Public Meetings - New Rochelle, New York

New Rochelle Fire Department Change of Command Ceremony - June 30, 2026\n\nOn June 30, 2026, at 1:15 PM, the New Rochelle Fire Department held a change of command ceremony at which Fire Chief Andrew Sandor relinquished command to Fire Chief Joseph Sinatra after 30 years of service. The ceremony included presentations of colors, an invocation, and remarks from city officials and the chiefs themselves. No votes or formal decisions were taken.\n\n Ceremony and Speeches\n- Narrator Christopher Battle opened the ceremony and explained the tradition of the change of command, noting its origins in Roman legions and the symbolism of passing the colors.\n- Mayor Yadira Ramos-Herbert spoke on behalf of the city council, expressing gratitude to outgoing Chief Sandor and welcoming incoming Chief Sinatra. She thanked the Sinatra family for their support and described Chief Sinatra as a "real life hero."\n- City Manager Walfredo Melendez praised Chief Sandor as a professional and noted the partnership with the city. He expressed excitement to work with Chief Sinatra and build on Sandor's work, acknowledging the support of the chief's family.\n- Incoming Chief Joseph Sinatra thanked distinguished guests, families, and department members. He thanked Chief Sandor and previous chiefs for their foundation. His vision includes continuing to grow the department, delivering safe operations as call volume increases, building accountability, modernizing with technology and data, and strengthening partnerships with the union and city.\n- Outgoing Chief Andrew Sandor reflected on his 40‑year association with New Rochelle, thanked his wife Robin, children, and the fire department family. He highlighted milestones, expressed confidence in Chief Sinatra as a succession plan, and remembered fallen firefighters Frank Strollo, Andy DiMaggio, and Curtis Taylor.\n\n Key Outcomes\n- The formal transfer of command was completed with the passing of the colors. Chief Sandor said, "I relinquish command," and Chief Sinatra responded, "I accept."\n- Chief Sinatra assumed command effective the following day (July 1, 2026).\n- Flowers were presented to the spouses of both chiefs in recognition of their support.

The Municipal Civil Service Commission held a regular meeting on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at 3:34 PM in the council conference room. Commissioners present were Chairman Bishop Fets and Lee, Margaret Chadwick, and Wadalupe Avila. The meeting addressed several personnel actions, including a job specification upgrade for a Department of Development position, residency requests from the City School District, a new job specification for the Public Library, and a discussion on updating the title of the police commissioner's secretary. The meeting adjourned at 3:50 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the previous meeting held on May 20, 2026. Discussion Items - Department of Development Position Upgrade: Commissioner of Development Adam Salgado presented a request to upgrade a position (title change and revised job specifications) to support the city's Vanguard initiative and downtown retail activation. He explained that the position now reports to the Deputy Commissioner for Economic Development, Jorge Ventura, due to the separation of the Buildings Department. The upgraded role involves more coordination with businesses, community outreach, and attending conferences. Currently, similar work is performed by a third-party consultant, and the city seeks to replace that contract with a full-time employee. Commissioners asked clarifying questions about the organizational placement and rationale. The commission voted to approve the new job specifications and title change. - Residency Requests from City School District: The school district requested Westchester County residency for two positions: custodial supervisor and plumber. Commissioner Chadwick expressed concern that a broader pool might disadvantage New Rochelle residents, while Commissioner Avila noted that plumbers are difficult to find locally because many run their own businesses. The commission approved the requests with a preference for New Rochelle residents on the posting. The vote was to post to Westchester County with the stated preference. - Job Specification for Public Library – Business Manager: The commission approved a new job specification for a business manager position at the New Rochelle Public Library. The residency posting area was not yet determined. - Title Change for Police Commissioner's Secretary: Commissioner Avila raised the issue of changing the title of "secretary to the police commissioner" to a more modern title such as "office manager" or "administrator," noting that the term "secretary" is outdated and potentially demeaning. The commission agreed to contact the New York State civil service authorities to determine if the title can be changed without altering the job specifications, as the position is exempt or non-competitive. A follow-up was planned. Key Outcomes - Vote on Department of Development Position: Approved unanimously to change the job specifications and title. - Vote on School District Residency Requests: Approved to post custodial supervisor and plumber positions to Westchester County with a preference for New Rochelle residents. - Vote on Public Library Business Manager Job Spec: Approved unanimously. - Next Steps on Title Change: The commission will consult the state civil service authorities to explore changing the title of the police commissioner's secretary. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for July 22, 2026, at 3:30 PM, with potential conflicts to be communicated in advance.

