Mayor Eric Adams on Tuesday released the City’s balanced $109.4 billion Preliminary Budget for Fiscal Year (FY) 2025. With near-record reserves despite significant fiscal challenges, the budget builds on the Adams’ administration proven track record of responsible fiscal management, while prioritizing the needs of working-class New Yorkers by restoring critical investments in public safety, public spaces, and young people.

Facing a historically high $7.1 billion budget gap due to the growing asylum seeker crisis, drying up federal COVID-19 stimulus funding, expenses from labor contracts this administration inherited that went unresolved for years, and slowing tax revenue growth, the Adams administration took action early in the budget cycle with a citywide hiring freeze and Program to Eliminate the Gap (PEG) savings program. These actions helped balance the budget and stabilize the city’s financial position without layoffs, tax hikes, or major disruption to City services — and their success, along with better-than-expected revenue, ultimately allowed for the restorations of funding for the City Police, Fire, and Sanitation Departments, as well as the three Library systems.

Adams said the City “has continued to effectively manage the asylum seeker humanitarian crisis” largely on its own without substantial federal or state aid — including getting on track to reduce city-funded spending on the crisis by 20 percent over FY24 and FY25, primarily by helping put migrants on a path to self-sufficiency and reducing the per-diem costs of providing care. To date, New York City has provided care for more than 170,700 asylum seekers, with over 68,000 currently still in the city’s care. The city has also connected school-aged children to public schools through Project Open Arms and provided case management, shelter, food, child care, and more services.

Photo Courtesy of Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office
Mayor Adams this week released the City’s balanced $109.4 billion Preliminary Budget for Fiscal Year 2025.

As a result of the administration’s policies — including providing 30 to 60 days of intensified case management — more than 60 percent of the asylum seekers who came through the city’s intake center have left the city’s care. Additionally, daily growth of the number of migrant households in the city’s care has slowed by nearly 60 percent since implementing these policies. Through the Asylum Application Help Center and satellite sites, the city has helped submit more than 27,000 work authorization, temporary protected status, and asylum applications — moving asylum seekers that much closer to being able to legally work and be self-sufficient.

Under the cost management efforts, per-diem care costs for migrant households will be reduced by implementing efficiencies in the service and staffing models at Humanitarian Emergency Response and Relief Centers (HERRCs), renegotiating rates and rebidding for services in shelters currently relying on for-profit vendors, and transitioning migrants from costlier HERRCs to facilities managed by a nonprofit service provider under the traditional shelter model.

With these measures, the city has reduced the costs associated with the migrant crisis from $12.25 billion to $10.6 billion from FY23 through FY25 — generating approximately $1.7 billion in gap-closing savings over FY24 and FY25.

In addition to reducing costs, the Adams administration is fighting back against Texas Governor Greg Abbott and the transportation companies he uses to transport migrants to New York City in bad faith to hurt NYC and overwhelm our social services system. Last month, Adams issued Executive Order 538 to protect the safety and well-being of asylum seekers and city employees by making it against the law to use charter buses to bring migrants to New York City without coordinating with city government. The city then sued 17 bus companies for transporting and abandoning more than 33,000 asylum seekers in New York City without paying for the ongoing costs of care for those people.  The lawsuit seeks to recover approximately $708 million.

Including the $1.7 billion in asylum seeker-related savings, the PEG implemented by Mayor Adams in the Preliminary Budget achieved almost $3.1 billion in savings over FY24 and FY25, with every non-exempt agency meeting its target. Total PEG savings over FY24 and FY25 is a record nearly $6.6 billion since June 2023. The PEG minimized service reductions, with 99 percent of Preliminary Budget PEG initiatives being efficiencies or cost re-estimates that will not lead to service reductions. Additionally, the city did not lay off a single employee or raise taxes to balance the budget.

Projected tax revenues in the Preliminary Budget exceed those in the November 2023 Financial Plan tax by $1.3 billion in FY24 and $1.6 billion in FY25, due to better-than-anticipated economic performance in 2023. Tax revenue growth is expected to remain slow in upcoming fiscal years as the local economy cools — reinforcing that the city cannot rely solely on revenue growth to solve immediate fiscal challenges.

The Preliminary Budget includes a near-record level $8.2 billion in reserves — including $1.2 billion in the General Reserve, $4.8 billion in the Retiree Health Benefits Trust Fund, $250 million in the Capital Stabilization Reserve, and $1.96 billion in the Rainy-Day Fund. A combination of savings and FY23 revenue was applied to balance FY24. Outyear gaps are now $5.2 billion in FY26, $5.1 billion in FY27, and $6.0 billion in FY28.

After they met their PEG, Mayor Adams decided to exempt the city’s three library systems as well to prevent additional service reductions in the future. The New York City Department of Education (DOE), New York City Department of Social Services (DSS), New York City Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD), and New York City Department for the Aging (DFTA) were partially exempted to minimize service disruptions.

Funding is restored in the Preliminary Budget for the NYPD to add another police academy class of 600 new recruits set to join the ranks in April 2024. This class of recruits will graduate in October and will join the three additional police classes already scheduled to graduate this year. Funding will also be restored to return a fifth firefighter at 20 FDNY engine companies and maintain 190 firefighters on payroll who are not expected to be able to return to full-duty status. The funding restorations build on successful efforts by the Adams administration to drive down overall crime, with murders down 12 percent and shootings down 25 percent in 2023.

