Public Meetings - New Rochelle, New York

On October 12, 2026, the New Rochelle Chamber of Commerce hosted a grand reopening ceremony for the Traditional Bagel Cafe in the Wykagyl area. The event featured remarks from city officials, county representatives, chamber members, and the cafe owners, celebrating the return of a local bagel shop and its commitment to quality ingredients and community service. Public Comments & Testimony - Catherine White, Executive Director of the New Rochelle Chamber of Commerce, welcomed attendees and introduced speakers, highlighting the cafe's catering options and its role in fostering business growth in Wykagyl. - Mayor Yadira Ramos Herbert expressed support for the cafe, describing it as a vital third space for breakfast, lunch, and snacks, and thanked owners Peter and Prince Sanders for their tenacity and commitment to the community. - Cameron Stanford, legislative aide to Westchester County Legislator Terry Clements, delivered remarks on behalf of the legislator, noting that bagels are a favorite and looking forward to visiting the cafe. - Prince Sanders, co-owner, shared that he grew up in New Rochelle and that the cafe uses non-bromated, non-bleached flour and no artificial dyes or red dye 40, ensuring ingredients suitable for his own children. - Glenny Rojas from the New Rochelle Chamber of Commerce presented a welcome message and expressed the chamber's support. Discussion Items - Owners Peter and Prince Sanders were introduced as the principals of the business. - The cafe's menu includes bagels made with higher-quality ingredients, and the storefront is described as a busy, vital asset for the Wykagyl area. Key Outcomes - A ribbon-cutting ceremony was performed to mark the official grand reopening. - Multiple community leaders and business representatives attended to show support for the cafe and its owners.

On October 9, 2026, city officials, staff, and community members gathered in the Rotunda at New Rochelle City Hall to celebrate Italian American Heritage Month. The event featured remarks by officials, a proclamation by the mayor, a historical presentation by the city historian, a flag raising, a group photo, and an Italian-style dinner. The agenda and minutes were not available; this summary is based on the raw transcript. Opening Remarks - Parks Commissioner Vim Parisi served as MC, welcomed attendees, and thanked Samantha Vargas, Sam Gomez, and the Italian American committee. He described the celebration as a new October tradition the city wants to continue growing. - Carmelina DiMarco, a committee member and New Rochelle resident for 52 and a half years, welcomed guests in Italian and English. She said there were no particular honorees because all attendees are honored in their own right and invited everyone to enjoy conversation and Italian-style dining. - Deputy City Manager Todd Costaldo welcomed guests on behalf of City Manager Will Melendez. He noted his Irish and Italian heritage, with grandparents from Piacenza, Calabria, and Afragola near Naples. Proclamation - Mayor Yadira Ramos Herbert praised Italian Americans for helping make New Rochelle a great community and read a proclamation recognizing Italian American Heritage Month. The proclamation commended the Italian American community for its enduring contributions to the city, state, and nation and thanked those who preserve, share, and celebrate Italian American heritage. She said the proclamation would be hung on the wall. Historical Presentation - City historian Barbara Davis highlighted Italian American history in New Rochelle, focusing on early 20th-century immigrants and the West New Rochelle neighborhood formerly known as Dutch Hill. - She read from a 1988 oral history by Joseph E. Pisani, born in 1895, who came to America in 1902 at almost seven years old. He sailed from Naples on January 15 and arrived on January 29, after his father had worked on the Brooklyn Bridge and received his final citizenship papers in 1903. - Davis read a description of West New Rochelle from Samuel Friedman's book The Inheritance, including fig trees, gardens, grape vines, Union Avenue shops, a Columbus school, and St. Joseph's Church. She noted that four books by New Rochelle residents of Italian descent recall growing up in West New Rochelle, a distinction unique among the city's neighborhoods. - Davis said Italian Americans made up approximately 10% of the entire U.S. military during World War II and that about a quarter of the names on the World War II monument in front of City Hall are Italian. - She highlighted Italian American cultural figures, including Walter Lantz, creator of Woody Woodpecker, who grew up in West New Rochelle; his brother Michael Lantz, a sculptor; and Leonardo Nola, a New Rochelle-born model for the Prometheus statue at Rockefeller Center. - Davis closed with another excerpt from Pisani's oral history in which his mother explained the meaning of the Statue of Liberty to her children. Davis urged attendees to remember the anonymous Italian builders, grandmothers, aunts, and backyard gardeners who helped shape New Rochelle. Key Outcomes - The mayor issued and displayed a proclamation recognizing Italian American Heritage Month in New Rochelle. - The Italian flag was raised outside City Hall by the Department of Public Works. - City Hall was scheduled to be lit red, white, and green at night. - Attendees were invited to take a group photo on the city council chambers/auditorium stairs before enjoying dinner courtesy of Grandma Jamellies.

