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Vol. 39, No. 4 www.nyc.gov/nycha APRIL 2009 ATTAIN Lab Opens At Drew- Hamilton Community Center The digital divide is getting smaller! A grand opening ceremony was held for the New York City Housing Authority’s (NYCHA’s) fifth ATTAIN lab which opened on February 27th at the Drew-Hamilton Houses Community Center in Harlem, with a traditional ribbon- cutting. ATTAIN stands for Advanced Technology Training and Information Networking and the goal of the program, which is funded by the State Legislature, is to increase access to new technologies in economically challenged neighborhoods. There are 37 ATTAIN labs throughout New York State, administered by the State University of New York’s University (SUNY’s) Center for Academic and Workforce Development (UCAWD). The Drew-Hamilton Grand Opening was hosted by Assembly Member Keith L.T. Wright, the UCAWD and SUPPORT City Council Members Melissa Mark Viverito, Albert Vann, NYCHA Chairman Ricardo NYCHA. Among the distinguished guests who spoke were NYCHA Elías Morales, NYCHA Secretary Vilma Huertas, and City Council Member Diana Reyna at Chairman Ricardo Elías Morales, Assembly Member Wright, Drew NYCHA’s Annual Legislative Breakfast. Hamilton Resident Association President David Welch and UCAWD Interim Director William Chalmers. In his remarks, Chairman Morales congratulated Mr. Welch on obtaining his GED at the NYCHA NOW MORE THAN EVER! ATTAIN Lab at NYCHA’s Polo Grounds Community Center in NYCHA’s Annual Legislative Breakfast Manhattan, saying he was an inspiration. The lab will provide quali- By Eileen Elliott fied facilitators and training for over 30 academic, occupational, and life skills courses, utilizing 24 state-of-the-art workstations with MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL AND NEW YORK CITY HOUSING AUTHORITY (NYCHA) RESIDENTS WHO broadband Internet connectivity. The Drew-Hamilton ATTAIN Lab is ATTENDED NYCHA’S ANNUAL LEGISLATIVE BREAKFAST, HELD AT CENTRAL OFFICE IN MANHATTAN ON open from Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM. Other NYCHA MARCH 3RD, SHOWED STRONG SUPPORT FOR THE HOUSING AUTHORITY’S AGENDA IN THE COMING YEAR AS locations with the ATTAIN Labs are: Berry Houses and South Beach EXPRESSEDBY CHAIRMAN RICARDO ELÍAS MORALES. The meet-and-greet gives NYCHA an Community Center in Staten Island, Farragut Community Center in opportunity to make its priorities known to the City Council. Those priorities for 2009 are: Brooklyn and there are plans to open a new ATTAIN lab soon at 303 obtaining 100% funding from the federal government, maintaining the State’s $3 million Vernon Avenue in Brooklyn. For information on the Drew-Hamilton allocation, working together to federalize NYCHA’s 21 unfunded City- and State-built ATTAIN Lab, call (212) 306-3400. developments, and aggressively implementing NYCHA’s “green agenda” to increase efficiency, and save money and the environment. “We invited you here to show you how you can help CITY COUNCIL BUDGET HEARING us by knowing who we are and by understanding that this institution is an economic engine that helps keep this City going,” said Board Member Margarita López in her introductory remarks.

