The Yonkers Insider Online

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: YONKERS MAYOR SPANO’S 2013-2014 BUDGET ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY AND ON TIME FOR THE FIRST TIME IN OVER 25 YEARS.   Adopted Budget Closes $86 Million Budget Gap, Provides Largest Aid Ever to Education by the City, Allows for Restoration of Critical School Programs, and Includes Lowest Property Tax Increase in 15 years.   Yonkers, NY – May 31, 2013 – Following weeks of budget hearings, public hearings and productive negotiations among legislative leaders, Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano’s 2013-2014 City Budget was unanimously adopted today by the Yonkers City Council before the June 1 deadline, marking the first time the City budget has been passed on time in over 25 years. This is the second unanimous, bi-partisan budget passed since Mayor Spano took office in 2012.   The passed budget maintains the Mayor’s commitment to education by providing the largest allotment of funding to the Board of Education in Yonkers history and allowing for the restoration of critical educational services. The adopted budget also contains no layoffs to police, fire, public works and parks personnel.   “When I took office, I said I wanted to end the year-to-year budget crises in Yonkers,” said Mayor Spano. “We’ve gotten through this budget by working together, solving problems and putting Yonkers first — without layoffs and without cuts to services, all while restoring educational programs and staying within the property tax cap.”   The Board of Education budget could allow for the restoration of critical services including modified sports programs, music, art and pupil support positions which will benefit all students. While Mayor Spano had hoped to restore Pre-Kindergarten from half-day to full-day, due to increases in school enrollment and limited school facilities capacity, the Board of Education is unable to house a full-day program. Mayor Spano and the City Council have asked Superintendent Bernard Pierorazio to conduct a space assessment report by August 30, 2013 to determine the schools’ facilities needs so that discussions to restore full-day Pre-K do not stall in the next fiscal year.   On the municipal side of the budget, the adopted 2013 budget keeps all departments and City services whole. Revisions in the budget include cost-saving measures that will call for the elimination of two Yonkers Fire Deputy Commissioner positions, as originally offered by Mayor Spano in his Executive Budget.   Mayor Spano commented, “Thanks to Uniformed Fire Officers Association President John Halpin, we were successful in negotiating enhanced roles and responsibilities for the existing Deputy Fire Chief positions and able to save the City an additional $350,000 by not including the two deputy commissioner positions in the budget.”   “Overall, I want to thank the Council members, labor leaders, education leaders, department heads, particularly our Finance team, and employees who came together for the good of the City and our schools. By bringing all parties to the table and putting party politics aside, we were able keep to our commitment to education. While our City still faces very challenging structural fiscal challenges ahead, this year’s adopted budget balances the books and puts us on the right track to fiscal stability,” said Mayor Spano.   Budget Snapshot: ·         No eliminations of municipal positions ·         Proposed 0.9% increase to tax levy (1.75% increase in tax rate — lowest since 1998) ·         $990.9 million total budget ·         $460.9 million municipal budget ·         $529.9 million public school budget ($17.4 million increase in BOE budget) o   restoration of critical services including modified sports, music and art programs o   largest allotment ever by the City to the Board of Education o   increase of at least 34 additional Board of Education teacher and counselor positions ·         Restoration and upgrades of services for greater efficiencies include a new tax integration system designed to improve accuracies in the City’s tax billing system; additional water meter readers to expedite the process of securing more accurate readings and the restoration of Sunday service for Yonkers Public Libraries as well as upgrades to branch facilities such as computers, library books and research materials. The City of Yonkers fiscal year begins on July 1. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: YONKERS MAYOR SPANO AND COUNCILMEMBER TERRERO HOST CITIZENSHIP AND IMMIGRATION CLASS TUESDAY, JUNE 18.   Class to Assist Local Residents with Changes in Immigration Law.     YONKERS, NY – May 30, 2013 – Yonkers Mayor Spano and Councilmember Wilson Terrero will host a Citizenship and Immigration Informational Class on Tuesday, June 18 5pm-6pm in the Ceremonial Courtroom at Yonkers City Hall. The class is targeted to local residents who are seeking naturalized citizenship and will focus on recent changes in immigration law. Mario Curti, former Field Office Director with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), will serve as the session’s guest speaker and will focus on Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals. “This class serves as an opportunity to clear the pathway for our growing immigrant population who seek naturalized citizenship,” said Mayor Spano. “According to the 2010 Census, the Hispanic population increased from 26% to 35% in the last ten years — making it the fastest growing population in Yonkers. We want to provide a service to this and other immigrant communities settling in our City so they have all the resources necessary to live, work and raise a family in the United States.” Councilmember Wilson Terrero, Democratic Majority Leader, added, “I am very happy that the Mayor has taken such initiatives. I am very proud that he has recognized that these issues are important and that they impact the community that we represent. I am excited to be part of this citizenship and immigration class that will bring important educational information to our Hispanic population and other communities that can benefit from this class.” On June 15, 2012, Secretary of Homeland Security, Janet Napolitano announced that certain people who came to the U.S. as children and meet several key guidelines may request consideration for Deferred Action for two years, with work authorization.  Over 268,000 immigrants have already been approved nationally. One of the major initiatives of the USCIS is the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals and the June 18th class will outline and explain these new guidelines. Immigrants may consider deferred action for childhood arrivals if individual: is under the age of 31 as of June 15, 2012; came to the United States before reaching 16th birthday; has continuously resided in the United States since June 15, 2007, up to the present time; is physically present in the United States on June 15, 2012, and at the time of making request for consideration of deferred action with USCIS; entered without inspection before June 15, 2012, or lawful immigration status expired as of June 15, 2012; is currently in school, has graduated or obtained a certificate of completion from high school, has obtained a general education development (GED) certificate, or is an honorably discharged veteran of the Coast Guard or Armed Forces of the United States; has not been convicted of a felony, significant misdemeanor, three or more other misdemeanors, and do not otherwise pose a threat to national security or public safety Fenix Nikaurys Arias, PhD, MsED, an adjunct lecturer at John Jay College, also will discuss more general pathways to citizenship. For more information on Citizenship and Immigration services, visit http://www.uscis.gov. To view this announcement in Spanish, please visit www.yonkersny.gov and click “Espanol” on top left corner of the homepage. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: YONKERS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS TO PROVIDE SAND BAGS FOR RESIDENTS IN LOW LYING AREAS IN PREPARATION OF FLASH FLOODING.  Sand Bags Available at Yonkers Organic Waste Yard Today Until 7PM and Tomorrow, from 7AM -3PM.  YONKERS, NY – May 24, 2013 – In anticipation of additional flash flooding expected over the next twenty-four hours, Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano today announced that the City’s Department of Public Works (DPW) will provide sand bags for residents who live in low lying areas. Residents can pick up sand bags today until 7PM and tomorrow, from 7AM-3PM at the Yonkers Organic Waste Yard at located at 610 Nepperhan Avenue. “Due to the torrential rain storms that occurred in the area last night, and more that is expected today and tomorrow, I have had asked our DPW to make sand and sand bags available to residents,” said Mayor Spano. “Flood mitigation efforts are already being implemented by DPW crews in certain low lying areas, but we also want to ensure our residents take the necessary precautionary steps to protect their homes and property.” Areas of Yonkers already experienced some flooding throughout last evening, especially in the Clunie Avenue section, near the Saw Mill River. DPW crews deployed pumps and quickly brought flooding under control. Residents with questions or concerns about flood mitigation should contact the Mayor’s Help Line at (914) 377-HELP (4357). FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CITY OF YONKERS PARTICIPATES IN NATIONAL CHILD SAFETY EDUCATION CAMPAIGN, “TAKE 25”.   Campaign Promotes Parents, Educators and Law Enforcement Officers to “Take 25” Minutes to Address Children about Safety.   Yonkers Police Department to Present at Yonkers Public Schools’ PTA Meetings; YPD Also to Host SAFE CHILD ID Card Registration Event Saturday, June 8 from 12PM-4PM at the Cross County Shopping Center.   YONKERS, NY – May 23, 2013 – Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano today announced that in an effort to promote child safety, the City of Yonkers is participating in the National Child Safety Education Campaign, “Take 25.” The campaign encourages parents and guardians, educators, law-enforcement officers, and other trusted adults to take 25 minutes to talk to children about safety. The Yonkers Police Department is taking the lead in the campaign, presenting at Yonkers Public Schools’ PTA meetings as well as hosting a SAFE CHILD ID Card registration event on June 8. “It is our duty as a local government to provide services of all kinds to residents of all ages, and to educate our families on the ways we can better safeguard our children,” said Mayor Mike Spano. “I applaud our Yonkers Police Department on leading the charge and outreaching to our parents, teachers and community leaders on ways to communicate with our youngsters and teach them the ways in which they can protect themselves.” The Community Affairs Division of the Yonkers Police Department will visit local Parent Teacher Association (PTA) meetings over the next two weeks and present on ways and methods to talk to children and prepare them with safety tactics. Presentations will take place at the following Yonkers Public Schools: ·         Gorton High School (Health Fair) – May 23 ·         School 22 – May 29 ·         The Orchard School – May 31 ·         School 30 – June 6 Additionally, on Saturday, June 8 from 12PM-4PM at the Cross County Shopping Center, (between Gap and Bath & Body Works), the Yonkers Police Department will host a SAFE CHILD ID card registration event when the YPD will use SAFE CHILD equipment  with digital fingerprinting technology and high resolution photography capabilities to produce SAFE CHILD cards for parents and guardians. The cards contain a child’s name, biographical information (date of birth, gender, height, weight, hair color, eye color, etc.), and a fingerprint image of both index fingers. The information gathered is digitally recorded and stored in a database at the NY Division of Criminal Justice Services (DJCS). In the event DCJS receives a missing child report, the fingerprints of that child are included in a special search file and compared against all incoming fingerprints submitted to the agency. In addition to being able to quickly provide important details to police agencies investigating child disappearances, the SAFE CHILD card serves as an important tool when used in conjunction with the Amber Alert program. The cards and database allow essential missing child information to be electronically disseminated, statewide if necessary, within minutes and dramatically increases the possibility of bringing a missing child home unharmed. For parents who are unable to attend the June 8 event and are interested in a SAFE CHILD ID card for their child, they can contact Yonkers Police Community Affairs at 914-377-7375 and make an appointment. Charles Gardner, Yonkers Police Commissioner added, “Take 25 is a great opportunity for all of our residents to take a few minutes and speak to their children about their personal safety.  Members of our Community Affairs Unit will be speaking to our students, and parents should also take this opportunity to help protect their children from abduction.  Our ‘Operation Safe Child’ identification card program has been very popular and provides another resource our parents can use to protect their children.” “Cross County Shopping Center is excited to partner with Mayor Spano and the Yonkers Police Department to host this important child safety event,” said Liz Pollack, senior marketing manager. “Many of our shoppers have families and there’s nothing more important than helping them to feel safe and secure. We hope residents will come out and take advantage of the ID program and enjoy some great shopping at the start of the summer as well!” Every year in America, an estimated 800,000 children are reported missing, more than 2,000 children each day. Of that number, 200,000 are abducted by family members and 58,000 are abducted by non-family members, for which the primary motive is sexual. Each year, 115 children are the victims of the most serious abductions; they are taken by non-family members and either murdered, ransomed or taken with the intent to keep. An analysis of attempted abduction cases by National Center for Missing & Exploited Children found that in 81% of the cases, the child escaped would-be abductors through their own actions. Twenty-eight percent actively resisted (yelling, kicking, pulling away, running away or attracting attention) while 53% recognized something was not right and responded by walking or running away. “Take 25” is a grassroots campaign created by the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) in honor of National Missing Children’s Day on May 25th. For more information on “Take 25”, visit www.Take25.org. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: MAYOR SPANO SIGNS YONKERS GREEN BUILDINGS CODE ORDINANCE.  Amended Building Code Requires Facilities and Buildings to Be Sustainable and Increase Energy and Efficiency Designs.  YONKERS, NY – May 22, 2013 – Mayor Mike Spano today signed the Yonkers Green Buildings ordinance, establishing a policy for the City to design and construct its facilities to be sustainable and to encourage commercial and residential developers to do the same. Mayor Spano’s signing of the ordinance comes after the Green Buildings Code legislation was passed by the Yonkers City Council earlier this month. “I am very proud to sign the Yonkers Green Buildings Ordinance and lead the way to a more sustainable Yonkers, with increased energy efficiency,” said Mayor Spano. “My administration came into office just 16 months ago and has led the way to promote the efficient use of natural resources for the long-term protection and enhancement of our environment and City.” The Yonkers Green Buildings standards will address specific environmental impacts of development in Yonkers. The new standards, as negotiated by Mayor Spano, will conserve natural resources, increase energy and water efficiency and improve indoor air quality to reduce operating costs and ensure more comfortable and healthy buildings in Yonkers. According to the amended ordinance, a City Commissioner must implement the Yonkers Green Building Standards within 30 days after its passage and will review them on an annual basis and provide an annual report to the Yonkers City Council. Buildings are one the heaviest consumers of natural resources and account for a significant portion of greenhouse gas emissions that affect climate change. In the United States, buildings account for 38% of all CO2 emissions and represent for 73% of electricity consumption. Today’s signing of the Yonkers Green Buildings Ordinance is part of Mayor Spano’s overall energy and sustainability program that will save more than $2 million in annual energy costs and reduce Yonkers’ carbon footprint by ten percent. Mayor Spano added, “Municipal governments need to assume the leadership role in promoting energy efficiency. We are all responsible for our current environment and now we must be part of the solution. I am pleased to say the City of Yonkers is taking that role.” Yonkers also is currently replacing 12,000 street lights with new energy-efficient LED lamps which will be brighter, and will save the City over $18 million in energy costs over the next ten years.  Additionally, utilizing a new alternative energy pilot program, the City is adding a propane refueling station and converting 20 fleet vehicles to propane power, reducing fuel costs, maintenance costs and the City’s carbon footprint.

OFFICE OF THE MAYOR CITY HALL 40 S. BROADWAY YONKERS, NY 10701 (914) 377-6300          www.YonkersNY.gov File a complaint, report a problem or make a suggestion with our Problem Solver Facebook app. Residents may also call the Mayor’s Help Line (377-HELP) for assistance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Dear Neighbor,We’ve come too far to let our City fall  victim to partisan politics. We’ve made too much progress in the past year to allow political bickering to set us back.Over the last 17 months, we’ve moved Yonkers in a new direction, away from the days of governing by political party. Democrats and Republicans came together in passing the first, unanimously bi-partisan budget in nearly a decade. We’ve joined in moving forward with smart development projects that will rebuild our tax base instead of overburdening property taxpayers. We’ve avoided continued cuts to services and we continue to show other cities, states and Washington how government can work for the people when elected leaders work together.Yet there are still those here in Yonkers, who like some in Washington, prefer partisan gridlock over bi-partisan compromise. They want to bring our city back to the days of governing by political party. If you have followed the recent debate about redistricting the City Council, you know exactly what I am talking about.Nothing brings out the worst in partisan politics than redrawing political boundaries.  Incumbents try to protect themselves, challengers claim unfairness,  and before long you have gridlock. The business of the people comes to a halt – held hostage to the personal desires of politicians.We can’t let that happen in Yonkers. The last U.S.  Census was completed in 2010, yet the City Council declined to make any changes in the district boundaries of the six City Council districts for the 2011 Election.  In fact the Census showed little change in the distribution of population within the City, rendering the existing districts in compliance with state and federal law, including the 1965 Voting Rights Act.  In other words, if no changes were made at all, the City would be in full compliance with one-person-one-vote requirements. Nonetheless,  some City Council members recently decided that they should redraw the boundaries for the 2013 election.  Unfortunately their plan threatened to create the same political gridlock and partisan fighting that we have been seeking to avoid here in Yonkers. Some  Democrats want a plan that the Republicans say is unfair. The Republicans have countered with a plan of their own that some Democrats say is unacceptable. Meanwhile in less than two weeks the nominating process for candidates is supposed to begin. I refuse to accept any plan that put politics before the people of our city. Consequently on Friday I proposed  a compromise  – one that incorporates parts of both the Democrat and Republican plans. This compromise plan is fair to both political parties, which is why it has support from both Democrats and Republicans. More important, it is fair to the people of Yonkers.  It keeps neighborhoods together, preserves  cultural and ethnic voices, and is fully compliant with the Voting Rights Act.  It is a plan that puts the people first, and puts politics second. If redistricting is so important, you have to ask why the Council didn’t start back in 2010 when the Census results were first available. Why was no action taken in 2011 or 2012? Why are we now late in 2013 still debating this issue with partisan gridlock on the horizon? The truth is Yonkers has too much at stake for elected leaders to play political games at a time when we must address some of the most difficult fiscal challenges we’ve ever faced. So to those who may have forgotten why we’re here and the task at hand, I say let’s not return to the partisan politics of the past. Let’s continue to show the bi-partisan strength and common sense governing that will provide for and protect the future of our city. Let’s put politics aside and do what’s right for the people of Yonkers. Regardless of our party affiliation, that’s what we’ve all been elected to do. Sincerely,         MIKE SPANO Mayor

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: YONKERS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS CELEBRATES 120^TH ANNIVERSARY.

City Hosts Open House for Residents Wednesday, May 22 from 10AM-2PM at DPW Service Center.

YONKERS, NY – May 16, 2013 – Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano today announced that in celebration of the 120^th anniversary of the City’s Department of Public Works (DPW), the City will host an open house for local  residents Wednesday, May 22 from 10AM-2PM at its Service Center Facilities, at 1130 Nepperhan Avenue. The week of May 19^th is National Public Works Week.

“I couldn’t be more proud of the dedicated men and women of the Yonkers Public Works Department who work tirelessly each day for our City,” said Mayor Spano. “Our DPW is one of the longest serving city departments and has made a significant impact on our city services and our residents over the 120 years.”

During the open house, tours of the service center and light refreshments will be made available to residents. Members of the Yonkers DPW, Police and Fire Departments also will display equipment and present to second grade students from Cross Hill Academy.  At 11AM, Mayor Spano and DPW Commissioner Tom Meier will unveil a commemorative plaque dedicated to the City’s past and present DPW workers.

“Our open house is an opportunity for residents to see the faces behind the great services our employees provide for them,” said Tom Meier, Yonkers DPW Commissioner. “More importantly, it is also a chance for our workers to interact with our residents and thank them for their support throughout the years.”

The Yonkers Department of Public Works was established in 1893, just over 20 years after the City of Yonkers was incorporated. Today, over 300 employees work for Yonkers DPW.

Yonkers Industrial Development Agency Program Awards Scholarships to 30 Yonkers High School Seniors.

 Thirty outstanding Yonkers high school seniors received $125,000 in scholarships today, continuing a program begun in 2000 by the Yonkers Industrial Development Agency (YIDA).

The annual scholarship program was created in 2000 under an agreement between the YIDA, Classic Residence by Hyatt (now the Five Star Premier Residences) and the Wishcamper Group.  The two organizations agreed to establish scholarship funds for Yonkers students through 2016 as a condition of receiving construction and renovation incentives for Hyatt’s assisted living facility and for Wishcamper’s Parkledge Apartments project.

“Not only did the IDA make jobs and economic development possible as a result of this agreement, but nearly 400 Yonkers students have been awarded scholarships since then to help make college a reality,” said Mayor Mike Spano, who Chairs the YIDA.

Spano offered his congratulations to this year’s scholarship awardees, and was joined at the ceremony by Deputy Mayor Susan Gerry, Schools Superintendent Bernard Pierorazio, YIDA President/CEO Melvina Carter, Jill Goodwin who is sales director of Five Star Premier Residences of Yonkers, Cindy Irizarry who is Assistant Operations Manager for Parkledge Apartments, and Wendy Nadel who is Executive Director of Yonkers Partners in Education.

Among the students receiving scholarships at today’s ceremony at the Waterfront Library were the following:

Receiving $5,000 “Investing in Youth” scholarships under the Five Star program were:

Rosa Figueroa, Gorton High School                                          Lisa Goings, Gorton High School

Brianna Wedlowe, Gorton High School                                   Tanishae Edwards, Lincoln High School

Yomidalys Guichardo, Lincoln High School                             Brian A. Aguilar, Palisade Preparatory H.S.

Yalkiria Vasquez, Palisade Preparatory H.S.                          Mariah Cameron, Riverside High School

Gloria Kodua Junior, Riverside High School                           Gianni Almanzar, Roosevelt High School

Franchesca Morales, Roosevelt High School                         Nicholas Malizia, Sacred Heart High School School

Amanda Smith, Saunders High School                                     Karina Valle, Saunders High School

Magan Farraj, Yonkers High School                                          Magda Ogorek, Yonkers High School

Victoria Ann Cotter, Saunders High School                            Samantha Cachoian, Saunders High

Jason Allen, Yonkers High School

Receiving $2,500 “Breakthrough Scholarships” from Wishcamper were:

Priscilla Morales, Gorton High School                      Wasif Ali, Lincoln High School

Amanda Patterson, Palisade Preparatory H.S.     Quinnell Williams, Palisade Preparatory H.S.