The Preliminary Budget includes restored funding to maintain 23,000 DSNY litter baskets and allow DSNY to continue installing its Litter Basket of the Future. Funding will also be restored for the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation’s (NYC Parks) Parks Opportunity Program (POP), which gives thousands of low-income New Yorkers six-month paid opportunities and training programs each year. POP workers help maintain and operate New York City parks and facilities, and the training they receive through the program prepares them for full-time NYC Parks job opportunities.

The funding restorations build on successful efforts by the Adams administration to keep city streets and public spaces clean for all New Yorkers to enjoy — with efforts to containerize 100 percent of the city’s garbage, drastically reduce the time trash bags sit on city streets, and target hot spots for cleaning and rat mitigation within city parks during evening hours.

In the Preliminary Budget, $10 million is restored to 170 DOE community schools, which partner with community-based organizations to provide holistic support to students and their families, including providing health care, additional learning opportunities, and social and emotional counseling. The budget also includes an $80 million investment to fund DOE’s portion of the Summer Rising program — the city’s summer enrichment program for elementary and middle school students, which is jointly funded with DYCD — replacing temporary and expiring federal COVID-19 stimulus dollars used under the previous administration to make the program entirely city-funded for the first time.

“It is refreshing to see the administration acknowledge the importance of shifting contracts for asylum seeker services away from costly emergency for-profit contractors towards non-profit organizations, as the council has been advocating for many months,” City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams and Finance Committee Chairman Justin Brannan said in a statement. “While the administration has presented a balanced budget for FY25, continued challenges remain with out-year gaps, PEGs, a hiring freeze, and other issues. Education services for our children, public library services in our neighborhoods, community-based mental health, social services, and other government programs must be prioritized to ensure an equitable recovery for our city.”

The City Fire Department is encouraging New Yorkers to take advantage of free natural gas detectors, available through Con Edison.

While rare, a natural gas leak is extremely dangerous due to the potential of an explosion.

Natural gas detectors alert residents to dangerous levels of natural gas, as well as simultaneously notify Con Edison’s Gas Emergency Response Center and the FDNY of a potential gas leak. Firefighters and crews from Con Edison will respond swiftly and investigate the cause.

“All New Yorkers and building owners should take advantage of this free program through Con Edison,” said Fire Commissioner Laura Kavanagh. “Like smoke alarms, a natural gas detector will give you early warning of a potentially dangerous situation.”

If your Natural Gas alarm sounds or if you smell a natural gas leak, evacuate immediately and call 911 when you are safely outside.

Courtesy of FDNY
Learn more about the dangers of natural gas and more at fdnysmart.org.

Natural gas has a distinctive, strong odor, like rotten eggs.

“To help prevent a life-threatening incident or property damage, let Con Edison install a natural gas detector,” said Katherine Boden, senior vice president of gas operations at Con Edison. “Natural gas detectors are as important as your smoke detector, seat belt or lock on your door. They’re lifesaving technology!”

All buildings that have an active gas account and are located within the Con Edison gas service territory qualify to have a natural gas detector installed for free. To schedule a free installation customers can call Con Edison at 1-800-643-1289, select option number 4, or email NaturalGasDetectors@conEd.com.

It typically takes less than an hour to install the detector. Once installed no further maintenance is required. Con Edison will replace the device at no cost when it is due for replacement or in the event the device requires a replacement sooner. For more lifesaving tips, visit fdnysmart.org.

Congressman Hakeem Jeffries

By Michael V. Cusenza

Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (D-Queens and Brooklyn) has been elected House Democratic Leader for the 118th Congress—and his fellow pols back home are elated.

“A barrier has been broken and today we start a new chapter in our nation’s history with the election of Congressmember Hakeem Jeffries as House minority leader — the first Black lawmaker to lead a political party in Congress,” Mayor Eric Adams said of Jeffries, who represents Howard Beach in Washington. “New York City will have a champion in our nation’s capital while we continue to fight for our fair share of federal funding and a multitude of other priorities that will support New Yorkers. I look forward to continuing to partner with my good friend and Brooklyn’s native son.”

Congresswoman Grace Meng (D-Flushing) said, “I have known Hakeem since I entered the New York State Legislature in 2009. Early on, I came to view him as a friend and big brother. From the Assembly to Congress, I have always valued his advice – whether on moving legislation, or how to best support constituents.

“I am confident in the direction of House Democrats with Hakeem at the helm. I know he will keep us unified as one team as we retake the House Majority in 2024, and I am excited to partner with him in his new role. Congratulations to my friend and fellow New Yorker!”

As for Jeffries, here’s what the Brooklyn native had to say: “Today, with immense pride, I stood in front of the House Democratic Caucus as a candidate for Democratic Leader, and I am eternally grateful for the trust my colleagues placed in me with their votes. It is a solemn responsibility that myself, Katherine Clark and Pete Aguilar are inheriting, and we will lean in hard and do the work with the seriousness and solemnity the moment requires. We stand on the shoulders of historic individuals, including our iconic Speaker Nancy Pelosi, our resolute Leader Steny Hoyer and our historic Majority Whip James E. Clyburn.