NYCHA’s Green Agenda After commenting on the Housing Authority’s 75th Anniversary and thanking Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg, the City Council and resi- dents for their support, the Chairman broached his main topic of discussion, NYCHA’s “green agenda.” “We're moving forward NYCHA Chairman Ricardo Elías Morales with Board on a very aggressive agenda Member Margarita López presented testimony on NYCHA’s for the greening of NYCHA,” Preliminary Budget for Fiscal Year 2009 to the City Council said the Chairman. “Through CONNECTED Assembly Member Keith Wright (left) and at City Hall on March 9th. The Chairman emphasized NYCHA’s our green initiatives we NYCHA Chairman Ricardo Elías Morales with young residents at commitment to maintaining the proud legacy of public contribute to saving the the new ATTAIN Computer Lab at Drew-Hamilton Houses in housing as NYCHA celebrates its 75th Year. The Chairman planet by reducing green- Upper Manhattan. The lab is one of five ATTAIN labs on testified that NYCHA has been underfunded by the Federal house gas emissions and NYCHA sites that offer Internet access and a wide range of government for seven years in a row and has a deficit of $172 reducing the carbon footprint. computer courses. million for the current year. The Plan is to reduce the deficit (Continued on page 7) (Continued on page 3) PAGE 3 PAGE 7 PAGE 11 SIGN UP FOR THE SUMMER READ NYCHA’S FAIR CHANGES IN RENT HARD- YOUTH EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM HOUSING POLICY SHIP AND PET POLICIES THE HOUSING AUTHORITY JOURNAL 2 APRIL 2009 MAYOR’S MESSAGE THE FACES OF NYCHA More Than 50,000 New Yorkers Claimed Meet Soundview’s Resident Association President Mary McGee By Ashley Grosso City Child Care Tax Credits Totalling Intern More Than $30 Million In The Program's YOUCANTELL MARY MCGEE First Year USED TO WORK IN CUSTOMER SERVICE BY THE WAY SHE SELLS IN ITS INAUGURAL YEAR, MORE HER COMMUNITY. Once a retail THAN 50,000 NEW YORKERS employee at Toys R Us and the CLAIMEDTHE CITY'S CHILD Home Depot, Ms. McGee spent CARE TAX CREDIT, ONEOFTHE last summer working at the FIRST MUNICIPAL CHILD CARE TAX Parkside Community Center CREDITS IN THE NATION. The Child with children in the Summer Care Tax Credit, which is Day Camp, in the Soundview designed to help more families neighborhood of the Bronx and afford child care and help more she hopes to do the same parents work full-time, is just this summer. She said that one of many successful innova- Parkside is the “number one tions under the Center for community center in all five Economic Opportunity which boroughs.” The vibrant TOPNOTCH Soundview resident Mary McGee called the oversees the City's ambitious Parkside facility certainly looks Parkside Community Center, where she has worked as a anti-poverty strategy. In 2008, top notch, especially with the seasonal employee, the “number one in all five boroughs.” New York City Child Care Tax colorful mural painted by the almost one year old. Though she has always been active in her chil- Credit filers received more than children and teens with the dren’s lives (for example, taking them to school every day), she $30 million with an average help of NYCHA’s Harborview started getting involved in a more organized way through Learning refund of $600. Arts Program. Leaders, a school volunteer and parent engagement program. The Department of Consumer Affairs' (DCA) Office of Financial In the summer of 2008, Ms. Currently the President of the Parent Teacher Association and a Empowerment leads the annual Tax Credit Campaign. The City's McGee held the position of member of the School Leadership Team, Ms. McGee says her Child Care Tax Credit awareness and access efforts are part of an NYCHA summer seasonal daughters are “lucky there isn’t PTA in college.” array of initiatives that this Administration has quickly expanded to employee for the second year in Aside from her work on behalf of residents and children, Ms. help NewYorkers make the most of the money they have earned and a row. “It was a fun-filled McGee’s other priority is senior citizens. She used to call bingo at the to help them weather the economic downturn. City residents who summer!” she said enthusiasti- senior citizen center before she began her position at Parkside. She earn $30,000 or less and pay child care expenses for children age cally, filled with trips and lots misses the seniors, who she says are like her second family. three and under may qualify for this local tax credit of up to $1,733. of arts and crafts projects, as “Children are the future,” she says, “and seniors are our history.” Our Child Care Tax Credit is a successful program that is part of well as recreational activities. Through her efforts with seniors, children, and all residents, Ms. our larger anti-poverty strategy. Coupled with the Earned Income Two trips that stood out in Ms. McGee has contributed to respecting history, investing in the future, Tax Credit, the refund can be significant and help move hard- McGee’s mind were to Great and preserving public housing. working NewYorkers up the economic ladder. An estimated 30,000 Adventure, in Jackson, New NYCHA families are eligible for the EITC. Particularly during Jersey, and to the Liberty these tough economic times, all eligible families should be sure to Basketball Games at Madison apply so they can receive the money they deserve. Square Garden. This year, as a safe and affordable alternative to professional Also a NYCHA resident, Ms. Call 311 for all tax preparation services, the City expanded its Tax Prep Plus McGee has lived for 14 years in program to offer professionally prepared tax returns by a Tax One the Soundview Houses, where non-emergency professional for only $20 at 12 community-based organizations she is the Resident Association throughout the