First-Class U. S . Postage Paid , NY Permit No. 4119

Vol. 39, No. 6 www.nyc.gov/nycha JUNE 2009 NEWELEVATORSERVICE ANDSAFETYPLAN

EW ORK ITY OUSING UTHORITY HAIRMAN ICARDO LÍAS N ORALESCONVENEDASECONDMEETINGWITHY C H A (NYCHA) C STAFFR RESIDENTE MLEADERS AND UNION REPRESENTATIVES AT THE OUSINGNYCHA UTHORITY, S ONG SLAND ITY LEVATOR RAINING ACILITY ON HARCH THA TO ANNOUNCE’ L AN IAGGRESSIVEC ELEVATOR TERVICE ANDF AFETY MLAN 26 (Continued on page 5) E S S P (ESSP). The goal of the Plan is to improve service, reduce outages and enhance the safety of the Housing Authority’s 3,338 elevators throughout theMAYOR City. APPOINTS JOHN B. RHEA AS NYCHA CHAIRMAN

RECOGNIZING PUBLIC HOUSING Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg, at the microphone, joined HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan (right), NYCHA Chairman Ricardo Elías Morales (center, back row), members of the New York Congressional delegation, and local elected officials to announce which NYCHA developments will benefit from American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding to NYCHA. Also shown here from left are: Assembly Member Keith Wright, NYCHA Vice-Chairman Earl Andrews, Jr., Congress Member Charles Rangel, City Council Speaker Christine Quinn, and Council Members Melissa Mark Viverito and Inez Dickens. $423 MILLION IN STIMULUS FUNDS TO UPGRADE NYCHA DEVELOPMENTS By Howard Silver