Commission Chair Jane Walls opened the meeting at 11:00 AM. Members present included Michael Morera, Linda Kay, Fred Spinowitz, Javier Contreras, Kevin I Menez (Department of Development), and Joe Guglielmo (Department of Buildings). The commission reviewed two adjourned cases and two new cases at 632 Main Street and 24 Shape Place. Consent Calendar - None. Public Comments & Testimony - None. Discussion Items - Adjourned Case 36-2026: Signage at 632 Main Street – Dave Pottinger (FastSign) requested approval for an internally illuminated push-through acrylic letter sign and a non-illuminated blade sign for The Self Studio. Pottinger initially sought adjournment but was encouraged to present. The design was reviewed: 5 attachment points for the wall sign, blade sign projecting 36 inches at least 10 feet above sidewalk grade. No changes from prior submission. Commission approved two motions: (1) to approve the awning, (2) to approve the blade sign. - New Case 38-2026: Signage at 24 Shape Place (Capital Preparatory School) – Brian Cullen proposed removing existing facade lettering and a cross, then installing new dimensional acrylic letters (10 inches tall for main, 5.5 inches for "Capital Prep", 7 inches for "Charter School"), four school banners (48"x32" each) on projecting arms, and a double-sided post and panel sign. Existing sign ghosting will be cleaned. Commission approved three motions: (1) letters above front door, (2) four banners, (3) post and panel sign. - New Case 39-2026: Awning at 24 Shape Place – Dave Pottinger presented a canopy for the kindergarten entrance at the back of the school building. The canopy projects 60 inches, width covering the door, with school logo on the face. Commission approved a single motion to approve the canopy. Key Outcomes - Motion 1 (36-2026): Approved awning at 632 Main Street – unanimous. - Motion 2 (36-2026): Approved blade sign at 632 Main Street – unanimous. - Motion 1 (38-2026): Approved dimensional acrylic letters above front door at 24 Shape Place – unanimous. - Motion 2 (38-2026): Approved four school banners at 24 Shape Place – unanimous. - Motion 3 (38-2026): Approved post and panel sign at 24 Shape Place – unanimous. - Motion (39-2026): Approved canopy at 24 Shape Place – unanimous. The meeting concluded with adjournment.