five boroughs. Families earning less than $55,000 President. She spoke enthusias- city services and individuals earning less than $30,000 qualify. Tax Prep Plus tically about the state park, sites will not offer refund anticipation loans and other predatory new baseball field, and land- products to their customers, ensuring that consumers get every scaping at her development. penny of their refund. She said the development is on The Housing Authority New York City residents with dependents and who earn less than the quiet side because it is far $45,000, as well as individuals who earn less than $20,000, are also from everything, including the Journal eligible for free income tax preparation at one of the City's 54 nearest supermarket, which is Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites. Volunteers at the four blocks away. VITA sites will help residents file for the tax credits for which they Ms. McGee encourages resi- ESTABLISHED 1970 • CIRCULATION 200,000 qualify including the Earned Income Tax Credit and the New York dents to advocate for increased Published monthly by the New York City Housing Authority City Child Care Tax Credit. funding for public housing. She Department of Communications In 2007, New Yorkers claimed approximately $2.14 billion in was chosen to speak with 250 Broadway, New York, N.Y. 10007 total Earned Income Tax Credits. VITA sites helped more than Senator Charles Schumer's Tel (212) 306-3322 • Fax (212) 577-1358 82,000 New Yorkers obtain an average Earned Income Tax Credit aides when a large group of nyc.gov/nycha refund of $2,600. There are 12 Tax Prep Plus sites which are run by NYCHA residents made the Michael R. Bloomberg...... Mayor the City in collaboration with four partners: Food Bank for New trip to Washington, D.C. last Ricardo Elías Morales ...... Chairman York City, Project Hospitality, Arriva and Bedford Stuyvesant summer to meet with their Earl Andrews, Jr...... Vice-Chairman Restoration. The Mayor's Commission on Women's Issues launched Congressional representatives. Margarita López...... Board Member a public awareness campaign on the Child Care Tax Credit program McGee herself represents Vilma Huertas...... Secretary last year at their Women's History Month event. The campaign Douglas Apple ...... General Manager New York's diversity. Of Irish Sheila Greene ...... Director, Department of Communications included distributing and displaying posters, both in English and and Puerto Rican descent, her Eileen Elliott...... Editor Spanish, on bus shelters and phone kiosks in targeted areas. parents owned different busi- Heidi Morales...... Editor, Spanish Edition I urge all eligible New Yorkers to file for the Child Care Tax nesses when she was growing Howard Silver ...... Editor, NYCHA Bulletin Credit and the Earned IncomeTax Credit this season. It could be the up, including a pizzeria. Tischelle George...... Online News Editor boost you need to help you move up the economic ladder. Call 311 Deborah Williams...... Staff Writer In addition to being an Peter Mikoleski, Leticia Barboza...... Photography for the location of the VITA site or Tax Prep Plus site nearest you. engaged resident, Ms. McGee After all, it’s your money! is also an involved parent. Her If you are interested in placing an advertisement in the Journal, please call daughters, ten and 23 years old, our marketing representatives in the Office of Business and Revenue are exactly 13 years and one Development at (212) 306-6616. The inclusion of any advertisement in this Journal does not constitute any endorsement by the Housing Authority of Michael R. Bloomberg day apart in age. Ms. McGee the advertiser or its products or services or any other representation by the also has a grandson who is Housing Authority with respect to such products or services. THE HOUSING AUTHORITY JOURNAL APRIL 2009 3 CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE NYCHA’s 2009 It’s tax time. NYCHA’s Commitment to Summer Youth Transparency Employment Go get your EITC refund! TOGETHERWITH NEW YORK Program Tax season is here once again – which means CITY HOUSING AUTHORITY that you could be eligible for tax credits and (NYCHA) VICE-CHAIRMAN EARL NYCHA is seeking youth free or low-cost tax preparation. Your family ANDREWS,JR. AND BOARD between the ages of 14 could be eligible for up to $6,500 with the MEMBER MARGARITA LÓPEZ,I and 21 for the 2009 HAVEBEENMEETINGWITHRESI- Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). You might Summer Youth DENTS TO GIVE YOU A SENSE OF also benefit from the New York City Child Care Employment Program WHERE THE HOUSING AUTHORITY Tax Credit and other tax credits for parents, (SYEP). SYEP is STANDS WITH REGARD TO OUR which could add up to an even bigger refund. FINANCES AND OUR PRIORITIES IN sponsored by the Call 311 or visit nyc.gov/ofe when you THE CURRENT YEAR. Department of Youth and We are working to provide Community receive your W-2 form(s) to learn more about transparency in our budget Development (DYCD), your eligibility for tax credits and to find a process. Transparency will give and the 2009 program convenient location near you that prepares you, the more than 400,000 resi- taxes for free or for just $20. dents who make your homes with will run from July 1, NYCHA, the information you need to continue to participate in the 2009 through August 14, constructive dialogues which are essential in our approach to the 2009. Participants will CITY COUNCIL BUDGET HEARING many administrative and operational issues we face. work 25 hours a week, (Continued from page 1) Under the leadership of NYCHA’s Environmental and Sustain- Monday through Friday. ability Committee Coordinator Margarita López, NYCHA is imple- to $45 million for the current focus on NYCHA’s “green menting an aggressive “green” agenda which will have the dual NYCHA