Audrey Achiampong, Riverside High School         Luis Gomez, Riverside High School

Abdul-Nasser Sumbu, Roosevelt High School      Kristina Campion, Sacred Heart High School

Karina Ramos, Saunders High School

PRESS RELEASE City Council Approves Green Building Standards

YONKERS CITY COUNCIL ADOPTS GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS.

Law Mandates Newly Constructed City Buildings & Schools be Energy Efficient.

Yonkers, NY: May 14, 2013 — The Yonkers City Council tonight unanimously approved important environmental legislation to make the City’s Green Building Standards mandatory for all new municipally-owned buildings and schools.

Green building standards will ensure that the most energy-efficient building designs are utilized to enhance environmentally sustainable systems to conserve natural resources, increase energy and water efficiency, improve indoor air quality, and reduce operating costs as Yonkers builds toward future cost and energy savings.  

The legislation, introduced this year by Mayor Mike Spano, comes after the city’s recent undertaking to collect data on the energy usage of all municipal buildings to calculate greenhouse gas emissions which revealed that inefficiencies contribute to more than two-thirds of all the city’s emissions.    

A second part of the legislation will require that larger private developments complete a green development checklist for data collection purposes only. This includes all non-residential site plan applications for projects greater than 15,000 square feet and residential development site plan applications for projects greater than 25 units. A green buildings survey will be also required to be submitted in a form to be approved by the commissioner of planning and development as a way to track initiatives and to allow policy makers to better evaluate development proposals.

Council President Chuck Lesnick applauded tonight’s vote and said, “It is crucial that the city has recognized the importance of green building standards and has referenced them in our city code. While I would have preferred that a minimum score be required for all new development, at least now policy makers on the City Council, the Industrial Development Authority and the Planning and Zoning boards will be aware of the standards and can encourage developers to use them.”

Councilman Michael Sabatino (D-3^rd District), a member of the city’s Smart Growth and Environmental & Historic Preservation Committee said, “I’m excited that this legislation will help Yonkers become more environmentally competitive with future building projects as seen around the country. Although we have more work to do in order to make green building standards mandatory across the board, this is a good first step toward that goal.”

Majority Leader and Real Estate Chair Wilson Terrero (D-2^nd District) commented, “Utilization of the green building standards will actually save the city and businesses hundreds of thousands of dollars in operating funds.”

Minority Leader John Larkin (R-6^th District), who is also a member of the City’s Smart Growth and Environmental & Historic Preservation Committee said, “The taxpayers will ultimately benefit by the reduced energy costs from our municipal buildings.”

“These green building standards can be used to mitigate Council approvals such as the Downtown Yonkers Master Plan,” said Councilmember Christopher Johnson (D-1^stDistrict) who represents the downtown area regulated largely by that plan.

Green Policy Task Force Chairperson Terry Joshi remarked that, “It is important news that the city administration recognizes climate science which shows that buildings are the biggest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, and thus to the warming of the planet as illustrated so fully in the front page New York Times article on the topic last week. The next step, which the Green Policy Task Force encourages the city to immediately take, is to enforce these green building standards on all city construction over four-family homes. It is not an exaggeration to say that each tiny step taken by a single municipality, will, in the aggregate, work to mitigate future climate change.”

The city’s director of sustainable development, Brad Tito, developed the green building standards in consultation with the city’s Green Policy Task Force and a working group that included environmentalists and real estate developers.

Green building standards bring together a vast array of practices, techniques and skills to reduce and ultimately eliminate the impacts of buildings on the environment and human health. It often emphasizes using renewable resources such as solar power and using plants and trees through green roofs, rain gardens, and reduction of rainwater run-off. Many other techniques are used, including low-impact building materials or using packed gravel or permeable concrete instead of conventional concrete or asphalt to enhance replenishment of ground water.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:   CITY OF YONKERS OFFERS COUNTY MOBILE SHREDDER SERVICE STARTING SATURDAY, MAY 18 AT THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS SERVICE CENTER.

YONKERS, NY – May 14, 2013 – Yonkers Mayor Spano today announced the City of Yonkers is offering the Westchester County Mobile Shredder to its residents starting Saturday, May 18 from 10AM – 1PM at its Department of Public Works (DPW) Service Center located at 1100 Nepperhan Avenue.

“We encourage our residents to take advantage of this free shredding service,” said Mayor Spano. “Shredding personal documents serves as an opportunity to not only recycle paper but also serves to protect sensitive information against identity theft, which is the fastest growing crime in the nation.”

Residents can bring up to four file-size (10”x12”x15”) boxes of confidential papers per household to the Service Center for shredding. All large binder clips and covers must be removed from the documents. Papers from businesses, institutions or commercial enterprises are not acceptable and will be rejected, as well as junk mail or newspapers.

Documents that are suitable for shredding before thrown away or recycled include:

• ·         Expired credit card statements and receipts
• ·         Old tax returns or any other personal documents containing names, addresses or other identifying information
• ·         Pre-approved credit card applications
• ·         Licenses

Yonkers residents again will have access to the Mobile Shredder at the Yonkers DPW Service Center on July 27, September 28 and November 16 from 10AM-1PM.

For more information, residents can contact the Mayor’s Help Line at 914-377-HELP (4357).

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  MAYOR SPANO APPOINTS TWO NEW TRUSTEES TO YONKERS BOARD OF EDUCATION.

New York City Department of Education Administrator Stephen Lopez and Yonkers Community Leader Judith Ramos Meier to Fill Two Board Vacancies.

 YONKERS, May 10, 2013 – Mayor Mike Spano today announced Stephen Lopez and Judith Ramos Meier as his newest appointments to the Yonkers Board of Education. As trustees of the Yonkers Board of Education, Lopez and Ramos Meier will join seven other members of the Board, which is the official policy making body of the School District. The new trustee appointments come after the Board of Education recently was left with two vacancies. Their five year terms are effective immediately.

“As we work toward providing our students with the best education possible, I am proud to appoint two new members to the Board of Education with diverse educational experience, who know firsthand the needs and concerns within the district and who are qualified to support our Schools’ talented Superintendent Bernard Pierorazio in his goals for our students,” said Mayor Spano. “Stephen and Judith are committed to supporting policies and programs that address prior cuts in educational services and a growing English language learning population.”

Stephen Lopez is a 20-year veteran as a school and education administrator. A Yonkers resident, Lopez currently is the Director of Client Services for the New York City Department of Education where he provides direct logistical and technical support for the major departments with the Division of Academics, Performance and Support, which service 1.1 million students in 1,600 schools. Lopez also has worked with New York State Division of Human Rights, the Greenburgh Central District and with the Yonkers Public Schools as a transportation official where he assisted planning and implementing a $17 million budget. Lopez holds a Bachelor of Behavioral Science and a Masters of Science Organizational Leadership from Mercy College.

“This is a great opportunity to serve the Yonkers community and work to improve the quality of education to the levels of which we all can be proud,” said Stephen Lopez. “I want to thank Mayor Spano for his trust in my experience and leadership and I look forward to positively contributing to the School District in the coming years.”

Longtime Yonkers resident Judith Ramos Meier joins the Board of Education as an owner of a MWBE (Minority Women-Owned Business Enterprise) business where she is an advocate for Workers Compensation and Social Security Disability Law. Ramos Meier is a first generation American from Colombia and attended Yonkers Public Schools, graduating from Saunders Trades & Technical High School. Ramos Meier serves as a member of the Yonkers Charter Review Commission and is the District-wide Chairperson for E.L.K.S. Cerebral Palsy Program. She also is a member of the National Association of Social Security Representatives, National Association of Disability Representatives and is part of the Yonkers and Westchester County Bar Associations. She holds a degree in Legal and Paralegal Studies from Westchester Community College.

“I am honored to be appointed by Mayor Spano as one of the newest trustees to the Board of Education,” said Judith Ramos Meier. “As a product of Yonkers Public Schools, a mother of two and a girls’ basketball coach, I’ll bring a parent’s perspective to the Board of Trustees in making the right decisions for our children’s future.”

“Stephen and Judith will not only be strong advocates for Yonkers students, but also represent a needed voice for our growing Hispanic population comprising over fifty percent of our student body,” said Mayor Spano.

Lopez and Ramos Meier are replacing two outgoing trustees, President Paresh Patel and Dr. Edward Fergus, whose terms ended earlier this month.

Mayor Spano added, “I also want to extend my gratitude to Mr. Paresh and Dr. Fergus for their years of service to the Board of Education who served our City and our students with loyalty, professionalism and distinction.”

Mayor Spano appointed Lopez and Ramos Meier after he reviewed recommended trustee applicants provided by his Education Redesign Team, which acts as a blue ribbon panel and looks to recommend innovative reforms to the Yonkers Public School system.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:   MAYOR SPANO TO ESTABLISH YONKERS HISPANIC ADVISORY BOARD.

Up to Nine Yonkers Hispanic Residents to Recommend Programs to Further Hispanic Community Development in the City.

YONKERS, NY – April 29, 2013 – Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano today announced that, by executive order, he is establishing a Yonkers Hispanic Advisory Board, for the purpose of creating and recommending effective policies, programs and projects to further Hispanic community development in the City. The Board will consist of up to nine members, residents of the City of Yonkers and shall serve two year terms. Starting today, those interested in becoming a board member can submit their resume at www.yonkersny.gov.

“Members of the Hispanic community in Yonkers contribute to the vitality of our City in every facet of life, including government, education, business and more,” said Mayor Spano. “I look forward to meeting, working and developing a forum within Yonkers in which we can develop and decide programs or issues that intricately affect the lives of the City’s fastest growing population.”

Once chosen and convened by Mayor Spano, the board will elect a chairperson, a vice chairperson, a secretary and other such officers as deemed necessary.  The Board’s goal will be to advise the Mayor on issues that affect the quality of life for Hispanics in the City of Yonkers.

Responsibilities of the Yonkers Hispanic Advisory Board will include: reviewing and monitoring City policies, procedures, practices and programs for their impact on Hispanics; work with the Mayor and the City’ staff to develop and recommend effective policies, legislation and/or services to eliminate discrimination and improve opportunities for Hispanics and their families in Yonkers; promote equal status of Hispanics and encourage public policy to cooperate in such endeavors; work with the Mayor and City staff in implementing approved grant programs designed to assist the Hispanic community and recommend any additional funding sources; and assist the Mayor in developing and maintaining a roster of qualified Hispanics to serve in City government, both in salaried and volunteer positions to City boards and commissions.

Mayor Spano added, “With approximately 35% of the City of Yonkers’ population made up of individuals of Hispanic origin and 20% of all business owners representing the Hispanic community, it is essential that members of our Hispanic community have a platform to discuss issues of relevance and importance to that community.”

Majority Leader Wilson A. Terrero added, “As council Majority Leader and a member of the Latino community, I commend the Mayor for taking such initiatives and recognizing the steady growth of the Hispanic population within the City of Yonkers, which has more than 53% of Yonkers Public Schools’ students, and a large increase in business owners and home ownership. We are grateful to this administration, for establishing such a board which will give the Hispanic population a voice. As we move forward together with new visions and goals, I am confident that the esteem members of this board will greatly contribute to and be directly involved to the positive changes and development of the City of Yonkers.”

The City’s Equity and Diversity Officer will serve as the ex-officio member of the Board, while a member of the Mayor’s staff will serve as the Hispanic Advisory Board Liaison.

Mayor Spano is expected to complete the Yonkers Hispanic Advisory Board selection process in the coming months.

Executive Order Attached.

Executive_Order_7_Hispanic_B

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  YONKERS FINANCE DEPARTMENT RELEASES FOUR-YEAR FINANCIAL PLAN.

YONKERS, NY – April 26, 2013 – Yonkers Department of Finance today publicly released its second comprehensive Four-Year Financial Plan for the City of Yonkers, providing a transparent analysis of the City’s future fiscal outlook. The report was presented to Mayor Spano by the City’s Finance Commissioner and Budget Director in accordance with an Executive Order issued by Mayor Spano last year.

“Previous administrations operated without a real long-term fiscal plan for its future,” said John Liszewski, Commissioner of the Yonkers Department of Finance. “Establishing a detailed four-year financial report is a responsible approach to addressing fiscal challenges ahead and will better enable the City to plan for tomorrow.”

The report revealed the City of Yonkers is making progress in reducing a large deficit that has grown significantly over previous years, but also lays out a difficult path ahead for the City resulting primarily from skyrocketing costs of mandated benefits passed down to the City. Some areas of concern outlined in the Financial Plan include:

• ·         The cost of employee fringe benefits is projected to increase from $127 million in 2014 to $163 million in 2017;
• ·         The cost of health benefits is projected to increase 7% annually;
• ·         Workers’ Compensation expenses are projected to increase 10% annually; and
• ·         The operating cost of the Board of Education is projected to increase on average by $26 million annually.

“Revenues are up, the deficit is down, but this report could not be clearer in demonstrating that like many cities, Yonkers ability to raise revenue and cut spending cannot keep pace with rising costs beyond the city’s control,” said Mayor Spano. “Across America we are seeing cities in fiscal distress and many on the verge of bankruptcy. We need a global approach to address these serious challenges, which is why I commend Governor Cuomo for including Yonkers in his planned advisory panel for upstate cities and am calling on President Obama to convene a federal task force on municipal restructuring.”

The Four Year Financial Plan FY2014 – FY2017 is available on the City’s website.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:    MAYOR SPANO & YONKERS DEPARTMENT OF PARKS, RECREATION & CONSERVATION OPEN SPRING/SUMMER RECREATION REGISTRATION, BEGINNING TUESDAY, APRIL 30.

YONKERS, NY – April 25, 2013 –  Mayor Mike Spano today announced that the Yonkers Department of Parks, Recreation & Conservation will open registration for residents and non-residents of all ages to spring/summer community recreation programs, Tuesday, April 30 at 7:00 pm, via the Department’s on-line brochure at www.yonkersny.gov.

“Yonkers continues to provide a wide array of fun and educational programs and activities for its residents,” said Mayor Spano. “I encourage our families, young and old, to take advantage of the programs offered this season as an opportunity to stay active while interacting with their neighbors and community.”

The spring/summer line-up includes various programs and sports for children and adults. Children 3-5 years of age will enjoy morning Pre-K Summer Camp at three locations, with parents selecting three or six weeks of fun, starting July 1. Young children can also participate in sports squirts, t-ball squirts, soccer squirts, and summer golf.

Older children will enjoy summer sport camps in tennis, basketball, soccer, lacrosse, baseball/softball, golf, volleyball, flag football, and skateboarding. A unique multi-sport camp offers youngsters the chance to play fifteen different games in one week. Children who like to dance will enjoy Spring Zumbatomics (starting May 11) and a two-week multi-dance camp that starts on August 5.

Swimming programs are available at the Mark Twain Pool for every age group, from tots to seniors, including competitive swimming and learn-to-swim classes. The Yonkers Avenue Pool offers morning aquatics programs for senior citizens.

The Murray Skating Center will be the site of two events for youngsters 7-14 with the annual Roller Skating Party on July 18 and Roller Disco Barbecue on August 1 and 2. Children will be able to escape the heat with cool movies at the Cedar Place School on July 10 and 24.

Senior Citizen Recreation this season includes access to our senior centers; specialist programs including free recreation classes for fitness, computer and arts & crafts; and free seasonal events such as dances, a Senior Picnic and Senior Golden Olympics.

Finally, Camp Pride at P.S. # 28 will be available for developmentally disabled children and adults. Camp activities start on July 1 and include sports, art, tennis, and trips. Transportation is available for Yonkers residents.

The complete brochure may be viewed on the City of Yonkers website by visiting www.yonkersny.gov, then clicking on Recreational Programs on the right side of the page. Further information is available by calling 914-377-6450.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:   CITY OF YONKERS RECOGNIZED BY STATE AND NATIONAL PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERING SOCIETIES FOR SAW MILL RIVER DAYLIGHTING.

Daylighting Project is Recipient of 2013 New York State Society of Professional Engineers’ “Outstanding Engineering Achievement Award” and Earns “National Recognition Award” by American Council of Engineering Companies.

YONKERS, NY – April 23, 2013 –  The City of Yonkers and its Department of Engineering, once again, will be recognized for its engineering efforts in successfully daylighting the Saw Mill River in downtown Yonkers, which officially opened in fall 2012. The City will be presented the 2013 “National Recognition Award” tonight, April 23 at the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) Engineering Excellence Awards competition in Washington, D.C. In June, the Yonkers Engineering Department again will be honored in Lake Placid, NY, with the 2013 “Outstanding Engineering Achievement Award” presented by the New York State Society of Professional Engineers.

“As a result of the innovative thinking and planning of our engineers, the daylighted Saw Mill River, now known as Van Der Donck Park, is a more natural, open-air environment that provides ecological as well as community benefits and advances the City’s plan for social and economic progress,” said Mayor Spano. “I am proud that our team’s innovation is being recognized for creating an urban gem and a centerpiece to our downtown area’s revitalization. Congratulations to all those involved in making this project Yonkers’ biggest success in recent years.”

Yonkers City Engineer, Paul Summerfield, added, “It is a tremendous honor to be associated with this unique project. These awards are a testament to the hard work and vision of all those involved at the City level, as well as to the consultants and contractors who worked cooperatively to accomplish a truly memorable public works project that continues the rejuvenation of our downtown area.”

The Daylighting of the Saw Mill River is a new urban river and park through the center of downtown Yonkers, in which the Saw Mill River was once buried beneath the City in the 1920s. The City of Yonkers and PS&S, the City’s consulting engineer, were faced with several challenges when approached with the project, including a wide range of river flows, peak flooding conditions common to urban watersheds, as well as tidal influence of the Hudson River. The award-winning engineers maintained the existing underground flume and diverted peak flows through the flume to avoid potentially hazardous flooding in the new park. ELQ Industries of New Rochelle served as the contractor.

Earlier this year, the City of Yonkers was awarded “Project of the Year” by the Westchester/Putnam Chapter of the New York State Society of Professional Engineers.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: YONKERS MAYOR SPANO LAUNCHES MOBILE TAX OFFICE,  FRIDAY, APRIL 26 AT COYNE PARK COMMUNITY CENTER FROM  7:30AM-7:30PM.

YONKERS, NY – April 23, 2013 – Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano today announced he is launching a Mayor’s Mobile Tax Office, the first of its kind to be held Friday, April 26 at the Coyne Park Community Center at 777 McLean Avenue, Yonkers. The City’s Office of Constituent Services Office and the City’s Tax Department will be available on Friday from 7:30AM – 7:30PM to meet with Yonkers residents and accept payments for their Westchester County taxes, which are due April 29^th.

“In an effort to increase accessibility, the Mobile Tax Office brings City Hall to your neighborhood,” said Mayor Spano. “Our responsive constituent services and tax teams will be available to work one-on-one with residents to address issues relating to their County taxes and act as a convenient one-stop shop for our residents.”

While stationed at Coyne Park, the Mayor’s Office of Constituent Services will be able to offer assistance with a wide range of issues, serving as a link between the general public and government agencies. The office provides a convenient and effective mechanism for receiving, responding to and helping fulfill requests for services and information.

Mayor Spano said, “In addition to the convenience the Mobile Tax Office provides, we want to raise awareness of the helpful services available for residents in need of assistance.”

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  YONKERS MAYOR SPANO DIRECTS ZONING ORDINANCE REVIEW COMMITTEE TO AMEND CURRENT ZONING CODE.

Public Forums to be Held Wednesday, April 24 at Yonkers Riverfront Library and Thursday, May 23 at Will Library from 7PM-9PM.

YONKERS, NY – April 17, 2013 – Mayor Mike Spano today announced the Department of Planning and Development will spearhead the modification of the City’s current zoning code and will hold two public forums to receive feedback from the general public on zoning matters. The forums will be held Wednesday, April 24 at Yonkers Riverfront Library from 7PM-9PM and on Thursday, May 23 at Will Library from 7PM-9PM.

 “I have asked our planning professionals to tune-up what is acknowledged to be a good zoning ordinance, just one that needs to catch up with the times,” said Mayor Spano. “The only way to test a complicated law like a zoning ordinance is to put it into use, catch the errors and fix them. We welcome those who are working with the ordinance on a frequent basis to attend the public forums so we can potentially incorporate the public’s recommendations.”

The Yonkers Zoning Ordinance, last amended in 2000, is the primary land use control document for any development or use of property in the City.  Over the 12 years of its use, new land uses have come into prominence and aspects of the ordinance are perceived to be outdated, inconsistent or overtly inhibitive to business. By amending the zoning ordinance, the City can alleviate the concerns of small businesses, home owners and developers.

