emphasized that diversity events showcase the community's strength. - Congressman George Schladimer – Noted the simultaneous celebrations of Black History Month, Lent, Ramadan, and Lunar New Year, stating that “our strength is in our diversity.” He wished attendees a happy new year and identified the year as the Year of the Horse. - Mayor Yadira Ramos Herbert – Expressed pride in the city's diversity and staff creativity. Made a public service announcement about the upcoming snowstorm, asking residents to clear driveways and park off-street to aid snow removal. - City Manager Wilfredo Melendez – Thanked OCA Westchester, the Diversity and Inclusion Office, communications staff, and the ERG. Highlighted that 2026 is the Year of the Fire Horse, symbolizing energy, movement, and vitality. - Eric Chen (OCA Western Hudson Valley President) – Thanked the city for the venue and introduced student Claire Wang. - Claire Wang (Student, Pontoosuc Hero School) – Gave an educational presentation on Lunar New Year traditions, including reunion dinners, house cleaning, red decorations, ancestor honoring, red envelopes, fireworks, dragon/lion dances, and paper crafts. Noted that New York recognized Lunar New Year as a public school holiday since 2023. Cultural Performances - Lion dance by Yosen's Studio and Maest Dance Studio (performed for three consecutive years). - Chinese classical dance “When Tea Flowers Bloom” by dancers Jiang Yi and Wang Bao. - Traditional Korean folk dance by a group that recently arrived from Korea, previously performed at the Hudson River Museum and Edison Ballroom. - Dance by Sophie Young representing the Miao ethnic group, one of China's 56 ethnic groups. Key Outcomes - The event successfully brought together city officials, community organizations, performers, and residents to celebrate Lunar New Year. - No formal decisions or votes were taken; the gathering was purely festive and cultural. - Attendees were reminded to monitor the city's robocall about snow removal and to use free parking lots.

The New Rochelle Planning Board met on February 24, 2026, to consider two major applications. The primary item was site plan approval for a 28-story mixed-use building at 570 Main Street (Crossroads Center LLC), proposing 504 dwelling units, ground-floor retail, and 418 parking spaces. The board also approved a site plan for Iona Preparatory School to construct bleachers, a press box, concessions, restrooms, and a ticketing stand at its athletic field on Wilmont Road. After extensive public comment and deliberation, the board voted unanimously to approve both projects with conditions. Public Comments & Testimony - 570 Main Street (Crossroads Center LLC): Over 20 members of the public spoke, almost all in opposition. Key concerns included: traffic congestion and outdated studies (Jenny Freeman, Marion Whitaker, Vincent Malfitano); inadequate parking and spillover (Dennis Mirnock, Paul Martin, Crystal Doherty); density and overdevelopment (Jim Calorin, Tandy D. Watts Jones, Deana Fuller); shadow and massing impacts on 25 Leroy Place (Bob Viner, Raya Mallet); noise and construction disruption (Leonard Chavez, Matthew Werner); lack of truly affordable housing (Sean Wayowatsky, Samantha Sanchez-Cowano); and environmental justice and air quality (Matthew Werner, Nicole Jabinowski). Several speakers urged a moratorium and a full environmental impact statement. One speaker (unidentified) argued in favor, stating density is fiscally responsible. Residents from the Residence Park Neighborhood Association (Meg Mayo) and attorney for 25 Leroy Place (Raya Mallet) requested a positive declaration under SEQRA. - Iona Preparatory School: Two residents (Joseph and Antoinette Nista) from Van Neck Drive expressed concerns about increased traffic, parking on residential streets, and safety near the Stratton Road curb cut. They noted the school had not reached out to all affected neighbors and requested better enforcement of parking restrictions and pedestrian safety. Discussion Items - 570 Main Street: Applicant representatives (Mark Weingarten, attorney; John Setra, architect; Nick Totarella, traffic engineer) presented a revised plan that reduced unit count by 41, pulled the