The New Rochelle Industrial Development Agency (IDA) met on June 24, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. to hold a public hearing and consider a resolution authorizing financial assistance for the BRP 466 Main Street LLC project. The project proposes a mixed-use development at 466 Main Street with 489 residential units (49 affordable at 70% AMI), 6,000 sq ft of commercial space, and a 448-space parking garage. The requested assistance includes sales tax and mortgage recording tax exemptions and a 25-year PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) deviating from the standard 20-year uniform tax exemption policy (UTEP). After public testimony and board discussion, the resolution passed with one opposing vote. Consent Calendar - Unanimous approval of the May 27, 2026 meeting minutes. Public Comments & Testimony - Sean Waywatsky (25 LaRoy Place) opposed the PILOT, arguing the net public benefit yields a 0.66% annual return, far lower than recent projects (3.5% for 500 Main, 4.3% for 277 North). He urged the board to vote no. - Paul Martin (55 Decatur Road) raised concerns about the fragility of net benefits (only $4.6 million despite $51 million in abatements) and the precedent of extending the PILOT to 25 years for minimal benefit. He recommended requiring enumerated community benefits and revisiting the schedule. - Jackie Mills (Tulemkey Place) objected to the abatement, citing perceived unfairness to small homeowners and questioned the student generation projection of 18 students, calling it unrealistic. - Michael Yellen (New RoAR) read testimony from a 2016 IDA meeting urging adoption of local hire, living wage, union jobs, and other equity policies. He stated he is "sick and tired" of waiting. - Gina Curry (24 The Boulevard) questioned why New Rochelle accepts most developer projects while neighboring cities like Rye attract federal tenants without PILOTs. She later clarified she is deputy assessor in Rye and noted that the blood center there pays taxes. Discussion Items - Presentation by Kevin Grimms (Grow America): Detailed the $286 million development budget ($585,000 per unit), 575 construction jobs, and 8 permanent jobs. The 25-year PILOT begins with 90% abatement for 2 years, then 80% through year 10, phasing in to full taxes by year 25. Estimated PILOT revenue: $31.4 million over 25 years. Net public benefit estimated at $4.6 million, including $11 million in one-time fees and $11.5 million in affordable housing benefit. The project passes the school revenue neutrality test with an estimated 18 students and $538,000 in PILOT by year 3. - Board member Miguel Singletary raised concerns about the developer's past local hire and union participation rates (0% to 10.4% on prior projects) relative to the 15% social equity program requirement for this project. He questioned how the developer would meet the target. - Commissioner Adam Salgado explained that the 25-year term was chosen to achieve revenue neutrality sooner, with higher PILOT payments in early years compared to a shorter, deeper abatement. He noted staff is updating the student generation study with the school district. - Developer representative (Jeff Lornoy, BRP) and counsel responded that on prior projects (10 Commerce and 500 Main), they achieved 28% and 25% UTEP compliance (combining local, MWBE, and union). They are engaging a consultant (Hire Tough Leaf) to improve local hire. The developer is an MWBE firm and emphasized partnership with the New Rochelle Forward workforce program. - Board member Sheikh noted the progress made, including the social equity program, and stressed the cyclical benefits of funding community programs through development fees. - Board member Howard Greenberg asked for examples of 25-year PILOTs in New Rochelle; staff cited affordable housing projects with 30-year terms and 500 Main (20% affordability) also at 25 years. - Chair Rob supported the project, acknowledging the difficult financing environment and the developer's long-term commitment. He noted the importance of the corner location and the intangible benefits of continued development. Key Outcomes - Motion by Howard Greenberg to adopt the resolution authorizing the project, transaction documents, and financial assistance package (sales tax exemption, mortgage recording tax exemption, and 25-year PILOT). Seconded by Shane. - Vote: Ayes – 5, Nays – 1 (Miguel Singletary opposed), Abstentions – 0. The motion passed. - Next Steps: The IDA will schedule a UTEP board training on July 29, 2026, to discuss policy revisions, including workforce participation and community benefits.