Wilson Kimball, Acting Commissioner of Planning and Development said, “We are looking to firm up the text of the zoning code and hope that anyone who has information will tell us their issues with the ordinance.  The work that we are doing is about the text of the ordinance – the zoning map will be dealt with at a later time.”

The City’s Zoning Ordinance Review Committee has been reviewing the ordinance since earlier this year and now is looking to the public to provide their insight. The committee consists of the Department of Planning and Development Commissioner, the Department of Housing and Building Commissioner, the Planning Bureau Director, the Planning Board Chairman, the Zoning Board Chairman, and a representative from the Engineering Department, Corporation Counsel and the Mayor’s Office. The committee expects the revised Yonkers Zoning Ordinance to be completed in 2013.

Comments may also be offered ahead of time to the Yonkers Planning Bureau at 914-377-6555 or by mail at 87 Nepperhan Avenue, Room 320, Yonkers, NY 10701.

For Immediate Release:   April 17, 2013.

Yonkers IDA to Help Kimball Theater Site Go from Movies to Move-ins.

The Yonkers Industrial Development Agency (YIDA) today gave initial approval to assisting construction of a 14 story, 220 unit, mixed-use residential and commercial tower on the site of the former Kimball Movie Theater on Yonkers Avenue just west of the Bronx River Parkway.

The Cottage International Development Group envisions the Kimball Residences as market rate rental apartments, and has already obtained needed variances from the City’s Zoning Board and approvals from the Planning Board. It expects to begin construction by year’s end.

The YIDA will assist with the project by providing a sales tax exemption worth an estimated $1.5 million on construction materials to be used for the rental apartment complex, as well as an $875,000 mortgage tax exemption. The YIDA also expects to negotiate a PILOT agreement that will allow a phased-in property tax schedule.

The 270,000 square foot project will total $72 million when the costs of land acquisition and construction are figured in.

“This project is extremely significant for Yonkers,” said Mayor Mike Spano, who chairs the Yonkers IDA, explaining, “It will replace an old theater and adjacent properties that have  become an eyesore with 220 units of new market rate housing and commercial space that will anchor this neighborhood for many years to come.”

“Combined with the residential activity underway at the downtown waterfront, this east side project is proof that Yonkers is becoming a hotspot for new development in Westchester County,” said Mayor Spano.

The developer has assembled several contiguous lots at the intersection of Yonkers Avenue and Bronx River Road, centered on the old and dilapidated Kimball Theater that has been empty for many years.

“High quality rental housing, near Metro North as this project will be, attracts  people who want to be close to New York City but who also want the advantage of a suburban location,” said Mayor Spano. “This kind of housing keeps Yonkers attractive to retiring baby boomers looking to downsize, to young professionals starting out, and people who will start families and hopefully stay in Yonkers as their families grow.”

The Cottage International Development Group is Yonkers-based and headed by Thomas Conneally.

Kimball Residences will carry a LEED “green building” certification, making it the city’s first residential tower to be built in accordance with the nationally-recognized environmental sustainability standard.

Yonkers at Heightened Level of Security.

This afternoon two explosive devices were detonated at the Boston Marathon resulting in casualties to those in the vicinity. While information is still developing, additional incidents have been reported around Boston.

While the incidents appear to be isolated, as a precaution the City of Yonkers is at a heightened state of security and Yonkers Police are taking measures to assure the protection and safety of our city and residents.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of the explosions and their families, as well as those emergency responders at the site of the incident at this moment. Please remain alert and as always, immediately report any suspicious activity to law enforcement by dialing 911.

MIKE SPANO
Mayor

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: YONKERS MAYOR MIKE SPANO DELIVERS FISCAL YEAR 2014 EXECUTIVE BUDGET.

Proposed Budget Closes $86 Million Gap with 0.9% Property Tax Increase; No Municipal and Educational Cuts;

Funding to Board of Education Budget to Increase by $17 Million.

YONKERS, NY – April 15, 2013 – Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano today released his Fiscal Year 2014 Executive Budget proposal at a briefing for the City Council at Yonkers City Hall. The Executive Budget package proposed significant steps towards fixing inherited structural problems in a balanced manner, while conforming to the property tax cap and increasing the Board of Education budget to restore programs and positions.

“The Fiscal Year 2014 Budget I present to you today closes an $86 million deficit while restoring and reinvesting in programs that support our future and our tax base without placing an undue burden on taxpayers,” said Mayor Spano. “It recognizes that we will never cut or tax our way to prosperity.”

Mayor Spano continues, “This budget provides significant new investment to restore educational programs and positions that have been cut over the years while staying within the property tax cap for the second consecutive year.” The Executive Budget for the Fiscal Year 2014 proposes a 0.9% property tax increase, the lowest property tax increase since 1998.

The Executive Budget amounts to $990,897,222, including a municipal operating budget of $460,952,064, an increase of 1% in discretionary spending from Fiscal Year 2013, despite a decrease of $1.2 million in state aid (AIM). The municipal budget includes a total of 1899 positions with some restorations that will enable the City to recover lost revenues and improve quality of life services that long have been ignored in the City.

“The restoration included in the budget will lessen our reliance on costly outsourcing, save millions in the future and provide for more accurate, effective and timely city services,” said Mayor Spano.

Board of Education;  The Executive Budget includes a $529,945,158 appropriation for the Board of Education, 53.5% of the total City budget, and keeps the City’s commitment to education.

The FY 2014 Executive Budget includes a $17.4 million increase in education funding over Fiscal Year 2013, which is a 3.2% increase overall and a 2.4% increase to the City’s Maintenance of Effort.

“For the second consecutive year we have put forth a budget that restores cuts made in prior years,” said Mayor Spano. “With these additional education dollars, we are providing resources for the Board of Education to build on the 60 positions restored last year and restore Pupil Support Services.

We are also working with the Board of Education to restore sports programs and continue our negotiations with the Governor and State legislative leaders to provide for full-day pre-k, which is a top priority of our administration.”

Closing the 2014 Budget Gap: In order to close the estimated $86 million budget gap projected for 2014, the City is utilizing New York State’s recently approved pension smoothing plan resulting in a the deferral of $22 million in pension costs;

the use of $39 million of the City’s and Board of Education’s fund balances; the bonding for payment of $10 million in tax certioraris; and $15 million less for expenses in the Board of Education as compared to their multi-year forecast.

“As I have stated in the past, the City’s long addiction to one-shots and borrowing has contributed to our fiscal crisis, but is compounded by unsustainable mandates from the State amounting to $30 million this year alone,” added Mayor Spano.

“It took Yonkers decades to get to this point of fiscal stress and unfortunately, like other cities across the state, it will take some years to get out without a new model for New York’s cities.”

Budget Snapshot:

No eliminations of municipal or Board of Education positions

$17.4 million increase in BOE budget.

Proposed 0.9% increase in property taxes (lowest since 1998)

$990.9 million total budget

$460.9 million municipal budget

$529.9 million public school budget

Restoration and upgrades of services for greater efficiencies include a new tax integration system designed to improve accuracies in the City’s tax billing system;

additional water meter readers to expedite the process of securing more accurate readings and the restoration of Sunday service for Yonkers Public Libraries as well as upgrades to branch facilities such as computers, library books and research materials.

Mayor Spano concluded, “This is a fair and honest budget – staying within the state-mandated tax cap, setting the stage to restore the Yonkers Public Schools and making smart investments that provide better services and increased revenue to support our fiscal future.”

The complete Fiscal Year 2014 Executive Budget can be downloaded at www.yonkersny.gov.

Media Advisory:  YONKERS MAYOR MIKE SPANO TO PRESENT FISCAL YEAR 2014 EXECUTIVE BUDGET MESSAGE MONDAY, APRIL 15.

Mayor Mike Spano will propose his Executive Budget Message for the Fiscal Year 2014 this Monday, April 15 at 11:00AM in the Mayor’s Reception Room at Yonkers City Hall.

In accordance with the Charter of the City of Yonkers, Mayor Spano will present his budget message to the Yonkers City Council, who must pass and adopt a Fiscal Budget by June 1.

WHO: Mike Spano, City of Yonkers Mayor,  Yonkers City Councilmembers, Yonkers Labor Union Leaders & Yonkers Department Heads.

WHAT:  Executive Budget Message for the Fiscal Year 2014.

WHERE: Mayor’s Reception Room, 2^nd Floor, Yonkers City Hall, 40 South Broadway, Yonkers, NY

WHEN:    Monday, April 15,  11AM             

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: YONKERS MAYOR SPANO ORGANIZES GREEN NEIGHBORHOOD CLEAN-UP INITIATIVES FOR EARTH MONTH.

Clean-Ups Planned Throughout April Including Yonkers Section of Old Croton Aqueducton April 21, from 9AM-2PM.

YONKERS, NY – April 11, 2013 – Mayor Mike Spano today announced the City of Yonkers’ Green Neighborhoods clean-up initiatives for Earth Month in April. The clean-ups are organized to encourage community involvement and aimed at cleaning neglected vacant properties, city streets and community gardens throughout Yonkers.

“Throughout April and May, we are taking direct action to restore the health and vibrancy of our neighborhoods,” said Mayor Spano. “Whether beautifying a street or trail way, opening a new community garden in place of an abandoned property, planting trees or encouraging greater recycling among residents, we are continuing a partnership with our communities to improve our city and its image.”

This season’s Earth Month is highlighted by the Old Croton Aqueduct Yonkers Clean-Up Day on Sunday, April 21. Residents are encouraged to join the City of Yonkers, Friends of the Old Croton Aqueduct, the New York State Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation, the Yonkers Green Policy Task Force and Starbucks in beautifying the Yonkers section of the trail. Volunteers are encouraged to register at www.volunteer-center.org or on-site that day, starting at 9AM at the Lenoir Nature Preserve (19 Dudley Street).

Mayor Spano added, “The Old Croton Aqueduct is a beautiful historic State trailway running through our city that unfortunately has been a hotspot for littering. I am pleased we have gathered a strong group of community stakeholders who are willing to donate their time and resources for the sake of a cleaner, greener trail for all to enjoy. I invite our residents to join our efforts and volunteer that day.”

Additional clean-ups and events scheduled during Earth Month in the City of Yonkers include: ·

Exit/Entrance ramp cleanups – Friday, April 12 – Yonkers DPW crews to clean all exit and entrance ramps into the city including Cross County Parkway, Bronx River Parkway,  New York State Thruway, Saw Mill River Parkway.

Arbor Day Celebrations – Friday, April 26 – Yonkers Department of Parks, Recreation & Conservation to plant trees at:

Fitzpatrick-Tompkins Park with Cross Hill Academy Staff and Students – 9:30AM

Abe Cohen Plaza with the Ludlow Park Association – 11:30AM

Nodine Hill Community Center with Nodine Hill Senior Citizens – 1:00PM

Warburton/Ravine/Woodworth Lots & Streets clean-ups – Saturday, April 27 – with Hudson River Community Association  from 11:00AM – 3:00PM (10:30AM registration at 276 Warburton, Charter School of Educational Excellence)

Bronx River Road clean-up across from Burke’s Restaurant – Saturday, May 11 – Local residents to clean-up the area.

Riverdale Ave. Corridor clean-up – (Date to be Announced) Habitat for Humanity to clean the grassy area from Ludlow to Culver Streets  To assure Yonkers remains clean following the clean-ups, Mayor Spano also is reminding residents to report any instances of illegal dumping to the City’s anti-dumping hotline by calling 914-377-DUMP.

A reward of up to $1,000 is offered for anyone who reports a case of illegal dumping that leads an arrest and conviction.  “If you see something, it pays to say something,” said Mayor Spano. “We must all take part and take pride in keeping our city clean.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: YONKERS FIRE DEPARTMENT TO BEGIN SEMI-ANNUAL FIRE HYDRANT INSPECTIONS MONDAY, APRIL 15.

YONKERS, NY – April 10, 2013 – The City of Yonkers Fire Department today announces the commencement of its semi-annual fire hydrant inspections, set to begin Monday, April 15 throughout the City.

Yonkers firefighters are expected to conduct the inspections Mondays through Fridays until they are completed in June. The program is designed to test all of the hydrants in the City to ensure they are working properly, have proper pressure and can function effectively in the event of a fire.

Residents can expect to see fire trucks and crews of firefighters identifying hydrants on their streets, and opening the hydrants and flowing water during the testing procedure.

Residents may experience fluctuations in water pressure and cloudy or discolored water during the time the inspections are being carried out.

If this occurs, residents are encouraged to run their cold water using the tap at the lowest point of the home or until the water again runs clear.

For more information or questions, residents can contact the Mayor’s Helpline at 914-377-HELP (4357).

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: MAYOR SPANO HONORS YONKERS VOLUNTEERS DURING MAYORS DAY OF RECOGNITION FOR NATIONAL SERVICE.

Mayor Participates in First-Ever Nationwide Mayors Day of Recognition, April 9.

YONKERS, NY – April 9, 2013 – Mayor Mike Spano today announced his selection of Yonkers volunteers for the first annual nationwide Mayors Day of Recognition for National Service, spotlighting the impact of national service and thanking those who serve in their communities. Mayor Spano today honored five local volunteers at City Hall from the community, specifically who donate their time with Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) of Westchester, sponsored by The Volunteer Center of United Way. All of the awarded honorees contribute to Yonkers non-profit organizations, assisting those in the local community.

 ”Today we honor those unsung heroes of Yonkers – the volunteers who give of themselves to their communities each and every day to our children, seniors, neighborhoods and civic issues,” said Mayor Spano. “It is apparent these volunteers selfishly donate their time and demonstrate excellence, leadership and integrity within their community, serving as role models for other residents.”

Mayor Spano recognized the following volunteers for their years of service in the Yonkers:

• ·         Dora Mejicovsky – JCY (Jewish Community Partners of Yonkers)

Ms. Mejicovsky volunteers for five of the six literacy programs for JCY including SMART, Reading Buddies After School, Summer Reading Buddies, Intro2America and its Holocaust Remembrance Program. Ms. Mejicovsky mentored 40 children and donated over 200 hours of service in 2012.

• ·         Gloria Jordan – FSSY (Family Service Society)

Ms. Jordan is a FSSY GrandPower Advocate who educates the public and elected officials about the unique needs of kinship caregivers as well as assists other caregivers to receive the services and benefits they need to keep children with their families and out of the foster care system. Ms. Jordan also is a volunteer with the CFAA intergenerational Fun and Fitness Program for second grade students at Thomas Cornell Academy.

• ·         Maria Ganzi – St. Joseph’s Medical Center

At 85 years old, Ms. Ganzi has been a volunteer of St. Joseph’s Medical Center for over 43 years. Ms. Ganzi volunteers over 40 hours a week in many areas and departments of the Medical Center including Silverspoons, which helps feed nursing home residents; an occupational and physical therapy transporter and rehabilitation assistant; a Eucharistic Minister; and Gift Shop newspaper delivery assistant. Ms. Ganzi also is active in her community, volunteering at community churches such as Mt. Carmel Church, St. Margaret’s of Cortona and at St. Anne’s Sodality.

• ·         Eva Jozsef- Hudson River Museum

For five years, Ms. Jozsef has volunteered for the Docent Council of the Hudson River Museum in Yonkers, presently acting as the Council’s President. A highly educated scientist from Hungary, Ms. Jozsef assists the Museum’s staff to administer the corps of 40 volunteer docents. Ms. Jozsef leads inquiry-based, content-filled tours in art and history, as well as science, conceptually connecting all the disciplines. Her influence on the Museum also is evident with research and planning projects, as she has represented the institution at professional and outreach meetings.

• ·         Wilma Allen – Foster Grandparent Program

A resident of the City of Yonkers for over 40 years, Ms. Allen has volunteered for the Foster Grandparent Program, specifically at Yonkers Public School #9. Ms. Allen works one-on-one with children who need extra assistance in the classroom. Ms. Allen also volunteers each week teaching Sunday School at her church as well as she often leads bake sales for the Charter School of Educational Excellence.

“Last year, RSVP of Westchester’s 850 members gave over 93,000 hours, and that service has been valued at $2.5 million,” said Jeanette Gisbert, The Volunteer Center’s Senior Director of Volunteer and Corporate Engagement.  “Over a quarter of the hours were contributed right here in Yonkers.  It’s a sizeable contribution and we thank Mayor Spano for recognizing the significant work of these volunteers.”

Participating in the first-ever Mayors Day of Recognition for National Service  led by the Corporation for National and Community Service, Mayor Spano today joins mayors across the country spotlighting the impact of national service and thank those who serve in their communities. The five honorees selected by Mayor Spano and are part of RSVP of Westchester through The Volunteer Center of United Way. RSVP is America’s largest volunteer network for people aged 55 and older who give of their time and share their expertise to help solve local community concerns.

Locally, RSVP of Westchester has over 850 volunteers giving their time who are matched to non-profit agencies and their programs based on the skills of the volunteers. RSVP of Westchester volunteers make a positive impact in:
* Independent Living- Helping People Age in Place in Their Community
* Health and Nutrition – Bringing Care, Comfort and Healthy Living to All
* Education and Literacy – Maximizing People’s Potential through Education
* Finance – Building Skills for Fiscal Independence

Residents of all ages can register and volunteer with The Volunteer Center of United Way by visiting the City of Yonkers website atwww.yonkersny.gov.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  YONKERS MAYOR SPANO TO PRESENT FISCAL YEAR 2014 EXECUTIVE BUDGET MESSAGE MONDAY, APRIL 15 AT CITY HALL.

Budget Presentation to be Available LIVE on City Hall TV Ch. 78 and at www.YonkersNY.gov.

YONKERS, NY – April 4, 2013 — Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano today announced that he will propose his Executive Budget Message to the Yonkers City Council for the Fiscal Year 2014 Monday, April 15 at 11:00AM at Yonkers City Hall.

In accordance with the Charter of the City of Yonkers, Mayor Spano will present his budget message to the Yonkers City Council, which must pass and adopt a Fiscal Budget by June 1.

“With an $86 million budget deficit, we have a tough task ahead of us to fill the gap while providing the services that our Yonkers taxpayers deserve,” said Mayor Spano.

“Our goal is to propose a fair and honest budget that will address our city’s top concerns including the education of our students and our residents’ quality of life.”

For the first time since taking office, Mayor Spano’s Executive Budget presentation will be available live to residents on City Hall TV Channel 78 on Cablevision and stream live at www.yonkersny.gov.

Mayor Spano’s proposed Executive Budget will be his second since taking office last year. The complete Fiscal Year 2014 Executive Budget will be available at www.yonkersny.gov on April 15.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: YONKERS CITY HALL CLOCK TOWER LIGHTS UP CITY SKYLINE BLUE IN RECOGNITION OF WORLD AUTISM AWARENESS DAY, APRIL 2.

As Voted on by Yonkers Residents, Clock Tower Also To Be Light Up April 5th- 7th in New York Yankee Blue as Salute to 2013 Season Opener.

YONKERS, NY — April 2, 2013 – The City of Yonkers is lighting up the City sky tonight, April 2 in recognition of World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD). The City Hall clock tower will glimmer in blue as the City shines a light on autism as a growing global health crisis, the need to increase and develop world knowledge of the autism epidemic and the importance of early diagnosis and early intervention.

“It is days like this that we need to stand together as a community and remember those who suffer from this serious developmental disability,” said Mayor Spano.

“With many of us knowing as least one child who suffers from autism, lighting our City clock tower blue is a simple yet poignant gesture recognizing the millions of children who suffer each day and the support we can provide them.”

Autism now affects 1 in 88 children and 1 in 54 boys and is the fastest-growing serious developmental disability in the U.S. The World Autism Awareness Day resolution, passed by the United Nations in 2007, encourages all Member States to take measures to raise awareness about autism throughout society and to encourage early diagnosis and early intervention.

Additionally, WAAD celebrates the unique talents and skills of persons with autism and is a day when individuals with autism are warmly welcomed and embraced in community events around the globe.The City of Yonkers will shine blue again later this week when the City Hall clock tower illuminates in the New York Yankee colors.

From April 5 -7, the tower will proudly display Yankee blue in honor of the team’s Facebook poll victory.

In salute to the opening of the 2013 baseball season, the City hosted a poll on its Facebook page, www.facebook.com/cityofyonkers, asking residents which New York baseball team they root for – the New York Yankees won with nearly 75% of the vote.

Last month, Mayor Spano announced during his State of the City address that Yonkers is replacing 12,000 street lights with new energy-efficient LED lamps.

The new lights will be brighter, and they will save $12 million over the next ten years. This project also includes lighting the City Hall clock tower which will not only save dollars, but bring a new colorful look to the night sky. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: YONKERS MAYOR MIKE SPANO CALLS ON YONKERS SMALL BUSINESSES TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF FREE ENERGY UPGRADES.