building back 30 feet from Leroy Place to create a public open space, shifted loading and parking to Center Avenue, and added 47 municipal parking spaces. They argued the project conforms to zoning, is consistent with the city's comprehensive plan, and that traffic impacts are minimal (peak hour trips at 5% of approved DOZ2 capacity). Board members questioned ventilation, massing, construction impacts on Howland School (special education), parking utilization and affordability, and workforce requirements. Planning Director Kevin Kane noted 63 standard conditions and additional conditions proposed by the board. The board requested a plan for workforce compliance, pet waste stations, no mechanical ventilation into the park, and a construction plan accommodating Howland School. - Iona Preparatory School: Applicant Tony Jeffrey presented plans to replace existing turf and track, add bleachers (407 seats), a press box, concession stand, and restrooms, replace temporary lighting with professional fixtures, and add 25 parking spaces. They committed to hiring 3-4 off-duty police officers for home football games to direct traffic away from adjacent streets. Board members discussed the need for a gate across the Stratton Road driveway and ensuring use of the main entrance. The board accepted conditions including a six-foot gate and police presence. Key Outcomes - 570 Main Street: The board voted unanimously to: 1. Declare the Planning Board as lead agency (motion passed). 2. Issue a negative declaration under SEQRA, finding no significant adverse environmental impact (motion passed). 3. Approve the site plan with approximately 63 conditions plus additional conditions: workforce participation plan, garbage pickup within property, pet waste station, no mechanical ventilation from garage into park, and a construction plan accommodating Howland School (motion passed). - Iona Preparatory School: The board voted unanimously to: 1. Declare lead agency (motion passed). 2. Issue a negative declaration (motion passed). 3. Approve the site plan with conditions including a six-foot gate across Stratton Road driveway and provision of 3-4 off-duty police officers for home games and other events as needed (motion passed). The meeting was adjourned at approximately 11:30 PM.

The New Rochelle City Council held its regular legislative meeting on February 17, 2026, at 11:15 AM. Mayor Raymond Herbert presided, with all council members present: Mayor Herbert, Councilmembers Lopez, Tarantino, Peters, Oye, Kay, and Stern. The meeting covered approval of previous minutes, three resolutions, and a motion to enter executive session for appointments. Approval of Minutes - The council unanimously approved the minutes from the regular legislative meeting of December 9, 2025, and the committee of the whole session of January 13, 2026. Motion by Councilmember Lopez, seconded by Councilmember Kay; all voted aye. Resolution 9 – Workers’ Compensation Claim Settlement - A resolution authorizing the proposed settlement of a claim regarding workers’ compensation. Corporation Counsel had no additional comments. Motion by Councilmember Peters, seconded by Councilmember Kay; passed unanimously. Resolution 10 – (Discussed in Executive Session) - A resolution that had been discussed during a prior executive session. Corporation Counsel had no additional comments. Motion by Councilmember Stern, seconded by Councilmember Kay; passed unanimously. Resolution 11 – Hudson Country Montessori School Special Permit Amendment - A proposed resolution amending condition number four of the City Council's resolution for the special permit for Hudson Country Montessori School. The school had presented to the council a few months prior, and a public hearing was held the previous week. Motion by Councilmember Kay, seconded by Councilmember Stern; passed with one opposed vote (no further details provided). Executive Session - The council moved to executive session to discuss appointments. Motion by Councilmember Lopez, seconded by Councilmember Stern; passed unanimously. The public portion of the meeting was then adjourned. Key Outcomes - All three resolutions were adopted. The council entered executive session for appointments.