The New Rochelle Planning Board met on June 23, 2026, at 12:15 PM UTC (evening local time) to consider several site plan applications, administrative amendments, and extensions. The meeting included public comment periods, board discussions, and votes on four major applications. The board approved all items with specific conditions. Consent Calendar - Application PB 3-2026 (Clayton Mattis – conversion of office to place of worship at 3 The Boulevard) was adjourned to the July meeting. - Application PB 1-2026 (Ona Preparatory School – bleachers, press box, etc. at 255 Wilmot Road) was approved at the technical meeting. - Application PB 17-2025 (Congress Place) was dismissed by the board at the technical meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Anthony Marciano (Century 21 Marciano, broker) spoke in favor of Application PB 8-2026 (three townhouses at 516 Pelham Road), stating that the city desperately needs townhouses to allow residents to stay in New Rochelle. He expressed 100% support for the project. - No other public comments were made on any application. Discussion Items Application PB 7-2026 – Gaming and Drinking Establishment (355 Huguenot Street) - Applicant Darlin Alvarez presented revised plans addressing previous board concerns: refuse area moved inside, hours of operation (Mon–Thu 11 AM–11 PM, Fri–Sat 10 AM–2 AM, Sun 10 AM–10 PM), private security on duty, delivery schedule, and no front-yard parking except for deliveries. A no-parking notice will be posted. - Board members discussed the need for a curb cut to allow delivery trucks to pull into the front area, conflicting with DPW’s requirement to replace the curb. The board agreed to condition a review of the curb cut with DPW. - The storefront will have clear glass with advertisement stickers; the interior layout includes a bar and gaming areas separated by age restrictions (wristbands for under 21). - Trash will be stored inside in city-approved containers and picked up every 24–72 hours; ventilation and air conditioning were recommended to control odors. - The board thanked the applicant for addressing earlier concerns. Application PB 9-2026 – New Restaurant (72 Center Avenue) - Architect Robert Stanziali presented plans to combine two commercial spaces into a restaurant with two fire areas (A and B) separated by a two-hour fire wall. The left side (fire area A) will be a nighttime bar/dining area with occupancy limited to 49 to avoid sprinkler requirements; the right side (fire area B) will be a breakfast/lunch operation. The two areas cannot be occupied concurrently. - Refuse storage will be in the rear of the building, not on the sidewalk. - Board members questioned noise mitigation for upstairs apartments; the applicant plans to spray-foam ceilings and use resilient channels to meet STC requirements. - The building’s exterior will be cleaned and existing storefronts replaced. Application PB 8-2026 – Three Attached Townhouses (516 Pelham Road) - Attorney Mark Blanchard and architect Tom Abalama presented a three-story building with three for-sale townhouses, replacing an abandoned auto repair shop. The building includes a basement with playroom, first-floor two-car garage, elevator to all floors, and a rooftop terrace with pergola, green roof, and solar panels. - The board had granted variances for three units (code allows two) and other density/area relief. - Board members raised concerns about the floor plan: the elevator consumes space, making bathrooms tight and closets shallow (18 inches). They requested adaptive design for aging in place, such as grab-bar installation and clearances for walkers, to be integrated into the next plan iteration. - The board praised the sustainability features (green roof, solar) and required them to remain as conditions of approval. - The garage doors were changed from carriage-house style to modern doors per board feedback. - The applicant agreed to work with the building department on accessibility improvements. Administrative Amendment PB 15-2024 – Subdivision Reapportionment (99 Wilmot Road and 97 Beverly Road) - Applicant Joshua Goldberg requested approval to add four rain gardens to manage stormwater runoff from the shared driveway. The rain gardens replace the originally approved 100% impervious concrete surface. Maintenance responsibility lies with the owner of 97 Beverly Road, with shared maintenance agreements among the three properties. - The board approved the amendment. Administrative Amendment PB 16-2025 – Two-Family Dwelling Extension (122 Pershing Avenue) - Architect Eric Wilson returned for a time extension and minor design changes. The front facade was revised to break up the monolithic appearance: the left side was pushed back four feet, roof forms were adjusted, and a jog on the second floor was eliminated. The board previously requested a higher-end garage door, which was provided. - Wilson argued to keep an extended roof over the garage, supported by brackets, which the board accepted. - The board approved both the administrative amendment and the time extension. Key Outcomes - PB 7-2026 (Gaming establishment): Approved (motion, second, all ayes). Conditions include: repair damage to right-of-way, install fire sprinklers, review curb cut with DPW, and return for administrative amendment if needed. - PB 9-2026 (Restaurant): Approved (motion, second, all ayes). Conditions: repair damage to right-of-way, fire areas A and B shall not be occupied concurrently. - PB 8-2026 (Townhouses): Approved (motion, second, all ayes). Conditions include: right-of-way work permits, sewer/health department approvals, $263 per additional dwelling unit recreation fee, fire sprinklers, landscape bond, maintain rooftop green space and solar panels, improve accessibility to the greatest extent practicable (to be reviewed by building department), and return for administrative amendment if needed. - PB 15-2024 (Rain gardens): Administrative amendment approved (motion, second, all ayes). - PB 16-2025 (Two-family extension): Administrative amendment and time extension approved (combined motion, second, all ayes).