The New Rochelle Zoning Board of Appeals met on October 6, 2026, at 11:00 AM. Chair Erica Eisner presided over the quasi-judicial hearing, with board members Robert Stanziel, Abel Rodriguez, Charlotte Abadier, Ann Zaner, Mark McLean, and staff including Commissioner of Buildings Paul Vaca, Director of Planning Kevin Kane, and Clerk Regina O'Hare. The board heard four variance applications and two administrative extension requests. Case 26-2026 – 777 & 781 Webster Avenue (Subdivision and Variances) - Applicant: Sam Achimpong, represented by attorney Jessica Zalin and architect Lanny Lerner. Requested nine variances to subdivide two existing tax lots (13,450 sq ft total, R1‑10A zone) into two buildable lots, correcting a driveway encroachment and allowing future construction of a single‑family home on the currently vacant lot 27. The applicant argued the variances would make the lots consistent with the surrounding neighborhood, where 71 of 89 nearby parcels are non‑compliant with lot area and 78 with lot width/frontage. - Public Comment: Neighbor Betimir Soufai (785 Webster Ave) opposed, stating the project would disrupt neighborhood character, remove mature trees, increase stormwater runoff, and set a harmful precedent. - Board Discussion: Members expressed concern about the number and magnitude of variances (e.g., 38% lot area variance on lot 27, 50% frontage variance). Chair Eisner noted recent denial of a similar case (Riesley Place) and that the zoning code was changed to discourage undersized lot development. The board asked whether the applicant could reduce variances, e.g., by using permeable pavers or agreeing to single‑family use on the existing dwelling. The applicant declined to withdraw and requested an adjournment to reconsider. - Outcome: The board granted an adjournment; the applicant will return at a later meeting. Case 30-2026 – 42 Cherry Avenue (Garage Addition) - Applicant: Michael Zakaninu, represented by architect Mike McCann. Requested variances for a new two‑car attached garage: 18.5‑ft rear yard setback (required 30 ft) and 4.5‑ft rear yard setback for a patio on grade (required 10 ft). The garage was originally lost in a 1982 subdivision; the proposed design includes a stone retaining wall and matches the existing house. - Public Comment: None. - Board Discussion: Members noted the garage would replace an existing condition and that the variances were minor. The board confirmed no opposition and found the request satisfied the five‑factor balancing test (benefit cannot be achieved by other means, no undesirable neighborhood change, variances not substantial, no adverse environmental effects, difficulty self‑created but not a bar). - Vote: Motion to approve by Board Member Stanziel, seconded by Rodriguez. Unanimous approval (6 yes). Case 31-2026 – 1185 Weaver Street (Deck and Patio Legalization) - Applicant: Richard Sturker, homeowner. Sought variances to legalize an existing two‑level deck and stone paver patio: side yard setback of 4.6–7.8 ft (required 8 ft for deck over 18 inches above grade) and 4.6–5.6 ft for lower deck/patio (required 6 ft). The deck was built 20 years ago based on an older survey; the applicant noted a step added for safety increased the variance by about 1 ft. - Public Comment: None in opposition. The adjacent neighbor provided a letter of support. - Board Discussion: Members found the variances minimal and the deck low‑impact (only 18 inches high). The difficulty was self‑created but not a reason to deny. The step removal would create a safety hazard. - Vote: Motion to approve by Board Member Rodriguez, seconded by Stanziel. Unanimous approval (6 yes). Case 32-2026 – 76 Kingsbury Road (Two‑Story Addition and Detached Garage) - Applicant: John Woodruff, architect, representing the owner. Proposed a two‑story addition on the right side and a new two‑car detached garage on the left side, requiring variances: 3‑ft side yard setback (required 6 ft) and 3‑ft rear yard setback (required 10 ft) – a 70% and 50% reduction respectively. The applicant argued the rear‑garage design preserves the historic street character and improves an existing tight driveway. - Public Comment: Three neighbors spoke: - Edward Dudley (71 Woodlawn Ave) objected to the garage placement but said he would accept if moved 5 ft forward (reducing variance to 20%). He also raised fire access concerns. - Charles Stevenson (71 Woodlawn Ave) expressed worry about exacerbating existing flooding/drainage issues on the applicant’s lot. - Kenneth Bond (72 Kingsbury Rd) requested denial or revision, citing the scale of the project, increased impervious surface (from 19% to 42%), and impacts on privacy, light, and drainage. - Liz Capuano (82 Kingsbury Rd) voiced distress over removal of five large trees on the property, unrelated to the variance request. - Board Discussion: The applicant agreed to move the garage 2 ft forward and 1 ft sideways, but noted further movement would conflict with the addition’s design and the 10‑ft setback from the house. The board indicated they would like to see the adjustment and adjourned the case for revised plans. - Outcome: The case was adjourned until the November 4, 2026 meeting. Administrative Items (Extensions) - Case 18-2025 – 42 Chauncey Avenue: Request for 12‑month extension of a previous resolution to legalize a first‑floor addition and basement finishing. Approved by voice vote. - Case 31-2025 – 72 Albemarle Avenue: Request for 12‑month extension of a previous resolution to legalize a raised patio and construct new deck/stairs. Approved by voice vote. Key Outcomes - Case 30-2026 (Cherry Ave) and Case 31-2026 (Weaver St): Variances granted unanimously. - Case 26-2026 (Webster Ave): Adjourned; applicant to reconsider variances. - Case 32-2026 (Kingsbury Rd): Adjourned to November 4, 2026, for revised garage placement. - Two administrative extensions: Approved without opposition.