residency is not year by transferring $76 agenda” and new capital benefits of saving the Housing Authority money through increased required to qualify for million from capital funds to money from the second efficiency, while reducing our carbon footprint caused by greenhouse the program. operating funds, reducing Economic Stimulus Package. gas emissions. As a leader in energy-saving “green” initiatives Central Office costs by (See Chairman’s Column at approximately $10 million, left.) The Chairman also NYCHA has replaced old outdated hot water heaters with more NYCHA’s SYEP efficient instantaneous hot water heaters in hundreds of buildings. and continuing the transfer noted that he has been participants gain And we have installed 178,000 Compact Fluorescent Lamps of 8,400 public housing units reviewing NYCHA’s over-all (CFLs) in over 30,000 apartments. NYCHA’s lighting upgrades and valuable employment in unfunded City- and operations since his water heater replacement measures completed through 2008 will experience working in Sate-built developments into appointment in December help NYCHA save more than $5 million in utility costs. This year Community Centers as the Section 8 program. This and that the Preliminary NYCHA anticipates greater reductions. Our green agenda includes Counselors-in-Training transfer will generate $75 Budget does not reflect the million annually when final plan for dealing with an educational component, and we are working with residents to (16 and 17 year olds create Green Committees in your developments. completed. There was also a NYCHA’s financial issues. only), or on NYCHA If you were among the 90 or so resident leaders who attended one DEBORAH’S DIARY By Deborah Williams of our presentations, or you have seen our presentation at your development grounds. A Valentine to Remember— Valentine’s Day development, then you are aware that NYCHA’s budget for 2009 Starting April 1st, means much more to Mr. and Mrs. William includes an estimated deficit of $172 million. This deficit has been interested youth can Douglas Hill than heart shaped boxes of caused largely by circumstances that are beyond our control, such as apply on-line or candy and flowers — because it was on chronic underfunding by the Federal government, which continues in download an Valentine’s Day 61 years ago that Sara met the current year. Other contributing factors include the lack of application from the William Douglas Hill. During their first year operating subsidy for the 21 City- and State-built developments in of marriage, the couple moved into Marcy NYCHA’s portfolio, skyrocketing energy expenses and non-nego- City’s Web Site: Houses in Brooklyn, on January 10, 1948. According tiable labor-related expenses, such as the cost of health insurance for www.nyc.gov/dycd. to Sar,a her daughter Brenda Hill McWhite was the first child born employees and pensions for those who have retired. Simply put, Starting April 2nd, SYEP in the development. NYCHA cannot sustain itself at our current level of spending. applications will also be Both Sara and William Douglas Hill are retired now. Sara was In response to our structural deficit, NYCHA has made cost available at NYCHA an employee at the Health and Hospitals Corporation and containment a priority. We have implemented a green agenda, raised development William was a NYCHA rents, reduced staff, and closed some Community Centers. Maintenance Worker and The Housing Authority plans to reduce our current deficit to $45 Management Offices, Union Shop Steward. million by transferring $76 million from capital funds to operating Community Centers and On February 13, 2009, Sara funds, reducing Central Office costs by approximately $10 million. at the Department of and William renewed their One important initiative which we are in the process of Resident Employment wedding vows at the New implementing that adds to our revenue is the transfer of 8,400 units in Services, located at 350 York Marriott at the Brooklyn the 21 City- and State-built into the Section 8 program. These devel- Livingston Street in Bridge during the “Brooklyn opments do not receive any funding for operations from any source, Sweethearts Married 50+ so the Section 8 subsidy NYCHA will receive from the Federal Brooklyn. Completed Years” event sponsored by government for them is essential for maintaining operations at these applications may be Brooklyn Borough President developments. Once all 8,400 units are transferred we expect an returned to any NYCHA Marty Markowitz and additional $75 million annually. development his wife, Jamie Snow- I’m pleased to announce that thanks to the support of Mayor Management Office. The Markowitz. They celebrated Michael R. Bloomberg, the New York City Council and the New deadline to submit an the day along with 300 other York Congressional delegation, NYCHA will be receiving $423 couples who renewed their million in capital stimulus funds, enabling us to undertake significant application is May 15, vows, celebrating with cake capital improvements. 2009. For more and champagne. The event As always, I look forward to working with you, NYCHA’s resi- information about SYEP, aired on Brooklyn Commu- dents, elected officials, unions, and NYCHA’s staff in creating a new please visit DYCD’s Web nity Access Television NYCHA that will continue to meet the needs of low- and moderate site or contact NYCHA’s (BCAT) on March 4th and Sara and William Douglas Hill income New Yorkers for generations to come. NYCHA remains SYEP Program Director, March 11th. committed to maintaining its proud legacy. Katrina Porter at Wow! Sixty-one years of marriage—it must be LOVE! What 212-306-3969. you have is more precious than gold. I congratulate you! I wish you many more years together! Ricardo Elías Morales THE HOUSING AUTHORITY JOURNAL 4 APRIL 2009