I am particularly humbled to be accepting this honor alongside my friends and partners in leadership, incoming Democratic Whip Katherine Clark and incoming Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar. Katherine represents another important crack in the glass ceiling, a trailblazer in the tradition of Speaker Pelosi. She makes all of us feel seen and heard and will work tirelessly to support our Democratic Caucus. I have watched how Pete brings people together to get things done, rolling up his sleeves as only a former Mayor can do. Katherine, Pete and I will work closely together fighting hard for everyday Americans.”

Russo was 24-year FDNY EMS veteran assigned to Station 49.

By Michael V. Cusenza

Acting City Fire Commissioner Laura Kavanagh on Tuesday announced that Lt. Alison Russo will be posthumously promoted to captain at her Celebration of Life ceremony on Wednesday, Oct. 5, FDNY officials said.

“Alison Russo was everything we look for in a leader in our department. A dedicated and accomplished veteran of 25 years, she responded to thousands of emergencies, mentored many new EMTs and Paramedics, cared deeply for the communities she served, and set an incredible example for others at Station 49 and at every station she called home throughout her outstanding career. This posthumous promotion is a sign of our deep respect and admiration for all the courageous and selfless work she did throughout her career,” Kavanagh said. “We will never forget her.”

Photo Courtesy of Google
Russo was stabbed to death Thursday afternoon in Astoria near her EMS quarters.

Russo was stabbed and killed Thursday afternoon while working at FDNY EMS Station 49 in Astoria. At approximately 2:20 p.m., Russo was on duty in the vicinity of 20th Avenue and Steinway Street in Astoria near her station’s quarters. She was stabbed multiple times in an unprovoked attack. She was transported in critical condition to Mt. Sinai Queens Hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries.

“We need time to mourn the preventable loss of EMT Alison Russo,” added City Councilwoman Joann Ariola. “The City must take action and recognize EMTs value as first responders. The governor needs to address bail reform laws and judges for turnstile justice. The city needs law and order.”

Russo is the 1,158 member of the FDNY to die in the line of duty.

“Last week, we saw how, with the flick of a pen, President Biden took a giant step forward in addressing the student debt crisis by cancelling significant amounts of student debt for millions of borrowers,” Sen. Schumer said.

By Forum Staff

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer on Sunday revealed full New York numbers on who will benefit from the historic student loan debt reform announced last week, and publicly called on student loan service providers who are already paid by the federal Department of Education to staff up, and be at-the-ready ahead of the fall, when calls and questions on this reform will hit their peak.

According to the City Department of Consumer Affairs, student loan debt is currently the second largest source of consumer debt in the United States, climbing to over $1.5 trillion.

“Last week, we saw how, with the flick of a pen, President Biden took a giant step forward in addressing the student debt crisis by cancelling significant amounts of student debt for millions of borrowers. The positive impacts of this move will be felt by families across New York and the nation, particularly in minority communities, and is the single most effective action that the President can take on his own to help working families and the economy, and today, we have an even sharper view at the numbers,” Schumer said.

• In 2021, 455,599 New Yorkers received Pell Grants at an average of $4,385 per person. New York ranked fourth among states with the most amount of Pell recipients in the country. Those who received Pell grants and have federal loans will greatly benefit from the $20,000 of federal student loan cancellation.
• $16.53 billion in federal student loans will be cancelled in New York, with 1.09 million borrowers having their debts totally wiped out and 2.25 million borrowers getting at least some relief.
• Because of a provision Schumer installed into the American Rescue Plan in 2021, all New York student loan forgiveness is tax free.
• New Yorkers in public service will now have a streamlined path to forgiveness, where past payments that did not qualify in the past now will towards the 10-year service mark.

“New York has ranked 4th in Pell Grants across the U.S,” said Schumer. “This means New York will see more of the $20,000 student loan forgiveness compared to other states and at least $16.3 billion dollars will be canceled in the state, with over 1 million New York borrowers having their debt totally wiped away. Even more, over 2 million New Yorkers will see some relief, and it could not come soon enough, because this student debt burden has been exacerbated by a boondoggle system, unfair interest compounding and so much more. That’s why we need the service providers to be ready to answer questions from the millions of New Yorkers who are eligible for this debt cancellation.”

Snapshot of student debt in New York:

• Number of New Yorkers with federal student loan debt: 2.4 million borrowers
• Total balance of federal loan debt in New York is $93.9 billion
• Average student debt for a New York borrower is: $38,400

“This action, along with the pause on federal student loan payments, interest, and collections will improve borrowers’ economic security, allowing them to invest in their families, save for emergencies, and pay down other debt,” Schumer added.

“Congratulations! May your tours all be uneventful! Stay safe out there!” wrote Howard Beach Lindenwood Civic’s Barbara McNamara.

“Welcome to the 106th Precinct and our community! Look forward to meeting some of you,” Rajesh Dianand added.

The 106th Precinct includes Ozone Park, South Ozone Park, Lindenwood, Howard Beach, and Old Howard Beach.

Photo Courtesy of NYPD

“Fare capping will save many of our riders money and give them more flexibility,” said MTA Chief Customer Officer Meyer.

By Forum Staff

To encourage New Yorkers to get back on subways, buses, and trains, and to reduce the cost and worry surrounding everyday travel, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority has announced a pilot fare program that is more affordable, more flexible and more fair.

The temporary promotional changes to fare structures will begin Feb. 28 for New York City Transit and Feb. 25 for commuter rail tickets. The pilot will last for at least four months.

Customers who tap and go with OMNY will be charged the standard $2.75 pay-per-ride fare for their first 12 trips starting every Monday. Any trips after that through the following Sunday would be free.

