As the well-being of our members has always been our top priority, we would never want to put anyone at risk. In lieu of the chaos and uncertainty in NYC at this time, we at RIDA feel it necessary to cancel our St. Patrick's Day event on Monday evening, March 16th. With this being said, we would still like those who had originally signed up for the event, to come down to the senior center at 5:30pm on Monday evening in order to pick up, take home and enjoy a traditional St. Patrick’s day meal.
The MST& DA presentation of the revolutionary war musical depicting the signing of the Declaration of Independence features a gender bending cast of 12 women playing roles as the Founding Fathers
Jacqueline Lucid, Director of MTS&DA 1776 production says:
A show that traditionally casts only two women. Our cast of 23, features 12 women playing pivotal roles of our founding fathers. An important show for our times. An important reminder of all that we have. And all we need to protect and fight for.
The Roosevelt Island Tram is a beautiful symbol of our Island. Riding it to work every day is one of the best parts of my job as president of the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation. Besides the majestic views from almost 300 feet above the East River, the Tram, and the Red Bus (which I also ride daily) is a fun way to listen to and observe the diversity of people, ages, gender, languages and cultures who visit and live here.
More than 1.35 million people rode the Tram last year and like any other machinery, with that amount of volume, it requires mandatory maintenance and preventive safety inspections. Some of that work happened overnight earlier this month and beginning February 26, we’ll undertake more, one car at a time for six days. While I apologize for the inconvenience, this work is necessary. The Tram’s operations team is diligent about their work ensuring that the Island’s signature icon is and remains safe to ride.
And just in case you were wondering, unlike the New York City subways, once the Tram operator engages the engine button, there is no way for the driver to re-open the door even if you’re running up at the last minute to board and the Tram is still in the station. So please, don’t be angry at the operators.
CULTURAL CENTER RE-OPENS
On Feb. 5, the Island’s cultural center re-opened after being closed for a month to allow for a mold remediation.
Last fall, RIOC contracted with two environmental testing companies to sample and assess air and physical samples throughout the center to detect for mold samples. Small amounts of mold were found on the ballet room’s ceiling and floor as well as in the center’s media room. The spores that were found are common to indoor environments worldwide. Nonetheless, we ordered a complete fumigation, humidification and cleaning of the entire building; and had the services performed when the center had the least amount of community need.
Subsequent testing found no detectable mold reservoirs in any of the areas sampled. In fact, samples taken outside the center found mold in the air almost 33 times higher than all the indoor samples. We are happy to report the cultural center is back in business for hosting and use by all Island organizations.
FARMERS MARKET RE-LOCATION
How sweet would it be if every RIOC decision to make a change on the Island was loved by everybody? Unlikely; unless it’s the relocation of the Farmers Market. Hear me out.
The repair to the Helix roadway and platform is going to take four months to complete. No longer could the Farmers Market vendors set up shop on Saturdays in the underpass. After careful consideration, we chose the plaza of the Chapel of the Good Shepherd to be the most logical place aesthetically and strategically.
The plaza is beautiful and is centrally located. This change will bring energy to Main Street and may even encourage more activities there in the future.
BLACKWELL HOUSE RENOVATIONS
Roosevelt Island’s most historic landmark, Blackwell House, is undergoing a complete interior structural renovation not a restoration as some may have thought.
That designation is important because when the work is finished, the farmhouse, originally built in 1796, will be a modern structure with handicap accessibility and HVAC, telecommunications, electrical, plumbing modifications to code and kitchen upgrades. RIOC intends to use the building for a variety of community programs and activities including small group exhibitions, receptions and meetings. Part of Blackwell’s second floor will become the new office home for the Roosevelt Island Historical Society and the Island’s growing library of document archives.
A portion of the $1.4 million renovation cost is being subsidized by a $364,000 grant from the City of New York that the Historical Society solicited and won. The project is expected to be completed in June 2018.
Exciting upgrades to the Blackwell House courtyard and playground are expected to begin later in the spring and fall of this year.
YOUR COMMENTS AND QUESTIONS
I sincerely hope that you are enjoying reading this column to learn more about what RIOC is doing and planning. Remember, I look forward to answering any, and all, of your questions directly. Send them to me at comment@rioc.ny.gov. Until next time, be well, stay safe and see you at the next RIOC Board of Directors meeting on March 1.
Please be advised that The Cultural Center will be closed for planned maintenance & repairs from January 2nd – February 5th 2018. During this time no access shall be granted to the space. We thank you in advance for you cooperation.