Your Financial Health... THE NYCHA NOT WANTED LIST The article below was Are you a New York City Housing In this issue we continue publishing the names of individuals who submitted by Carol O’ Rourke, have been permanently excluded from our public housing develop- Executive Director of the Authority (NYCHA) resident with a ments. The purpose of this list is to keep residents informed of the Coalition for Debtor Educa- family member who has served or is Housing Authority’s ongoing efforts to improve the quality of life for tion. It is the fourth in a series currently serving in the Armed all New Yorkers in public housing and to allow for the peaceful and on financial health. safe use of our facilities. What follows is a partial list of the people Forces? excluded after hearings were held on February 4, 11, and 18, 2009. For a full list of the “Not Wanted” visit NYCHA’s website at It’s Tax Time! Are you a NYCHA resident who has lost a nyc.gov/residentscorner. Please note: These exclusions are based on family member in the Armed Forces? NYCHA’s Administrative Hearing Process and should not be Are you expecting a confused with the Trespass Notice Program under Mayor tax refund? NYCHA is looking to honor residents who Bloomberg’s Operation Safe Housing Initiative. If you haven't filed your are currently serving or are veterans of income tax return yet…. REMEMBER, the Armed Forces, or who are former IF YOU SEE ANY OF THESE INDIVIDUALS ON Get going! Your return must members of the Armed Forces and are no HOUSING AUTHORITY PROPERTY, PLEASE CALL be postmarked by midnight longer with us. YOUR MANAGEMENT OFFICE OR NYCHA’S on April 15. If the thought SPECIAL INVESTIGATIONS UNIT AT (212) 306-8595. of calculating your 2008 Please contact us at (212) 306-3322 or by Prohibited as of February 4, 2009 tax return overwhelms you, Josef Harper Case 389/09 formerly associated with the sixth floor of e-mail at [email protected] and let us 5814 Farragut Road, Glenwood Houses, Brooklyn. there's help. Find a free or low-cost tax preparation know your name, address, the name of your Glen Bowman, Sr. Case 482/09 formerly associated with the twelfth floor of 1125 University Avenue, Highbridge Gardens, the Bronx. site; they are available development, your telephone number, the throughout the city. Call name of the NYCHA resident who is or was in Dwesley Johnson Case 424/09 formerly associated with the second floor of 311 Osborn Street, Brownsville Houses, Brooklyn. 311 or visit www.nyc.gov the Armed Forces and their relationship to for locations. Lawrence Case 465/09 formerly associated with the sixth floor of you. We will contact you regarding the Merrriweather 21-20 34th Avenue, Ravenswood Houses, Queens. Beware of Rapid upcoming event. Thank you. Prohibited as of February 11, 2009 Refunds Raurice McLauren Case 7152/08 formerly associated with the fourth floor of Jamel Jenkins 335 East 112th Street, Jefferson Houses, Manhattan. Be mindful of tax preparers who offer a "rapid refund." The Junnie Torres Case 495/09 formerly associated with the tenth floor of 2375 First Avenue, Wagner Houses, Manhattan. "rapid refund" is really a loan until the Federal government Emma Brown Case 494/09 formerly associated with the third floor of processes your return. One 644 Park Avenue, Marcy Houses, Brooklyn. nationally known tax Frankie Louie Case 6169/08 formerly associated with the third floor of preparation company I 65 Manuel Roman Jefferson Street, LaGuardia Houses, Manhattan. checked charges a $29.99 fee, up to $100 in interest, and Charles Moore Case 6783/08 formerly associated with the second floor a flat $31 "handling fee" — all Christopher Moore of 80 Bush Street, Red Hook West Houses, Brooklyn. of which is then deducted from Latona Allen Case 594/09 formerly associated with the sixth floor of the actual government refund. 820 Henderson Avenue, Markham Gardens, Staten Island. The tax preparers who offer this "service" may charge Michael Negeron Case 70/09 formerly associated with the third floor of a low "teaser" rate for basic Michael Negronna 2205 2nd Avenue, Jefferson Houses, Manhattan tax preparation but have a list of additional fees for Lawrence Terrell Case 285/09 formerly associated with the first floor of 40- 10 12th Street, Queensbridge North Houses, Queens. everything from electronic filing or document preparation Keith Brown Case 628/09 formerly associated with the third floor of 240 Lockman Avenue, Mariner's Harbor Houses, Staten to an extra cost for a Island. "professional review." It’s better to prepare and file your Fernando Ortega Case 596/09 formerly associated with the twenty-second floor of 2955 8th Avenue, Polo Grounds Towers, taxes yourself, or get the help Manhattan. of a tax preparation service Eduardo Santiago Case 618/09 formerly associated with the sixth floor of you located through 311, 30 Avenue D, Wald Houses, Manhattan. and simply wait for your full refund. Desean Loyd Case 619/09 formerly associated with the sixth floor of 81-10 Rockaway Beach Boulevard, Hammel Houses, Read the fine print SAVE $ ON FOOD, APPLY Queens. before you engage a tax Prohibited as of February 18, 2009 preparation service that FOR THE FOODCARD Mannix Dixon Case 658/09 formerly associated with the second floor of offers quick refunds. 2242 Bragg Street, Nostrand Houses, Brooklyn. Jonathan DeLeon Case 707/09 formerly associated with the fourth floor of If you have filed your 29 Fleet Walk, Ingersoll Houses, Brooklyn. tax return and have a Jerry Smith III Case 597/09 formerly associated with the sixteenth floor refund on the way… Marcus Futrell of 611 Crotona Park North, Murphy Houses, the Bronx. This may be the largest lump The FoodCard is easy to apply for and Jose Hernandez Case 732/09 formerly associated with the eleventh floor sum of money you will receive of 2060 Third Avenue, Johnson Houses, Manhattan. all year. Mentally, you may works just like a debit card. Call ‘The Nelson Simpson Case 7278/08 formerly associated with the third floor of have spent it several times Food Bank’ at 212-894-8060 for 162 Troy Avenue, Albany Houses, Brooklyn. over already. But before you information and to see how much money Tony Love Case 775/09 formerly associated with the fifth floor of cash the check to buy that 456 Richmond Terrace, Richmond Terrace, Staten Island. flat-screen TV, think about how you can save on food. Specialists are Johnny Stevens Case 828/09 formerly associated with the fifth floor of 75 you can use that money to help LaSalle Street, Grant Houses, Manhattan. you and your family become available to help you from 9am-5pm, more financially secure. While Cliff Robinson Case 778/09 formerly associated with the fourteenth floor Monday through Friday. Adults of all ages of 1428 Webster Avenue, Butler Houses, the Bronx. certainly less fun than a new TV, here are a few suggestions are encouraged to apply. For a full list of the “Not Wanted” visit NYCHA’s website at to consider: nyc.gov/residentscorner. (Continued on page 9) THE HOUSING AUTHORITY JOURNAL APRIL 2009 5 75 Years of Public Housing This is the third article in a special series which will run Are You a NYCHA Resident With Fond each month in the New York City Housing Authority Memories to Share? in 2009 commemorating the Housing (NYCHA) Journal To commemorate our 75th Anniversary, the New York City Authority’s 75th Anniversary. Housing Authority is collecting photos and stories from residents about your experiences living in public housing. How has being part of a NYCHA community had a positive impact on your life or the life of a family member? Perhaps you attended a NYCHA-led job training workshop that launched your career; or maybe a caretaker, development manager or neighbor was instrumental in getting you help when you needed it most; maybe you bonded with a Housing Bureau Police Officer as a child and decided to become an officer yourself when you grew up? If you have fond memories to share, we want to hear them! We will post selected stories on the Residents’ Corner of our Web site at www.nyc.gov/nycha and publish one story each month in the NYCHA Journal. Please e-mail stories and photos to: [email protected]. If you don’t have electronic files to send, you can mail to: THE NYCHA Journal Department of Communications 250 Broadway, 12th Floor New York, New York 10007