NEW YORK CITY HOUSING and many other elected and $149 million will now be spent on AUTHORITY (NYCHA) RESI- appointed officials including much-needed roof repairs; $50 DENTS, COMMUNITY LEADERS Chairman Ricardo Elías Morales and million will be used to repair AND THE ENTIRE CITYOF Vice-Chairman Earl Andrews,Jr. brickwork; $21 million will be NEW YORK RECEIVED SOME The stimulus funds will be used for new refrigerators (which NYCHA Chairman John B. Rhea WELCOMED NEWS AT LEHMAN used over the next two years for a will yield a savings of $1.4 million VILLAGE HOUSES IN EAST total of 70 capital projects that a year in energy costs); approxi- Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg announced the appointment of John B. HARLEM ON APRIL 26, WHEN will make buildings safer and mately $70 million for elevator Rhea to serve as Chairman of the Housing Authority MAYOR MICHAEL R. BLOOMBERG more efficient, including elevator modernization, and $180 million (NYCHA) effective June 1st, in a press conference at City Hall on ANNOUNCED THE SELECTIONS OF replacements and repairs, roofing for apartment renovations. Of the May 13th. NYCHA’s 21st Chair, Rhea will replace Tino Hernandez, CAPITAL PROJECTS AT NYCHA repairs, boiler and water heater $423 million, approximately $209 who returned to the nonprofit sector last year, and interim Chair DEVELOPMENTS THROUGHOUT replacements, masonry work, insula- million — or almost half — will go Ricardo Elías Morales. Chairman Rhea has more than two decades THE FIVE BOROUGHS THAT tion and appliance upgrades.“I want towards making public housing of investment banking and private sector experience and will help WILL RECEIVE $423 MILLION OF to thank President Obama and our more energy efficient. create long-term financial stability at NYCHA, while increasing FEDERAL STIMULUS FUNDING Congressional delegation for In addition to funding repairs, agency responsiveness. UNDER THE AMERICAN RECOVERY their hard work in making sure the massive stimulus package will “John will bring new dynamic leadership and innovative thinking AND REINVESTMENT ACT (ARRA) that the City received this much- create or preserve 3,255 jobs for to managing NYCHA at a particularly challenging time for public THAT PRESIDENT needed funding to help preserve New Yorkers, associated with the housing,” the Mayor said. SIGNED LAST FEBRUARY. and update our public housing 70 capital projects. As Chairman Mr. Rhea is a graduate of Wesleyan University and also holds a The Mayor was joined in the stock,” the Mayor said. Morales emphasized, NYCHA Masters of Business Administration from the Harvard Business sun-drenched courtyard behind “This money will allow us to will carefully monitor hiring prac- School. He began his career in the Fixed Income Division of the community center by U.S. immediately begin work on more tices to ensure that residents are PaineWebber Inc., and most recently served as a Managing Director Department of Housing and significant upgrades and energy part of the workforce. and at Barclays Capital (formerly Lehman Brothers) managing Urban Development (HUD) conservation projects, and it will “Today’s announcement marks strategy and budget for one of the largest industry sector teams in Secretary Shaun Donovan; U.S. more than double the number of the beginning of the regeneration investment banking. Senator Charles E. Schumer; elevators we’ll be able to repair of public housing in New York,” “I am honored to be taking over an agency with such an important Congress Members Charles and replace starting this year,” the Chairman said. “The credit mission,” said Chairman Rhea. “...I look forward to working with Rangel, Jerrold Nadler and Mayor Bloomberg said. goes to Mayor Bloomberg for the residents and other tenant representatives to ensure their voices and Carolyn Maloney; City Council The combination of ARRA and support he has shown for the solutions to problems are being heard and considered.” Speaker Christine C. Quinn, other Federal funds means that (Continued on page 8) PAGE 2 PAGE 3 PAGE 4 NYCHA’S NEW PET POLICY HUD APPROVES TARGETED HAVE A SAFE, GRAFFITI- HAS BEEN REVISED RENT INCREASE FREE FOURTH OF JULY THE HOUSING AUTHORITY JOURNAL 2 JUNE 2009 MAYOR’S MESSAGE NEW Serve the City You Love in the NYC REVISION Civic Corps for One Year! TONYCHA’S ARE YOU A RECENT COLLEGE GRADUATE INTERESTED IN DEDICATING PETPOLICY A YEAR OF SERVICE TO NEW YORK The New York City CITY — OR AN EXPERIENCED PROFES- SIONAL LOOKING TO APPLY YOUR Housing Authority’s new SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE AT A TIME pet policy, which was WHEN YOUR CITY NEEDS YOU MOST? published in the April Thanks to a partnership with the NYCHA Journal, with an Corporation for National and effective date of May 1, Community Service and its 2009, has been revised. AmeriCorps VISTA program, the Now, only the following City will inaugurate its first class breeds of dogs are prohib- of NYC Civic Corps members this summer. Members will be ited: Doberman pinscher, dispatched in teams to local public and nonprofit organizations to help build sustainable-impact volunteer programs — something no City has Pit bull and Rottweiler, ever done before. as well as dogs that are Whether you are a recent college graduate, a mother who’slooking to get expected to weigh over 25 back into the workforce, or someone who was recently laid off, it doesn't pounds when full grown. matter. If you're passionate about New York and have a willingness and In addition, after the ability to serve your city for a year, then we want you. dog or cat registration NYC Civic Corps teams will be matched with local public and nonprofit form is submitted to organizations to help increase meaningful service throughout the five NYCHA, residents now boroughs of New York City. As a member of the NYC Civic Corps, your have a grace period of service may be in the areas of: strengthening neighborhoods and helping up to 90 days to submit neighbors in need, education, health, emergency preparedness or the the veterinarian certifica- environment. NYC Civic Corps members will receive a $1,129 monthly living allowance, health benefits, educational awards, and other benefits. tion showing that the In addition, as a NYC Civic Corps member, you'll gain strong civic knowl- animal was examined, edge about New York City; skills in leadership, critical thinking and project was spayed or neutered, management; experience working effectively in teams; aptitude for effective has current rabies community outreach; memorable life experiences; new friends; and most of vaccination and that the all, a sense of pride and accomplishment in helping to make the greatest city dog is licensed by the NYC in the world even greater! Department of Health and NYC Civic Corps was launched on April 20, 2009, as part of NYC Mental Hygiene. Service of the Mayor’sFund to Advance NYC, with the goal of promoting A resident MUST submit volunteerism. I encourage New York City Housing Authority residents and to NYCHA a registration all NewYorkers, regardless of your age, to contribute to the health and well- being of your communities. Just log onto www.nycservice.org or call form (available at the 311 to find out how. development’s Manage- Michael R. Bloomberg ment Office) for every dog, cat or Service Animal within 30 days after it is obtained. The Housing Authority The dog weight limit of 25 pounds and specific Journal breed restrictions apply ESTABLISHED 1970 • CIRCULATION 200,000 to any dog registered on or after May 1, 2009. Published monthly by the New York City Housing Authority For NYCHA’s full pet Department of Communications 250 Broadway, New York, N.Y. 10007 policy visit our website Tel (212) 306-3322 • Fax (212) 577-1358 at nyc.gov/nycha. nyc.gov/nycha Michael R. Bloomberg...... Mayor To make a Ricardo Elías Morales ...... Chairman complaint or Earl Andrews, Jr...... Vice-Chairman Margarita López...... Board Member report any Vilma Huertas...... Secretary Douglas Apple ...... General Manager dangerous Sheila Greene ...... Director, Department of Communications illegal animal on Eileen Elliott...... Editor Heidi Morales...... Editor, Spanish Edition NYCHA property, Howard Silver ...... Editor, NYCHA Bulletin Call 311, the City’s Tischelle George...... Online News Editor Deborah Williams...... Staff Writer Citizen Service Peter Mikoleski, Leticia Barboza...... Photography

Center, which is If you are interested in placing an advertisement in the Journal, please call available 24-hours a our marketing representatives in the Office of Business and Revenue Development at (212) 306-6616. The inclusion of any advertisement in day. If there is an this Journal does not constitute any endorsement by the Housing immediate threat Authority of the advertiser or its products or services or any other representation by the Housing Authority with respect to such products or involving a services. dangerous or illegal animal, call 911. THE HOUSING AUTHORITY JOURNAL JUNE 2009 3