The New Rochelle Universal Complaint Review Board (also referred to in the transcript as the Civil Component Review Board, or CCRB) convened a regular public meeting in the City Council conference room, chaired by co-chairs David Moore and Dr. Renee Barron. Members present included Julie Mercer, Christian Walker, Donna O'Keefe, Michael Cameron, and Fabiola Brito, along with Deputy City Manager Todd Castell and Deputy Corporation Counsel Jeffrey Breen. The board approved the August minutes, completed its training requirement, and reviewed — but deferred a vote on — its proposed bylaws/rules of procedure. Note: the transcript's opening line states "October 1," while the meeting timestamp is October 2, 2026. Consent Calendar - Motion, second, and unanimous voice vote approving the minutes of the August 12, 2026 meeting. - No changes to the agenda; no communications from public officials were received. Board Member Announcements - Michael Cameron announced he intends to attend the NACOL conference in November (the national meeting of the organization that provided part of the board's training) and is exhibiting his drawings as part of Arts Fest. - Dr. Renee Barron promoted the Songcatchers brunch gala on October 18 at Davenport, which supports reduced-rate music lessons for young people; she noted she serves on the Songcatchers board. - A board member promoted the 24 Hour Plays Broadway gala on November 2, honoring Thomas Cale, who worked on Moana, Fossey Burden, and Hamilton; the arts education organization pairs writers, actors, and directors to write, rehearse, and produce one-act plays in 24 hours. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public attended or had requested to speak; no public testimony was offered. Discussion Items - Training completion and future meeting schedule: With today's meeting, the board has officially completed its training and will be ready to hear cases from Internal Affairs. The planned structure is monthly Internal Affairs case meetings with no city personnel present, plus quarterly public meetings with public comment. Lieutenant Wensler indicated Tuesday and Thursday evenings work best for his schedule. Co-chairs will coordinate a calendar with Deputy City Manager Todd Castell; board members were asked to share dates they are unavailable, including via the board's CCRB Gmail addresses. - Bylaws/rules of procedure: Jeffrey Breen confirmed no additional changes had been made since the last iteration and stated that while the board is entitled to vote on rules, the City Council will consider whether to adopt or change them. - Michael Cameron's proposed amendments were reviewed one by one: - Membership language (Article 4, Section 1): Cameron suggested using "chair or co-chairs" to allow for a single chair in the future. Breen noted the city code requires co-chairs and the board's rules cannot override the code, but agreed language could be added stating that if the code is changed, references to co-chairs would automatically adjust. Julie Mercer supported this approach. - Orientation (Article 3, Section 4): Cameron asked whether recorded training is acceptable and what happens if the Citizens Police Academy (CPA) is suspended. Breen confirmed recorded training is permitted since nothing prohibits it; members agreed to add language clarifying that recorded training is accepted, although in-person training is preferred. Todd Castell stated a new member would receive a spot at the next available CPA and that the CPA has operated for over a decade and is explicitly discussed in the code, which would have to change if the CPA ended. The code's holdover provision covers vacancies, with replacement required within 60 days of term end or resignation. - Meetings (Article 6): Cameron asked whether the Internal Affairs unit representative is always a lieutenant; Breen confirmed the code requires the lieutenant, though that could be considered for future code changes. - Voting section typo: Cameron noted "manner" should be "matter"; this was confirmed as a typo. Another incomplete sentence in Article 7, Section 1 (containing "under") will be deleted. - Working groups (Article 7): Cameron questioned whether sections defining three specific working groups should be struck so working groups can be created and terminated flexibly. Consensus favored keeping the bylaws flexible — allowing working groups to be created and disbanded as needed, by a majority vote or by the co-chairs — since the board is the first group operating under the new process. - Official statements (Article 5): Members discussed what constitutes an official statement on behalf of the board. Agreement was reached that only co-chairs or expressly designated persons may make official statements representing the board, and only with approval of a majority of the board; individual members speaking publicly must clarify they are speaking in their individual capacity. A caution was raised about open meeting law issues if all board members communicate on a single email chain. - Decision to defer adoption: The board agreed to hold off on adopting the bylaws rather than drafting amendments on the fly; Corporation Counsel will produce a final amended version for a vote at the next meeting. It was noted that the board does not need to adopt the bylaws in order to begin hearing cases. Key Outcomes - Minutes of the August 12, 2026 meeting approved unanimously. - Board completed its training and is ready to hear Internal Affairs cases. - Bylaws/rules of procedure adoption deferred to the next meeting after a final amended version is prepared. - Next meeting tentatively scheduled for November 5, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.; Todd Castell will confirm the date. A combined Internal Affairs session and public meeting on the same day was discussed as a possibility. - Motion to adjourn carried unanimously; the meeting adjourned.