On February 13, 2026, the New Rochelle Chamber of Commerce hosted the grand opening and ribbon cutting of the Family Services of Westchester Head Start program in downtown New Rochelle's Vanguard district. The event featured remarks from local officials and emphasized the importance of early childhood education, community investment, and the need to expand access to Head Start services. Remarks from Officials - Catherine White (Executive Director, New Rochelle Chamber of Commerce) welcomed attendees and introduced officials, highlighting the program's benefit to parents and children. - Mayor Yudira Ramos Herbert shared a personal perspective as a working mother, praising the bilingual, nurturing environment observed during a visit to the classrooms. She framed the center as a vital community asset alongside the city's development projects. - County Executive Ken Jenkins congratulated the center, noting its licensed nurturing environment and mentioning ongoing efforts with state legislators to secure funding for Westchester's child care programs. - Ann Gold (Executive Director, New Rochelle Downtown Business Improvement District) expressed joy over the investment in children and family support, pledging close collaboration. - Lisa Copeland (Chair, Family Services of Westchester Board of Directors) thanked partners and acknowledged contributions from the Junior League of Westchester on the Sound (grant for the speech room) and Junior League of Central Westchester (volunteer reading program). She noted that in 2024, only 9% of eligible New York State Head Start students were enrolled, underscoring the need to expand access. Key Outcomes - The ribbon was cut to officially open the facility. - Open enrollment is ongoing; families can contact Family Services of Westchester or the Chamber for information. - A certificate of recognition was presented to Family Services of Westchester by the Chamber of Commerce. - Speakers collectively expressed a commitment to working together to increase Head Start enrollment and support early childhood education in the community.

The City of New Rochelle held its annual Black History Month celebration on February 12, 2026, at a city venue. The event featured a historical presentation, recognition of two honorees, proclamations from elected officials, and a youth performance. The program was led by elder Mark McLean of Generations Church, who served as MC after the scheduled chairperson, Minister Angela Davis Farris, was unable to attend due to a medical emergency. Opening & Invocation - Elder Mark McLean, Vice Chair of the African American Advisory Committee, opened by acknowledging God and the faith of ancestors. He led the audience in a prayer, asking for healing for Angela Davis Farris and blessing the evening. He then introduced the Mayor and other elected officials. Historical Presentation - Lisa Byrd, a member of the African American Advisory Committee, delivered a detailed historical presentation. She traced African American history in New Rochelle from the 1698 census (listing enslaved individuals) through the 1990s, noting key events: the formation of the Booker T. Washington Club and the New Rochelle Cooperative Business League in the early 1900s; the Harlem Renaissance era when New Rochelle was called "the Harlem of Westchester"; redlining in the 1930s that codified prejudice and still correlates with health and infrastructure disparities; post-World War II barriers for Black GIs seeking homeownership; the destruction of 300 homes for the I-95 rotary; and the 1960s–1980s era of community renewal followed by the crack epidemic and loss of political power. She concluded by urging the audience to link arms and move forward. Recognition of Honorees - Mayor Yadira Ramos-Herbert, the first person of color to serve as mayor of New Rochelle, welcomed attendees and acknowledged council members, state officials, and clergy. She issued a proclamation declaring February Black History Month in the city and honored two community members: Denise Clark (owner of Habib's Atmosphere's Hair Salon on Main Street) and Sylvia Hammer (executive director of Hope Community Services). City Manager Wilfredo Melendez presented bouquets and read proclamations from Senator Nathalia Fernandez and the City Council. He noted the centennial of Carter G. Woodson's first Negro History Week and the upcoming 250th anniversary of American independence. Remarks by Elected Officials - Councilman David Peters, representing District 3 (the historic Black district), spoke about unsung community contributions and read a quote from Frederick Douglass, noting that the struggles of the past remain relevant today. He referenced the loss of a two-year-old and a close friend, emphasizing the importance of community connection. Remarks from Honorees - Denise Clark thanked God, the African American Advisory Committee, her clients, family, and co-honoree Sylvia Hammer for supporting her business and making the honor possible. - Sylvia Hammer expressed gratitude to the city, her family, the Hope Community Services board and staff, her Shiloh Church family, and Denise Clark. She stated that the honor belongs to the entire Hope community and that she is guided by the principle "to whom much is given, much is required." Performance and Closing - The New Rochelle Youth Bureau Elite Steppers performed a step routine. Volunteers and city staff were thanked. The MC closed by encouraging the audience to turn to each other rather than away during difficult times, emphasizing that adversity brings opportunity.