On June 18, 2026, the African American Advisory Committee (Triple AC) of New Rochelle, New York, held a Juneteenth flag raising ceremony at City Hall. The event celebrated the federal holiday and honored community member Otelia Tanner for her contributions to literacy, education, and civic engagement. The ceremony included remarks from city officials, a historical presentation on Juneteenth, and recognition of outgoing committee members. The gathering emphasized the importance of continuing the fight for justice and unity. Opening Remarks - Angela Davis Farish, Chair of the African American Advisory Committee, welcomed attendees and introduced the Master of Ceremonies, Nate Adams, who is noted for his work with young Black and Brown boys. - Nate Adams acknowledged President Biden's 2021 enactment of Juneteenth as a federal holiday and stressed the ongoing struggle for African American rights. He called on New Rochelle to continue moving forward. - Mayor Yadira Ramos Herbert reflected on the dual nature of Juneteenth as celebration and reminder of the need to fight for freedom. She thanked the committee for ensuring the event remains on the calendar and highlighted the contributions of African Americans to New Rochelle. - City Manager Wilfredo Melendez thanked the Triple AC and staff, noting that as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, Juneteenth offers a chance to look ahead. He referenced the first observance of Jubilee Day in 1865, where formerly enslaved people celebrated freedom while learning to vote. Recognition of Honoree Otelia Tanner - Nate Adams introduced the honoree, Otelia Taylor Tanner, an Afro-Latina independent bookseller and longtime New Rochelle resident. He praised her advocacy for literacy and community involvement, including her work with My Brother's Keeper and the PTA. - Mayor Ramos Herbert read a proclamation recognizing Otelia Tanner for her outstanding contributions to literacy, education, civic engagement, and community service. The proclamation was signed and dated June 18, 2026, and will be displayed on the wall. - Otelia Tanner accepted the honor, expressing gratitude and sharing her personal story of finding solace in libraries as a child. She emphasized the importance of giving every child the opportunity to explore beyond their backyard through books. Historical Presentation - Lisa Burton, co-chair of America 250 New Rochelle, provided a history of Juneteenth. She led a moment of silence for those who died in the Civil War and for the trauma of enslavement. She recounted the issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, the 1863 New York draft riots, and the delayed announcement of freedom in Texas on June 19, 1865. She highlighted that the order told freedmen to stay and work for wages, yet there was still jubilee. She concluded that black liberation often comes at the end of a gun and that persistence is necessary. - Nate Adams added a reflection on the late Reverend Jesse Jackson and his message of “I am somebody.” He called for community support for programs like Rodney’s Place for middle school students. Closing Remarks and Acknowledgments - Nate Adams recognized outgoing committee members Leslie Gaskin and Elder Mark McLean for their six years of service on the African American Advisory Committee, thanking them for their dedication. - Elder Mark McLean gave closing remarks, recalling his advocacy for the committee’s creation and his gratitude for being heard as an African American in New Rochelle. He urged attendees to continue the work of justice and unity. He announced upcoming events: a Juneteenth celebration at Glen Island on Saturday and a Gospel Fest at Ruby D. Park on Sunday. - The ceremony concluded with a photo opportunity with the honoree and elected officials. Key Outcomes - Otelia Taylor Tanner was officially recognized and honored with a proclamation from the City of New Rochelle for her literacy and community service work. - The Juneteenth flag was raised in celebration of the holiday. - Outgoing committee members Leslie Gaskin and Elder Mark McLean were thanked for their service. - The event reinforced the city’s commitment to celebrating African American heritage and continuing the fight for equity and justice.