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE HUDAPPROVES DEBORAH’S DIARY By Deborah Williams TARGETED RENT Life Goes On – A grim medical diagnosis is It’s Been A Pleasure To Serve... INCREASE generally followed by disbelief and the Keep Up the Good Work! question, “Why did this have to happen to NYCHA’S PROPOSED TARGETED me?” Antonio Ruiz, a resident of Grant Houses IN MY LAST COLUMN AS NYCHA’S RENT INCREASEHASBEEN in , believes that one must under- CHAIRMAN, FIRST,I WOULD LIKE APPROVED BY THE U.S. DEPART- stand the existential philosophy surrounding TO THANK MAYOR MICHAEL R. MENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN life and use it to achieve inner peace. Mr. Ruiz’s BLOOMBERGFORGIVINGME DEVELOPMENT (HUD) AND WILL said his long struggle with kidney disease, and THIS OPPORTUNITY TO SERVE, BE PHASED IN OVER A TWO-YEAR growing up without knowing his biological parents bought him to the FOLLOWING THE RESIGNATION OF PERIOD BEGINNING NOVEMBER 1, realization that, “It’s important to learn about life and how to channel TINO HERNANDEZ. I know you, 2009. The increase will affect love and have faith.” the residents and staff of only 28% of NYCHA’s house- Born in Venezuela in 1970, at the age of 16, young Antonio was NYCHA, are in good hands holds—those who pay the diagnosed with kidney disease and placed on a list for a kidney trans- under the newly appointed John flat rent and have the highest plant. However, he knew the wait would be long because of his rare B. Rhea (See article, page 1). In household incomes. blood type. After three years of dialysis, he received word that a my capacity as Chairman I The vast majority of kidney donor match had been found. The parents of a young boy who developed a deeper appreciation NYCHA’s residents, approxi- was injured in a car crash had graciously consented to give Mr. Ruiz for all of the complexities mately 72%, who have lower their son’s kidney. The transplant was a success and Mr. Ruiz went on involved in working to fulfill incomes pay 30% of their to lead a normal life. He married and had two children. NYCHA’s mission of providing incomes in rent and will not In 1995, Mr. Ruiz moved from Venezuela to New York City, but decent and affordable housing to be affected. after two years, his world turned upside down when his body rejected low- and moderate-income New Yorkers. NYCHA is implementing the new kidney. He became a patient at Columbia Presbyterian A lot has happened over these past five months. Foremost among this increase to offset a deficit Hospital where he was again placed on a list for a kidney transplant. the Housing Authority’s successes has been obtaining $423 million which has been caused From then on, Mr. Ruiz spent most of the day on the dialysis machine. for much needed capital projects under the Stimulus Bill—the primarily by years of chronic On his 36th birthday, Mr. Ruiz’s phone rang with “the news that a highest amount of any housing authority in the country. Because underfunding by the federal kidney donor match had been found. It was the best birthday present there is great urgency in submitting and expediting projects that will government. The Housing ever. I was to receive a kidney. However there was a twist. I was told qualify for this new funding, and to ensure that the entire capital Authority faces a deficit of by the doctors that I as a 36 year-old man would be receiving the portfolio can meet the critical obligation and expenditure deadlines, I approximately $45 million for kidney of a 69-year-old donor who had died from a heart attack and reorganzied NYCHA’s Capital Projects Division, which now reports the current fiscal year. had several underlying medical conditions such as diabetes. So who directly to the Chairman’s Office. (You can read more about the knows how long this kidney will last.” Mr. Ruiz surmised that Stimulus money on page 1 of this Journal.) Calculating Your because the probability of finding another donor with his rare blood A top priority during my time here has been the development of a Rent Increase type was low it would be best to take the kidney that was offered plan to ensure the reliable and safe operation of NYCHA’s 3,338 For residents whose rents to him. elevators. NYCHA recently completed a rigorous three-month evalu- will increase, the exact It’s now 2009, and while interviewing Mr. Ruiz I asked how he ation of its elevator fleet and operations, incorporating input from amounts of the increase will feels these days and he replied, residents, union officials, and other interested parties. I am confident be calculated as part of the “Not so good. I am always tired we have devised a plan that will ensure that residents and the public regular annual review process. because my hemoglobin is so low. can use NYCHA’s elevators with complete confidence. Again, please However, an estimate can be I remind myself that every day see the article on page 1 of this Journal for more. obtained based on gross could be my last day, so I push this I have had the personal pleasure of getting out to many develop- income prior to deductions body very hard every day and I do ments to meet with residents, whether to celebrate development by accessing the RENT it for my kids because I want to anniversaries, or to encourage residents to form “green committees” CALCULATOR on NYCHA’s live.” But the reality is if this as we all work to reduce the