Don’t forget to include your full name, age, the name of your NYCHA development and the number of years On February 17, 2009, Deputy Mayor Dennis Walcott presented a you’ve been living in public housing. Also please make sure your return address is on the envelope if you would proclamation from Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg to NYCHA’s Board at a like us to mail your photos back to you. Black History Month Celebration in honor of the Housing Authority’s 75th Anniversary. Shown in the photo above, from left, are: Deputy Mayor Dennis Ms. Victoria Johnson (shown in the photo below, Walcott, Vice-Chairman Earl Andrews, Jr., Board Member Margarita López center, with two friends) from General Grant Houses and Chairman Ricardo Elías Morales. in Manhattan submitted the following poem to show her appreciation for public housing in response to our call for fond memories.

“Public Housing” By Victoria (Vicki) Johnson, 1976

Public housing replaced City’s slums For tenants it surely was a treat Living in the new modern suites Walkways and lawns were great Children could run and play Never to be chased away Public housing lifted up the mind The living standards were fine From windows you saw the trees Greenery and beautiful scenery From slums you saw a backyard, not a street Unless the rent was steep. Landlords charged big sums Many charged to see the sun Glad I lived to see folks leave the slums Hope they appreciate public housing some.

The first meeting of the Board of the newly created New York City Housing Authority, February 20, 1934. Seated from left are: veteran socialist and general manager of the Jewish Daily Forward, Charney B. Vladeck; NYCHA’s first Chairman Langdon Post, a former state assemblyman and head of the Tenement House Commission; Vice-Chair Mary Simkhovitch, founder of the settlement organization Greenwich House. Standing are: Louis Pink, a former settlement house worker and lawyer on the State Housing Board; and Monsignor E. Roberts Moore of the Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of New York.

Photo courtesy of the LaGuardia Wagner Archives. THE HOUSING AUTHORITY JOURNAL 6 APRIL 2009

NEW YORK CITY HOUSING AUTHORITY Board Meeting Schedule

Notice is hereby given that the New York City Housing Authority’s Board Meetings take place every other Wednesday at 10:00 A.M. (unless otherwise noted) in the Board Room on the 12th Floor of 250 Broadway, New York, New York. The meetings for Calendar Year 2009 are as follows:

April 1, 2009 April 14, 2009 (Tuesday) April 29, 2009 May 13, 2009 May 27, 2009 June 10, 2009 June 24, 2009 July 8, 2009 July 22, 2009 August 5, 2009 August 19, 2009 September 2, 2009 September 16, 2009 September 30, 2009 October 14, 2009 October 28, 2009 November 10, 2009 (Tuesday) November 25, 2009 December 9, 2009 December 23, 2009 January 6, 2010

Please note that these dates are subject to change. Any changes to the schedule above will be posted on NYCHA’s Website at nyc.gov/nycha and in the NYCHA Journal to the extent practicable at a reasonable time before the meeting. These meetings are open to the public. Pre-registration of speakers is required. Those who wish to register must do so at least forty-five (45) minutes before the scheduled Board Meeting. Comments are limited to the items on the agenda. Speakers will be heard in the order of registration. Speaking time will be limited to three (3) minutes. The public comment period will Join the more than 17,000 conclude upon all speakers being heard or at the expiration of thirty (30) minutes allotted by law for subscribers who receive the NYCHA public comment, whichever occurs first. For Board Meeting dates and times, and/or additional information, please visit our website at nyc.gov/nycha or contact us at (212) 306-6088. Copies of the Journal online each month by agenda can be picked up at the Office of the Secretary at 250 Broadway, 12th floor, New York, New York, signing up at www.nyc.gov, or by no earlier than 3P.M. on the Friday before the upcoming Wednesday Board Meeting. Any person requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in the Board Meeting, should contact the Office of visiting NYCHA’s Web site at the Secretary at (212) 306-6088 no later than five (5) business days before the Board Meeting. nyc.gov/nycha. THE HOUSING AUTHORITY JOURNAL APRIL 2009 7 NYCHA NOW MORE THAN EVER! (Continued from page 1) NEW YORK CITY HOUSING AUTHORITY At the the same time we Council Member Melissa Association President Ann FAIR HOUSING NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY Cotton Morris, when she said, save NYCHA money by Mark Viverito praised the It is the policy of the New York City Housing Authority to provide equal reducing fuel consumption Council’s Public Housing Sub- “Speaking for the 20 develop- ments I represent as COP housing opportunities for all qualified applicants and residents. In the and create ‘green collar’ jobs Committee Chair Rosie selection of families and in the provision of services, there shall be no for residents.” Mendez, herself a former Chair, we are ready to rock and roll on any issue that is discrimination against any person on the grounds of race, color, religion, The Chairman thanked Board NYCHA resident, for her lead- national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, familial status, marital going to better our situation in Member López for spear- ership and support of public status, partnership status, military status, disability, lawful occupation, public housing.” heading the Housing Authority’s housing and mentioned the lawful source of income, alienage or citizenship status. This policy also Other resident leaders who green initiatives, as the head of recent announcement that prohibits retaliation. NYCHA’s Environmental and NYCHA will be getting capital spoke were Wise Towers Resi- This policy is in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of Sustainability Committee. funding from the stimulus dent Association President 1964, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Fair Housing He also elaborated on recent package. “Our next battle is to Victor Gonzalez, Manhattan Act of 1968, as amended by the Fair Housing Amendment Act of 1988, approval from the U.S. make sure we get dollar for South COP Chair and Isaacs the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and the New York State and Department of Housing and dollar from HUD,” she said, Towers Resident Association City Human Rights Laws. Urban Development (HUD) for referring to HUD’s long history President Rose Bergin, City- Any resident or applicant who wishes to report housing NYCHA to move ahead on of underfunding. wide COP Chair and Seth Low discrimination or retaliation MAY FILE A DISCRIMINATION its Performance Contracting Other Council Members Resident Association President COMPLAINT (NYCHA 036.024) by contacting the Department of Building Retrofit Program who spoke included Daniel Reginald Bowman, Tilden Equal Opportunity from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday which will utilize state-of-the-art Garodnick, who remarked Houses Resident Association or their development management office between 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM: technology to retrofit buildings that “with the new Administra- President Marie Boone, Boule- New York City Housing Authority and leverage future savings to tion in Washington we have vard Houses Resident Associa- tion President Inez Rodriguez, Department of Equal Opportunity invest in infrastructure. The reason to be encouraged 250 Broadway, 27th floor Chairman also mentioned that and hopeful at the same Bronx South COP Chair and Highbridge Houses Resident New York, NY 10007 NYCHA is working with resi- time.” And Council Member Telephone (212) 306-4468 Association President Joanne dents to form green commit- Diana Reyna, former Chair of Fax: (212) 306-4439 tees in the developments to the Public Housing Sub- Smitherman, Reid Houses TTY: (212) 306-4845 raise awareness. Committee, raised the issue of Resident Association President the importance of federalizing Hyacinth Forrester and Bland Or by contacting any of the following federal, state or city Houses Resident Association human rights agencies listed below: Council Members Speak the 21 State and City develop- Nearly all of the City Council ments in NYCHA’s portfolio so President Craig Kinsey. New York City Commission on Human Rights 40 Rector Street, 9th floor Members present voiced that NYCHA receives money New York, NY 10006 In Conclusion their support emphasizing the for their operations. (212) 306-7500 importance of public housing to Council Member Albert Vann “We've been doing some- the entire City. spoke about the importance of thing right for 75 years,” the Chairman said in conclusion. New York State Division of Human Rights Council Member David adequate resources for public 20 Exchange Place, 2nd floor “We've been home to millions Weprin who chairs the housing. Also attending were New York, New York 10005 Council’s Finance Committee Council Members Helen Foster of people who have gone on to (212) 480-2522 was the first to speak, telling the and Leticia James do great things. We are an group, “The future of NYCHA is economic engine. We put United States Department of Housing and Urban Development money back into the economy. Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity really the future of New York Residents Add Their City. So many wonderful people Our next 75 years are going to 26 Federal Plaza, Room 3532 Voices New York, New York 10278 and wonderful things started in Each of the resident leaders be great. The concept of (212) 264-1290 Extension 7534 NYCHA. We are going to work in attendance also had a greening can save our planet with you. We want you to chance to voice their support. and make NYCHA a vision for consider the City Council your That support was eloquently our country. Let’s work together partner as we progress. expressed by Queens Council for that new NYCHA.” We need NYCHA now more of Presidents (COP) Chair and than ever.” Woodside Houses Resident Centralized Call Center Hours Change for Scheduling Repairs