As a result, no OMNY customer would pay more than $33 per week, which is the current price of a seven-day unlimited-ride MetroCard. Customers receive the benefits of a seven-day unlimited-ride card without having to decide to pay upfront.

Free transfers between subways and buses will continue to be offered to all customers under this pilot. Two-part trips that are linked by a free transfer between subway and bus are considered one trip toward the 12 needed to reach the free-fare threshold each week.

The pilot also offers promotional fares designed to encourage railroad ridership within New York City. The MTA will offer three major changes to railroad fares.

• A new 20-trip ticket will offer 20 percent off comparable 20 peak one-way fares when purchased through MTA eTix, or at a ticket window. These tickets are valid for 60 days.
• Monthly tickets, which are currently discounted between 48 percent and 61 percent of the price of a comparable number of one-way peak tickets, will be discounted by an additional 10 percent.
• CityTicket, which offers a reduced, flat fare for rail travel within New York City on weekends, will be extended to all weekday off-peak trains at a fare of $5. This is a $2.25 or 31-percent discount from Metro-North’s current weekday fare between the Bronx and Manhattan, which is $7.25. (CityTicket must be purchased and activated before boarding the train. Metro-North’s off-peak fare between the Bronx and Manhattan remains $13 when purchased on board the train.) City Ticket is valid at these Metro-North stations: Botanical Garden, Fordham, Grand Central Terminal, Harlem – 125th Street, Marble Hill, Melrose, Morris Heights, Riverdale, Sputyen Duyvil, Tremont, University Heights, Wakefield, Williamsbridge, Woodlawn and Yankees – E. 153rd Street.

This is a $2.75 or 35-percent discount from the LIRR’s current weekday fare between eastern Queens and Manhattan or Brooklyn, which is $7.75. (CityTicket must be purchased and activated before boarding the train. The LIRR’s off-peak fare between eastern Queens and Manhattan or Brooklyn remains $14 when purchased on board the train.) City Ticket is valid at these LIRR stations: Atlantic Terminal, Auburndale, Bayside, Douglaston, East New York, Flushing-Main Street, Forest Hills, Hollis, Jamaica, Kew Gardens, Laurelton, Little Neck, Locust Manor, Mets-Willets Point, Murray Hill, Nostrand Avenue, Penn Station, Queens Village, Rosedale, St. Albans and Woodside.

All LIRR and Metro-North fares will remain off peak through Feb. 28, 2022.

“Fare capping will save many of our riders money and give them more flexibility,” said MTA Chief Customer Officer Sarah Meyer.

Congresswoman Grace Meng and President Joe Biden

By Forum Staff

U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Flushing) announced on Saturday that $28.4 million from the recently enacted federal infrastructure bill is headed to New York to make much needed improvements to LaGuardia Airport.

“I was proud to help pass the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act because I knew it would make a difference in our city, and I am glad to see this vital funding coming to LaGuardia,” said Meng. “This money will go a long way toward needed infrastructure improvements and jobs for New Yorkers, and I look forward to this funding benefiting the airport for decades to come.”

File Photo
Rendering of the future LaGuardia Airport

LaGuardia Airport will receive a similar tranche of funding from the historic bipartisan infrastructure law each year for the next five years, as part of a program for airport development. The tranche is likely to slightly vary from year to year, as the funding reflects annual enplanement totals. In addition to these guaranteed funds, LaGuardia can compete with other airports across the country for grants from an additional $5 billion nationally for terminal and landside improvements.

On Nov. 15, President Joe Biden signed the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which included $15 billion in formula funding to help redevelop airports across the country. Projects that qualify for funding include: improvements to runways and taxiways, safety and sustainability projects, roadway projects, terminal development, and noise prevention. The law also includes an additional $5 billion nationally for FAA towers and facilities funding, which the FAA will distribute among airports in need.

By Forum Staff

Governor Kathy Hochul on Monday announced that the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey has reached a revised agreement with The New Terminal One (NTO) – a consortium of financial sponsors – to build a 2.4 million square foot state-of-the-art new international terminal that will anchor the south side of John F. Kennedy International Airport. The $9.5 billion project will be built in phases and will create more than 10,000 jobs, becoming the fourth major terminal project announced by the Port Authority as part of a complete transformation of JFK into a world-class airport worthy of New York and the region. When completed, The New Terminal One will be the largest international terminal at JFK and aspires to be among the top rated airport terminals in the world.

“As we recover from this pandemic, I want to ensure that everyone traveling to New York has a welcoming and streamlined experience, and that New Yorkers have the modernized transportation hubs they deserve,” Hochul said. “The time to get large infrastructure projects done is now, and I’m committed to getting JFK’s brand new Terminal One underway and completed as soon as possible.”

The Port Authority Board of Commissioners will vote on the proposed lease agreement at its meeting this Thursday, Dec. 16. The full cost of the terminal will be privately financed by the NTO consortium which includes financial partners Carlyle, JLC Infrastructure, and Ullico. A joint venture of Munich Airport International and CAG Holdings is the operating and technical services partner to the consortium.