YONKERS, NY – April 2, 2013 – Mayor Mike Spano today called on small business owners to take advantage of Con Edison’s energy efficiency program to reduce their costs and protect the environment. Since July 2012, more than 330 Yonkers businesses have completed energy and cost-saving projects with the help of Con Edison’s Green Team. 

Con Edison has distributed $900,000 in incentives to Yonkers small business customers in that time, resulting in 5,961,000 KWh in savings. Even simple steps, such as upgrading to energy-efficient lighting, can mean significant savings for a business.

“I’d like small businesses in Yonkers to know that they can reduce their energy costs significantly with Con Edison’s energy-efficiency program,” Mayor Spano said. “If more of our small businesses take advantage of the program and the incentives it offers, it will help our local economy thrive and contribute to a cleaner environment.”

Advantages of the program to small businesses include: 

A FREE ON-SITE ENERGY EFFICIENCY SURVEY. 

FREE LIGHTING / FREE ENERGY SAVING UPGRADES. 

INCENTIVES FOR UP TO 70% OFF ADDITIONAL UPGRADES.

“We commend and thank Mayor Spano for helping us promote our small business energy-efficiency program,” said John H. Banks, Con Edison’s vice president, Government Relations.

“Our program offers small businesses a great opportunity to cut their energy usage, reduce their bills and protect the environment. They can add the money they save to their bottom line or invest it back in their businesses.”

The City of Yonkers has undertaken a number of energy efficiency upgrades to City facilities. The first phase, being implemented in partnership with the New York Power Authority (NYPA), includes energy saving upgrades to nine city buildings, including new color changing LED lights for the City Hall clock tower. 

The project also provides for new City Hall Windows, lighting replacements, and controls to better manage energy use in City buildings.

The upgrades are projected to save taxpayers $320,000 over the first five years and cut the carbon footprint of these nine city buildings by 12 percent or 700 tons. Con Edison has energy-efficiency programs for nearly every customer.

For information, call the Green Team at 1-877-870-6118 or go to http://www.coned.com/greenteam.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: MAYOR SPANO KICKS OFF YONKERS ON THE MOVE’S SEASON WITH WALKING CHALLENGE, WEDNESDAY, APRIL 3 AT CITY HALL.

Event Begins Yonkers on the Move’s “Walk 20,” Challenging Residents toWalk 20 Miles by May 31.

YONKERS, NY – April 1, 2013 – Mayor Mike Spano announced today he will officially start the Yonkers on the Move walking season with its first walk challenge of the year Wednesday, April 3 at 10AM. The walk challenge will start at City Hall and route through downtown Yonkers to the Yonkers Riverfront Library and back.

“Spring is finally here and what better way to promote healthier living and exercise than to get outside, enjoy the weather and walk with your fellow residents and friends,” said Mayor Spano. “I applaud our community leaders for initiating a campaign that encourages wellness among our residents, one step at a time.”

Yonkers on the Move is a citywide walking campaign promoting a healthier lifestyle. Wednesday’s event also serves as a kick off to the Yonkers Walk 20 Challenge, in which participants are encouraged to walk 20 miles by the end of May.

Participants of the Walk Challenge will receive a free Healthy Steps Passport to log their miles. Those who record 20 miles on the Passport between April 3 and May 31 will receive special recognition and be eligible for a drawing of prizes. The citywide goal for the Yonkers on the Move 2013 walk season is 2,000 miles.

To assist residents in reaching their walking goals, Yonkers on the Move also is hosting a new walking tour series called the Holy Yonkers Walk, Thursday, April 4 starting at 12:45PM. The walk features a unique walk-tour that showcases the diversity of the community of faith in Yonkers. Knowledgeable tour guides will present the history, lore, legends and architecture of the faith-based structures. Residents who want to participate should meet at Sacred Heart Church on Shonnard Ave, where they will continue to St. Michael Ukrainian Catholic Church and Chabad Lubavitch of Yonkers.

Yonkers on the Move Walk Challenge is sponsored by 55Plus Yonkers Connections, Walgreens Westchester American Diabetes Association, Livable Communities and the City of Yonkers. Yonkers 55Plus is a program staffed by Saint Joseph’s Medical Center and the Community Planning Council of Yonkers made possible by the Helen Andrus Benedict Foundation.

For details on how to participate in the Yonkers Walk Challenge, residents are encouraged to visit www.walkyom.org for more information.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  MAYOR SPANO EXPANDS CITY’S SOCIAL MEDIA OUTREACH.

 City of Yonkers Pages Launches New Pages on Tumblr, Instagram and Flickr.

 YONKERS, NY – March 28, 2013 – Mayor Mike Spano today announced the City of Yonkers is expanding its presence on social media by launching new pages on sites including Tumblr, Instagram and Flickr. The City also launched a new problem solver application on its Facebook page for residents to express concerns or issues.

 “As I stated in the State of the City last week, City Hall isn’t just a physical address,” said Mayor Spano. “It’s even more than a web address — it’s at your fingertips at any social media site. We are using technology to bring residents and visitors better and faster information about city services and events, while providing alternate outlets for them to express their needs and concerns.”

Since rebranding the City’s Facebook and Twitter sites last year, the City has utilized social media to launch resident contests, conduct polls, and share news and photos regarding community events.

Referring to the new pages on Tumblr, Instagram and Flickr, Mayor Spano added, “We anticipate our presence on these additional sites will extend our reach throughout the City, particularly with our younger, more mobile and tech-savvy residents.”

Mayor Spano encourages residents to keep up to date on news and events regarding he City of Yonkers by following:

Tumblr (blog) – http://mayormikespano.tumblr.com/

Instagram (mobile photos) – http://instagram.com/mayormikespano

Twitter – https://twitter.com/CityofYonkers

Twitter – https://twitter.com/MayorMikeSpano

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cityofyonkers

Facebook “Problem Solver” app – http://www.facebook.com/cityofyonkers/app_143087432526451

Flickr (photos) – http://www.flickr.com/photos/cityofyonkers/

The City of Yonkers found electronic communications to be a tremendous resource during 2012’s Superstorm Sandy and other emergency situations such as the August water main break.

For Immediate Release:  March 27, 2013.

YONKERS IDA ASSISTS RELOCATION AND EXPANSION OF FAST LINEN.

A Bronx-based linen service will move to Yonkers and significantly expand its workforce with assistance given the go-ahead today from the Yonkers Industrial Development Agency.

Fast Linen Service, Inc. plans to purchase a 32,000 square foot property at 945 Nepperhan  Avenue in Yonkers to replace its current 6,000 square foot leased location on White Plains Road in the Bronx.  The company expects its move to Yonkers will allow it to eventually triple its sales.

Fast Linen expects to provide 42 full time equivalent jobs once it completes the move. This compares to 30 employees at the current location.  The project will also provide an estimated five construction jobs.

“This is a win for Yonkers and the region,” said Mayor Mike Spano who chairs the Yonkers IDA, “Current employees can stay with the company, yet people will also be able to obtain the new jobs that will result from the larger location. Fast Linen expects to triple its sales, and we are glad they have chosen Yonkers as the place to do that.”

The Yonkers IDA intends to provide an estimated $45,810 in mortgage tax exemptions and   $61,975 in sales tax exemptions on materials used in construction and renovation of the new location at 945 Nepperhan Avenue.  Fast Linen expects to spend $3.6 million to purchase and renovate the property. The IDA also expects to negotiate a temporary property tax abatement.

The jobs brought to Yonkers will pay between $18,000 and $50,000 a year, with a total estimated payroll of $1.05 million annually. “Providing about a hundred thousand dollars in tax incentives to bring more than forty jobs to Yonkers is a good return for the City,” said Spano, “This is an example of the City and the IDA helping   business grow in Yonkers.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:   YONKERS FIRE DEPARTMENT WARNS BUSINESSES OF POSSIBLE UNAUTHORIZED FIRE EXTINGUISHER INSPECTIONS.

YONKERS, NY – March 14, 2013 – The Yonkers Fire Department today issued warnings to City businesses regarding possible unauthorized fire extinguisher inspection visits to their businesses.

Within the last month, the Yonkers Fire Department has received reports that local businesses have been visited by representatives of portable fire extinguisher servicing companies and have been victim of high pressure sales tactics to recharge or replace fire extinguishers that are not required by code to be recharged or replaced. Merchants are also being pressured to buy more portable fire extinguishers for their store than the Fire Code requires, which are sold at highly inflated prices.

“It is our responsibility to keep our residents informed of potential scams and frauds,” said Robert Sweeney, Commissioner, of Yonkers Fire Department. “In this case, please be aware that the Yonkers Fire Department does not send private companies, such as portable fire extinguisher servicing companies, to conduct official Yonkers Fire Department inspections. If you suspect a possible scam, please report it.”

Portable fire extinguishers may be purchased at a wide variety of retail stores, including most hardware stores, or they can be purchased from companies which directly sell portable fire extinguishers.

Section 906 of the Fire Code of New York State, entitled “Portable Fire Extinguishers” and the National Fire Protection Association covers the requirements for the inspection, maintenance, recharging and hydrostatic testing of portable fire extinguishers. The New York State Fire Codes may be viewed at http://publicecodes.citation.com/st/ny/st/index.htm. Yonkers businesses are encouraged to review these codes to ensure they fulfill the necessary requirements.

For additional information or assistance relating to Fire Safety and/or Fire Prevention matters, residents and businesses may contact the Yonkers Fire Department Fire Prevention Division during business hours at 914-377-7525 or 914-377-7526.

If a business would like to report a suspected fraudulent inspector, they should contact the Yonkers Consumer Protection Bureau at914-377-3000.

For Immediate Release: YONKERS MAYOR SPANO RETURNS TO ALBANY TODAY TO LOBBY FOR ADDITIONAL DOLLARS AS STATE HEADS INTO BUDGET NEGOTIATIO​NS.

Mayor Asks for Aid in Education and City Fundingas Yonkers Faces $86 Million Budget Shortfall.

YONKERS, NY – March 11, 2013 – Mayor Mike Spano today heads to Albany for two days to continue his lobbying efforts for additional funds for the City of Yonkers. Mayor Spano’s trip this week marks the fourth time this year he has visited state leaders in Albany.

“It is my responsibility as the mayor of this great city to act on behalf of our taxpayers and vie for the dollars that Yonkers needs,” said Mayor Spano.

“Yonkers is at a fiscal crossroad and we ask our legislative leaders to recognize the needs of the City and its residents. Every additional dollar we get from the Albany is one less that our local property taxpayers have to bear.”

Mayor Spano’s visit will include meetings with legislative leaders and members of the state delegation. He will focus his lobbying on the needs of the Yonkers Public Schools, including restoring full day prekindergarten and additional aid for essential programs such as ELL (English Language Learners).

As he has in his previous trips, Mayor Spano also will discuss the need for relief in the rising costs of unfunded state mandates, such as pensions and healthcare costs. Mayor Spano added, “As we face an $86 million deficit for the 2013-2014 fiscal year, no time is better than now to meet with our elected officials and fight for the funding that will not only benefit the City of Yonkers but New York State as well.

As our great Governor has said in the past, the health of the State is incumbent on the health of all its cities.

As the fourth largest city in the State, Yonkers is vital to the health of all of New York.” Last week, Mayor Spano, the School Superintendent and the Yonkers City Council hosted a meeting in Yonkers with the four members of the City’s New York State legislative delegation, Senators Andrea Stewart-Cousins and George Latimer and Assembly members Gary Pretlow and Shelley Mayer, to discuss the City’s budget issues.

The New York State Legislature is scheduled to vote on this year’s budget by the end of March.

MAYOR SPANO REQUESTS COMMISSION OF INQUIRY INTO THE FINANCES OF THE CITY OF YONKERS TO CONDUCT INDEPENDENT REVIEW OF YONKERS PUBLIC SCHOOLS (YPS) PROPOSAL TO REBUILD SCHOOLS.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: MAYOR SPANO REQUESTS COMMISSION OF INQUIRY INTO THE FINANCES OF THE CITY OF YONKERS TO CONDUCT INDEPENDENT REVIEW OF YONKERS PUBLIC SCHOOLS (YPS) PROPOSAL TO REBUILD SCHOOLS.

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YPS’ Yonkers PRIDE: Performance-based Rapid Infrastructure Development Enterprise Outlines Options for Capital Infrastructure Improvements Estimating Up to $1 Billion.

YONKERS, NY – March 8, 2013 – Mayor Mike Spano today announced his request to the Commission of Inquiry into the Finances of the City of Yonkers to conduct an independent fiscal review of the Yonkers Public Schools’ recently released study on infrastructure improvements to city schools, entitled Yonkers PRIDE: Performance-based Rapid Infrastructure Development.

“This is an ambitious proposal and I’ve been looking forward to reviewing the alternative options to update our schools. While I recognize the critical importance of devising innovative and expedited solutions for the extraordinary capital needs of our schools, the City’s need to frame solutions which promote fiscal stability is paramount,” said Mayor Spano. “It is incumbent upon me as Mayor to do my due diligence and vet this proposal to see what is best for both our public school system and our taxpayers as we navigate our city back onto the road of fiscal stability.”

Under current law, the Mayor and the City Council are responsible to taxpayers for decisions of large scale borrowing for school systems. The Yonkers PRIDE proposal changes that system. By requesting the Commissioner’s review of the proposal, the Mayor is seeking a better understanding of the fiscal implications of that change for the Yonkers taxpayers and the City’s school children.

Mayor Spano added, “The commission’s earlier work in clarifying the size of Yonkers’ structural imbalances was invaluable. We believe they can make similar contributions when reviewing the YPS proposal.”

The Yonkers Public Schools this week submitted the proposal to Mayor Spano for consideration of the administration. The 144-page report outlines various options for a proposed Phase I capital infrastructure improvement project, which would address substandard conditions in six YPS schools at a cost up to $1 billion.

In 2012, Mayor Spano convened the Commission of Inquiry on the City of Yonkers Finances, led by former Lieutenant Governor Richard Ravitch, former New York State Assemblyman Richard Brodsky, Jay Bryant and Taurrus Richardson and several experts in local and state finances in order to obtain a more in depth look at the City’s finances.

The City of Yonkers currently estimates an $86 million budget shortfall for 2013-2014, and a four-year budget gap of approximately $500 million by 2016. Yonkers’ budget for the current fiscal year is $955 million while the Yonkers Public School budget is $490 million.

*Note: Copies of Mayor Spano’s request for review to the Commission of Inquiry is attached to this email, as well as the Commission’s response.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  CITY OF YONKERS RECOGNIZED BY NEW YORK STATE SOCIETY OF PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS FOR DAYLIGHTING OF SAW MILL RIVER.

Daylighting Awarded “Project of the Year” by Westchester/Putnam Chapter at Annual Ceremony Friday, February 22.

YONKERS, NY – February 21, 2013 – The City of Yonkers and its City Engineer Department will be presented “Project of the Year” Friday, February 22 by the Westchester/Putnam Chapter of the New York State Society of Professional Engineers.

The award comes as recognition for the Daylighting of the Saw Mill River in downtown Yonkers, which officially opened in fall 2012.

Deputy Mayor Sue Gerry and City Engineer Paul Summerfield will be in attendance to accept the award, which will be presented at an award ceremony at the Westchester Manor Friday evening. PS&S was the consulting engineer used to execute the project and ELQ Industries of New Rochelle served as the contractor.

“As a result of the innovative thinking and planning of our engineers, the daylighted Saw Mill River, now known as Van Der Donck Park, is a more natural, open-air environment that provides ecological as well as community benefits and advances the City’s plan for social and economic progress,” said Mayor Spano.

“I look forward to this urban gem becoming the centerpiece to our downtown area’s revitalization. Congratulations to all those involved in making this project Yonkers’ biggest success in recent years.”

The Daylighting of the Saw Mill River is a new urban river and park through the center of downtown Yonkers, in which the Saw Mill River was once buried beneath the City in the 1920s.

The City of Yonkers and PS&S were faced with several challenges when approached with the project, including a wide range of river flows, peak flooding conditions common to urban watersheds, as well as tidal influence of the Hudson River.

The award-winning engineers maintained the existing underground flume and diverted peak flows through the flume to avoid potentially hazardous flooding in the new park.  February 17 – February 23 is recognized as National Engineer’s Week.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:    YONKERS MAYOR SPANO HOSTS YONKERS HEART HEALTH AWARENESS DAY.

Free Blood Pressure Screenings Available at Will Library and Chema Center Wednesday, February 20th.

YONKERS, NY – February 19, 2013 – Mayor Mike Spano today announced the City of Yonkers, in partnership with Yonkers Community Health Center Network and St. John’s Riverside Hospital, will host Yonkers Heart Health Awareness Day tomorrow, Wednesday, February 20th from 10am to 1pm. Free blood pressure screenings will be offered to residents at the Grinton I. Will Library, 1500 Central Park Avenue, and the Peter Chema Community Center, 435 Riverdale Avenue.

“Heart Disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women, but despite the daunting numbers it’s preventable and controllable,” said Mayor Spano. “Yonkers Heart Health Awareness Day aims to not only offer free health services, but also raise awareness of the many resources and information available to better protect your health.”

According to the American Heart Association, about 715,000 Americans have a heart attack every year and about 600,000 die from heart disease in the United States each year—that’s 1 out of every 4 deaths. Cardiovascular disease, including heart disease and stroke, costs the United States $312.6 billion each year in cost of health care services, medications, and lost productivity.

These conditions also are leading causes of disability, preventing Americans from working and enjoying family activities.  Yonkers Heart Health Awareness Day is being held in conjunction with American Heart Month which takes place through the month of February.

Mayor Spano is encouraging residents to follow a plan for prevention as released by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention – www.cdc.gov/features/heartmonth.

For more information on Yonkers Hearth Health Day, contact the Mayor’s Office of Constituent Services at (914) 377-6010.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CITY OF YONKERS ISSUES REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR COMMUNITY HOUSING DEVELOPMENT ORGANIZATIONS (CHDO) TO ACT AS ADMINISTRATORS FOR CITY’S AFFORDABLE HOUSING PROJECTS.

YONKERS, NY – February 19, 2013 – The City of Yonkers today announced its release of a Request for Proposal (RFP) for Community Housing Development Organizations to act as a third party administrator for affordable housing and neighborhood projects for the 2012-2013 HOME Investment Partnerships Program funding cycle.

The City of Yonkers is a participant in the HOME Investments Partnerships Program, which expands the supply of decent affordable housing, strengthening the abilities of State and local governments to design and implement strategies for achieving adequate supplies of decent affordable housing. A minimum of 15 percent of the HOME program must be allocated for housing development activities in which qualified CHDO are the owners, developers and/or sponsors of an eligible project.

The CHDO selected will be expected to be the City’s partner in relation to the City’s affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization goals. “The City of Yonkers is looking for innovative and strategic ideas to improve the livelihood of our residents,” said Mayor Spano.

“With the right organization and plans, we will be able to provide housing that will encourage families to live, work and raise a family here in Yonkers.”

The 2012-2013 funding availability is a minimum of $150,000 and the City has the discretion to increase the amount, as well as determining the eligibility criteria in which allocations are provided. The RFP due date is March 15, 2013.

For more information on the newly released RFPs, visit http://www.yonkersny.gov/Index.aspx?page=2825 .

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  2013 “YONKERS GOT TALENT” KICKS-OFF CITY-WIDE TALENT COMPETITION SEARCH.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 23.

Yonkers Department of Parks, Recreation & Conservation Hosts Search forFor Next Singing and Dancing Sensations:“Yonkers Idol” & “Yonkers Best Dance Crew”

YONKERS, NY – February 13, 2013 – Mayor Mike Spano today announced the kick-off of the “Yonkers Got Talent” 2013 Talent Competitions, searching for the City’s next singing and dancing sensations.

On Saturday, February 23, Yonkers Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation will host the kick-off party of this year’s city-wide talent competitions for teens and pre-teens, “Yonkers Idol” and “Yonkers Best Dance Crew.” The program is conducted in collaboration with the Untermyer Performing Arts Council. “The time has come for our youth to showcase their talent to the City of Yonkers,” said Mayor Spano. “These competitions provide immeasurable experience for our young residents and I encourage all those who have the dream to perform, to audition and show us just how talented Yonkers is.”

Starting at 5:20pm at E.J. Murrays Skating Center at 378 Tuckahoe Road, the kick-off party will feature karaoke, ice skating, a competition information session and an opportunity for aspiring participants to practice for their auditions.

Registration is free and open for Yonkers residents only. Residents can reserve attendance to the kick-off party by emailing yonkersgottalent@gmail.com.

This year, Yonkers is searching for stellar singers for its “Yonkers Idol” and “Junior Idol” search which is set to begin March 2 at the first-round live audition. Holding the titles for a year, “Yonkers Idol” and “Junior Idol” winners perform at various City of Yonkers ceremonies and events.