THE NEW YORK CITY HOUSING The CCC will continue to AUTHORITY (NYCHA) ISCHANGING operate 24/7 for emergencies THEHOURSDURINGWHICHRESIDENTS and public space issues, such as CANSCHEDULEROUTINEAPARTMENT elevator outages, reports of MAINTENANCEREPAIRSTHROUGHTHE vandalism, broken intercoms, CENTRALIZED CALL CENTER, OR CCC. and other safety concerns. Beginning April 6th, NYCHA The change allows the CCC to use residents will be able to resources more effectively during schedule appointments for high volume call hours. Visit NYCHA's routine maintenance repairs website at www.nyc.gov/nycha for Monday through Friday from more information. 6:00 AM to midnight. Additional call-takers will be available to address the high volume of calls received during this time so that calls can be answered more quickly. Residents who call the CCC to NYCHA residents joined Chairman Ricardo Elías Morales (fourth from left) and members of the City schedule repairs on weekends, holidays or between the Council at NYCHA’s annual City Council Legislative Breakfast. Resident leaders shown above, from hours of midnight and 6:00 left are: Wise Towers Resident Association President Victor Gonazlez, Manhattan South Council of AM will hear a recording Presidents (COP) Chair Rose Bergin, Tilden Houses Resident Association President Marie Boone, the reminding them of the new Chairman, Citywide COP Chair and Seth Low Resident Association President Reginald Bowman, hours. Call-takers will also ask Queens COP Chair Ann Cotton Morris, Bronx South COP Chair and Highbridge Houses Resident residents who telephone to Association President Joanne Smitherman, Reid Houses Resident Association President Hyacinth schedule a repair to call back Forrester and Bland Houses Resident Association President Craig Kinsey. at the appropriate time. THE HOUSING AUTHORITY JOURNAL 8 APRIL 2009 THE HOUSING AUTHORITY JOURNAL APRIL 2009 9 SPRING CLEANING? PLEASE KEEP THE FOLLOWING IN MIND WHEN DISPOSING OF YOUR TRASH... Com pactors Compactors are the machines that compress trash after it is deposited in the hoppers located on each floor. Please keep in mind, compactors are for trash not for recyclables!

Here are some rules to follow:

— Only throw into the hopper trash that will slide down easily. Don't force it! Take anything that is too large for the hopper to a designated trash area. Do not dispose of any trash in hallways, stairways, elevators, lobbies or rear exits. Call your Management Office if you have a large quantity of trash that you don't know what to do with, or something that is too large for the hopper.

— Don't throw mops and broomsticks, rags or old clothes into hoppers; they will cause jams. Wrap or tie them into bundles and bring them down to the basement ramp, or if your building does not have a basement ramp, to the bulk pick-up area. Your Housing Assistant will tell you where this is.

— Don't throw newspapers, magazines, wire coat hangers, It’s Tax Time! cardboard boxes or other recyclables into the hoppers. (Continued from page 4) Bring them to the appropriate — Pay down the balance of a recycling container. credit card. At 20% interest or more, you'll save a lot and cut — Please, if at all possible, your monthly spending by place your garbage in the having one less bill to pay off. hopper between 9:00 AM —Open an IRA account. and 3:00 PM. When everyone Start saving for your puts their garbage retirement years. in the compactor during the — Start or contribute to your evening hours, it can result in "rainy day" fund. You won't jams that can cause health have to borrow if you have and fire hazards. emergency savings to tap if you need car repairs, have a AND, NEVER place burning medical emergency, or lose materials in any compactor your job. chute!