On June 18, 2026, the New Rochelle Police Department held a promotion ceremony at City Hall. City Manager Wilfredo Melendez, Police Commissioner Neil Reynolds, and other officials presided over the event, which honored eight officers receiving promotions to supervisory and command ranks. The ceremony included remarks, the administration of the oath of office by City Clerk Kim Jones, and the reading of each officer's professional biography. Promotions - Joseph Vieira Jr. – promoted from Police Officer to Sergeant (appointed Dec 2020; 5 years of service) - Zaquan Grissette – promoted from Police Specialist to Sergeant (appointed Dec 2020; 5.5 years of service) - Stephen Parker – promoted from Police Specialist to Sergeant (appointed Jul 2018; 8 years of service) - Davy Martinez – promoted from Detective to Sergeant (appointed Dec 2019; 6.5 years of service; also a U.S. Marine Corps Major) - Robert Johnson – promoted from Sergeant to Lieutenant (appointed Jan 2014; 12 years of service; known for youth mentorship) - Joseph Salerno – promoted from Sergeant to Lieutenant (appointed Apr 1999; 28 years of service; 9/11 first responder) - Dwayne Jones – promoted from Detective Sergeant to Lieutenant (appointed Jul 2010; 15 years of service; lead detective on wiretap investigations) - Nicholas Zuzulo – promoted from Lieutenant to Captain (appointed Jul 2013; 13 years of service; completed FBI leadership institutes) Remarks by Officials - City Manager Wilfredo Melendez congratulated the promotees, acknowledged their families, and emphasized that promotions reflect both past performance and future leadership responsibilities. - Police Commissioner Neil Reynolds highlighted the rigorous promotional process, the importance of “soft skills” in supervision, and the officers’ daily conduct and dedication. He thanked the families for their support. Key Outcomes - The eight officers were formally sworn in and promoted to their new ranks. - The ceremony concluded with an invitation to refreshments in the Rotunda. - No other business, public comments, or votes occurred during the event.

The New Rochelle City Council held its regular legislative meeting on June 16, 2026, beginning at 11:15 AM UTC (evening local). The meeting covered approval of prior meeting minutes, a split consent agenda, a roll-call vote on a stormwater management allocation, a contentious vote to expand the Downtown Overlay Zone (DOZ) with affordable housing, appointments to the Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB), acceptance of multiple grants, and a zoning code amendment. No public comments were heard. The meeting adjourned without an executive session. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes for the regular legislative meeting of April 21, 2026, and the committee of the whole session of May 12, 2026. Minutes were also submitted for the May 19 regular meeting and June 9 committee of the whole session. - Adopted items 2 and 3 as listed on the consent agenda (motion by Councilmembers Kay and Peters). - Adopted items 5 through 14 on the consent agenda (motion by Councilmembers Kay and Lopez). - Item 15 was pulled back for amendments and will return at a later date. Discussion Items - Item 4 – Proposed Allocation for Westchester County Stormwater Management Program (Whitewood Avenue): Councilmember Tarantino requested a roll-call vote and stated that he has represented District 2 for 18½ years, criticizing another council member for attempting to represent that district. He voted yes. The allocation was approved unanimously (7-0). - Item 16 – Expansion of the Downtown Overlay Zone (DOZ) and Affordable Housing Units: Councilmember Tarantino requested a roll-call vote. Councilmembers made statements: - Councilmember Lopez supported, noting the need for affordable housing in her district. - Councilmember Tarantino opposed, citing 2,800 new units added while 2,500 previously approved units have not yet broken ground, a flawed parking plan, and financial risk from increasing supply without sufficient demand. - Councilmember Peters supported but urged that proper planning for the DOA designation not be delayed. - Councilmember Austin Lee supported, acknowledging resident concerns about development density, traffic, and maintenance, but noting that the map expansion moves development away from already dense areas, creates home ownership opportunities, and allows for further policy improvements. - Councilmembers Kay, Stern, and Mayor Servedio also voted yes. The resolution passed 6-1, with Tarantino voting no. - Item 17 – Appointment of New Member