Housing Authority’s carbon footprint Website at www.nyc.gov/nycha, kidney fails chances of a third and create a greener, cleaner, safer New York for generations to clicking the Residents’ Corner kidney transplant are slim to come. To encourage resident partcipation, I have met with NYCHA’s tab on the homepage, scrolling none because there are so many resident leaders at Central Office for briefings on our legislative down to the “How Will people on the list waiting for a agenda, NYCHA’s structure, our finances and budget. the Plan to Preserve Public first transplant. These meetings were held with the objective of creating an atmos- Housing Affect NYCHA Mr. Ruiz is turning his experi- phere of transparency in all of NYCHA’s dealings, especially its Residents?” and clicking on ence into something positive. He budget. Through a variety of measures, involving some tough “Find Out Here.” wants to help people through a choices such as lay-offs, consolidation of community centers and At this site you will be able to book he is writing entitled, “Es rent increases, we are reducing this year’s budget deficit from a calculate your estimated rent Tiempo De Comprender Nuestra projected $198 million to $45.1 million. This has allowed us to for both 2009 and 2010 by Mision Existencial,” translated, “It prevent additional community center closings. Another area where I entering your number of is Time to Understand Our Existential Mission.” This will be the first have encouraged openness and transparency is with NYCHA’s bi- bedrooms, household size and book that Mr. Ruiz has written. “I am doing this because I want to weekly Board Meetings. The dates and times are published in every gross household income into send a message to people — that when you are honest in your life all Journal and on NYCHA’s web site at nyc.gov/nycha and the public is the RENT CALCULATOR. doors open and that’s what is needed for happiness,” said Mr. Ruiz. invited to attend. At these meetings we discuss in detail the various You will also be able to His book will discuss existential philosophy and how learning to be items that are up for approval, careful to avoid jargon that may estimate your rent by quiet and listening to your inner self will bring peace. Although, the confuse the public. accessing the 2009 and 2010 book (written in Spanish) is not yet available to the public (it’s still in On May 20th, I accepted the Sheldon Oliensis Ethics in City rent schedules provided at the editing stage) you can expect to see it soon on a book shelf near Government Award from the City’s Conflicts of Interest Board at this site. you. Mr. Ruiz would like to thank Columbia Presbyterian Hospital, New York Law School. The award is given to individuals, City agen- Once again, for those George Washington High School and a list of others for all of their cies and organizations which advance the goal of the City’s conflicts residents affected, the actual help with the book. of interest law, “to preserve the trust placed in the public servants of increase will be calculated Mr. Ruiz your story is one of great triumph and encouragement the City, to promote confidence in government, to protect the at the time of your next to all. Not everyone can stare adversity in the face and persevere but integrity of government decision making and to enhance government scheduled annual review and you have and that’s an outstanding feat.Your ability to prevail has efficiency.” I am deeply honored to receive this award. will go into effect one month shown us what strong will and courage is all about. I wish you good In short, it has been a privilege to serve as your Chairman for these after the quarter in which your health and great success with your book. You truly deserve it. past months. I hope that I have helped to move NYCHA along. annual review is completed, Congratulations and speedy recovery! Please join me in welcoming John B. Rhea as NYCHA’s commencing with the July Hey Graduates — Are you graduating this year? Are you proud of new Chairman. I know you will work with him, as you did with to September 2009 quarter, your achievements? Will you be receiving special awards, honors or me, to make sure NYCHA remains the premier housing authority in with the rent increasing on scholarships that you want to tell your neighbors about? Let me be the country. November 1, 2009. your “Gossip Girl.” Drop me a few lines or even better give me a call Please address questions to at 212-306-4752. I will do my best to get your news in this column! your Management Office. Ricardo Elías Morales THE HOUSING AUTHORITY JOURNAL 4 JUNE 2009 THE CHIEF’S CORNER THE NYCHA NOT WANTED LIST NEW YORK CITY In this issue we continue publishing the names of individuals who have HOUSING been permanently excluded from our public housing developments. Have a The purpose of this list is to keep residents informed of the Housing AUTHORITY Happy, Safe, Authority’s ongoing efforts to improve the quality of life for all New Board Meeting Yorkers in public housing and to allow for the peaceful and safe use Graffiti-free of our facilities. What follows is a partial list of the people excluded Schedule Fourth of July! after hearings were held on March 11, 18 and 25, 2009. For a full list of the “Not Wanted” visit NYCHA’s website at Notice is hereby given that the New York City Housing Hello, nyc.gov/residentscorner. Please note: These exclusions