The Historic and Landmark Review Board (HLRB) of New Rochelle met on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at 11:00 AM. The meeting included two public hearings: a window replacement project at 31 The Boulevard and a pool and fence installation at 38 Courtland Avenue. No minutes were approved. One application was adjourned without discussion. Public Hearings - 2.1 – 10 Manhattan Avenue (adjourned): An application by Walter Nesser for a certificate of appropriateness to construct a below-ground pool with paved area, fencing, and hedges was adjourned until further notice; the applicant was not present. - 2.2 – 31 The Boulevard (deferred): An application by Elena Bart for a certificate of appropriateness to replace 46 windows with Altrex fiberglass windows. The applicant, Nicholas DeDio of Infinity Replacement Windows by Marvin, presented a like-for-like insert replacement. Board members expressed preference for natural wood windows visible from the street, consistent with historic district guidelines. The public commenters – Elena Harrison Cowie (70 Hunter) and property owner Priscilla Jean-Baptiste – urged adherence to historic standards and consistency. The board deferred the application to the March meeting to allow the owner to consider wood window options. - 2.3 – 38 Courtland Avenue (approved): An application by Carlos Sosa Straber for a certificate of appropriateness to construct a swimming pool with glass fencing and a new door. The board noted that the fencing and door are the only visible elements from the public right-of-way, and the glass fence is minimally intrusive. Public commenter Barry Neeches (247 Fifth Avenue) raised non-HLRB concerns about noise and an increase in deer. The board approved the application as presented. Key Outcomes - Item 2.2: Deferred to the March meeting; the applicant was directed to explore wood window options for street-facing windows and return with updated proposals. - Item 2.3: Approved unanimously. The glass fence (4 ft high) and rear door replacement were deemed appropriate for the historic district. - Item 2.1: Remains adjourned until further notice.

The City Council of New Rochelle met on February 10, 2026, starting at approximately 4:45 PM with a Committee of the Whole to review the 2026 City Manager Work Plan and proposed Downtown Overlay Zone updates, followed by a regular meeting at 7:00 PM that included a public hearing, adoption of a consent agenda, and public comments. The meeting concluded with three executive sessions. Consent Calendar - Item 4 (Webster Ave Traffic Signal Agreement): Approved to execute state agreement for 95% reimbursement of traffic signal work. - Item 5 (Parking Regulation Changes on Westchester Place): Approved, re-establishing paid parking stalls expected to generate $10,000/year. - Item 6 (CARES UP Grant): Accepted New York State Office of Mental Health grant for first responder/veteran resiliency (no city cost). - Item 7 (Cannabis Excise Tax Trust): Established a trust account for cannabis tax revenue to fund community programs. - Item 8 (Reappointment to Board of Ethics): Wilbert Ortiz reappointed. - Item 9 (Acceptance of Supplemental DGEIS as Complete): Accepted the draft generic environmental impact statement for the Downtown Overlay Zone update. - Item 12 (TAP Grant Applications): Authorized submission of four grant applications to NYSDOT for Quaker Ridge, Pinebrook Blvd, Transit Center, and Webster Ave projects; city match of $4.6M required if awarded. Public Comments & Testimony Public Hearing (Hudson Country Montessori School): No speakers. Citizens to be Heard (seven speakers, plus group statements via translation): - Vincent Malfatano (45-year resident) criticized overwhelming development, lack of parking enforcement, and dangerous traffic conditions, stating "I take my life into my own hands driving from Pelham Road." He alleged the city is unresponsive to public input. - Maxine Gollup (98 Bay Berry Lane) spoke on behalf of the United Community Center of Westchester (UCCW), which was flooded in October 2025; she requested the city prioritize help finding space and financial support to resume services for immigrants, domestic violence survivors, and others. - James O'Toole (230 [street]) condemned inaccuracies in the DOZ report (wrong street names), lack of police enforcement of double parking, and poor snow removal on business corridors. - Jim Calorin (25 Leroy Place) opposed further high-rise development, citing fire truck access issues, false alarms, and panel failures at new buildings. He supported UCCW and proposed a historic trolley and moving city employees downtown to activate retail. - Sarmika Maribel (55 Beachwood Ave) criticized unaffordable housing pushing out long-term African American residents, unresponsive city officials, and