Image Of Roosevelt Island Cultural Center Entrance
In response my November 10 inquiry following the November 9 RIOC Real Estate Advisory Committee (REDAC) meeting which discussed the Cultural Center mold issue, RIOC Vice President Of Operations Shelton Haynes replied:
As mentioned in the REDAC meeting last week, RIOC had the Cultural Center tested for mold that developed because of recurring leaks over a period of time. The test results revealed a low-grade, non-harmful, mold located in multiple rooms of the facility. RIOC has taken measures to remediate the mold out of an abundance of caution to our occupants and patrons of the Cultural Center. A portion was remediated in late October and the second phase will occur when the building is unoccupied in January.
Here is the RIOC REDAC meeting discussion with RIOC Engineering Consultant Mike Russo, Mr. Haynes and Roosevelt Island Jewish Congregation (RIJC) President Nina Lubin.
The RIJC is one of the occupants of the Cultural Center, together with the Main Street Theatre & Dance Alliance among others, who will not be able to use the space during the mold remediation.
The Cultural Center had been closed for almost 3 years following the 2012Hurricane Sandy flooding and has undergone extensive renovation during that time.
Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) President Susan Rosenthal announced at the RIOC December 8 Board meeting that free community space for Roosevelt Island groups will be made available at the Cultural Center...
... Details are still to be worked out but one requirement is that the groups themselves not charge for the free community space....
Image Of Cultural Center Entrance
The details have been worked out. RIOC announced today:
Free Public Space Pilot Program Announcement:
Starting Monday, February 13th, RIOC will begin a pilot program offering free public space to island residents in the Roosevelt Island Cultural Center (548 Main St.). These spaces, both a common area and a privately reserved function room, will be made available from 10 AM – 2 PM, Monday – Wednesday and on Friday, for recreational, cultural, and/or educational purposes. The intention is to give the general public, unaffiliated with for-profit or non-profit corporations, the opportunity to utilize community space, which may include group study sessions, exercise activities, and book clubs; as well as quiet space for individuals to relax, read, study or meditate.
We hope this initial pilot program will gauge interest in underutilized community space and RIOC looks forward to working with island residents as the next steps for this project are determined. For more information or to sign up for the Public Space Pilot Program, please call Donna Masly at 212-891-6540 or via email at Permits@rioc.ny.gov.
For further information, and a downloadable flyer, please visit our website.
Here's Ms. Rosenthal announcing RIOC's plan for the free Roosevelt Island Cultural Center community space
Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) President Susan Rosenthal announced at the RIOC December 8 Board meeting that free community space for Roosevelt Island groups will be made available at the Cultural Center
Image Of Cultural Center Entrance
starting in January 2017. Permits will not be required but reservations will be necessary for the groups seeking to use the Cultural Center space for free.
Images Of Cultural Center Common Area Space and Studio
Ms Rosenthal added that groups do not have to be 501 c3 corporations to use the space. Details are still to be worked out but one requirement is that the groups themselves not charge for the free community space.
Here's what Ms. Rosenthal said about Roosevelt Island free community space at the Cultural Center.
This Tony Award-nominated hilarious, roller skating, musical adventure about following your dreams despite the limitations others set for you, rolls along to the original hit score composed by pop-rock legends Jeff Lynne and John Farrar. Based on the Universal Pictures' cult classic movie of the same title, which starred Olivia Newton-John and Gene Kelly, Xanadu is hilarity on wheels for adults, children and anyone who has ever wanted to feel inspired....
Here's a snippet from the MST&DA Teen Theater Group Xanadu rehearsal singing Magic.
The use of Roosevelt Island Community space by various local groups is an important issue for some residents. If you are interested in using Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Cultural Center community space, plan on attending RIOC meeting tomorrow.
According to RIOC:
The meeting for scheduling Cultural Center permit requests on Thursday, February 25th at 9 AM has been moved to the Cultural Center Small Studio.
This meeting is open to individuals or groups seeking permits that fall between the dates of April 1, 2016 and June 30, 2016 only.
Attendees are required to RSVP and advise their anticipated space needs by February 24th by contacting Donna Masly at 212.891.6540 or emailing permits@rioc.ny.gov.
Images Of Cultural Center Theater, Studio and Common Area Space
The use of Roosevelt Island Community space by various local groups is an important issue for some residents. If you are interested in using Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) community space, plan on attending two upcoming RIOC meetings next week.
According to RIOC:
A meeting for scheduling permit requests for the Good Shepherd Community Center will take place on Monday, February 22nd at 9 AM at the RIOC main office (591 Main Street).
A meeting for scheduling permit requests for the Cultural Center will take place on Thursday, February 25th at 9 AM at the RIOC main office (591 Main Street).