are based Authority’s Board Meetings on NYCHA’s Administrative Hearing Process and should not be take place every other As we come together to cele- confused with the Trespass Notice Program under Mayor Wednesday at 10:00 A.M. brate our nation’s indepen- Bloomberg’s Operation Safe Housing Initiative. (unless otherwise noted) in the Board Room on the 12th dence next month, the NYPD REMEMBER, Floor of 250 Broadway, New Housing Bureau encourages all IF YOU SEE ANY OF THESE INDIVIDUALS ON York, New York. The meetings residents to fully enjoy the HOUSING AUTHORITY PROPERTY, PLEASE CALL for Calendar Year 2009 are festivities and celebrations asso- YOUR MANAGEMENT OFFICE OR NYCHA’S as follows: ciated with our nation’s birthday. SPECIAL INVESTIGATIONS UNIT AT (212) 306-8595. However, it is also impor- HOUSING BUREAU POLICE June 24, 2009 tant to recognize the danger Prohibited as of March 11, 2009 July 8, 2009 CHIEF JOANNE JAFFE Lavasia King Case 3613/08 formerly associated with the seventh floor July 22, 2009 posed to our communities of 2832-2836 West 23rd Street, Carey Gardens Houses, August 5, 2009 through the unsafe handling of illegal fireworks. . August 19, 2009 Unfortunately, every year at this time a number of individuals Arnold Davis Case 6867/07 formerly associated with the eleventh floor September 2, 2009 who play with fireworks, often young people, become of 1806 First Avenue, Isaacs/Holmes Houses, Manhattan. September 16, 2009 injured—many seriously so. Injuries have included burns, Cornell Sullivan Case 1305/09 formerly associated with the eleventh floor September 30, 2009 permanent disfigurement, and even the loss of eyes, fingers October 14, 2009 of 595 Trinity Avenue, St. Mary’s Park Houses, Bronx. and hands. October 28, 2009 Christopher Case 1469/09 formerly associated with the fifth floor of November 10, 2009 If you are aware of any information regarding the sale, Gladden 520 East 156th Street, Bronxchester Houses, the Bronx. (Tuesday) delivery, usage or storage of illegal explosives or fireworks, I urge you to call 311. Your assistance can help save a child Duffy Carruthers Case 8978/05 formerly associated with the first floor of November 25, 2009 1219 Adee Avenue, Eastchester Gardens, the Bronx. December 9, 2009 from being seriously injured. Leave the fireworks demonstra- December 23, 2009 tions to the professionals. Frank Medley Case 480/09 formerly associated with the eleventh floor January 6, 2010 I would also like to take this opportunity to address a quality- of 250 West 131st Street, Saint Nicholas Houses, of-life issue that affects all of us—GRAFFITI. Graffiti is a Manhattan. Please note that these dates are subject to change. destructive offense. It is a nationwide problem that causes exten- Jonathan Oliveras Case 8169/08 formerly associated with the first floor of sive property damage and communicates a message of disorder Jonathan Olivares 315 Lexington Avenue, Marcy Avenue-Greene Avenue, Any changes to the schedule in our neighborhoods. While the Housing Bureau continues to Site A Houses, Brooklyn. above will be posted on NYCHA’s Website at reduce crime, an important part of our success has been the Zaquan Werts Case 1315/09 formerly associated with the sixth floor of nyc.gov/nycha and in the close relationship between residents and the police department. 1305 Loring Avenue, Pink Houses, Brooklyn. NYCHA Journal to the extent You are the eyes and ears of your communities. Members of the practicable at a reasonable Prohibited as of March 18, 2009 public are eligible for a reward of up to $500.00 for providing time before the meeting. Paul Nesbitt Case 1519/09 formerly associated with the fifth floor of These meetings are open to information that leads to the arrest and conviction of anyone 1368-1370 Webster Avenue, Butler Houses, the Bronx. the public. Pre-registration of who commits graffiti vandalism. Please call 911 for crimes in Steve Wilson Case 1122/09 formerly associated with the sixth floor of speakers is required. Those progress and 311 to provide information. 451 Columbia Street, Red Hook East Houses, Brooklyn. who wish to register must do As always, we rely on our strong partnership with the residents Joseph Campbell Case 8458/08 formerly associated with the first floor of so at least forty-five (45) of public housing to help us fight crime, address quality-of-life Joseph Klarke 805 Taylor Avenue, Monroe Houses, the Bronx. minutes before the scheduled concerns and enhance public safety. Board Meeting. Comments Ricardo Lazala Case 5266/08 formerly associated with the seventh floor are limited to the items on Joanne Jaffe Billy Lazala of 1686 Randall Avenue, Soundview Houses, the Bronx. the agenda. Speakers will Chief of Housing Kashiem Reed Case 1630/09 formerly associated with the third floor of be heard in the order of 290 Frost Street, Cooper Park Houses, Brooklyn. registration. Speaking time will be limited to three (3) Bruce Campbell Case 1645/09 formerly associated with the third floor of minutes. The public comment 710 Euclid Avenue, Cypress Hills Houses, Brooklyn. period will conclude upon all speakers being heard or at the Darkisha Jaudon Case 1665/09 formerly associated with the twelfth floor expiration of thirty (30) Akeem Jaudon of 1635 East 174th Street, Bronx River Houses, Bronx. minutes allotted by law for Angel Rodriguez Case 1533/09 formerly associated with the tenth floor of public