Dancers also will have a chance to demonstrate their quick feet auditioning in the “Yonkers Best Dance Crew” competition. Video submissions are due by March 15.  “Yonkers Got Talent” is a city-run program, co-funded by sponsors. The Untermyer Performing Arts Council awards the winners with cash prizes from the Theresa Fund. Sound Associates Inc. & Altman Rentals provide professional sound and lighting for the finale show.

Finalists are transported to the finale show by Top Class Limo Inc. For more details on the talent search, visit www.yonkersgottalent.com, www.yonkersidol.com or visit the City’s website at www.yonkersny.gov.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CITY OF YONKERS ANNOUNCES CANCELLATIONS AND CLOSURES FOR PENDING BLIZZARD.

YONKERS, FEBRUARY 7, 2013 – Mayor Mike Spano today announced cancellations and closures of city programs and services due to the pending blizzard that is expected to hit the northeast region, starting tomorrow, February 8. “For the safety of our residents, the City of Yonkers is proactively cancelling its scheduled programs and services due to the expected storm,” said Mayor Spano.

“I urge all our residents to avoid unnecessary travel, and exercise caution if they do have to drive. Today is the day to prepare our homes and vehicles for the storm, so we can allow our city workforce to do their jobs and keep us safe tonight through Saturday.”

The following Department of Parks, Recreation & Conservation programs and activities will be cancelled/closed as of 12PM tomorrow, February 8 as well as all day Saturday, February 9:

Pre-K Programs

Senior Centers

Skating Rink

Rifle Range

Yonkers Montessori Academy & Yonkers Avenue Pools

Evening Recreation Programs

Saturday Gym useSaturday Recreation Programs

Project Friendship

At this time, all Parks programs scheduled on Sunday, February 10 will take place. The Office for the Aging (OOA) has cancelled all activities scheduled for Friday.

OOA activities will resume in full operation on Sunday, including the transportation and meal programs. Alternative side of the street parking will be suspended Friday and parking meters will be suspended Friday and Saturday. The Department of Public Works also will close the Organic Waste Disposal Yard (610 Nepperhan Avenue) and Recycling Center (735 Saw Mill River Road) on Saturday.

Additionally, the Yonkers Public Schools today announced early dismissal on Friday. Schools starting at 7:30AM will be dismissed at 11AM, while those starting at 8:30AM will be dismissed at 12PM. Residents are encouraged to contact the Mayor’s Help Line, 377-HELP (4357) with any questions, but are reminded to call 911 for all emergencies.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:    MAYOR SPANO CALLS FOR NOMINATIONS FOR FIRST-EVER YONKERS “WOMAN OF DISTINCTION” AWARD.

Award Winner to Be Announced in March as Part of the City’s Celebration of Women’s History Month;Applications Available at www.YonkersNY.gov.

YONKERS, NY — February 7, 2013 – Mayor Mike Spano today announced the City’ first-ever “Woman of Distinction” Award, to be presented during Women’s History Month in March.  The City of Yonkers Unsung Heroes “Woman of Distinction Award” will recognize women of Yonkers whose distinct achievements have improved the lives of others in the community and whose impact has changed Yonkers for better.

“I am honored to recognize the unsung heroes of Yonkers – the women leaders, activists, counselors and mentors – who give of themselves to our community each and every day,” said Mayor Spano. “The women of Yonkers have made such a positive impact on our City over the years, and it is now time to give them the recognition they so deserve.”

This year’s Women’s History Month marks the centennial celebration of the beginning of the suffrage movement that secured women’s voting rights. The historic women’s suffrage procession down Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, D.C. took place on March 3, 1913, and signaled the pursuit of a new national strategy– a constitutional amendment to win voting rights and a desire for the national spotlight.

In commemoration of the influences and change that have been brought about by Yonkers women, Mayor Spano encourages residents to nominate a Yonkers woman of distinction to receive this year’s inaugural award. The “Woman of Distinction” nomination form is available on the city’s website at www.yonkersny.gov starting today.

Deadline for submission is Wednesday, February 20th. Mayor Spano will award the deserving award winner at a ceremony to be held on Monday, March 4th.  “Women’s History Months recognizes the historic accomplishments of women, and now it is Yonkers’ turn to pay tribute to the local heroes and leaders who live among us each day,” added Mayor Spano.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:     MAYOR SPANO DECLARES MAJOR VICTORY AS NEW YORK STATE’S PUBLIC EMPLOYEE RELATIONS BOARD DECLARES IMPASSE BETWEEN CITY OF YONKERS AND FIRE UNION LOCAL 628.

Mediation to Immediately Address Overall Contract Issues.

YONKERS, NY – February 6, 2013 — Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano today announced a major victory in the effort to reform costly Fire Department labor practices, saying that the New York State Public Employee Relations Board (P.E.R.B.) yesterday issued a ruling siding with the City’s  attempt to declare an impasse and begin the process of mediation and, ultimately, potential binding arbitration.

“We have been saying for several months now that the Fire Union will not agree to meaningful discussions to reform costly and outdated contract provisions that drive up overtime, sick leave, and reduce the effectiveness of the department,” said Mayor Spano.

“Now P.E.R.B. has agreed with the City that there is an impasse, and has given us the ability to address the issues with the assistance of an outside mediator.” Should the mediator be unable to forge a consensus, the Mayor noted, the next step would be binding arbitration in which the City will have the opportunity to seek mandatory rulings from a state-appointed arbitrator.  The P.E.R.B.-supervised process will allow the City to put a wide range of issues on the table, including not only salary, but also minimum manning provisions of the Firefighters’ contract as well as whether the Fire Department should retain first responder status for all medical emergencies.

Consequently, the City will hold off on any attempts to change minimum staffing and first responder status while the mediation process is underway. “The taxpayers deserve a realistic discussion of costly contract provisions that the people can no longer afford, and which reduce productivity,” said Mayor Spano. “Now, with the appointment of a mediator, the City will have a forum to put our issues on the table. If mediation does not produce a result, then the City will have the right to put its case before an arbitrator whose decision will be binding.”  Mayor Spano added, “The bottom line is that the Fire Union leadership’s tactics of delay are over. The City has won the right to put the people’s case before a mediator, and ultimately an arbitrator, so that we can force a decision on these costly practices whether the Union likes it or not.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:    MAYOR SPANO ANNOUNCES YONKERS “VOLUNTEER MATCH” EFFORT WITH THE UNITED WAY VOLUNTEER CENTER.

Online Resource Matches Yonkers Volunteers with Volunteer Opportunities at www.yonkersny.gov.

YONKERS, NY – February 4, 2013 – Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano today announced a new volunteer program, in partnership with the United Way Volunteer Center, that links residents interested in volunteering with volunteer opportunities around the city.

“There are so many ways to get involved with volunteering in Yonkers and there are so many residents that want to give back to their community and help others in need,” said Mayor Spano.

“This program goes beyond offering volunteer opportunities; it simplifies the process of finding the right opportunity for anyone who wants to volunteer.” Residents interested in volunteering can visit the city’s website and be connected to a volunteer search engine that includes a central database of volunteer opportunities offered by 67 community and faith-based organizations throughout Yonkers.

Searches can be narrowed down by a keyword or even a zip code, enabling volunteers to match their interest with a specific location that works for them. Available volunteer opportunities range from services at a soup kitchen, reading to children, assisting seniors, working with the environment and more.

All the volunteer projects are Westchester-based. “The Volunteer Center has a long tradition of supporting volunteerism in Yonkers and we are so pleased that the city will now include a direct link from its website to ours,” said Alisa H. Kesten, Executive Director of the Volunteer Center.

“This will make it so easy for residents of all ages to find wonderful volunteer opportunities that suit their interests and availability and support the needs of vital Yonkers nonprofits.”

The Mayor encourages residents to visit http://www.cityofyonkers.com/Index.aspx?page=2840 to search the site and get involved with volunteering in Yonkers.

For more information or questions on volunteering, residents can contact the Mayor’s Office of Constituent Services at 377-6010.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:    February 1, 2013.

YONKERS MAYOR MIKE SPANO RELEASES STATEMENT ON THE PASSING OF FORMER NEW YORK CITY MAYOR ED KOCH.

“New York City has lost a great leader and champion with the passing of Mayor Koch. He was a talented mayor who worked tirelessly and fearlessly for his City.

We will forever miss his wisdom, wit and character, while his impact on New York will live on for years to come.

Our thoughts and prayers remain with his family and friends.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:    MAYOR MIKE SPANO ANNOUNCES FREE AARP TAX COUNSELING PROGRAM FOR SENIORS.

Yonkers Office for the Aging and Will Branch of the Yonkers Public Library To Run Program from February 4 through April 15.

YONKERS, NY – January 31, 2013 — Mayor Mike Spano announced today that the TAX-AIDE program of the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) will be offered to seniors through the Yonkers Office for the Aging and the Will Branch of the Yonkers Public Library. The program is available starting Monday, February 4 through Monday, April 15.

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, an AARP Foundation program, helps low to moderate income taxpayers have more discretionary income for everyday essentials, such as food and housing, by assisting with tax services and ensuring they receive applicable tax credits and deductions.

“AARP Foundation Tax-Aide is a great opportunity to ensure our seniors are equipped with the comprehensive tools needed to manage their finances,” said Mayor Spano. “This is just one example of how Yonkers continues to strive and provide beneficial services at no cost to our residents.” AARP Foundation Tax-Aide is available free to taxpayers with low and moderate income, with special attention to those 60 and older.

Through a cadre of trained volunteers, AARP Foundation Tax-Aide has helped low to moderate income individuals for more than 40 years in every state and the District of Columbia. Trained volunteer tax counselors will be on hand to assist at the following times and locations:

Mondays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. & 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Office for the Aging at the Chema Center, 435 Riverdale Ave., starting Monday, February 4, 2013.

Tuesdays & Wednesdays 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at the Will Branch of the Yonkers Public Library, 1500 Central Park Avenue, starting Tuesday, February 5, 2013.

All required tax reporting forms will be available at the TAX-AIDE sites. No appointment is necessary. Senior Citizens will be assisted on a first-come/first-serve basis. AARP coordinators for this program request that people bring with them their last year’s tax returns, their W2 and/or 1099 forms, and all other information and documentation concerning their income in 2012.

The free nationwide program is administered through the AARP Foundation in cooperation with the Internal Revenue Service.

For more information, please contact the Yonkers Office for the Aging at (914) 377-6822.

OFFICE OF THE MAYOR CITY HALL 40 S. BROADWAY YONKERS, NY 10701 (914) 377-6300    www.YonkersNY.gov Mayor’s Help Line Have an issue requiring city assistance? Please call the Mayor’s Help Line at 377-HELP (4357) for assistance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Heat Hotline The City of Yonkers has issued a Heat Emergency Hotline for residents experiencing a heating issue in tenant-occupied residential buildings. Please call the hotline at 965-3331 to report a problem. Report Illegal Dumping In an effort to curb dumping, Mayor Spano has launched a new anti-dumping campaign including a new hotline, 377-DUMP, for residents to report dumping in their neighborhood. In addition, the city is offering a reward of up to $1000 for information leading to a conviction and has doubled fines for anyone caught dumping. If you see or have any information regarding illegal dumping in Yonkers please call the hotline 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Meet With The Mayor” Watch “Meet With The Mayor”, a bi-weekly TV show featuring interviews with Mayor Spano and guests on a wide range of issues, as well as important information on what’s happening in Yonkers. The show airs everyday on Channel 78 at 12, 2, 4, 6 & 8 am/pm. Have a question on issue you’d like to ask the Mayor? Email your question to askthemayor@yonkersny.gov and we may ask the Mayor on the next show! Yonkers 2013 Residential Guide The City of Yonkers 2013 Residential Guide is now available. The guide includes a city directory, information on waste and recycling, and an official city calendar. Please CLICK HERE to download a copy. 2012 Crime Stats Announced Major Crimes Down 13%, a 7 Year Low Mayor Spano joined Yonkers Police Commissioner Charles Gardner  and members of the Yonkers Police Department to present 2012 crime statistics. In 2012, Part 1 major crimes were down 13% as compared to the prior year. This is a 7 year low for the city with crime down citywide in each of the four precincts. CLICK HERE to read more. Shared Services $avings Mayor Spano announced a shared services agreement with Westchester County that will save taxpayers over $150,000 a year. “As we work to provide a government that offers quality services at less cost, this agreement is a win-win for Yonkers and all Westchester County taxpayers,” said Mayor Spano. “ Services shared under the agreement include the Human Rights Commission (HRC), Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and Geographic Information Services. Law & Order: SVU at City Hall Mayor Spano welcomes actress Mariska Hargitay and the cast of Law & Order: SVU to Yonkers City Hall where they filmed scenes of a new episode set to air on February 13th, 9PM on NBC. Loans Are Not Gifts MAYOR SPANO RECOMMENDS INSPECTOR GENERAL’S OFFICE TO INVESTIGATE COMMERCIAL LOAN PROGRAM Mayor Mike Spano announced that he recommended the City’s Inspector General (IG) to investigate into 11 outstanding commercial loans, which totaled over $950,000. The commercial loans, approved by the prior administration’s Office of Economic Development, were given to local small businesses in Yonkers. Today, the Department of Inspector General released its findings into the investigation. Currently, six loans are in default, four are current, and one recently became delinquent on its loan. All of the entities that are in default are now either being sued or are in the process of being sued by the City of Yonkers for repayment of what is currently owed. CLICK HERE to read more. CLICK IMAGE TO VIEW

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:    YONKERS MAYOR SPANO RECOMMENDS INSPECTOR GENERAL’S OFFICE TO INVESTIGATE COMMERCIAL LOAN PROGRAM.

City’s Inspector General Releases Report on Findings of Over $650,000 in Defaulted Commercial Loans Provided by Previous Administration.

YONKERS, NY – January 23, 2013 – Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano today announced that he recommended the City’s Inspector General (IG) to investigate into 11 outstanding commercial loans, all of which are currently in default totaling over $650,000.

The commercial loans, approved by the prior administration’s Office of Economic Development, were given to local small businesses in Yonkers.

Today, the Department of Inspector General released its findings into the investigation. “Upon entering office, the negligence of these outstanding loans became very apparent to me,” said Mayor Spano.

“My administration quickly turned this case over to the Commission of Inquiry on the City of Yonkers’ Finances and then to the IG so she could thoroughly investigate the status and oversight of this program.

I want to thank the City’s Inspector General for researching this and putting forward meaningful recommendations so that the City can continue to assist our local businesses in an efficient and properly managed way.”

All of the entities that are in default are now either being sued or are in the process of being sued by the City of Yonkers for repayment of what is currently owed. Mayor Spano added, “Once again, it has become apparent that some businesses took advantage of the generosity of the City and are not paying its fair share back to the Yonkers taxpayers.

It is time for this well-intended program to get back into shape so that our businesses can thrive here in Yonkers.” As noted by the IG, while overseen by the Office of Economic Development, the commercial loan program was not sufficiently managed and organized, and often missing crucial documentation, conflicting terms for commitment of the loan and even confusing language regarding repayment.

As a result of these and additional findings, the Inspector General today issued recommendations that will ensure a more responsible and effective program.

Mayor Spano has already made necessary changes in the way the commercial loans will be managed and operated by the Office of Planning and Development and looks to makes additional changes as recommended by the Inspector General.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:    CITY OF YONKERS DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND BUILDINGS ISSUES HEAT HOTLINE AND HEATING REGULATIONS FOR WINTER SEASON.

YONKERS, NY – JANUARY 22, 2013 – Mayor Mike Spano today announced the City of Yonkers Department of Housing and Buildings is issuing its annual heat complaint hotline and heating regulations for the season for all tenant-occupied residential buildings.

“With the artic weather finally here this season, now more than ever, we need to be mindful that our home environments are safe and warm,” said Mayor Spano.

“I encourage residents to contact the City heat hotline if they feel their home does not meet the building requirements so action can be taken immediately. I also ask those who live near seniors to check on them as good neighbors should and assist them as we deal with the frigid cold hitting our area.”

The City has set up a Heat Emergency telephone number, receiving calls 24-hours a day, seven days a week, for all residences with one or more dwelling units at 914-965-3331.

The Yonkers Housing and Buildings Department also is fielding calls at 914-965-3331 Mondays through Fridays from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM (calls received after 4:30 PM will be addressed the following business day).

Additionally, the NYS Property Maintenance Code Section 602.3 mandates during the period from September 15th to May 31st, that every person, firm or corporation in the City of Yonkers is required to maintain a temperature of no less than 68°F (20°C) in all habitable rooms, bathrooms and toilet rooms. At all other times whenever the outside temperature falls below 55° the inside temperature is to be supplied as follows:

Between 6:00 AM and 11:00 PM - 68°F

Between 11:00PM and 6:00AM - 65°F

Note: Hot water is to be maintained at a minimum temperature of 120°F at all times.

All heating regulations are instituted by the City of Yonkers Housing and Buildings Maintenance Code, Chapter 58-22 Heat Regulations.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MAYOR SPANO:    CITY OF YONKERS TO COMMEMORATE 60TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE END OF THE KOREAN WAR.

YONKERS, NY – January 22, 2013 – Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano today announced the City of Yonkers will mark the 60th Anniversary of the end of the Korean War with a special commemoration in partnership with U.S Department of Defense’s 60th Anniversary of the Korean War Commemoration Committee.

The City will sponsor several programs and events honoring the many Yonkers residents who served our country during the war, 35 of whom were killed in action.

“In recognizing this significant milestone in our nation’s history, this commemoration will bring our city together in tribute to those who bravely served our country overseas during the Korean War,” said Mayor Spano.

“It is proper and fitting to have a commemoration for the sacrifices of so many 60 years ago,” said John Spencer, Yonkers Central Committee of War Veterans, Chairman and former Yonkers Mayor.

“We have many Korean War Veterans in our Central Committee of Veterans Organizations throughout Yonkers who are still of service to the citizens, and I know they all appreciate the commemoration, and especially to those who gave their lives.”

The 60th anniversary commemorating the cease fire of the Korean War is July 27th of this year. The City of Yonkers will host several events and programs including a Veterans breakfast, presentation of medals, memorial ceremony, Korean War exhibit, educational programs, a concert and other events, which will be announced in the coming months.

Mayor Spano is encouraging all Veterans and residents to take part in the historic commemoration. For more information or to register for any of the events, please contact the Mayor’s Office at (914) 377-6058.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  YONKERS MAYOR SPANO CRACKS DOWN ON GRAFFITI.

City Re-Establishes Hotline and Monetary Award for Reporting Forms of Vandalism.

YONKERS, NY – January 17, 2013 –  Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano today announced the re-launch of the City’s graffiti hotline to report the defacing or vandalism of any building structure located within the City of Yonkers. Residents are encouraged to call 914-377-8077 to report any form of graffiti.

A reward of no more than $500 per conviction will be awarded to any person giving information leading to the detection, arrest and conviction of the person guilty of defacing buildings or structures, whether privately or publicly owned.

“Graffiti isn’t just an eyesore, it reflects poorly on our City and our residents and more importantly, it’s offensive to all who live and work in our city,” said Mayor Spano. “We will not tolerate it and will make sure those found violating the law are prosecuted to the fullest extent.”

Once the act of vandalism has been reported, the owner or agent of a building or structure which has been defaced by a writing, painting, drawing, marking, engraving or other form of graffiti must restore the building or structure to a graffiti-free condition after receipt of a graffiti condition notice from the Department of Housing and Buildings, Police Department, Department of Community Services or Office of Licensing.

The owner or agent will then be required to correct the condition within 48 hours. The failure of an owner to comply may subject the owner to a fine of no more than $250 for each offense. Those individuals found guilty of graffiti will be charged with a Class II offense.

Graffiti violations are classified as either a criminal or civil penalties, resulting in fines up to $5000 and even imprisonment for up to 15 days.

The graffiti stipulations are part of Section 72 of the Yonkers City Code. “The re-launch of the City graffiti hotline is part of our mission in providing a quality of life that each of our residents deserves.

I encourage everyone to take pride in their City and report any form of vandalism or graffiti so those responsible for this serious violation are held accountable,” said Mayor Spano. The re-launch of the graffiti hotline comes as the Mayor continues his commitment to his Clean Streets Initiative.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:    MAYOR SPANO ISSUES EXECUTIVE ORDER FOR THE PROMOTION OF MINORITY AND WOMEN OWNED BUSINESSES IN CITY OF YONKERS CONTRACTS AND PROCUREMENTS.

Mayor Spano Establishes Equity and Diversity Officer for City Employment Opportunities;

Technical Assistance Plan Committee Convened by Mayor Spano to Assist with Minority and Women Owned Business Purchasing and Procurements.