The New Rochelle Corporation for Local Development (CLD) and the New Rochelle Industrial Development Agency (IDA) held back-to-back meetings on September 30, 2026, at 7:35 PM in the City Council Conference Room at City Hall. The CLD meeting was called to order at 7:35 PM, and the IDA meeting at approximately 7:55 PM. Both meetings included roll call, approval of prior minutes, and resolutions. The main item of discussion was a proposed revision to the IDA's Uniform Tax Exemption Policy (UTEP), which would increase local workforce participation requirements and adjust pilot schedules to address adverse market conditions. Consent Calendar - CLD: Minutes from the May 27, 2026, meeting were approved unanimously. - IDA: Minutes from the June 24, 2026, meeting were approved unanimously. Discussion Items - CLD - Kingdom Community Consultants LLC Contract: The CLD approved a resolution authorizing a one-year contract renewal (2026–2027) with Kingdom Community Consultants LLC to provide youth vocational services through the Booker T. Washington Vocational Institute and career labs. The program serves New Rochelle youth aged 14–17 with career readiness and hands-on vocational training. The contract was awarded after an RFP process last year; this renewal is under the existing RFP. The program runs during the summer (daily) and fall (one to two days per week) at New Rochelle High School. Board members expressed strong support and encouraged site visits. - IDA - RGP Consulting LLC Contract Extension: The IDA approved a resolution authorizing an extension of the professional services agreement with RGP Consulting LLC through December 31, 2026, with a $35,000 budget modification from the IDA's fund balance. RGP provides technical assistance related to UTEP amendments and revisions. The additional funds are needed to cover invoices from 2025 that came in after the audit closed, as well as ongoing consulting services. A full budget rundown will be presented at the October meeting. - IDA - Proposed UTEP Amendments: The board discussed proposed revisions to the Uniform Tax Exemption Policy (UTEP) aimed at increasing local workforce participation and adjusting pilot schedules. Key proposals include: requiring 5% of total construction work hours to be fulfilled by New Rochelle residents (with a continuing 10% of ongoing work hours post-construction), quarterly reporting instead of annual, a pre-construction compliance roadmap, and a formal waiver process. The revisions also consider adjusting pilot schedules (including a deeper standard pilot and an adverse financial conditions pilot) to improve project feasibility given higher interest rates, tariffs, and construction costs. Board members raised questions about the workforce availability pool (estimated 350–600 construction workers available at any given time), the potential for penalties, and comparisons with other cities (Port Chester, White Plains, Yonkers). The goal is to have a redlined UTEP for board consideration at the October 28, 2026, meeting. Key Outcomes - CLD Resolution: The Kingdom Community Consultants LLC contract was approved unanimously. - IDA Resolution: The RGP Consulting LLC contract extension and budget modification were approved unanimously. - UTEP Revisions: The board will receive a redlined UTEP draft, which will be reviewed by the financial subcommittee, circulated to taxing jurisdictions, and presented for a vote at the October 28, 2026, IDA meeting. The revisions aim to increase local hiring mandates and adjust pilot schedules to reflect current economic conditions. No formal vote was taken at this meeting. - Next Meetings: The next CLD and IDA meetings are scheduled for October 28, 2026, at 7:30 PM.