comment, whichever 130 3rd Avenue, Wyckoff Gardens, Brooklyn. occurs first. For Board Charles McBride Case 1704/09 formerly associated with the fourth floor Meeting dates and times, and/or additional information, of 244 Bond Street, Gowanus Houses, Brooklyn. please visit our website at Prohibited as of March 25, 2009 nyc.gov/nycha or contact us Jeffrey Brown Case 1766/09 formerly associated with the first floor of at (212) 306-6088. Copies of 130 East 115th Street, Johnson Houses, Manhattan. the agenda can be picked up at the Office of the Secretary Chazmin Booker Case 1850/09 formerly associated with the thirty-first at 250 Broadway, 12th floor, floor of 1135 University Avenue, Highbridge Gardens, New York, New York, no the Bronx. earlier than 3 P.M. on the Roland DeBarros Case 1907/09 formerly associated with the third floor of Friday before the upcoming 50 East 104th Street, Carver Houses, Manhattan. Wednesday Board Meeting. Any person requiring a Vernice Gaither Case 794/09 formerly associated with the second floor reasonable accommodation of 70 Lenox Avenue, King Towers Houses, Manhattan. in order to participate in the Board Meeting, should William Calderon Case 3379/08 formerly associated with the fourth floor contact the Office of of 2331 11th Street, Marlboro Houses, Brooklyn. the Secretary at (212) 306-6088 no later than five For a full list of the “Not Wanted” (5) business days before the visit NYCHA’s website at Board Meeting. nyc.gov/residentscorner. THE HOUSING AUTHORITY JOURNAL JUNE 2009 5 NEWELEVATORSERVICE ANDSAFETYPLAN IMPORTANT (Continued from page 1) LEGAL NOTICE REGARDING “We’ve been working on this plan for the last three months, on the Executive Board of SERVICE OF and have incorporated input Teamsters Local 237 also spoke. from all stakeholders,” the Local 237 is the union which SUBPOENAS Chairman announced. “We’re covers the titles Supervisor of not saying ‘we’re going to do Elevator Mechanic, Elevator The Housing this.’ — We are doing it.” Mechanic,Four Key Elevator Components Mechanic of The Plan includes a $167 HelperImproved and Caretaker Service E, or Authority’s Law million investment in capital Elevator Dispatcher. Department will elevator improvements over the course of five years. Moderniza- no longer tion plans are in place for 450 accept the elevators: 118 elevator cars will ADGM Clarke described be replaced in the Bronx, 172 in the four key components of payment of Brooklyn, 138 in Manhattan, and the plan to improve service, legal fees, such 22 in Queens. Of the $167 which are: million, approximately $70 —Improvingelevatormaintenance; as the fee that million will come from the —Modernizing elevators; must be paid American Recovery and Rein- —Increasingpublicawareness vestment Act stimulus funds. through resident participation; when serving a “NYCHA’s elevators make 3.2 and subpoena. All million trips a day, 1.2 billion —Collaborating with the trips a year,” the Chairman Department of Buildings, as such fees must emphasized at the beginning Immediatewell as NYCHA’s Solutions Office of now be paid to of the presentation. “Any the Inspector General and one injury, any one death is ImprovingConflicts of Maintenance Interest Board. the Finance too much.” Increased Staff Department, In addition, there will be an increase of nearly Cashier’s $12 million in funding for Window, 6th NYCHA’s Elevator Division To improve elevator mainte- for additional staff, enhanced Floor, nance NYCHA is expanding technical training, and improved head count for elevator 90 Church security and oversight. personnel by 75 positions, and The Chairman called on Street. increasing the budget for related NYCHA staff to describe the personnel by $6.6 million. The key components of the Plan, expansion includes: which were broken down The Law — A newly created Agency into immediate and long- Elevator Director position to Department term solutions. oversee all elevator support The staff included Deputy will continue to services; and General Manager for Operations — 30 additional Elevator accept service Gloria Finkelman, Assistant Mechanics, 38 additional Deputy General Manager for New Elevator Maintenance of subpoenas Elevator Mechanics Helpers and Operations Brian Clarke, Acting Support Unit one Supervisor of Mechanics. and other legal Deputy General Manager for Capital Projects Yianna Pavlakos, documents at (Continued on page 6) and Technical Services Deputy 250 Broadway, Director John Ashton, who has NYCHA has created an th over 30 years of experience in 9 Floor. Elevator Maintenance Support NYCHA’s Elevator Division. In However, no addition, Ed Kane, a trustee document requiring the payment of a fee will be accepted without a receipt from the Cashier’s Join the more than 19,000 AGGRESSIVEACTION NYCHA Chairman Ricardo Elías Window Morales announced NYCHA’s Elevator Service and Safety Plan showing that subscribers who receive the NYCHA to stakeholders who convened at the Housing Authority’s Journal online each month by Long Island City Elevator Training Facility. Shown above, from the fee has signing up at www.nyc.gov, or by left, are Ed Kane from Teamsters Local 237, Residents Bernice been paid. King and Marguerite Scott, NYCHA Chairman Ricardo Elías visiting NYCHA’s Web site at Morales, and Wise Towers Resident Association President nyc.gov/nycha. Victor Gonzalez. THE HOUSING AUTHORITY JOURNAL 6 JUNE 2009 NEW ELEVATOR SERVICE AND S