These meetings will address permit requests that fall between the dates of April 1, 2016 and June 30, 2016. For more information, or to reserve a seat and receive a permit application, please contact Donna Masly at 212.891.6540 or email permits@rioc.ny.gov
... RIOC Director Howard Polivy provided an overview of Roosevelt Island community spaces including at Sportspark, Good Shepherd Community Center and the newly renovated Cultural Center space. Mr. Polivy emphasized that use of the community center spaces will "evolve" over time. RIOC President Charlene Indelicato added that all of the Roosevelt Island groups seeking community space:
... must be treated in a fair and equitable manner...
noting that Public Authorities, like RIOC, are under a great deal of scrutiny from NY State. Ms. Indelicato added that the intent of RIOC is not to make money on the Cultural Center
The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) issued a September 16 Request For Proposals (RFP) seeking a security and building manager for the Roosevelt Island Cultural Center. A pre-bid meeting date is scheduled for 10 AM tomorrow, September 23, at RIOC HQ (591 Main Street).
The Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation ("RIOC" or “Owner”) is seeking a qualified security and building manager with prior, similar experience, for its Pilot Program, who is responsible, customer service oriented, has the ability to interact well with the public, can resolve conflict with diplomacy, and exercises sound judgement, and who will have a working relationship with the Public Safety Department and the Permitting Unit to provide security/building facilitator services for the Cultural Center located at 548 Main Street, on Roosevelt Island....
The Cultural Center is located in the basement of a multi-story building, of which, the Public Safety Department is housed above. The Cultural Center provides community space for the various groups on the Island to assemble. The Cultural Center consists of a Theater, two offices, a kitchen, and seven other rooms available to permitted users. These permitted rooms include three dance studios, three classrooms, and two storage rooms.
RIOC is seeking a qualified security and building manager – with prior, similar experience – who is responsible, customer service oriented, has the ability to interact well with the public, can resolve conflict with diplomacy, and exercises sound judgement, and who will have a working relationship with the Public Safety Department to provide the following services:
Promptly and directly report to the Public Safety Department and the Permit Unit, any and all incidents requiring enforcement of Cultural Center Facility Use Guidelines;
Ensure that permitted rooms within the Cultural Center are used appropriately, and in accordance with their permitted use;
Monitor points of entry of the Cultural Center to ensure that doors are locked and secured;
Read and enforce daily schedule of permitted use for permitted rooms inside the Cultural Center;
Inspect permitted rooms after use by each permittee and receive filled out Cultural Center Checklist
form after termination of each permitted use;
Draft Unusual Occurrence Reports and notify PSD of any emergencies and or incidents that occur in the Cultural Center;
Draft Unusual Occurrence Reports regarding any incidents or emergencies that occur with the facility
and/or permitted users and also provide a copy to the Permitting Office each morning; and
Coordinate with, and promptly notify the building Superintendent (and the Permit Unit) regarding any plumbing issues, or malfunctions with building fixtures and/or other equipment.
These services must be provided for a minimum of two eight-hour shifts not to exceed three eight-hour shifts, which will be determined according to necessity solely by RIOC. These services will also be provided for six (6) months, with the possibility of extending the contract another six (6) months. The qualified security and building manager will be expected to look professional and wear a uniform and name tag, displaying the represented firm and the employee’s name. All uniforms and name tags will be the sole responsibility of the successful bidder to provide. Additionally, the security and building manager will have all necessary certifications required by New York State, federal, local law, and regulations.
All interested bidders will be expected to appear for a walkthrough of the target facility, which will occur on September 23, 2015, at 10:00 a.m. ...
According to the Roosevelt Island Jewish Congregation (RIJC):
After a more than three-year hiatus, the Roosevelt Island Jewish Congregation (RIJC) has returned to the space where, for 19 years, it held Shabbat worship services, High Holiday services and Hebrew school classes.
A re-dedication ceremony held on Sunday, August 30, 2015, was conducted by Rabbi Leana Moritt, spiritual leader of the RIJC, and attended by members of the congregation, its board and guests, including representatives of local religious and cultural organizations.
Rabbi Leana Moritt (holding a Torah scroll), pauses before leading RIJC Board member Judith Berdy (near left) and congregants of the Roosevelt Island Jewish Congregation, as well as Fr. Gerardo Ramirez (left), leader of the local Episcopal Church, into the re-dedicated sanctuary.
The room designated for use as a sanctuary, plus an adjacent classroom, located in the section of 548 Main Street on Roosevelt Island known as the Cultural Center, were both destroyed by a flood from an upstairs apartment in the building in July 2012. Superstorm Sandy further damaged the rooms in October 2012.
Repairs to and renovations of all damaged rooms of the Cultural Center were paid for by the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation, which manages the facility.