YONKERS, NY – January 16, 2013 – Mayor Mike Spano today announced he has issued an executive order which will maximize the opportunities for Minority Business and Business Enterprises (MWBE) to participate in all areas of contracting, goods and services funded by the City of Yonkers.

As part of the new policy, each contract issued or executed by the City of Yonkers will contain a Minority Business Enterprise/Women Business Enterprise tracking form, which surveys the MWBE status of all contactors and must be completed and filed with the City by all contractors prior to the execution of each contract.

“We have a responsibility to develop and maintain equitable practices and policies in the Yonkers marketplace,” said Mayor Spano. “As we know, a diverse business community strengths the economy and is beneficial to the residents of our City.

The implementation of this policy will actively ensure minority business enterprises have a fair share in Yonkers and our workplace.” In an effort to assist in the promotion of the new MWBE order and the City’s commitment to the equality of employment opportunities, Mayor Spano also is appointing an Equity and Diversity Officer who will provide advice, assistance and training on equity and diversity issues to staff and management.

The new role will promote the increased participation of business enterprises owned and controlled by people of color or women in contracts and projects funded by the City of Yonkers. The new role will be managed by the City’s Department of Human Resources Deputy Commissioner, Carlos Moran.

Mayor Spano added, “The addition of this new role will ensure that all City staff work in an environment that values merit rather than on discriminatory perceptions. He/she will work in cooperation with the Human Rights Commission so that any issues are dealt with properly, efficiently and confidentially.”

Additionally, in accordance to the Yonkers City Code, Mayor Spano has appointed a new Technical Assistance Plan Committee, which will develop a plan targeting business enterprises owned and controlled by people of color and/or women to provide educational, technical and informational assistance regarding public bidding, purchasing and procurement requirements through seminars, pamphlets and informational guides.

The Technical Assistance Plan Committee is composed of six members appointed by the Mayor which will include the heads of three City departments, as well as one African-American, one Hispanic and one woman, each of whom shall own or control a business enterprise.

Accordingly, Mayor Spano recently appointed the following members to the newly convened Committee:

Paula Redd Rollins – City of Yonkers Department of Human Resources, Commissioner

John Liszweski – City of Yonkers Department of Finance, Commissioner

Michael Curti – City of Yonkers Corporation Counsel

Judith Ramos Meier  – Office of Judith Ramos Meier, Workers Compensation Representative

Bruce Lord – Grand West Associates, Corporate Real Estate Broker

Cecilia Zuniga – LaPinata Bakery, Owner

“I am confident in the ability of these committee members to educate and assist the many minority and women owned enterprises that seek equal share in the business opportunities available in Yonkers and beyond,” said Mayor Spano. Compliance of the newly issued MWBE executive order will be monitored by the Equity and Diversity Officer.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:    CITY OF YONKERS AWARDED $25,000 GRANT BY AN INNOVATIVE LOCAL SUSTAINABILITY FUND TO ACCELERATE CITY SUSTAINABILITY EFFORTS.

Funds will support the City’s “Love ‘Em and Leave ‘Em” Leaf Mulching Initiative.

YONKERS, NY – January 15, 2013 – Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano today announced that the City, in partnership with the Westchester Community Foundation and the City of New Rochelle, has been awarded a $25,000 grant to support the City’s Love ‘Em and Leave ‘Em Leaf Mulching initiative.

The joint project is one of six proposals from across the nation that was selected for funding.   The funds have been awarded by the Local Sustainability Matching Fund which is a collaborative effort of the Funders’ Network, the Urban Sustainability Directors Network (USDN), Kendeda Fund, New York Community Trust, Summit Foundation, and Surdna Foundation.

The Fund is designed to catalyze partnerships between local governments and local, place-based foundations to advance community-based sustainability initiatives.

The funds will be used to support a training and marketing campaign for on-site leaf mulching that will reduce waste, cut greenhouse gas emissions, and generate cost-savings for property owners, landscapers, and taxpayers.

“We are thankful to the Funder’s Network and the Westchester Community Foundation for recognizing the positive work we are doing here to promote a more sustainable and greener Yonkers,” said Mayor Spano.

“Already, Love ‘Em and Leave ‘Em has become a successful program and this grant will only help us in our continued efforts in lowering our carbon footprint.” “The Westchester Community Foundation is pleased to partner with the cities of Yonkers and New Rochelle in support of ‘Love ‘Em and Leave ‘Em.’  We commend Mayor Spano and Mayor Bramson for their leadership in jointly promoting this low-cost and innovative ‘green’ program that reduces waste while saving homeowners and municipalities money,” said Catherine Marsh, Executive Director of the Foundation.

A total of $245,000 was awarded to six projects across the nation, all funded by the Local Sustainability Matching Fund, a project of the Funders’ Network for Smart Growth and Livable Communities.

Mayor Spano rolled out the new Love ‘Em and Leave ‘Em initiative this past fall as grounds-keeping staff in the City Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation, Department of Public Works and Yonkers Board of Education were trained in the mulching technique.

Love ‘Em and Leave ‘Em is a training and marketing campaign designed to drive behavior change among municipal grounds-keeping staff, landscaping companies, and residential, commercial and institutional land owners.

With the grant funds, Yonkers will provide training seminars and demonstrations with experienced practitioners through direct outreach to landscape professionals and property owners.

The marketing campaign will use a toolkit that is easily accessible on www.leleny.org and includes sample materials including posters, flyers, yard signs, pocket guides, bumper stickers, and instructional videos.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:    MAYOR SPANO SEEKS TO COLLECT OVER $900,000 IN UNPAID REAL ESTATE TRANSFER TAX PAYMENTS FROM YONKERS PROPERTY OWNERS.

Mayor Asks Westchester County to Assist in Collection of City Transfer Taxes;

New Yonkers Legislation Requires Transfer Tax to be Paid within Seven Days of Property Sale.

YONKERS, NY – January 10, 2013 – Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano today announced his administration is pursuing approximately $938,000 in unpaid real estate transfer taxes from 123 Yonkers property owners.

“It has come to the attention of the administration that, once again, there are individuals and businesses who believe they can bypass the system and avoid paying a tax that goes directly into our funding stream,” said Mayor Spano. “Time has come for this to stop. I’ve called upon our legal and finance teams to aggressively pursue these property owners so we can collect money rightfully owed to the City.”

The City of Yonkers has reviewed real property transactions dating from July 2009. Since November 2012, the City sent demand notices to owners, sellers, and title agencies and has resolved 74 of the 123 properties to date, for a collection total of $294,333.

Additionally, as a way to solve the issue of non-payment, Mayor Spano has asked the Westchester County Clerk Office to request enforcement of the City Code that requires payment of the tax on the transfer of any deed for real estate property, asking the County to refuse to record of any deeds which are subject to the transfer tax without proof of payment.

“We believe that with the assistance of the County, we can eliminate the failure of parties, involved in a real estate transaction, to pay the transfer tax,” added Mayor Spano. “Assistance will not only serve to ensure compliance with the City’s Code, but will also benefit Yonkers residents by ensuring availability of this much-needed revenue source for City services.”

As a result of the high number of properties with outstanding tax fees, Yonkers City Council also has passed new legislation which will require all transfer taxes to be paid within seven days, not the previous 30 days, from date of the property sale.

Mayor Spano continued, “Changing the due date of the transfer tax will provide us the opportunity to better monitor the completion of the payments and transfer of deeds for each property.

Overall, with assistance from the County, we look for this process to be more efficiently managed.”  The collection of these unpaid taxes comes as Mayor Spano has worked to create a new solid and thorough finance department, which will be aggressive in monitoring the number of title companies and sellers that are not timely with their transfer tax payments.

The Yonkers real estate transfer tax is pursuant to Chapter 15, Article V of the Yonkers City Code, which imposes a tax on the transfer of each deed for real estate property.

According to the City Code, the tax must be paid to the City “before the recording of such deed and evidence of payment must be affixed to the deed before it is recorded.” The transfer tax rate in Yonkers is 1.5% of the property’s final sale price.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE :  MAYOR SPANO TO ESTABLISH YONKERS YOUTH ADVISORY BOARD.

Seven Young Yonkers Residents to Recommend Programs to Further Youth Development.

YONKERS, NY – January 7, 2013 – Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano today announced that, by executive order, he is establishing a Yonkers Youth Advisory Board, for the purpose of creating and recommending effective policies, programs and projects to further youth development in the City.

The Board will consist of six members representing each council district and one member to serve at-large. Starting today, those interested in becoming a board member can submit their resume at www.yonkersny.gov. “It is incumbent upon our government to embrace the young people of Yonkers, their ideas, talents and energy to make a positive impact on others in the community,” said Mayor Spano.

“I look forward to meeting, working and developing a forum within Yonkers in which we can debate and decide issues that intricately affect the lives of our youth.” Members of the board must be at least 16 years of age and under 21 years of age. Once chosen and convened by Mayor Spano, the board will elect a chairperson, a vice chairperson, a secretary and other such officers as deemed necessary.

Each member shall serve for a one year term. Responsibilities of the Yonkers Youth Advisory Board will include: acting as a liaison between the City and various youth related community based organizations so to recommend youth programs and assist in the resolution of youth issues and problems; recommend policies and programs for the prevention and control of juvenile delinquency and youth crime; and encourage closer cooperation between employers, labor, schools, private and public agencies to stimulate employment for the youth.

After consent from Mayor Spano, the board will establish by-laws and appoint advisory committees.  Mayor Spano added, “The young people of our great City have so much to offer.  Through the new Youth Advisory Board, we will be sure to harness the best and the brightest of Yonkers and offer effective and lasting initiatives for our leaders of tomorrow.” Mayor Spano is expected to complete the Youth Advisory selection process in the coming months.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:    CITY OF YONKERS AND FOREST CITY RATNER ANNOUNCE NEW ROAD MANAGEMENT PLAN AT RIDGE HILL SHOPPING CENTER.

Effective January 4, 2013, On-Street Parking Meters Will Be Taken Out Of Service Pending Implementation of New Parking Configuration Plan.

YONKERS, NY – January 4, 2013 – Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano and Forest City Ratner Companies (FCRC) today announced that effective immediately, patrons of the Ridge Hill Shopping Center will no longer be required to pay for the use of on-street, metered spaces.

This move is made in anticipation of the planned permanent removal of the more than 100 parking meters located on the private roadways throughout the Ridge Hill complex.  In its place, FCRC will present a reconfigured traffic and parking flow plan, which will increase the handicapped spaces on the roadways, create “to go” spaces to serve restaurants in the complex, and provide an improved overall  traffic flow.

“I am pleased the City of Yonkers and Forest City Ratner have agreed on a plan that ultimately benefits visitors to Ridge Hill,” said Mayor Spano. “This agreement increases handicapped spaces, and allows for a more shopper-friendly environment and a more effective use of the city’s and Ridge Hill’s resources — which is a win-win for all.”

“Along with the City of Yonkers, Forest City Ratner feels that the changes that are being made will have a positive impact on the overall Ridge Hill experience,” said Kathy Welch, Senior Vice President and Director of Retail for FCRC.

“Limited on-street parking is better used for special purposes, such as short term restaurant visits, handicapped parking and for families visiting with children. Some of the spots will also be eliminated to help improve traffic flow at Ridge Hill.”

“In December 2011, the City Council asked Forest City Ratner to remove the parking meters and with this new agreement, even more on-street handicapped parking will be available and  there will be better accessibility to the complex for the elderly and parents with small children to make quick drop-offs and pick-ups,” said Chuck Lesnick, Yonkers City Council President.

“I’m happy to hear that the City of Yonkers and Forest City Ratner will be removing these parking meters,” added Wilson Terrero (Second District – D), Majority Leader of the Yonkers City Council.

“It will make Ridge Hill more of a friendly shopper area and it will improve the flow of traffic overall.” “This issue regarding the installation of parking meters on private roads was raised by former Councilmember Joan Gronowski,” said John Larkin (6th District – R), Minority Leader of the Yonkers City Council. “I am glad to see the Mayor was able to craft an agreement for the removal of the parking meters which will benefit all the patrons of the Ridge Hill Shopping Center.”

As part of the new road management plan, new handicapped spots, valet, family, restaurant and physician spots will be made available.  Meter removal begins today, and customers at Ridge Hill may now park free-of charge at all roadway spaces, whether or not the meter has been removed.

The new parking configuration plan will get underway in January.

Garage parking rules remain unchanged under this plan.

Dear Friend of Yonkers,

It’s time for some straight talk about the City’s attempts to work with the Firefighter’s Union to control costs, especially since the Union falsely claims public safety is at risk.

We would never risk public safety, and we aren’t.

Years ago the City designated the fire department as first responders for medical emergencies. It agreed to pay each firefighter extra money to be trained as an emergency medical technician, and it put more firefighters on each shift.

But here’s what really happened: the fire department never responded to all medical calls. In fact, it currently only responds to 46% of them. A third of all firefighters have let their EMT certifications lapse, though they still collect the extra pay. Even if the fire department were to respond to all medical calls, they do not have ambulances, cannot provide advanced life support, and cannot administer the medications that are part of modern emergency care.

Those modern life-saving services are provided by the City’s ambulance service, which responds to 100% of medical calls, has a paramedic available at all times, and carries the latest in life-saving equipment, medication, and the ability to communicate with doctors at the emergency room.

Yet the City will pay an estimated $7 million this year in fire department overtime, and we will have more firefighters on some shifts than we believe is required to protect public safety. We will assign extra firefighters as if they respond first on most medical calls, when in fact they don’t. You may be surprised that on some shifts there are more firefighters on duty than there are police.

The City wants to change its protocols to reflect reality as well as improvements in emergency medicine. We believe it doesn’t make sense to designate the fire department as first responders for medical calls when they really go to less than a half of them. We believe it doesn’t make sense to staff the fire department as if they go on calls that they do not.

The Firefighters Union disagrees, and today they obtained a court order to temporarily stop the City from carrying out its sensible plan. This is not the court putting its stamp of approval on the YFD as the City’s first responder, rather it is simply an acknowledgement of the complex contractual language that created the YFD’s first responder status a decade ago. The good news, however, is that the Court has ordered the matter be settled by an arbitrator. We will now have the opportunity to present our argument before an impartial third party who is an expert in labor disputes, and make the case that it does not make sense to pay firefighters for duties they do not perform.

Our firefighters are brave and dedicated people. We could not ask for finer people to help us in an emergency. However, these days we must also consider the cost. Our fire department is among the highest paid in the nation, yet works among the lowest number of hours. They have among the best vacation, health, unlimited sick leave for non-work related illness or injury, and many other benefits. While we might want to continue to provide these generous policies, we simply cannot.

Indeed, if the Firefighters Union gets its way, the City may one day have to lay off firefighters in order to afford the cost of those who remain. Now that would be a public safety issue.

MIKE SPANO

NOTICE

CITY OF YONKERS TO RECYCLE CHRISTMAS TREES - JANUARY 7 – 11.

 YONKERS, NY – January 3, 2013 – Now that the holiday season has ended, the City of Yonkers will recycle all Christmas trees left on the curb by Yonkers residents.

Christmas trees can be left at the curb from Monday, January 7 through Friday, January 11 for recycling.   All ornaments, lights, tinsel, garland must be removed.

Residents also can bring their trees directly to the Yonkers Organic Yard (610 Nepperhan Ave.) for recycling.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:     CITY OF YONKERS ISSUES REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR ACQUISITION AND REDEVELOPMENT OF FORMER SCHOOL 19.

YONKERS, NY – January 2, 2013 – The City of Yonkers today announced its release of Request for Proposal (RFP) for the acquisition and redevelopment of the former School 19.

“The prioritization of this project speaks to our goal of revitalizing long-neglected City properties,” said Mayor Spano. “With the right plans, this site will be restored and utilized for the benefit of residents, visitors and to further the development efforts of the City.”

The School 19 RFP calls for the acquisition and redevelopment of the city-owned property. The property, located at 70 Jackson Street in Yonkers, was built in 1906 and is a 3-story brick structure that has been closed and vacant since December 1991.

To be considered, proposers should have 10 years successful development experience with projects of similar scale. The City would like to see this project completed within three years from date of execution of an agreement and be completed without local governmental assistance.

For more information on the newly released School 19 RFP, visit http://www.cityofyonkers.com/index.aspx?page=2832.

As we welcome 2013 this evening I want to wish you a happy and healthy New Year. This is always an exciting time as we bid farewell to the year that has passed and celebrate a fresh start to a new year.

While 2012 presented some very difficult challenges, here in Yonkers this was also a year of real progress. Despite nationwide economic instability, Yonkers’ financial outlook has been upgraded, new development is on the rise, businesses are opening across the city, homes are selling, our city is becoming more energy efficient and graduation rates continue to improve at our schools.

We still have much more work to do in 2013 and the years to follow, and challenges will again present themselves, but I am proud to say that 2012 was a year in which we have started to move Yonkers back in the right direction.

Again, I wish you and your family a very happy New Year and all the best for a great year to come.

MIKE SPANO

Mayor

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:   MAYOR SPANO & YONKERS DEPARTMENT OF PARKS, RECREATION & CONSERVATION OPEN WINTER RECREATION REGISTRATION, BEGINNING JANUARY 3.

YONKERS, NY – December 21, 2012 –  Mayor Mike Spano today announced the Yonkers Department of Parks, Recreation & Conservation will open registration for residents and non-residents of all ages to winter community recreation programs, Thursday, January 3 at 7:00 pm, via the Department’s on-line brochure at www.yonkersny.gov.

“Yonkers continues to provide a wide array of fun and educational programs and activities for its residents,” said Mayor Spano. “I encourage our families, young and old, to take advantage of the programs offered this winter as an opportunity to stay warm and active while interacting with their neighbors and community.”

The winter line-up includes numerous exercise and workout classes, dance classes, Zumba, guitar, voice, tennis, karate, yoga, Pilates, make-up application, cooking workshops, and dog obedience classes.

Children 5-12 can participate in 12-week workshops in art, crafts, dance classes, Zumba, guitar, violin, voice, theatre, chess, baton & cheerleading, tennis, karate, and cooking for young chefs. Teen classes will focus on dance, theatre, guitar, and voice.  Parents and children as young as 18-months can have fun on Thursday mornings at “Time with Me.”  For mothers who need a break, the City offers Mother’s Morning Out, a drop-off, diaper-friendly, morning program.

Aspiring ballerinas between the ages of 3 and 5 can enjoy afternoon “Pre-Ballet for Pre-K.” The brochure also includes information about baby-sitting classes for youngsters 11-15 years of age, evening Teen Centers, swimming and ice skating programs for every age group, senior citizen centers and activities, and programs for the developmentally disabled.

The entire brochure can be viewed on the City of Yonkers website by visiting www.yonkersny.gov., then clicking on Recreational Programs on the right side of the page. Registration for Spring Aquatics programs will begin on February 28. Further information is available by calling 914 377-6450.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CITY OF YONKERS DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS AWARDED $5 MILLION BY NEW YORK STATE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT REGIONAL COUNCIL.

Grants to Fund Glenwood Power Plant Restoration, Yonkers Rising’s Adaptive Reuse Plan, Kawasaki Rail Car Expansion and Saw Mill River Daylighting Projects.

YONKERS, NY – December 20, 2012 – Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano today announced the New York State Mid-Hudson Regional Council has awarded $5 million in grant funds to four downtown Yonkers economic development projects.

The announcement comes as New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo announced the 2012 Regional Economic Development Council Awards during a ceremony last evening. Yonkers projects awarded include the following priority projects for Mayor Spano’s administration:

Glenwood Power Plant Restoration and Redevelopment ($1 million): Glenwood will undertake an initial $50 million project to stabilize the former power plant buildings in Yonkers, which would lead to a future $155 million mixed-use project that would create a social, business and cultural destination.

Yonkers Rising’s Adaptive Reuse Plan of Downtown Yonkers Properties ($2 million): Yonkers Rising Development’s Phase I redevelopment plan for the renovation and adaptive reuse of five targeted properties in downtown Yonkers into mixed-use space.

Saw Mill River Re-establishment and Daylighting ($921,425):  The City of Yonkers will unearth an additional segment of the Saw Mill River. This project will improve water quality, provide habitat, leverage private investment and transform the Mill Street Courtyard into a second major public space in downtown Yonkers.

Kawasaki Rail Car Expansion ($1.15 million): Kawasaki Rail Car Inc. will expand its manufacturing operation, investing $16 million and creating 80 new jobs.

“Economic development in Yonkers is an obvious priority for us, with the goal of stimulating jobs, housing, retail and overall growth of our City,” said Mayor Spano. “The Yonkers waterfront is our strongest and most valuable asset and these mixed-use projects invest in the waterfront and downtown areas in ways that will bring in a vibrant economic base that is needed for our City and residents.

Collectively, these projects will bring a cohesive effect to existing redevelopment, linking the waterfront, the existing daylighting and downtown area.” Mayor Spano added, “We thank the Regional Economic Development Council, our great Governor Andrew Cuomo and our state delegation for recognizing the growth potential in downtown Yonkers and making these projects a priority investment in New York.