(Continued from page 5) Enhanced Elevator Inspection Program

inspection consultant will be Unit (EMSU) that is serving required to sign off on all as a City-wide task force to The ESSP builds on efforts inspections and serve as a improve elevator performance. already in place. This includes double check on the quality The unit has 20 teams of the use of a handheld device to of inspections. Elevator Mechanics and perform elevator inspections. NYCHA and the DOB Mechanics Helpers who are in “Our inspectors are recently executed a Memo- the process of being deployed equipped with handheld randum of Understanding to the 50 NYCHA developments computer devices that have (MOU) on elevator safety with the highest elevator all of the items to be and protocols. The DOB outages. There, they perform inspected listed. Results are has agreed to include on its assessments and work with the automatically uploaded into websiteCentralizing current Elevator information regular elevator teams rein- NYCHA’s computer system so regardingOperations NYCHA’s corrected forcing standard procedures. At supervisors can review the elevator deficiencies. the timeStaff of the Training Long Island City inspections the next day,” meeting, EMSU was already said Mr. Ashton. working at 11 developments. This reduces paperwork and facilitates repairs and Elevator operations cur- adjustments.Transparency A process and that rently fall under three “Training is key to effective previouslyAccountability took weeks now departments within NYCHA: elevator service,” said Deputy takes just a few days. Technical Services, Emer- Director Ashton. The Plan gency Services and the Teamsters Local 237 President Gregory Floyd (center) with elevator includes a number of steps to Borough Management Offices. Repair Division, on May 12th at Latimer Gardens in Flushing, Queens ensurethatelevatorstaffprovide The ESSP includes the the best service possible. NYCHA is contracting with centralization of all Elevator Additional Safety Measures — All elevator personnel an independent third-party Operations under Technical attended Conflict of Interest inspection consultant who Services to promote a single Board training; will witness all Category 1 focus, more consistent —Nationally recognized and Category 5 Inspections/ standards and flexibility with The average age of a inspection training certifica- Tests consistent with new staff. The centralization is NYCHA elevator is 13 years. Though not required by Code, tion is currently being Building Code requirements. expected to be completed NYCHA will also install elevator TheClosed Housing Circuit Authority Television has conducted by a contractor. This The independent elevator this month. door zone locks (door zone replaced 2,160(CCTV) elevators over is in addition to the Depart- the past ten years. restrictors) in those elevators ment of Buildings (DOB) certi- installed prior to 1993 in 752 fication staff receive; elevators at 85 developments —Supervisor of Elevator around the boroughs. Mechanics staff participated To better monitor the use These locking mechanisms are in a two-day training course mounted on the inside of an of elevators and increase secu- entitled, “Coaching for Better elevator door to prevent it rity and safety NYCHA will be Performance,” which focuses from openingComprehensive unless the floor installing CCTV cameras in an on ways to coach, instruct, of theThird-Party elevator is Review level with direct and provide construc- additional 170 elevators in 72 the landing. tive feedback to elevator buildings at 28 developments employees; in 2009. —Supervisor of Elevator Already this year the Mechanics and Elevator NYCHA Chairman Ricardo Elías Morales describes the Housing Authority has NYCHA is procuring the Administrators received an mission of the Housing Authority’s Elevator Action Plan to installed CCTV cameras in services of an elevator con- intensive five-day manage- residents and other stakeholders at NYCHA’s Long Island 69 elevators in 31 buildings sultingPublic Awareness firm to perform Through a ment/supervisory course and; City Elevator Training Facility. at 11 developments and instal- comprehensiveResident Participation review of its — NYCHA staff participated lation of CCTV cameras in eight elevator operations. in Elevator Safety Week with Long-term Solutions buildings in eight develop- the Departments of Buildings Modernization and Education. ments is currently underway. At present, there are At the end of the presentation CCTV cameras installed in 760 DGM Finkelman emphasized elevators in 485 buildings Remote Elevator that NYCHA cannot successfully Acting Deputy General at 76Monitoring developments System across implement the ESSP without Manager for Capital Projects the City. resident participation. Yianna Pavlakos described “The Chair and Board are the long-term solution of modernizing NYCHA’s eleva- very interested in what you think,” she said to the tors. NYCHA has created a A Remote Elevator Moni- new specialized Elevator resident leaders who were toring System (REMS), which Design Unit to expedite present. “So far, we’ve made elevator replacement projects reports and diagnoses outages this presentation, or a very in the Housing Authority’s and repair responses, has similar one at 116 Resident NYCHA Chairman Ricardo Elías Morales and Department five-year capital plan. already been installed and is in Association meetings.” of Buildings Commissioner Robert D. LiMandri sign a Ms. Pavlakos explained that operation in 920 elevators at Incorporating resident Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on elevator safety modernization is a long-term 57 developments. suggestions NYCHA has and protocols. The DOB has agreed to include on its solution because of the The Plan calls for an implemented a public aware- website current information regarding NYCHA’s corrected many steps in the process, expansion of REMS in 722 ness campaign entitled, “If You elevator deficiencies. including a design phase, elevators over the next five See It, Report It,” which procurement phase, selection years. NYCHA plans to install encourages residents to of a contractor and then the REMS in 234 elevators this contact the Centralized Call actual time it takes to manu- year, and has completed 81 Center to report unsafe con- facture the elevators. as of May. ditions at their developments. THE HOUSING AUTHORITY JOURNAL JUNE 2009 7 SAFETY PLAN

r mechanic supervisors and helpers of the Brooklyn-Queens Elevator s.

NYCHA’s public awareness campaign includes the distribu- tion of flyers like the one above, encouraging residents to report certain conditions at their developments, and the Elevator Safety “TIPS” flyer above right.

with reductions to ensure we have a viable program.” After taking questions Elevator Safety flyers, such Chair Reginald Bowman. from residents, Chairman as the one above right, “We have a responsibility as Morales stressed that and safety brochures have resident leaders to work NYCHA’s goal is to continue to been provided to all in cooperation with the improve elevator service and residents, and staff are Authority to teach people safety and reduce outages in making elevator safety how to work elevators prop- In Conclusion all elevators located in presentations at all resident erly,” Bowman said. “Let’s get NYCHA buildings. association meetings. the word out.” “We’re going to open a new “I commend the Chairman Carmen Wynder of Astoria Houses in Queens questions door and step into a new for action. All of us who live NYCHA about elevators. room,” the Chairman said. in a NYCHA development “All of this doesn’t just build know that elevators are itself with goodwill,” said our lifeblood,” said City- Chairman Morales. “We’re wide Council of Presidents going to try to balance funds THE HOUSING AUTHORITY JOURNAL 8 JUNE 2009