As part of the project, the Port Authority will undertake a number of infrastructure upgrades and improvements including roads, parking, and utilities including a new electrical substation. The New Terminal One will be built on the sites of the current undersized and outdated Terminal 1, the aging and obsolete 59-year-old Terminal 2, and the site of the former Terminal 3, which was demolished in 2013. Construction of the new terminal is scheduled to begin in mid-2022 and the first phase, including the new arrivals and departures hall and first set of new gates, is expected to open in 2026.

Renderings Courtesy of Port Authority of NY/NJ

The project was initially scheduled to break ground in 2020. Due to the severe impact of the COVID-19 on air travel, the terms of the agreement needed to be restructured. The restructured deal announced today marks a major step forward in the ambitious plan to transform JFK into a unified, 21st century global gateway. The new terminal will be built in phases, subject to international passenger traffic levels, with full completion anticipated in approximately 2030.

The New Terminal One will ultimately have 23 new gates, as well as bright and airy check-in halls and arrival spaces designed to enhance the customer experience and compete with some of the highest-rated airport terminals in the world. Customers will enjoy world-class, New York-inspired dining and retail amenities, as well as space for lounges, an indoor green space and family-friendly amenities. The New Terminal One will incorporate the latest advances in both sustainability and security and be infused a with uniquely New York sense of place.

In October 2018, following a competitive review of leasing proposals, the Port Authority entered into exclusive negotiations for the development of two major new international terminals, one each on the airport’s north and south sides, that would lead the transformation of JFK and increase the airport’s capacity to accommodate projected growth.

Renderings Courtesy of Port Authority of NY/NJ

This week, the Port Authority Board will also vote on the authorization of the full $2.9 billion of funds which were included in the Port Authority’s 2017-2026 Capital Plan for the JFK Redevelopment program. These funds are allocated to enabling infrastructure in direct support of JFK Redevelopment, including roadway improvements, utilities, improved parking facilities, a ground transportation center and airfield work. (To date, approximately $1.24 billion of those funds have been authorized through separate Board actions.) Thus, the Port Authority capital is leveraging private investment at a rate of more than 5:1 when taking into account the full private investment of more than $15 billion that has been committed to the four projects comprising the full JFK redevelopment program.

The development of The New Terminal One is expected to result in over 10,000 total jobs including more than 6,000 union construction jobs.

“I am so pleased to see that Terminal 1 will undergo a much needed transformation and will receive the investment needed to create a world class international terminal worthy of the Borough of Queens,” Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato (D-Howard Beach) said. “We’re sending a message to all who visit that New York is bold, and that everyone is welcome here. It has never been more important to invest in our aging airport infrastructure, and I’m glad that Gov. Hochul, the Port Authority, and the NTO group were able to come together. This project will provide much needed jobs to Queens, and opportunities for local vendors to bring that Queens culture to the ‘Front Door’ to New York City.

By Forum Staff

On Tuesday, the Federal Emergency Management Agency issued some common reasons why some Hurricane Ida victims did not meet the criteria to qualify for FEMA aid programs:

• FEMA assistance would constitute a duplication of benefits from other sources. FEMA cannot provide financial assistance when any other source, such as insurance, has provided assistance for the same disaster-related need or when such assistance is available from another source. For example, FEMA cannot pay for home repairs if the homeowner is already receiving funds from his or her insurance company for the same repairs. If you have already received funds from another source for your disaster recovery, FEMA may find you ineligible. FEMA also does not provide replacement-value amounts for damaged items or assistance with non-essential items. FEMA provides assistance only for repairs to make a home safe, sanitary and functional. FEMA assistance is not a substitute for insurance.
• There is more than one application filed for your household. Only one application per household is necessary.
• FEMA was unable to verify that you are the homeowner. FEMA requires proof of occupancy from disaster survivors who apply for federal assistance to help them with repairs to their damaged homes. FEMA verifies ownership by means of automated public and government records or by using documents you submit. FEMA may also verify ownership at the time of inspection. To appeal FEMA’s decision, you must submit documents that prove ownership along with your signed appeal letter. Documents you can use to verify ownership: Deed or title; Mortgage document; Homeowners insurance documentation; Property tax receipt or tax bill; Manufactured home certificate or title; Home purchase contracts (e.g., Bill of Sale); Last will and testament (and death certificate) naming you the heir to the property
• FEMA was unable to verify your occupancy. FEMA verifies occupancy by means of automated public and government records or by using documents submitted with your application. FEMA may also verify occupancy at the time of inspection. To appeal FEMA’s decision, you must submit documents that prove occupancy along with your signed appeal letter.
• The damaged home may not be your primary residence. FEMA will provide disaster assistance to eligible applicants for a primary residence. FEMA will not consider more than one primary residence for a survivor and his/her spouse. FEMA defines your primary residence as the place where you live for more than six months of the year.
• You have not submitted required documents or information. Read your FEMA correspondence carefully. Respond promptly with the information FEMA is seeking. If that information is not available, explain why to FEMA.
• Insufficient damage: Your home is safe to occupy. There was insufficient storm-caused damage to your home.
• You do not wish to move while repairs are made. If the FEMA inspector deems your home uninhabitable due to disaster-caused damage, you may be eligible for FEMA Initial Rental Assistance. If you indicate at the time of inspection that you are not willing to move while your damaged home is being repaired, you will not be eligible for FEMA temporary rental assistance. If your housing needs have changed, contact FEMA as soon as possible to update your housing and explain why you have a need for rental assistance.

If you disagree with a FEMA decision, you have a right to appeal. Submit your signed appeal letter in writing.