to the Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB) and Co-Chairpersons: The City Manager presented a recommendation to change from a single chairperson to a co-chair structure. David Maher and Renee Barron were appointed as co-chairs, replacing Natasha Mahounda who resigned. Terms were extended to account for training time. The resolution was adopted. - Item 21 – Amendment to CCRB Chairperson Structure and Terms: An amendment to formalize the co-chair structure and adjust terms. Councilmember Kay asked about the reason for co-chairs (response: to balance workload) and whether both co-chairs must vote (response: only one needed). The amendment was adopted. Key Outcomes - Grant Acceptances: - Item 18 – Approved acceptance of the 2025 Bulletproof Vest Partnership Program grant from the Office of Justice Programs. - Item 19 – Approved acceptance of the Statewide Targeted Reductions in Intimate Partner Violence grant from the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services, used for public education and officer training. - Item 20 – Approved acceptance of the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) grant from the Westchester Putnam Workforce Board for the Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP). - Zoning Amendment: Item 22 – Adopted an amendment to Chapter 331 of the Zoning Code, which had been subject to a public hearing the previous week. - Meeting Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned without any executive session items.

The city of New Rochelle held a Flag Day ceremony on June 12, 2026, at 6:15 PM, featuring speeches, a historical presentation, a flag folding ceremony, and the presentation of a flag to the retiring fire chief. The event celebrated the 250th anniversary of the nation and honored the American flag as a symbol of unity, sacrifice, and freedom. Ceremonial Remarks - Opening Remarks (City Official): Welcomed attendees and highlighted the flag as a symbol of hope and resilience for nearly 250 years. - Pledge of Allegiance: Led by Detective Greg Herring. - Invocation (Bishop Leak): Prayed for blessings on the flag, leaders, and citizens, referencing the colors' meanings (red for courage, white for purity, blue for vigilance). - City Official Remarks: Noted the approaching semi-quincentennial (250 years since the Declaration of Independence) and the flag's evolution while its core promise remained unchanged. - Speaker (David): Recounted the flag's origins on June 14, 1777, and the symbolic meanings of red (hardiness and valor), white (purity and innocence), and the motto e pluribus unum. - City Manager Wilfredo Melendez: Stressed the flag's role in unifying a fractured nation, noting that President Truman made Flag Day a national observance in 1949. Thanked police, fire, buildings, HR, comms, and IT for organizing the 30th consecutive event. - Dennis Starr (American Legion Post 8): Emphasized the Legion's focus on respect for the flag, its role in teaching flag etiquette and conducting dignified retirement ceremonies. Noted that June 14 is also the U.S. Army's birthday and called for renewed commitment to service and sacrifice. - Historical Presentation (Historian): Described flags used during the American Revolution, including the Grand Union flag, the Pine Tree flag of John Glover's Marblehead regiment (which included Native Americans, African Americans, and others), and the Liberty flag. Recounted the Battle of Pell's Point and the Battle of White Plains, and the Continental Congress's adoption of the current flag on June 14, 1777. - Fire Chief Andy Sandor: Gave a Flag Day speech recounting stories of Francis Scott Key (War of 1812), Sergeant William Carney (Civil War, first African American Medal of Honor recipient for defending the flag), and boxer George Foreman (1968 Olympics waving the flag). Then led the flag folding ceremony, explaining the symbolic meaning of each of the 13 folds. - Benediction (Minister Mark McLean): Prayed for God's strength, power, protection, and guidance, referencing the national motto e pluribus unum. - Closing Remarks (City Official): Encouraged flying flags proudly and participating in July celebrations. Presented a flag to Chief Andy Sandor in recognition of his many years of service, upon his retirement. - Post-Ceremony: Attendees were invited to raise the flag outside and enjoy refreshments in the rotunda. Key Outcomes - Presentation of a ceremonial flag to retiring Fire Chief Andy Sandor for his dedicated service. - Raising of the American flag outside the building. - No votes or formal decisions were taken.