$423M TO UPGRADE DEVELOPMENTS(Continued from page 1) Stimulus Bill, to the entire New legislation forward. A stronger to make sure that Section 3 York Congressional delegation, resident in our developments is a is working.” and to the resident leadership stronger resident of our City and Under Section 3 of the who have helped make America of our great country.” HUD Act of 1968, wherever Direct Deposit: A Safer, Easier aware that this money was City Council Speaker Chris- HUD financial assistance is Way to Get your Benefits needed and should be earmarked tine Quinn put the record capital expended for housing or for NYCHA.” allocation in perspective when community development, the Direct deposit is the best way to get your Social NYCHA received the largest she noted, “NYCHA is facing a economic opportunities, to the Security and other federal benefits. It’s safer and greatest extent feasible, will allocation of ARRA funds of any budget gap of approximately easier than a check because your money goes straight housing authority in the country. $170 million this year and be given to residents and The stimulus funds are in approximately $200 million in businesses in that area. to your account on your payment day. Go Direct addition to NYCHA’s existing subsequent years. They have COP Chair for Manhattan now also offers direct deposit for VA Compensation 5-year capital plan, which is now been forced to use capital South Rose Bergin was and pension benefits. Now, signing up is easier more than $2 billion. The stim- funding to cover expenses, so especially glad that stimulus than ever. Call Go Direct at (800)333-1795, or visit ulus funding will allow NYCHA money that was meant for the funds would be applied to www.GoDirect.org. to accelerate existing projects and maintenance of elevators, for elevators. “Chairman Morales initiate new ones that were increasing security measures or had a big part in making designed but deferred due to lack the upkeep of buildings, never stimulus funds available for EXTRA, EXTRA!! of funds. The total value of went where it was intended.” that,”she said. Do you receive Social Security and Supplemental NYCHA capital projects bene- Security Income benefits? If so, by now you should fitting from the stimulus package Where Funds Will Be Spent have received a $250 check the government is $518 million. calls an “economic recovery payment.” If you did not Approximately $70 million The selection of the 70 receive the check or if you have questions, call of ARRA funds are specifically capital projects to receive the earmarked for elevator replace- Federal stimulus funds was (800)772-1213. ment and upgrades. The based on a combination of 2009 capital plan calls for the factors, including what pro- replacement and upgrade of 97 jects were ‘shovel-ready’ and elevators in 11 developments. part of NYCHA’s five-year The addition of ARRA funds capital plan, as required by the allows for the repair and upgrade Recovery Act, and those of a total of 242 elevators in 22 that demonstrated the most developments in 2009. pressing and immediate need for residents. Praise for the During a question and Stimulus Program answer period that followed the press conference, Chairman The effect of the stimulus funds Morales emphasized, “We will on public housing and the City’s be following through with our economy was roundly applauded Section 3 requirements to make by elected officials, many of sure that there will be jobs avail- whose efforts played a large part able for our residents.” in the size and substance of Commenting on the day’s NYCHA’s allocation. event, resident leader, Council “President Obama’s Recovery of Presidents (COP) Chair for Act is the most ambitious Manhattan North Ethel Velez economic recovery package in said, “Any monies we receive history, putting millions of for developments is always Americans back to work doing welcome. My concern is that we the work that America needs provide jobs for young people done,” said HUD Secretary and we monitor contractors Donovan. As former Commis- sioner of the New York City Department of Housing, Preservation and Development, Secretary Donovan well understands NYCHA’s and the City’s needs. “I applaud Mayor Bloomberg and his team for putting this money to good use for New Yorkers quickly and effectively,” said Senator Schumer. “We brokered an agreement between NYCHA, the Congressional delegation, House and Senate, and the President to allow the stimulus funds to be used for elevators. That was not true when the stimulus started,” he noted. “The Recovery Bill will mean a great deal if you live in public housing,” said Congressman Rangel. “Our entire Congres- sional delegation supported the President in order to move this THE HOUSING AUTHORITY JOURNAL JUNE 2009 9 THE HOUSING AUTHORITY JOURNAL 10 JUNE 2009 THE HOUSING AUTHORITY JOURNAL JUNE 2009 11 NYCHA Celebrates 75 Years of Public Housing

The New York City Housing Authority’s (NYCHA’s) St. Mary’s Park Houses, located in the Melrose section of the Bronx, celebrated its 50th Anniversary on April 30, 2009.

Saint Mary’s Park Houses consists of six, 21-story buildings with 1,007 apartments. It is home to 2,261 residents, and covers over 13 acres.The development takes its name from the nearby St. Mary’s Park. It was built on the site of the Bronx Garment Center, a block-long factory that was located on a rocky bluff. This was also previously the site of the Ursuline Convent (1854-1888) and Lebanon Hospital (1892-1943.)

Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg commemorated the occasion of the development’s anniversary with a proclamation commending St. Mary’s Park Houses for its role in the revitalization of the South Bronx.

The historical photos and captions below are from the LaGuardia and Wagner Archives.

This site at 661 East 149th Street in the South Bronx that includes Murray S. Paroly's used car lot was right at the edge of the site for the St. Mary's Park Houses, March 18, 1954.

FIFTY YEARS Celebrating St. Mary’s Park Houses’ 50th Anniversary were (from left) Resident Association Vice-President Willious Sowell, Manager Barry A. Levine, Borough Administrator Gary Watt, Bronx Management Department Director Michael Cornelius, NYCHA Vice-Chairman Earl Andrews, Jr., Resident Association President Katie Malone, Building Captains Mary Martin St. Mary’s Park Houses, shortly after it was completed in 1959. and Susan Colds, Bronx Management Department Deputy Director Joseph DiFrancesco, Superintendent Bartholomew Pulley, and Building Captains Loretta Glover and Barbara Wilder.