Tina Charles

By Forum Staff

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, Jr. presented the Key to Queens to Olympic gold medalists Dalilah Muhammad and Tina Charles at a ceremony Friday at Borough Hall.

Richards also presented the Olympic duo with proclamations declaring Oct. 1, 2021 as both Dalilah Muhammad Day and Tina Charles Day in the Borough of Queens. Muhammad and Charles received City Council proclamations from the ceremony’s co-sponsor, Councilwoman Adrienne Adams (D-Jamaica), in recognition of their achievements as well.

A native of Rochdale Village and a childhood member of the New York Novas youth running club, Muhammad first earned Olympic glory in 2016 when she became the first American woman in history to win a gold medal in the 400-meter hurdles. She would go on to break the 16-year-old world record time in that event at the 2019 USA Outdoor Track and Field Championships, before breaking her own world record at the 2019 World Championships later that year.

At the 2021 Olympics, Muhammad would again beat the world record time in the 400-meter hurdles in an effort that earned her a silver medal, finishing behind fellow American Sydney McLaughlin. Muhammad won her second career gold medal later in the 2021 Games as part of Team USA’s victorious 4×400-meter relay team, alongside McLaughlin, Athing Mu and Allyson Felix.

Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia/Fernando Frazão/Agência Brasil
Dalilah Muhammad

The 2021 Olympics were the third Summer Games in the illustrious career of Tina Charles, a native of East Elmhurst. After winning gold as part of Team USA’s women’s basketball squad in the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Olympics, Charles returned in 2021 to help lead the team to its seventh straight Olympic gold medal.

The WNBA’s reigning scoring champion and an eight-time All-Star, Charles is one of the most decorated professional basketball players of her generation. An All-American at Christ the King and a two-time NCAA champion at the University of Connecticut, Charles won the WNBA Rookie of the Year award in 2010 before winning WNBA MVP honors in 2012. In 2018, she earned the Basketball Hall of Fame’s Human Spirit Award for her charity work off the court — Charles founded the Hopey’s Heart Foundation, which distributes automated external defibrillators to schools, and funded the construction of a 150-seat school in the West African nation of Mali.

“Dalilah Muhammad and Tina Charles are more than just legendary athletes and Olympic champions. They are role models and inspirations to the countless young people of our borough — kids who now know that with hard work and dedication, there is no limit to what a child of Queens can achieve,” Richards said. “Dalilah and Tina represent the very best of The World’s Borough and these inspiring women are more than deserving recipients of the Key to Queens.”

“Our government must be there to support those who desperately need help, and that includes EVERYBODY who requires relief,” Rep. Meng said.

By Michael V. Cusenza

Congresswoman Grace Meng (D-Flushing) on Tuesday called for federal disaster relief to be accessible to undocumented New Yorkers who have been devastated by the remnants of Hurricane Ida.

In a letter Meng led to the head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the congresswoman asked Administrator Deanna Criswell to use the agency’s legal authority to expand the immigrant eligibility requirements for disaster relief assistance, so that all who have been impacted by the storm can seek help regardless of immigration status.

Meng’s correspondence follows Gov. Kathy Hochul’s announcement Monday to make $27 million available for undocumented New Yorkers affected by Ida. Meng, who joined the governor for the announcement at the Queens Museum, said in her remarks during the event that she would be sending her letter to FEMA this week, noting that states should not be left to pick up the tab for a federal disaster relief program.

“The destruction that Ida caused throughout our region has been devastating,” said Meng. “Queens, and my district in particular, which includes many immigrant communities, was among the hardest hit spots, and lives have been turned upside down. Our government must be there to support those who desperately need help, and that includes EVERYBODY who requires relief. With so many people distraught and shattered by the damage from the storm, it is more important than ever for our immigrant communities to not be left behind or forgotten about. Ensuring relief for those who are ineligible is the right, decent and compassionate thing to do. I commend Governor Hochul for making aid available from New York funds; but as I said, states should not be left to pick up the tab for a federal disaster relief program.”

Other lawmakers who signed the letter include New York Senator Kristen Gillibrand and New York Reps. Adriano Espaillat, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Jamaal Bowman, Mondaire Jones, Ritchie Torres, Nydia Velázquez and Carolyn Maloney.

Those who lack such identification do not have access to FEMA’s disaster relief, and there are few resources for disaster victims outside of FEMA assistance. The Individuals and Households Assistance Program was designed to meet individuals’ and households’ basic needs, particularly those that have uninsured or underinsured necessary expenses. This will be the central challenge as many non-qualifying immigrants search for new shelter, recover and restore their belongings, and seek medical care. We strongly believe FEMA should ensure relief is accessible regardless of immigration status,” Meng wrote in her missive to Criswell. “FEMA cites Title IV of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, also referred to as the Welfare Reform Act, for its immigrant eligibility standards for receiving federal public benefits. However, there is precedent for agencies independently determining whether their relief programs constitute a federal public benefit. For example, in the case of Herrera v Metropolitan Life Insurance Company et al, a federal district court held that proceeds from a Federal Employee Group Life Insurance policy did not constitute a federal public benefit, thus allowing a nonqualified alien beneficiary to receive the proceeds. Given the court’s interpretation that the Welfare Reform Act was intended to restrict eligibility only for welfare benefits available to the public at large, we believe FEMA has the authority to interpret the law in a manner that allows disaster relief to be available regardless of immigration status.”