The good news… Please dispose of all trash neatly. The new stimulus package includes the Make Work Pay Recycling paycheck for taxes. The credit, worth 6.25% of earned Recycling your mixed paper credit will be spread over income or a maximum of and cardboard, and metal, paychecks over the year, so $400 to individuals making plastic bottles and jugs, and you may see a little increase less than $75,000 and $800 glass is one way that you can in your take-home pay each for families with a combined contribute to the preservation pay period. income of less than of our natural resources. $150,000. This means less (Continued on page 11) will be deducted from each THE HOUSING AUTHORITY JOURNAL 10 APRIL 2009 THE HOUSING AUTHORITY JOURNAL APRIL 2009 11 Rent Hardship Policy Revisions Changes to NYCHA’s Pet Policy The New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) has changed its Rent RESIDENTS OF THE NEW YORK CITY HOUSING AUTHORITY (NYCHA) MAY OWN EITHER ONE DOMESTICATED Hardship Policy to allow residents to apply for an Interim Rent Change DOG OR ONE DOMESTICATED CAT PER APARTMENT, PROVIDED THE PET OWNER FOLLOWS THE REQUIREMENTS when there is a 5% reduction in gross income, the current rent is more OF THE HOUSING AUTHORITY’S PET POLICY. However, because of an increase in biting incidents, beginning than 30% of the net income AND the reduction of income has lasted May 1st, NYCHA will be implementing a revised Pet Policy to better ensure that development grounds and two months. The table below shows ALL the requirements needed for a buildings provide a safe environment for residents, visitors and guests. The revised policy includes a list of NYCHA household to qualify for an Interim Rent Change based on the prohibited breeds of dogs and a change in the weight limit for full grown dogs from 40 pounds to 25 pounds. new Rent Hardship Policy. Dogs which have already been registered with NYCHA before the implementation of this revised policy, whether or not they are on the list of prohibited breeds or exceed the weight limit, are permitted. You can qualify for an Interim Rent Change IF: Old Policy New Policy Prohibited Breeds: NYCHA has are illegal anywhere in New and animals that live in There is a 10% reduction to There is a 5% reduction to gross designated a variety of mixed York City, or animals deemed to buildings designated exclusively gross income, AND income, AND and full breed dogs that cannot be vicious or dangerous. for senior citizens are exempt Your current rent is more than Your current rent is more than be owned or registered by from the fee. 30% of the net income, AND 30% of the net income, AND NYCHA residents. The Pet Registration and Fee The reduction in income has The reduction in income has prohibited breeds are: Pet owners must register their In Addition: Dogs must be lasted at least three months. lasted at least TWO months. dog or cat with NYCHA on a licensed by the Department of Akita Inu one-time basis, at any time, but Health and Mental Hygiene The new policy reduces the waiting period from 3 months to 2 months Alangu Mastiff no later than the time of the and wear their license tag when of unemployment or long term disability. When a resident becomes Alano Español annual review. The registration in public. They must also be on unemployed or is on long term disability they are required to report American Pit Bull Terrier includes the completion of a a leash, six feet long or less the change in income to their Housing Assistant. If the reduction in American Staffordshire Terrier Dog and Cat Veterinarian when in public. income lasts 2 months the housing assistant will recalculate the rent and Argentine Dogo Certification showing that a rent notice will be mailed to the resident. Bedington Terrier NYCHA pet requirements are Residents must comply with Boston Terrier being followed. There is a NYCHA’s Pet Policy as a SPRING CLEANING? Bull and Terrier one-time, non-refundable pet condition of your lease with (Continued from page 9) registration fee of $25.00 for all NYCHA. Visit NYCHA’s Web Bull Terrier residents who do not reside at site at nyc.gov/nycha to view White and green containers and white dumpsters, usually Bully Kutta project based Section 8 the full pet policy. located near stairhall entrances or outside near building exits Cane Corso developments. Service animals are for paper products: newspapers, magazines, cardboard Dogue de Bordeaux boxes, paper bags, old mail, catalogs, phone books, flattened Dogo Sardesco corrugated cardboard boxes and paperback books. Do not English Mastiff recycle Styrofoam, soiled paper plates and cups, paper towels Fila Brasileiro To make a complaint or report any and napkins. Gull Dong dangerous illegal animal on Blue receptacles are for glass, plastic bottles and jugs, and Gull Terr NYCHA property, Call 311, the City's metal items. These include metal cans, aluminum foil, aerosol Citizen Service Center, cans, small metal items and wire coat hangers. Larger metal Irish Staffordshire Bull items, such as toasters and bed frames should be left at the Korea Jindo Dog which is available 24 hours a day. designated drop site or on the basement ramp. Lottatore Brindisino If there is an immediate threat involving If you have any questions about what to recycle, or where to Neapolitan Mastiff a dangerous or illegal animal, call 911. put it, ask your Housing Assistant or Building Caretaker. Perro de Presa Canario (Canary dog) Perro de Presa Mallorquin (Ca de Bou) Shar Pei Staffordshire Bull Terrier Tosa Inu

Weight Limit: Dogs with projected full-grown adult weight that exceeds 25 pounds are not permitted. The previous weight limit was 40 pounds. Service animals are exempt from any weight or breed restrictions. Unless you registered your dog prior to the implementation date of the revised pet policy you are not allowed to own or register a mixed or full breed dog which is a prohibited breed or is projected to weigh over 25 pounds when full grown.

Other Pets: Reasonable quantities of other pets are permitted if not prohibited by the New York City Health Code. Permitted pets include small caged birds (canaries and parakeets), fish, and small caged animals such as gerbils, guinea pigs, and hamsters if their numbers do not create a nuisance or unsanitary condition. You may not keep animals prohibited by the NYC Health Code, which