The City of New Rochelle's Participatory Budgeting Steering Committee (PDSC) met on Monday, September 28, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the City Council Conference Room at New Rochelle City Hall. Deputy City Manager Todd Costello called the meeting to order with a roll call. Members present included Christina Demino, John Agulary, Lauren Hurwitz, Victor Bowman Jr., Matt Stern, Gino Frabasile, and Mikita Lewis. Staff in attendance included Todd Costello and Director of Communications John Jones. Consent Calendar - The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the June 30, 2026, meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Olivia Morgado (Healthy Yards): Presented a detailed visual proposal to transform Huguenot Park using native pollinator gardens, a rain garden, sunset vista seating, enlarged picnic areas, and an outdoor classroom space. She expressed full support for using these spaces to support local ecology and community well-being, offering maintenance support from local clubs and a willingness to start with smaller components. Discussion Items - Promotions and Marketing Update: John Jones (Director of Communications) reported on the integrated outreach campaign using postcards, yard signs, social media, a video with Councilmember Matt Stern, city e-news, and the local paper. The committee noted 48 total idea submissions so far. Members expressed that in-person event tabling (with iPads and QR codes) was highly effective at explaining the process. Lauren Hurwitz noted the lack of deep institutional collaboration (schools, libraries, civic groups) as a key area of need for the next cycle. - Future Engagement and Idea Submission Deadline: The committee strategized ways to increase participation before closing the idea portal. Victor Bowman Jr. suggested utilizing the remaining promotion budget (roughly $19,000 to $20,000) for concrete incentives (e.g., ice cream at parks). Mikita Lewis proposed integrating with school social studies classes and student government. The deadline for ideas was set for October 9, 2026 to allow for a final push at the Brews & Views event. Todd Costello noted that November is a busy budget season for staff and requested the committee's help with outreach for the voting phase. - Voting Period and Format: The committee agreed to a voting window of November 9 to November 20, 2026 (before Thanksgiving) to avoid conflicting interest with the general election and holiday schedules. A hybrid model was adopted: online voting using the free Stanford Participatory Budgeting platform, and in-person voting at City Hall (rotunda, city clerk's office). A potential voting event/kickoff at an external location (e.g., Boys & Girls Club) was discussed. Members supported incentivizing voting with prizes (subject to procurement rules) and using social media frames or stickers to build buzz. - Review of 48 Submitted Ideas: Gino Frabasile presented a feasibility review of the 48 ideas, grouped by theme. 14 submissions focused on walking paths and access around the Twin Lakes; 8 on recreation and fitness; 6 on playgrounds and shade; 10 on trees, gardens, and landscaping; 4 on trash and litter; and 6 on street and traffic safety. Several major projects (full lake restoration, public restrooms, splash pads, ice skating rink) were deemed infeasible due to cost or existing city programs. Feasible elements included paved pathways, fitness stations, community gardens, native plantings, art installations, improved trash cans, gazebos, and shade structures. Staff committed to consolidating these themes into a shortlist of costed, feasible ballot options. Key Outcomes 1. Idea Deadline: October 9, 2026. 2. Voting Period: November 9 to November 20, 2026. 3. Voting Methods: Online (Stanford PB platform) and in-person at City Hall. Staff will explore a kickoff event and ballot security protocols. 4. Marketing: Final promotion push for ideas (Brews & Views countdown, school outreach). A comprehensive "Get Out the Vote" campaign (social media, mailers, community partner drop-boxes) will launch in late October. 5. Next Steps: Staff to develop consolidated, costed ballot proposals from the 48 ideas. Target date for the next meeting: late October 2026 to finalize the ballot.