Jamaica Hospital Medical Center

By Forum Staff

As surging COVID-19 cases threaten to overwhelm New York’s hospitals, U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) is urging Congress to deliver increased funding for hospitals and health care providers in the next coronavirus relief package.

Specifically, Gillibrand said she is requesting the inclusion of these policy proposals in any upcoming COVID-19 relief package:

Funding for State and Local Governments to Avoid Spending Cuts: Any upcoming coronavirus relief legislation must include substantial funding for a state stabilization fund to provide direct funding to state and local governments, Gillibrand noted. In addition, it should increase the Families First Coronavirus Response Act’s temporary 6.2 percent increase in the Federal medical matching percentages (FMAP) to at least 14 percent. The increase should apply to costs associated with all Medicaid populations (including Affordable Care Act expansion populations), be retroactive to January 1, 2020, and last at least through September 30, 2021. The legislation should also provide flexibility to reform Medicaid programs without cutting any current beneficiaries off the rolls or increasing the ranks of the uninsured. In addition, the legislation should increase the state disproportionate share hospital (DSH) allotments to adjust for the increased FMAP. Without such an adjustment, states electing the enhanced FMAP would need to reduce aggregate hospital DSH payments to stay within their DSH allotments, inadvertently requiring cuts to hospitals.

Convert Medicare Advances to Grants: Relief legislation has enabled hospitals to request six-month Medicare advances (all other providers and suppliers can request a three-month advance) that were subject to certain repayment terms. Any coronavirus relief legislation should convert the Medicare advances into a grant/loan forgiveness program so that either no repayment or a partial repayment would occur, at a minimum we urge you to further delay the repayment of these loans.

Provider Relief Fund Increase and Flexibility for Emergency Expenses Related To COVID-19: Relief legislation should increase funding for the “Public Health and Social Services Emergency Fund” from $175 billion to at least $275 billion and ensure that hospitals and health systems receive immediate Federal funding—giving priority to hospitals in areas that have treated or continue to treat a disproportionate number of COVID-19 patients.

Crisis Pay and Bolstering the Health Workforce: Relief legislation should include “crisis pay” payments that could be used to fund increased wages, bonuses, and/ or benefits for health care workers.

Delay Upcoming Hospital Reimbursement Cuts and Modify Financing Terms: Relief legislation should eliminate the Medicaid Disproportionate Share (DSH) cuts, which are set to go into effect on December 11, 2020 as well as suspend the Medicare sequester cuts for at least the duration of the pandemic. The CARES Act suspended the 2 percent sequester cuts to Medicare providers, including hospitals, physicians, and post-acute care providers, but only through December 31, 2020. Relief legislation should also consider waiving or modifying payment terms to help them preserve cash flow and sustain operations. By requiring lenders to provide relief from debt covenants on hospital loans to prevent the triggering of financial penalties.

Infrastructure and Telehealth Funding for Hospitals: Relief legislation should increase capital access for hospitals that need infrastructure improvements, particularly those that used capital reserves to treat COVID-19 patient. Any relief package should improve the nation’s tele-health infrastructure by helping to fund provider startup costs such as purchasing videoconferencing equipment and reliable connectivity, and improving rules and regulations particularly around geographic, service type, provider restrictions, and accessibility for people with disabilities.

Sabita Dookram lives on 126th Street near 107th Avenue in South Richmond Hill.

By Michael V. Cusenza

A South Richmond Hill woman has been charged with tossing her newborn son out of a bathroom window shortly after she gave birth, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced Thursday.

Sabita Dookram, 23, was arraigned Tuesday on charges of attempted murder in the second degree, assault in the first degree, reckless assault of a child, two counts of assault in the second degree and endangering the welfare of a child.

According to court records, bail has been set at $50,000 bond/$50,000 cash. As of Wednesday afternoon, Dookram remained in custody on Rikers Island. She was ordered to return to court on Nov. 5.

According to the charges, at approximately 10 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 11, a neighbor heard whimpering noises coming from outside. When the neighbor went out to see what was making the noise she observed a newborn baby boy lying naked on the ground, next to the building’s garbage.

Officers responding to the location saw blood on the ground and on the side wall leading up to the 1st floor bathroom window and on the window sill of Dookram’s bathroom.

According to the complaint, when questioned by police officers, Dookram allegedly said, “I gave birth yesterday afternoon. I cut the [umbilical] cord with a scissor from the bathroom. I panicked and threw it out of the bathroom window.”

Dookram and the baby were rushed to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center. Upon admission to the hospital, the baby was placed on a ventilator and then transferred to Cohen Children’s Medical Center.

An examination of the newborn at the Cohen Children’s Medical Center revealed that the baby sustained a traumatic brain injury with bleeding and swelling about the brain and scalp and an abdominal injury with internal bleeding, Katz noted.

“This is a heartbreaking situation,” the DA added.

Sunday’s incident rocked the normally quiet South Queens block, according to a neighbor who did not want their name published.

“Very, very nice family,” the neighbor said, referring to Dookram’s relatives.

If convicted, Dookram faces up to 25 years in prison.

So far the DA has determined that approximately 30 defendants “who in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and in the interest of justice” should be released from Rikers Island.

By Forum Staff

In the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, the Queens District Attorney’s Office has implemented massive changes to ensure good health for its staff and “swift justice for defendants during this unprecedented time,” DA Melinda Katz said Wednesday morning.