We look forward to seeing these projects through so that the revitalization of Yonkers continues to prosper.”

Yonkers City Council President Chuck Lesnick who attended the ceremony in Albany yesterday said, “It is great to see that Governor Cuomo, the legislators and the Regional Council are willing to invest in the adaptive reuse of historic Yonkers buildings that will create jobs, house people and provide excitement in and around our downtown and the Hudson River.

I also want to thank the members of the Daylight Yonkers Coalition who kept the focus on these and other worthy projects around the Saw Mill River.” Earlier this year, Mayor Spano urged the Mid-Hudson Economic Development Regional Council for additional State funds to assist in the transformation of the City’s downtown and waterfront.

The grant money awarded to the Yonkers economic development projects are part of $738 million that was awarded to regions throughout the State as part of the Regional Economic Development Council initiative.

The Regional Councils are the centerpiece of Governor Cuomo’s strategy to jumpstart the economy and create jobs and to redesign the state’s approach to economic development from a top-down model to a community-based, performance-driven approach.

The initiative empowers community, business, and academic leaders, as well as members of the public in each region of the state, to develop strategic plans specifically tailored to their region’s unique strengths and resources in order create jobs and support economic growth.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  YONKERS EBAY STORE GENERATES $200,000 IN REVENUE.

Additional City-Owned Items for Auction Starts Today, December 20 at www.YonkersCARStore.com.

YONKERS, NY – December 20, 2012 – Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano today announced that since the City launched its eBay store, www.YonkersCARStore.com, in July this year, it has generated $200,000 in revenue for the City of Yonkers.  Items sold such as fire hydrants, laptops, cameras, traffic signal heads and surplus vehicles all contributed to the revenue generated over the last six months.

Marquee items also generated dollars for the city, including the old Getty Square Clock which sold for $2000 and the City’s gently used snow dragon which sold for $85,000. Since the YonkersCARStore launched this spring, the City has sold 38 vehicles and approximately 20 other surplus items.

“This simple method of generating revenue for the City has become an accessible way of turning years of excessive spending into significant savings for taxpayers,” said Mayor Spano.

“As seen with the money raised to date, our ‘tag sale’ has proved to be very successful and in turn, will benefit our taxpayers.” The success of the auction site has led to additional city-owned items to be listed on the YonkersCARStore site starting today.

For 10 days, shoppers will have the opportunity to bid on more items, such as previously used vehicles, computers and laptops. Part of the Mayor’s Comprehensive Asset Reduction Schedule (CARS), which evaluates city resources and expenses in order to reduce city spending, the auction is an opportunity for Yonkers to generate revenue from the selling of city-owned items that are no longer needed.

Mayor Spano launched the Yonkers CARStore earlier this year with over three dozen items, including cameras, computers, a fire truck, traffic signal heads, as well as vehicles.

YonkersCARStore is specifically configured to be compatible with all smartphones. For more information about the Mayor’s CARS auction, visit www.yonkersny.gov.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: MAYOR MIKE SPANO ANNOUNCES PLEDGE FOR HEALTHY SCHOOL BUS STOPS.

New Effort Encourages Parents and Guardians to Support a Smoke-Free Environment at School Bus Stops.

YONKERS, NY – December 19, 2012 – Mayor Mike Spano today announced a new Pledge For Healthy School Bus Stops campaign, aimed at preventing any adult responsible for seeing a student onto his or her school bus from smoking at school bus stops.

“There is no debating the hazards of second-hand smoke to our children’s health, especially to those with medical conditions,” said Mayor Spano.

“If we really are committed to protecting the health and well-being of our children, then preventing their exposure to the harmful effects of smoking should be a no-brainer for all residents.”

As part of Mayor Spano’s Pledge for Healthy School Bus Stops, in which a resolution supporting the effort was recently passed by the Yonkers City Council, residents are encouraged to visit the city’s website at www.YonkersNY.gov and Facebook page at www.facebook.com/CityofYonkers to submit the online pledge to refrain from smoking at school bus stops in the presence of children.

“I urge all residents, whether you are a smoker or not, to take action in protecting the health of our youth by encouraging your friends and family who are smokers to sign the pledge and commit to a smoke-free environment,” Mayor Spano said.

“The Yonkers Council of PTA/PTSAs stands with the Mayor and City Council today in support of this resolution banning smoking from all school bus stops and any efforts to ensure the health and well-being of our children,” said Danielle Eaton, Yonkers PTA president.

“This initiative provides each citizen with a simple, but effective, way to help our children. We encourage everyone to support the campaign,” said Superintendent of Schools Bernard P. Pierorazio.

This new campaign is the latest of a series of quality of life initiatives, including the recently announced “It’s Dumb to Dump” program targeting illegal dumping of garbage in the city.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  MAYOR SPANO NOMINATES YVETTE HARTSFIELD AS YONKERS’ NEW COMMISSIONER OF PARKS, RECREATION & CONSERVATION.

Steve Sansone Nominated as Deputy Commissioner of Yonkers Parks Department.

YONKERS, NY – December 18, 2012 – Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano today announced Yvette Hartsfield as his nomination for the City’s new Commissioner of Parks, Recreation & Conservation and Steve Sansone as his nomination for the Department’s new Deputy Commissioner.

After a nationwide search for a new Parks Commissioner, Hartsfield was chosen by a city review board consisting of the Mayor, Deputy Mayor, Human Resources Commissioner and a former Parks Commissioner. Hartsfield joins the City of Yonkers as a 20-year veteran, working with various municipal parks departments in the state of Florida.

Most recently, Hartsfield served as the Assistant Parks & Recreation Director for the City of Miami Gardens. There, she directed and coordinated varied departmental activities such as recreational, cultural, educational and artistic programming.  Hartsfield also acted as the Recreation & Parks Director for the City of Leesburg and the City of Palm Coast, Fl.

She holds a Bachelor of Professional Studies in Business from Barry University and a Master of Arts in Public Administration and Management from Webster University.

“Yvette holds impressive credentials and is a great fit for our City — her in-depth knowledge and experience of the workings of municipal parks departments elevated her above the rest when considering a new Parks Commissioner,” said Mayor Spano.

“I am honored and excited by the opportunity that Mayor Spano has provided me to help enhance the quality of life for our Yonkers residents,” said Hartsfield. “By working with the Parks, Recreation & Conservation staff and our community stakeholders, we can ensure the continued vitality of our City’s recreational services. My family and I are thrilled to be making this move, and I look forward to becoming quickly integrated into the community. ”

Additionally, Mayor Spano today announced Steve Sansone as his nomination for Deputy Commissioner of Parks, Recreation & Conservation. Sansone joins the department after recently serving as the Executive Director of the Yonkers Downtown Waterfront Business Improvement District (BID) for the last five years.

While at the BID, Sansone has advocated for over 500 businesses and property owners, produced numerous downtown music/entertainment, cultural and business programs including Yonkers Riverfest, Jazz at the Waterfront, Holiday Special Events, Restaurant Week and more. Previously, Sansone served as the Assistant Engineer for the State of New York Attorney General’s Office.

Sansone holds a Bachelor of Science in Engineering and Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering from Manhattan College. “Steve brings first-hand experience to our Parks department, working with Yonkers residents on a daily basis as an active community organizer,” said Mayor Spano. “The City has worked closely with Steve over the years and we’ve always been impressed with this leadership and can-do attitude.”

Mayor Spano added, “We look forward to bringing Yvette and Steve on board and making our recreational services even better for our residents.”

As Mayor Spano’s nominees, Yvette Hartsfield and Steve Sansone will be presented in the coming weeks to the Yonkers City Council for final confirmation.

We are all shocked and saddened by the tragic incident that occurred yesterday at the Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut. Twenty-six innocent lives, the majority of whom were young children, were taken from us in a despicable act of evil. Today our flags fly at half-mast as our entire nation mourns this terrible loss of life alongside the family and friends of those who were victims.

While many questions remain as to how this could happen, especially at a school where we expect our children to be safe, now is the time to come together as a community in remembrance and solidarity with those immediately impacted by this unimaginable loss.

No words we speak or actions we take can bring back the lives of those no longer with us, however we all can extend our hand and our prayers in support of those who need it most during this very difficult time. I ask that you join me tomorrow for a candlelight vigil outside of Yonkers City Hall, beginning at 5:30pm, as residents, clergy and community leaders come together to meet, mourn and remember the 20 children and 6 adults we have lost.

Our thoughts and prayers remain with the victims of the Sandy Hook Elementary School tragedy.

Sincerely,

MIKE SPANO
Mayor

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CITY OF YONKERS ISSUES REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR PROFESSIONAL TREE SERVICES.

Contractor Needed to Eliminate Tree Service Backlog.

YONKERS, NY – December 14, 2012 – The City of Yonkers today announced its release of a Request for Proposal (RFP) for securing a contractor to provide professional tree services, including all labor and equipment, in order to eliminate the backlog of tree service requests within the City limits.

The RFP comes after Superstorm Sandy hit Yonkers last month, causing devastating damage due to downed trees and power lines. The storm’s affects were added to the City’s backlog of close to 2,000 tree service requests, dating back to January 2007.

“With years of backlogged tree service requests combined with the catastrophic aftermath left by Superstorm Sandy, it is now imperative that we issue an RFP to assist Yonkers with its tree maintenance,” said Mayor Spano. “Securing an outside vendor for tree removal and services is a preventative measure so that when these massive storms hit us again, we are better prepared.”

As stated in the RFP, the City of Yonkers is seeking a contractor that will assist with the existing tree service backlog for the period from January 1, 2007 through November 26, 2012. Given the magnitude of the tree service inventory, the City is interested in undertaking this work beginning in early 2013.

Bidders must commit to dedicate at least two crews to the City during storm emergencies to assist City personnel in keeping streets and sidewalks open and passable and should have a crane in their inventory of equipment to facilitate removing trees from houses and other structures.

For more information on the tree service RFP, visit http://www.cityofyonkers.com/Index.aspx?page=2817.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: MAYOR MIKE SPANO LAUNCHES CRACKDOWN ON ILLEGAL DUMPING WITH “IT’S DUMB TO DUMP” CAMPAIGN.

City Establishes Hotline for Reporting and Increased Penalties for Lawbreakers.

YONKERS, NY – December 14, 2012 – Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano today launched a new “It’s Dumb to Dump” anti-dumping program, part of the Mayor’s Clean Streets Initiative, targeting those who illegally dump their garbage in the city.  The new effort includes increased fines and the launch of a dumping hotline for residents to report any signs of illegal activity.

“The name of this program says it all, it’s simply dumb to dump,” said Mayor Spano. “Illegal dumping isn’t just an eyesore, it’s a health and environmental hazard and it’s offensive to all who live and work in our city. We will not tolerate it and will make sure those found violating the law are prosecuted to the fullest extent.”

Despite offering twice a week garbage pick-up and weekly bulk item pick-up, the city still uncovers dumping of all types of waste on properties including furniture, appliances, construction debris, car parts and even hazardous materials.  Under the Mayor’s new ordinance, recently approved by the City Council, fines for illegal dumping will increase from $500 to a minimum of $5,000 per violation, and as much as $10,000 in the most severe cases. Additionally, vehicles that unlawfully dump will be impounded immediately and subject to forfeiture proceedings. Mayor Spano said this hefty fine will cover the cost for the city to clean littered sites and also help fund the city’s sustainability efforts, but it also serves to send a clear message that the violation is not worth the penalty.

In addition, a new hotline, 914-377-DUMP, has been established for residents to report any instances of illegal dumping. The City is also offering a reward of up to $1000 to anyone who reports a case of illegal dumping in which a conviction is made.

“It is very important for residents to immediately report any cases of dumping so that city crews can quickly get to work cleaning the site and hold those responsible for this serious violation accountable for their actions,” said Mayor Spano. For the Spanish speaking communities in Yonkers, “no dumping” signs will be made available at the City’s Office of Constituent Services for landlords, superintendents and building managers by calling 914-377-6010.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CITY OF YONKERS REFUNDS ITS MUNICIPAL AND SCHOOL BONDS,SAVING TAXPAYERS $4 MILLION.

Savings Made as City’s 2012 Financial Outlook Is Upgraded.

YONKERS, NY – December 13, 2012 – The City of Yonkers today announced that following its financial outlook upgrade last week,  it has refunded close to $50 million in municipal and school bonds, netting a savings for taxpayers of up to $4 million over the life of the bonds and nearly $1 million for the 2012-2013 fiscal year.

“Every dollar saved counts as our City deals with its fiscal challenges,” said Mayor Spano. “It is apparent that buyers recognized our strengths and recent upgrade of our financial outlook. I believe these savings garnered over the coming years is the beginning of putting our City back on the path of fiscal stability.”

The City’s bond savings also reflect the current market’s lower interest rates and the environment’s appetite for secure investments such as a municipality like Yonkers. Last week, Standard & Poor’s Rating Services and Moody’s Investors Service released its bond ratings for the City of Yonkers. Standard & Poor’s assigned the City a BBB+ /stable municipal rating and reaffirmed an “A” rating for the City’s school bonds, while Moody’s upgraded the City’s municipal rating from Baa1 negative, to Baa1 stable and reaffirmed an enhanced an A2 rating to the school bonds.

The revision of the City’s financial outlook to stable comes as the ratings agencies believe the City’s new administration under Mayor Mike Spano are actively managing the numerous challenges facing the City.

The agencies specifically highlight Yonkers’ high but manageable debt profile and sizeable tax base that has experienced some decline over the past three years, but is expected to benefit from planned economic development over the long term, its planned revaluation of its tax base and its initiative to address outstanding union contracts.

The rating also reflects fiscal challenges for the City of Yonkers including the City’s large structural imbalances which will require additional deficit financing; the City’s collective $430 million budget gap projected from 2014-2016;  the City’s unsettled collective bargaining unit contracts; as well as significant pension and healthcare costs and tax certiorari settlement — all which are currently being addressed.

In preparation of the City refunding its municipal and school bonds for the upcoming fiscal year, Mayor Spano and other City officials met with representatives earlier this month from Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s and presented the agencies its plans on how it will address the fiscal issues in the coming years.

For Immediate Release: YONKERS MAYOR SPANO JOINS THE COMMUNITY BUILDERS AND MHACY TO CELEBRATE THE TRANSFORMATION OF PUBLIC SCHOOL 6.

Demolition of the Abandoned Site Makes Way for 121 New Mixed-Income Apartments at Schoolhouse Terrace at Croton Heights.

 YONKERS, N.Y., Dec. 11, 2012 — Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano, leading nonprofit housing developer The Community Builders, Inc. (TCB) and the Municipal Housing Authority for the City of Yonkers (MHACY) today marked the start of demolition of the long-vacant Public School 6. The Mayor gave the official signal for a crane to begin to take down the structure that had fallen into disrepair too severe for preservation. The school will be replaced by Schoolhouse Terrace at Croton Heights, a $58 million development that will include mixed-income apartments for 121 families and seniors.

 “Today, we are finally taking the necessary steps to clear this long-time blighted area, transforming it to its greatest potential,” said Mayor Spano. “I thank Governor Cuomo, our state delegation, The Community Builders and Municipal Housing for their continued support and investment in this neighborhood. This effort is a combination of our city working in partnership with its community, ensuring our residents have a place to live, work and raise a family for generations to come.”

Schoolhouse Terrace at Croton Heights is an environmentally sustainable project is designed to meet both U.S. Green Building Council LEED® and NYSERDA Multifamily Performance Program standards. The new development will feature a 70-unit building for families earning under 30 percent of the area median income (AMI) to under 60 percent of AMI. A second building on the site will have 50 units for seniors earning under 50 percent of AMI. The new buildings will sit atop two underground parking garages with 134 spaces to accommodate resident needs. An additional 2,400 square feet of community space are also included in the development.

“TCB is committed to creating mixed-income housing as a platform for opportunity in Yonkers, said Jan Brodie, Northeast regional director for TCB. “We are pleased to mark this first step in making Schoolhouse Terrace at Croton Heights a reality.”

The Schoolhouse Terrace at Croton Heights development is designed with a strong focus on energy efficiency and innovative green design elements, including green roofing and a number of windows that maximize natural light, while providing sweeping views of the Palisades and the Hudson River.

The redevelopment of the Public School 6 site is a collaborative effort to address the blighting influence of the abandoned site. TCB’s newest development in New York State, the project is slated for completion in 2014 and continues the investment in the Ashburton corridor.

Financial participants in the project include New York State Homes and Community Renewal (NYS HCR), City of Yonkers CDBG and HOME funds, TCB Neighborhood Stabilization Program 2 (NSP2) funds, MHACY, RBC Capital and Bank of New York, M&T Bank, Federal Home Loan Bank of New York, New York State Energy Research Development Authority (NYSERDA), New York State Tax Credits and Brownfields funds, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

“This is a great example of the transformational projects being supported by the Mid-Hudson Regional Council throughout the Hudson Valley,” said Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Kenneth Adams. “The redevelopment of the Public School 6 site will improve the quality of life for hundreds of New Yorkers by turning a long-vacant property into much-needed housing for hard working families and our seniors. Under the leadership of Governor Cuomo, we are seeing what can be accomplished when the State works together with local government and the private sector – producing real results that benefit our communities. We thank Mayor Spano and The Community Builders, and all of our partners, for their commitment to moving this project forward.”

Darryl C. Towns, Commissioner/CEO of New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) said, “Governor Andrew Cuomo’s Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council awarded critical financing to move the transformation of Public School 6 into quality homes for seniors and families. HCR is proud to be part of this effort to redevelop a dilapidated building on a brownfield site into energy-efficient, sustainable, affordable housing – and inject $58 million dollars into the local economy. Thank you to The Community Builders, Mayor Spano, the Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council, and all of our partners for your dedication and support.”

“I am so very proud to join my colleagues in city and state government as well as The Community Builders and the Yonkers Municipal Housing Authority to see the beginning of Public School 6’s transformation from an eyesore into quality affordable housing for the people of Cottage Place Gardens and beyond. The State’s sizable commitment of $29.6 million, through the Regional Economic Development Councils, speaks volumes to the importance of this project to providing affordable housing and fostering economic development and job creation in downtown Yonkers,” said Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins (D/I/WF – 35th District).

“Today’s efforts are symbolic of the collaboration between our city and state officials for the benefit of our community and its residents. The State is committed to see projects like this succeed so we can continue to provide quality and affordable housing in Yonkers. I thank all the partners who worked together so that our Yonkers neighborhoods flourish for years to come,” said Assemblyman Gary Pretlow (D – 87th District).

“This is a great day for the people of Yonkers, who are finally seeing a deteriorated school building turned into affordable and desirable housing for Yonkers’ residents. It is an important step forward in the smart redevelopment of our City and the creation of affordable, quality housing, I applaud all those who made this possible, especially The Community Builders and the Yonkers Municipal Housing Authority, and our state and city partners for all their work on this project,” said Assemblywoman Shelley Mayer (D/I/WF – 93rd District).

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY BUILDERS, INC.

The Community Builders, Inc. (TCB) is the largest nonprofit developer of mixed-income housing in the United States. Our mission is to build and sustain strong communities where people of all incomes can achieve their full potential. We realize our mission by developing, financing and operating high-quality housing and implementing neighborhood self-help initiatives to drive economic opportunity for our residents. Since 1964, we have constructed or preserved over 320 affordable and mixed-income housing developments and secured over $2.5 billion in project financing from public and private sources. Today, we manage more than 100 properties in 12 states. We are headquartered in Boston with regional hubs in Chicago and Washington.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: MAYOR MIKE SPANO & YONKERS POLICE DEPARTMENT TO HOST OPERATION SAFE CHILD DAY AT YONKERS’ RIDGE HILL, DECEMBER 8^TH FROM 10AM-2PM.

Mayor’s Mobile Constituent Office and Mobile Clerk’s Office Services Also Available.

YONKERS, NY – November 30, 2012 – Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano and the Yonkers Police Department today announced the City will host Operation SAFE CHILD Day at Yonkers’ Ridge Hill on Saturday, December 8^th, from 10AM-2PM to raise awareness of child safety and provide parents with SAFE CHILD photo identification cards to better protect their children.

“As Mayor and a father of three school-aged children, I want to make sure all parents in Yonkers are aware and have access to every tool available to help protect their children,” said Mayor Spano. “Operation SAFE CHILD is a valuable resource that offers important information for parents and vital information for law enforcement should a child go missing.”