On September 25, 2026, the City of New Rochelle held a Hispanic Heritage Month celebration at City Hall. The event featured speeches from the mayor, city manager, council members, and city staff, along with the presentation of proclamations honoring local Latino leaders, a city employee, and the late music legend Willie Colon. The ceremony underscored the contributions of the Latino community to New Rochelle's economy, culture, and public service. Honorary Proclamations - C Town Supermarket (Carlos Terreras and Felix Diaz): Recognized for 20 years of service as a downtown anchor, providing jobs and supporting the community. Councilmember Mariana cited the store's resilience through construction and transitions. Councilmember Ashan Lee shared personal patronage. The owners expressed gratitude and emphasized offering a "slice of home" to Spanish-speaking shoppers. - Samantha Vargas (Communications and Marketing Manager): Honored for her dedicated public service. Mayor praised her as a "steady presence" who "makes us look good, sound good, keeps us organized." Vargas, a lifelong New Rochelle resident of Colombian descent, spoke of her parents' sacrifices and her pride in serving the community. - Willie Colon (posthumous): The legendary salsa musician and former Westchester County deputy sheriff was celebrated for his artistic achievements and public service. A video message from his son was played. Councilwoman Marta Lopez was credited for establishing Willie Colon Day in New Rochelle. Key Remarks - Mayor (Latina, Dominican-Puerto Rican descent): Expressed gratitude for the Latino community's sacrifices and contributions, noting the city's diversity and honoring the legacy of Willie Colon. - City Manager (Latino): Reflected on his journey from Peru to New Rochelle, noting the growth of Latino representation in city government. He personally thanked C Town for offering Peruvian products and praised Samantha Vargas. - Councilmember Marta Lopez: Emphasized the economic contributions of Latino-owned businesses, especially during COVID-19, and noted the city's first Latina mayor. Key Outcomes - Proclamations were formally presented to C Town Supermarket, Samantha Vargas, and the family of Willie Colon. - Attendees were invited to refreshments in the rotunda following the ceremony.

The Civil Service Commission met on Wednesday, September 23, 2026 at 3:37 PM. Chairman Bishop Fetz and Lee, Commissioners Margaret Chadwick and Wadalupe Avila were present. The meeting covered approval of prior minutes, a residency change request for an automotive mechanic position, recording of a previously approved police officer reinstatement, and extensions of several eligible lists. No public comment was heard. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes of the July 22, 2026 meeting were moved, seconded, and approved as written. Discussion Items - Residency Change for Automotive Mechanic (Department of Public Works): The department requested changing the residency requirement to New York State, noting that posting to New Rochelle and Westchester County had yielded only 2–3 applications (one duplicate). The goal is to widen the applicant pool. The commission approved the request. - Police Officer Reinstatement (Police Department): The commission recorded a reinstatement of a police officer who had been working at another municipality for three years. Unanimous approval had been obtained from all three commissioners via email on August 19, 2026. The item was placed on the record. - Eligible List Extensions: Several lists were presented for establishment or extension: - Director of Security Promotion List 2724 – established until 9/23/2027. - Assistant to the Director of Security Open Competitive List 2726 – established until 9/23/2027. - Senior Automotive Mechanic Promotion List 2728 – established until 9/23/2027. - Assistant Director to the Youth Bureau Open Competitive List 2650 – extended until 10/30/2027. - Electrician Open Competitive List 2704 (Board of Education) – extended until approximately 10/5/2027. - Fleet Manager Open Competitive List 2701 – extended until 11/19/2027. - Junior Civil Engineer List 2691A – extended until 12/24/2026 pending confirmation of open positions. - Senior Typist List 2688 – extended until 9/24/2027. - Transportation Clerk List 2595 – extended until 10/25/2027. The commission approved all extensions collectively, noting the lack of upcoming exams. - Examination Schedule: It was reported that no exams are scheduled for September or October 2026; only promotion exams are expected in the near future. - Next Meeting Date: The next meeting was originally set for October 28, 2026 at 3:30 PM, but one commissioner will be out of town. The commission agreed to tentatively reschedule for October 21, 2026, pending email confirmation. Key Outcomes - Minutes of July 22, 2026: Approved. - Residency change for automotive mechanic: Approved. - Police officer reinstatement: Recorded as previously approved. - All eligible list extensions: Approved. - Next meeting: Moved to October 21, 2026 (tentative) from October 28, 2026. Confirmation to be sent via email. - Meeting adjourned: 3:42 PM.