File Photo
Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz

Katz noted that the Office has set up office workstations with access to Skype for Business so that Assistant District Attorneys can virtually arraign defendants without being physically present and putting their health at risk. All arraignment proceedings have shifted from in-person court appearances to fully virtual appearances. The same applies to Supreme Court matters. An All Purpose Part will entertain all felony matters going forward including Supreme Court arraignments, pleas, and sentencings. A second Supreme Court Part will serve as a Youth Part where adolescent offenders will have their cases adjourned for a six-day review after they are arraigned.

Additionally, Katz said that over the past few days a panel of nearly a dozen prosecutors has been working to identify defendants, “who in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and in the interest of justice,” should be released from Rikers Island. The panel is considering each defendant’s age, criminal history, the remaining time on their sentence, and the defendant’s current health condition in reaching a determination. The panel has also reached out to the victims of the crimes committed by these defendants to consider their positions in making recommendations before presenting its findings to the Katz for her final decision. While the process of release is ongoing, so far the DA has determined that approximately 30 defendants should be released from the island.

In the coming weeks, Katz concluded, her Office “will continue to provide the essential services necessary to keep Queens County’s residents safe while we do everything possible to avoid COVID-19. Therefore, we are operating within the office with a skeletal crew while most of our employees work remotely from home.”

In summer 2015, a Howard Beach man was diagnosed with West Nile virus.

By Michael V. Cusenza
Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato (D-Howard Beach) recently reached out to the City to request a mosquito aerial spraying in coastal neighborhoods in Far Rockaway, Rockaway Park, Breezy Point, Howard Beach, and Ozone Park.
According to a notice recently issued by the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, a majority of the ZIP codes encompassing the 23rd Assembly District had been left off of the list of neighborhoods slated for sprayings. Pheffer Amato indicated that she has fielded concerns from constituents regarding mosquito breeding and the potential spreading of viruses.
In a letter sent last Tuesday to DOHMH Commissioner Oxiris Barbot, M.D., Pheffer Amato asked “that the mosquito aerial spraying schedule include the areas encompassed by ZIP codes 11693, 11694, 11697, 11414, and 11417. I understand that NYC Dept. of Health does not spray for nuisance mosquitoes; however as much of my district is surrounded by coastal wetlands, it is crucial that the City take measures to ensure that these neighborhoods are protected from the threats of West Nile virus and the Zika virus.”
In summer 2015, a Howard Beach man was diagnosed with West Nile virus. William Ryan contracted the disease before DOHMH sprayed his community with a low concentration of a synthetic pesticide.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, no vaccine or specific antiviral treatments for West Nile virus infection are available. Over-the-counter pain relievers can be used to reduce fever and relieve some symptoms. In severe cases, patients often need to be hospitalized to receive supportive treatment, such as intravenous fluids, pain medication, and nursing care.

Cops on Tuesday caught up to the homeless man who allegedly beat a woman unconscious before snatching her purse—all in front of her toddler son on a Woodhaven street.
According to the NYPD, Derrick Chirse, 57, was arrested Tuesday afternoon at an East Flatbush, Brooklyn shelter. Police said the victim, 35, and her 4-year-old boy were walking on 84th Street near Atlantic Avenue on Monday around 2 p.m. when Chirse allegedly approached her and demanded the purse. Before she could react, Chirse allegedly punched the woman four times in the face and head until she passed out. He then bolted, purse in hand, up 84th Street while several good Samaritans gave chase.
The victim and her son were taken to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center. The boy was not physically harmed, cops said.

U.S. Rep. Joe Crowley lost an historic primary challenge Tuesday from Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

By Michael V. Cusenza

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez defeated U.S. Rep. Joe Crowley (D-Queens and Bronx) on Tuesday in an historic Democratic primary victory that has shaken up Democratic leadership from the Hill to The World’s Borough.

Ocasio-Cortez, a former Bernie Sanders presidential campaign organizer, cruised to a 57.5-42.5 win that saw her best Crowley, one of the most powerful Dems in Congress and the chief of the Queens Democratic Party, by roughly 4,000 votes. Approximately 28,000 residents of the 14th Congressional District cast a ballot on Tuesday.

“We always knew it was possible,” Ocasio-Cortez, 28, wrote on Facebook on Wednesday morning, “but you all made it happen. This is what we can accomplish when we come together, choose to believe that a different world is possible—and knock on our neighbors door, and VOTE to make it happen. Thank you all so incredibly much. This is the beginning of a movement. It is my hope that in this victory, we also look ahead to usher in a wave of heroic candidates this. We can do it all, and we can do it now. It takes political courage. And last night, we had it. Thank you.”

Crowley, 56, said it “has been the honor of a lifetime to represent” his native Queens and the Bronx.

“I am proud of the race we ran, and more importantly, proud of all of the work we’ve done to advance this community,” the 10-term incumbent added.

A Bronx native and resident, Ocasio-Cortez earned degrees in economics and international relations at Boston University. Her first taste of politics came when she worked for the late U.S. Sen. Ted Kennedy, handling foreign affairs and immigration casework for constituent families.

Ocasio-Cortez identifies as a socialist Democrat. She took aim early and often at her more moderate opponent, encouraging her supporters to follow her lead in trampling the establishment.

“This is the just the beginning,” she said on Wednesday. “There’s so much more to come.”