proliferation of smoke shops. - Serge Becker (no address) opposed the proposed 500-unit luxury tower at 570 Main St, questioning why it advanced despite a moratorium on further density in the area. He noted 96% of new units are unaffordable for the average resident. - Jose Luis Cohen, Blanca Martinez, Juan Parra, Paula Vera, Celia Resendiz, Jesus Gonzalez, Marisela Gonzalez, Daniel Rodriguez, Aurora Condenas Cardenas, and Mario Acuna (all Spanish-speaking residents) pleaded for support to reopen UCCW, describing essential services: food distribution, health insurance enrollment, English classes, youth programs, and domestic violence assistance. Diana, a translator and former UCCW staffer, pleaded: "Invest in an organization that has been here for decades." Discussion Items 2026 City Manager Work Plan (presented by Deputy City Manager) - Pillars: Public Safety, Resilient Infrastructure, Environmental Sustainability, Economic Development, Community Building. - Key initiatives: quarterly community safety meetings, the Link phase one (traffic calming on Memorial Highway, scaled back after losing $16M federal grant), stormwater mitigation projects (Whitewood Ave, Pinebrook, Van Meter/Fens, City Park), parks upgrades (Lincoln Park pool, Maplewood Park playground, Pinebrook Tennis Center pickleball expansion, Ward Acres improvements), Hagedorn building (Carnegie Library) acquisition and arts assessment, CVS/625 North Ave redevelopment, Black Box Theater, Thrive nonprofit grants ($5K–$35K), participatory budgeting pilot near New Rochelle High School, workforce development rebate program (20% labor cost reimbursement), amplified city communications. - Councilmember Stern asked about recycling asphalt; Commissioner said DPW is studying it. He also asked about solid waste management plan; City Manager replied it's in grant agreement phase. - Councilmember Lopez praised comprehensiveness and projects benefiting District One. - Councilmember Peters expressed frustration that District Three (the Link, Lincoln Avenue corridor) lacks visible progress, especially stormwater mitigation and retail catalyzing. He noted the $16M federal grant loss and questioned the actual cost needed ($60M? unknown). He urged prioritization of union labor policy to attract alternative funding. City Manager and Development Commissioner responded that phase one focuses on safety and traffic, and stormwater engineering is ongoing; they need to determine final cost before seeking additional funds. - Councilmember Kay lauded the work plan's iterative approach (measure success, leverage events, year of committees). She highlighted workforce development integration and public safety dashboards. She noted the city applied for a $10M Climate Smart Communities grant but didn't get it; Assemblyman Minotits is now prioritizing the Link. Downtown Overlay Zone (DOZ) Updates (presented by Development Commissioner, Kevin Kane, Sarah Eagle) - Proposed changes: expand DO1 boundary (up to 28 stories vs 48 with 60,000 sq ft min for large-format retail), remap DO5/DO8, add missing middle housing by increasing bonus heights in development standard one (to three or four stories), revise storefront requirements (no longer mandate retail on secondary streets), adjust valet parking credits, increase fair share mitigation fees (estimated additional $20.8M), remove waterfront access fee outside DO7, update TDS (more residential, less non-residential). - Councilmember Lopez asked about parking enforcement, valet inefficiency, and retail frontage flexibility. Staff clarified changes apply only to secondary streets; primary corridors require retail. On parking, they noted a comprehensive parking management plan is underway. - Councilmember Peters questioned cost of full Link project (stormwater could exceed $16M), union labor integration, and need to know exact number to secure funding. City Manager confirmed engineering is evaluating multiple options; cost will be clearer after design. - Councilmember Stern requested clear, jargon-free public communication before the March 10 hearing to ensure meaningful input. Key Outcomes - Item 10 (Public Hearing for DOZ Update): Approved (vote: aye). Public hearing set for March 10, 2026; comment period open until March 20. - Item 11 (NEA Grant for Hagedorn/Carnegie Library): Approved (vote: aye). Authorized city manager to apply for federal FY2026 grant (deadline Feb 12). Several members requested future reference as "Carnegie Library." - Executive Sessions: Three topics approved: settlement, appointments, real estate. - Next Steps for DOZ: After public hearing, prepare final supplemental GEIS (April), then findings statement and final zoning vote (May). - UCCW Support: Council heard multiple pleas; staff directed to work on solutions. No immediate action taken.