The Historical Landmarks Review Board (HLRB) of the City of New Rochelle met on June 10, 2026, at 11:00 AM. The board held public hearings on several applications for certificates of appropriateness, including legalizations of prior unpermitted work, new construction, and an extension request. Board members present: Jim Fleming, Leanne Merchant, and staff: Soraya Bahambib (Deputy Building Commissioner), Kevin Kane (Director of Planning and Sustainability), and Benito Seha (Senior Project Manager). Rosetta Bofer Monte and Lucia Elliott were absent. Public Comments & Testimony - Elena Hirston Cowie (70 Hunter Avenue) commented on the outdoor kitchen porch at 9 The Court, stating it is visible from the street (not just columns). She later noted that the Pella window selected by Margaret Chadwick is top-rated by Consumer Reports and praised its quality. She also questioned the use of cement panels for the garage at 8 or 12 Place, asking if they are common in the historic district. Discussion Items Item 2.2 – 9 The Court (Legalization of Improvements) - Applicant: Cynthia Sorrilla Cantos, architect for property at 9 The Court. Requested approval to legalize an enclosed porch, fire pit, pool, HVAC unit, driveway gate, cable rail fence, and to construct a new garage, front steps, and walkway. All work was done without permits. The board noted that the pool and rear-yard items are not visible from the street and thus not under HLRB jurisdiction. Board members expressed concern over the mix of materials (brick, vinyl, cedar shakes) and the lack of historical consistency, particularly regarding the chain-link fence and vinyl windows, which would not be approved. The board encouraged the applicant to review historic district guidelines and revise the proposal. - Outcome: Motion to adjourn the application to the next meeting was made, seconded, and approved unanimously. Item 2.3 – 95 Hamilton Avenue (Window Replacement) - Applicant: Margaret Chadwick and her husband Jerry. Requested approval to replace 22 double-hung windows with Pella Lifestyles wood windows (aluminum-clad, white, nine-over-one design). Only windows at the first and second floors, excluding specialty windows (leaded glass, bow window). All sides of the corner lot are visible from the street. The board praised the consistency and historic sensitivity of the proposal. - Outcome: Motion to approve application HLRB 6-2026 was made, seconded, and passed unanimously. Item 2.4 – 40 Earl Place (Fence Legalization) - Applicant: Jody Lucena Picchardo and husband Diego. Requested to legalize a wood fence with trellis erected during COVID. A zoning variance for height had been approved. The fence is on a corner lot; part is visible from the street. Board members stated that if the applicant had come first, they would not have approved the fence, as it is tall, highly visible, and inconsistent with historic district guidelines that discourage visible fences. The board advised that the fence should be lower or buffered by landscaping. - Outcome: The board suggested adjourning to the next meeting to allow the applicant to consider modifications or to have a full board present. A motion to adjourn the application to the July 2026 meeting was made and approved unanimously. Staff offered to meet with the applicant in the interim. Item 2.5 – 8 or 12 Place (Detached Garage Construction) - Applicant: Francesco of Burino Architectural Design, representing Jeffrey Barino. Proposed a two-car detached garage with a gambrel roof, fiber-cement siding painted to match the existing house, wood windows, and asphalt shingles. The garage will be set back 18 feet from the house and partially visible from the street. The board asked about the location and material choice (cement panels) and clarified the product is fire-rated fiber-cement, matching existing siding. - Outcome: Motion to approve as presented was made, seconded, and passed unanimously. Item 3.1 – Extension Request (Fifth Avenue, HLRB 4-2023) - Staff noted an extension request for a previously approved single-family dwelling (approved July 12, 2023). The applicant has been working with the building department but faces utility issues. The board requested proof of contacted utilities before finalizing. - Outcome: Motion to approve the extension pending proof of utility coordination was made, seconded, and passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Item 2.2 (9 The Court): Adjourned to next meeting (July 2026). - Item 2.3 (95 Hamilton Ave): Approved unanimously. - Item 2.4 (40 Earl Place): Adjourned to next meeting (July 2026). - Item 2.5 (8 or 12 Place): Approved unanimously. - Item 3.1 (Extension): Approved conditionally pending proof of utility coordination. - Meeting adjourned at the close of business.