Operation SAFE CHILD is a multi-pronged campaign which provides parents and guardians with three tools to promote child safety:

•Know your child’s information by obtaining a free SAFE CHILD card

•Know your child’s friends by learning about Internet safety

•Know your neighborhood by using the New York State Sex Offender Registry

In support of this program, Mayor Spano and Yonkers Police will be at the Ridge Hill playground (next to the Cheesecake Factory) on Saturday, December 8^th, from 10AM to 2PM, to provide parents with photo ID cards for their children. The cards contain information including the child’s name, date of birth, gender, height, weight, hair color, eye color and a fingerprint image. This information is stored in the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services database and in the unfortunate event that a child goes missing, provides for the immediate dissemination of information among law enforcement throughout the region and state which dramatically increases the possibility of bringing the missing child home safely.

“Operation Safe Child is an important service offered by our Community Affairs Unit that helps keep our children safe,” said Charles Gardner, Yonkers Police Commissioner. “The information which is kept on record with this program becomes essential in the event that a child goes missing and a law enforcement agency has to disseminate information quickly to the public. Parents are urged to take advantage of this program and register their children on December 8^th at Ridge Hill.”

In addition to providing this critical safety service, Mayor Spano’s Mobile Constituent Office and Mobile Clerk’s Office will be located on-site to provide residents with services and information normally available during weekday operating hours only.

“The Mobile Office brings City Hall to our neighborhoods and is another way in which we working to make government and city services as accessible for residents as possible,” said Mayor Spano.

Representatives from the Office of Constituent Services and the City Clerk’s Office will be available from 10AM-2PM to assist with quality of life issues and vital records.

Face painting and refreshments will be provided for parents and kids in attendance. For more information on Operation SAFE CHILD visitwww.criminaljustice.state.ny.us/pio/safechild. For more information on the Mayor’s Mobile Office contact the Mayor’s Office at (914) 377-6300.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: MAYOR SPANO & YONKERS FIRE DEPARTMENT PROVIDE HELPFUL HOLIDAY FIRE SAFETY GUIDELINES.

YONKERS, NY– NOVEMBER 28, 2012 – Mayor Mike Spano and the Yonkers Fire Department today announced helpful holiday fire safety guidelines as residents prepare to celebrate the holiday season.

“When most think about the holidays, family festivities and good cheer likely come to mind, but what few of us consider is that the holidays also present an increased risk of home fires,” said Mayor Spano. “Home fires during the holiday season often involve cooking, Christmas trees, candles and holiday decorations. By taking some preventative steps and following simple rules of thumb, most home fires can be prevented during the holidays and beyond.”

Yonkers Fire Department advises residents to be mindful of the following guidelines as they decorate, cook and celebrate for the upcoming holidays:

Christmas Trees

• U.S. Fire Departments responded to an annual average of 230 home structure fires that began with Christmas trees between 2006 and 2010. One of every three home Christmas tree fires is caused by electrical problems and one of every five is the result of a heat source too close to the tree.

• If you have an artificial tree, be sure it’s labeled, certified or identified by the manufacturer as fire-retardant. If you choose a fresh tree, make sure the green needles don’t fall off when touched; before placing it in the stand, cut 2” from the base of the trunk. Add water to the tree stand, and be sure to water it daily.

• Make sure your tree is not blocking an exit, and is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, space heaters, radiators, candles and heat vents or lights.

• Use lights that have the label of an independent testing laboratory, and make sure you know whether they are designed for indoor or outdoor use. Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords, or loose bulb connections. Connect no more than three strands of mini-string sets and a maximum of 50 bulbs for screw-in bulbs.

• Never use lit candles to decorate the tree.

• Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving the home or going to bed.

• After the holidays, discard the tree. Dried-out trees are a fire hazard and should not be left in the home or garage.

• Bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holidays to prevent hazards and make them last longer.

Cooking

• Unattended cooking is the leading cause of U.S. home fires and home fire injuries, with most cooking fires involving the stovetop.

• Try not to leave the kitchen while frying, grilling or broiling food. Keep anything that can catch fire away from the stovetop, and turn it off when you leave the kitchen, even if it’s for a short period of time.

• If you’re simmering, boiling, baking or roasting food, check it regularly and use a timer to remind you that you’re cooking.

• Create a “kid-free zone” of at least three feet around the stove and areas where hot food and drinks are prepared or carried.

• If you have an uncontrollable cooking fire, get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire. Call 911 immediately after you leave.

• If you do try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and that you have access to an exit.

• Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires. Slide the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled. For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.

Candles

• Candles are widely used in homes throughout the holidays; December is the peak month for home candle fires.

• More than half of all candle fires start because the candles had been too close to things that could catch fire.

• When burning candles, keep them at least 12” away from anything that can burn, and remember to put them out when you leave the room or go to bed.

• Use candle holders that are sturdy, won’t tip over and are placed on uncluttered surfaces. Avoid using candles in the bedroom, where two of five U.S. candle fires begin, or other areas where people may fall asleep.

• Never leave a child alone in a room with a burning candle.

• Consider using flameless candles, which look and smell like real candles.

To further protect residents during the holiday season, the Yonkers Fire Department will deploy Holiday Safety Patrols at local stores, malls, and Christmas tree sales locations. Yonkers Fire personnel will inspect for seasonal specific hazards such as overstocked storage rooms and showrooms, blocked exit pathways, improper use of extension cords, etc. In the event that any of these or other fire safety violations are noticed, shoppers are encouraged to report them at (914) 377-7525 or (914) 377-7519.

MAYOR SPANO ANNOUNCES YONKERS IDA APPROVAL OF NEW HOTEL AT CROSS COUNTY SHOPPING CENTER, PLUS RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT OF FORMER DOWNTOWN MUSIC HALL.

A new hotel at the Cross County Shopping Center, plus redevelopment of a former downtown German music hall dating back to the 1800’s, were the latest examples of the City’s economic revival approved by the Yonkers Industrial Development Agency today.

“These projects represent the different types of investment happening in Yonkers today.” said Mayor Mike Spano, who chairs the YIDA. “On the one hand a thriving shopping center is improving, and on the other a long-vacant building will provide new housing.”

Hyatt Place Hotel at Cross County Shopping Center

The YIDA voted its final approvals to assist the construction of a 155 room Hyatt Place hotel at the Cross County Shopping Center, in a tower previously used as office space.  The Hyatt Place brand caters to families and business travelers, and will be the first hotel at the Cross County Center.

The developers will spend an estimated $26.3 million to add 17,000 square feet of first floor and basement space to the existing 55,000 square foot office tower, transforming it into a 155 room hotel.

The YIDA will provide a $266,220 mortgage tax abatement and an estimated $775,023 sales tax exemption on construction materials. The Yonkers portion of those exemptions are an estimated $74,000 in mortgage tax and $305,741 in sales tax, since the remainder would have gone to the State and County.

The project will create 80 construction jobs during the 18 month construction period, with an estimated payroll of $6.6 million. The hotel will also create 28 full time equivalent jobs.

The YIDA had given the initial go-ahead for the project in July, and today’s action is the final vote necessary for the IDA to provide assistance and set the project in motion.

Teutonia Hall residential conversion

Teutonia Hall, a German-themed music hall constructed in 1891, will become the site of a 25-story residential tower with 412 units and a 550 space parking garage. Today’s action by the IDA authorized phase 1 of the project, which will consist of $8 million in demolition and site remediation. The IDA authorized $144,000 in a mortgage tax abatement and   $335,000 in a sales tax exemption on construction materials. The Yonkers portion of the abatements was $40,000 in mortgage tax abatement and $100,165 in sales tax exemption, since the remainder would have gone to the state and county governments.

The developers of the Teutonia project, Metro Partners, will later return to the IDA for further incentives once site preparation is complete to begin phase 2 of the development, which is estimated at $173 million and slated to start later next year.

The overall project will include not only Teutonia Hall, but also the adjacent three story “Trolley Barn” plus three existing residential buildings. In a significant action for preservation, the historic façade of Teutonia Hall will be preserved and transferred to the front of the parking garage.

“These are two terrific projects for the City of Yonkers and an indication that interest in our shopping corridors and our downtown continues to be strong,” said Mayor Spano.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: ‘TIS THE SEASON!

CITY OF YONKERS CELEBRATES THE HOLIDAY SEASON WITH NEIGHBORHOOD TREE LIGHTINGS AND MENORAH LIGHTINGS.

YONKERS, NY – November 27, 2012 – Mayor Mike Spano today announced the City of Yonkers is ushering in the 2012 holiday season with neighborhood Christmas tree lightings and Menorah lightings throughout the coming month.

“What better way to spread a little holiday cheer in our great city than local Christmas tree and Menorah lightings,” said Mayor Spano. “I encourage our families to join in these spirited festivities of the season and celebrate together as a community.”

Scheduled tree lightings in Yonkers are as follows:

Getty Square (Downtown Yonkers) – November 29 at 4pm

Colonial Heights Taxpayers Association (St. George Parkway) – November 30 at 7:30pm

Armour Villa Homeowners Association (Wiltshire Place/Perry Place) – December 2 at 5pm

Crestwood Homeowners Association (Crestwood Station) – December 5 at 7:00pm

Rumsey Road (at Park Hill Ave)  – December 5 at 7:30pm

Untermyer Park (945 North Broadway) – December 7 at 5pm

The City of Yonkers also is hosting a Menorah lighting celebration on December 14 at 4pm in the City Hall Rotunda.  Other Menorah lightings in Yonkers will be held at Ridge Hill on December 10 at 5pm and at the Cross County Center on December 13 at 4:45pm.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  MAYOR SPANO & YONKERS POLICE DEPARTMENT PROVIDE RESIDENTS HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIPS AND WARNS OF POTENTIAL HOLIDAY SCAMS.

YONKERS, NY – November 26, 2012 – With Cyber Monday and the holiday shopping season here, Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano and the Yonkers Police Department today issued holiday shopping tips  and alerted residents of potential scams as shoppers begin to purchase gifts in stores and online.

“With the holiday season upon us, most people are preoccupied with the details of holiday planning and shopping,” said Mayor Spano. “Unfortunately, the safety precautions we normally take can be forgotten as the excitement of the season causes us to let our guard down. We ask that you take note of these guidelines as we want to ensure our residents have the happiest and safest of holidays.”

Yonkers Police Department advises residents to be mindful of the following shopping tips as they head out to stores this season:

• ·         Be alert and aware of your surroundings at all times. Criminals often target people who are distracted.
• ·         Travel on populated, well-lit streets. If possible, travel with a friend.
• ·         When driving, keep your doors locked and the windows closed. Make sure the gas tank is full. Maintain your car in good working order to avoid breakdowns.
• ·         Park in a well-lit area.
• ·         Always lock your car. Before getting into your car, check the back seat to make sure no one is hiding there.
• ·         Avoid leaving valuables in your car. Whenever possible, place items out of sight in the trunk of your vehicle prior to reaching your destination. Never leave packages in the passenger compartment unattended.
• ·         Carry your purse close to your body. Place one end of the purse in the palm of your hand and the other in the bend of the elbow. Never wrap the strap around your body.
• ·         If you are carrying a wallet, carry it in your front pants pocket. The rear pants pocket is the easiest to pick.
• ·         When in a restaurant, don’t leave your handbag over the back of your chair or on the floor. Don’t leave belongings unattended.
• ·         Don’t wait until you have reached your front door to look for your keys. Have them ready in your hand. If a stranger is standing near your door, it may be a good idea not to go in until the situation feels safer.
• ·         Lock your front door immediately upon entering your home.
• ·         If you live in an apartment building, don’t buzz in someone who rings your bell until you have verified who they are. This will help protect both you and your neighbors.
• ·         Remind children to be wary of strangers, including those on the internet.
• ·         Be wary of con artists. Con artists use a number of ploys to trick you and steal your property. Some divert your attention while another picks your pocket, some pose as utility workers or as a trades person to gain access to the inside of your home, while other conduct scams that are more elaborate involving several con artists.
• ·         Be wary of telephone and email solicitations asking for personal information about your accounts, passwords or social security number.
• ·         As a consumer you should avoid illegal vendors selling goods on the street. Purchase merchandise only from licensed vendors or reputable stores. Follow your instincts. Remember, “If it seems too good to be true, it probably is”.

The Yonkers Police Department also advises residents to be aware of the following internet scams during the holiday shopping season:

• ·         New products or gift cards being sold on auction or classified advertisement websites where the price is significantly lower than any sales price in retail outlets;
• ·         “One day only” websites featuring the sale of specific items in high demand;
• ·         Phishing and scam e-mails, text messages, or phone calls that look or sound like they are coming from a well-known retailer and that ask you to verify a credit card number or to update personal account information; and
• ·         Gift card offers on social media sites claiming to be from major retailer. Often, these offers are used to gain access to your social media account and personal information.

To further protect shoppers during the holiday season, the Yonkers Police Mobile Command Center will be deployed to city shopping areas such as Ridge Hill, South Broadway, Getty Square, Cross County Center and Central Avenue.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CITY OF YONKERS LAUNCHES “YONKERS HELPING HANDS” DONATION DRIVE FOR NEW YORK CITY SUPERSTORM “SANDY” VICTIMS.

Donations Supplies to Be Accepted at City Office Locations.

Monday, November 19 – Friday, November 23.

YONKERS, NY – November 18, 2012 – Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano today announced the City is launching a Yonkers Helping Hands Donation Drive for New York City victims of Superstorm “Sandy.” Between Monday, November 19 and Friday, November 23, the City is accepting donations of necessary items for those hardest hit by the storm in the New York area.

“While Yonkers suffered damage due to Sandy – it was temporary. We must remember our neighbors in New York City who suffered the most during this unprecedented and catastrophic storm,” said Mayor Spano. “During this time of Thanksgiving, I encourage our residents to give to those in need, especially in these most difficult and stressful times. The residents of our great City have big hearts and there is no better time than now to lend a helping hand to our family and friends.”

Yonkers Helping Hands Drive is accepting the following items as identified by New York City officials organizing recovery efforts:

• ·         NEW bedding
• ·         NEW children’s books
• ·         Cleaning supplies (bleach, work gloves, mops, brooms and buckets)

*Clothes are not needed and will not be accepted.

Donations will be accepted at locations across the City including Yonkers City Hall, 87 Nepperhan Ave. City Office Building, Yonkers Public Libraries, Cacace Justice Center, 20 S. Broadway City Office Building, and Chema Community Center (435 Riverdale Avenue). City Offices will be closed Thursday, November 22 for the Thanksgiving holiday.

Donated items will be taken to several areas in New York on November 23rd by Yonkers Department of Public Works crews.

Yonkers Helping Hands.

DONATION DRIVE FOR NEW YORK CITY SUPERSTORM “SANDY” VICTIMS.

Mayor Mike Spano today announced the City is launching Yonkers Helping Hands Donation Drive for the New York City victims of Superstorm “Sandy.” Between Monday, November 19 and Friday, November 23, the City will be accepting donations at all major City office locations of necessary items for those hardest hit by the storm in the New York area.

“While Yonkers suffered damage due to Sandy – it was temporary. We must remember our neighbors in New York City who suffered the most during this unprecedented and catastrophic storm,” said Mayor Spano. “During this time of Thanksgiving, I encourage our residents to give to those in need, especially in these most difficult and stressful times. The residents of our great City have big hearts and there is no better time than now to lend a helping hand to our family and friends in New York.”

Yonkers Helping Hands Drive is accepting the following items as identified by New York City officials organizing recovery efforts:

• NEW bedding
• NEW children’s books
• Cleaning supplies (bleach, work gloves, mops, brooms and buckets)
• Clothes are not needed and will not be accepted.

Donations of supplies will be accepted at locations across the City including Yonkers City Hall, 87 Nepperhan Ave. City Office Building, Yonkers Public Libraries, Cacace Justice Center, 20 S. Broadway City Office Building, and Chema Community Center (435 Riverdale Avenue).

Donations will be taken to several areas in New York on November 23rd by Yonkers Department of Public Works crews.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CITY OF YONKERS ISSUES REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR THE ACQUISITION & REDEVELOPMENT OF FORMER BOYCE THOMPSON INSTITUTE SITE.

YONKERS, NY — November 16, 2012 – The City of Yonkers today announced its release of a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the acquisition and redevelopment of the former Boyce Thompson Institute. The property to be redeveloped is located in northwest Yonkers at 1086 North Broadway at the southeast corner of North Broadway and Executive Boulevard, which was the former location of the Boyce Thompson Institute for Plant Research.

“After standing for years as a blighted property in an otherwise prosperous area, the Boyce Thompson site hopefully will soon be part of the economic revitalization for the City of Yonkers,” said Mayor Spano. “A building with such unique architecture and prime location should be restored and utilized for the benefit of residents, visitors and to further the economic development goals of the City.”

The building, constructed in 1930, is currently vacant and experiencing deterioration of both the building and adjacent greenhouses. Applicants responding to the RFP will be expected to promote a plan that supports the redevelopment of the site for commercial uses. Applicants are highly encouraged to consider the adaptive reuse of the existing structures on the site and their rehabilitation using sustainable and preservation practices. The City is seeking proposed uses on the site which are designed to fit into and enhance the existing character of the neighborhood.

For more information on the Boyce Thompson RFP, visit http://www.cityofyonkers.com/Index.aspx?page=2714.

November 15 EBAY Item List

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: MAYOR SPANO UNVEILS LATEST INVENTORY OF CITY-OWNED ITEMS FOR AUCTION AT YONKERS EBAY STORE.

Bidding for Over 30 Items to Start Today, November 15 at www.YonkersCARStore.com

Old Getty Square Clock and Snow Dragon Among New Items

YONKERS, NY – November 15, 2012 – Mayor Mike Spano today announced a new list of surplus city-owned assets that are posted for auction on the city’s eBay store, YonkersCARStore.com, starting today. For 10 days, shoppers will have the opportunity to bid on over 30 items, including the City’s recently replaced Getty Square Clock ($660 starting bid) and a Snow Dragon ($75,000 starting bid), used by the Department of Public Works to melt excess snow.

Part of the Mayor’s Comprehensive Asset Reduction Schedule (CARS), which evaluates city resources and expenses in order to reduce city spending, the auction is an opportunity for Yonkers to generate revenue from the selling of city-owned items that are no longer needed. Since the YonkersCARStore launched last June, over $60,000 has been raised with the sale of approximately 40 surplus items.

“This simple method of generating revenue for the City has become an accessible way of turning years of excessive spending into significant savings for taxpayers,” said Mayor Spano. “With the holiday season approaching, I encourage those looking for a great deal to check out our new inventory of items – from cars to fire hydrants. We all can contribute to the repairing of our city’s fiscal health.”

Mayor Spano launched the Yonkers CARStore earlier this year with over three dozen items, including cameras, computers, a fire truck, traffic signal heads, as well as vehicles.  The City expects to auction additional items in the coming months.

YonkersCARStore is specifically configured to be compatible with all smartphones. For more information about the Mayor’s CARS auction, visit www.yonkersny.gov.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: YONKERS MAYOR MIKE SPANO ANNOUNCES FEMA DISASTER RECOVERY CENTER IN YONKERS.

Information and Assistance for Residents Affected by Sandy Available.

Today through Saturday, November 17 at Grinton I. Will Library.

YONKERS, NY – November 15, 2012 – Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano today announced a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Disaster Recovery Center has been established at the Grinton I. Will Library today through Saturday, November 17 for residents seeking information or assistance applying for aid in the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy.

“Sandy left many Yonkers households with damage and has also left many with questions on how they will move forward,” said Mayor Spano. “I encourage anyone who was impacted by this storm to visit the Disaster Recovery Center and find out about the critical assistance that may available to help recover from this devastating storm.”

FEMA representatives are available at Will Library (1500 Central Park Avenue) from 9AM-7PM today, November 15, tomorrow, November 16 and Saturday, November 17 to answer questions and provide information and assistance filing for aid for property damage, injuries, lost income and other disaster related issues.

For more information on FEMA disaster assistance, visit www.fema.gov.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: YONKERS MAYOR MIKE SPANO ORDERS HOUSING & BUILDING PERMIT FEES TO BE WAIVED FOR SANDY PROPERTY DAMAGE REPAIR.

YONKERS, NY – November 14, 2012 – Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano today ordered the Department of Housing & Buildings to waive all permit fees directly relating to the repair of damage caused by Hurricane Sandy. The Mayor also announced an expedited permitting process to prevent delays in critical repair work.

“With power now restored and clean-up operations wrapping up, we continue to focus on making sure those who had damage to property receive the assistance needed to make repairs and return their lives back to normal as quickly as possible,” said Mayor Spano.

Building, electrical, plumbing and sign permits filed with the Department of Housing & Buildings before December 1^st, 2012 will not be charged a fee. Residents must include with their permit application a notarized letter stating that the damage was caused by Hurricane Sandy. The Department of Housing & Buildings will inspect the damaged property prior to the issuance of a permit.

Residents may obtain a permit by submitting an application at www.yonkersny.gov and clicking on DOHB Sandy Damage Repair Permits located at the top of the page or by contacting the Department of Housing & Buildings at (914) 377-6500.