"We are gratified to see how much we have grown and come together as a community over the last three years as wandering Jews in temporary homes. Now that we have come home, we will be better able to focus our attention on one another, on what makes us tick as a community and on nurturing the qualitative quotient of RIJC experiences," said Rabbi Leana Moritt, spiritual leader of the RIJC since 2007.
"The Roosevelt Island Jewish Congregation is thrilled we will be able to again hold High Holiday services and our other activities in our long-time home. This re-dedication of the sanctuary means that we will be celebrating many Shabbat services, chagim and simchas in the newly re-dedicated room," added Nina Lublin, President of the RIJC.
The Roosevelt Island Jewish Congregation The Roosevelt Island Jewish Congregation (RIJC) is an egalitarian, progressive, friendly and fun synagogue first founded 1976, and formally organized in 1983, serving the residents of Roosevelt Island. Our congregation is dedicated to providing Jewish spiritual support and renewed Jewish knowledge to all who seek it, as well as a strong Jewish community on and for the Island. For more information, please visit www.rijc.org.
The Roosevelt Island Jewish Congregation Board of Trustees & Rabbi Leana Moritt are delighted to invite you to join us 2 PM Sunday, August 30 as we REDEDICATE OUR SANCTUARY at the Cultural Center in time for the High Holy Days 5776.
The Torah will be ceremonially paraded in and installed
We will all help move furniture and arrange the aesthetics of our rededicated space.
If you have already joined as a member, thank you.
If you have not joined, please consider membership.
The entrances to Cultural Center can be accessed thru the Breezeway next to 540 Main, at the staircase behind the old Hardware Store @548 Main Street, or through the elevator entrance behind the Public Safety Office.
The RIJC is delighted to announce its return to the Cultural Center after a 3-year absence due to flooding & SuperStorm Sandy. After conducting Shabbat services, celebrating holidays & festivals, running its Hebrew School & supporting our members & friends in times of need in many locations around RI, we are thrilled to come back "home".
We are rejoining our original neighbors, the Main Street Theatre & Dance Alliance, as well as joining many new ones in the re-built & renovated Cultural Center space. This is an exciting time for us, & we welcome everyone to come by, meet our Rabbi, Leana Moritt, & see us Sunday afternoon. And we look forward to seeing you in September too, as we celebrate the New Year.
Please visit our website, rijc.org for the full schedule of activities.
Thanking Directors for approving new General Counsel (despite reservations of Board Members on the process - more to come on this subject),
Urges users of the newly renovated Cultural Center to keep the premises clean (she noted the RIOC Board Meeting took place at the Cultural Center on the set of upcoming Main Street Theater & Dance Alliance's Little Shop Of Horrors set which was more preferable set to their previous show - Urinetown),
Says Con Ed Town Hall Meeting on New High Pressure Gas Line has not been scheduled because Con Ed has not presented a doable plan yet and
July 4 Fireworks on East River will be a challenge for RIOC but Public Safety and 114th Precinct will be ready (She did not specifically say whether Southpoint Park will be open to public or not).
Here's the RIOC President's Report from Ms. Indelicato.
During May 14 RIOC Real Estate Advisory Committee meeting agenda item on the Roosevelt Island Cultural Center (full audio web cast here), I asked about the fee policy for Roosevelt Island groups that could not afford to pay for its use. RIOC's Chief Financial Officer Frances Walton and Permits Director Donna Masly said they thought the fee policy was reasonable for all.
Here's the full May 14 RIOC discussion on Roosevelt Island Cultural Center.
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a meeting of the Real Estate Development Advisory Committee of the RIOC Board of Directors will be held on Thursday, May 14, 2015 at 5:30 p.m. at the RIOC administrative office, 591 Main Street, Roosevelt Island, New York.
Agenda:
Presentation of New York Public Library Plans for 504 Main Street.
Update on Master Retail Sublease.
Review of Outdoor Seating Request in Proximity to 503 Main Street.
Discussion of Cultural Center Community Space Permitting and Utilization.
Chair's Motion for an Executive Session for an Update on Westview Ground Lease Negotiations.
Any Other Committee Business That May be Brought Before the Committee
An audio web cast of the Public Session will be available soon thereafter.
The Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) Main Street Retail Committee Chair Anna Karinnen provided a retail update to the May 6 meeting of the Common Council.
Image Of Winnick Realty Leasing Sign at 503 Main Street
and that Hudson Related is in the process of selecting a new retail broker. Here's the rest of the RIRA Retail Report.
Also, the Executive Session to discuss the RIOC Westview Ground Lease extension
is because the Westview Co-op Non-Eviction Conversion Plan was sent to tenants earlier this month by the building's owner. One Westview tenant tweeted:
On May 1, I asked Westview building owner representative David Hirshhorn:
I understand that the Westview Non-Eviction Coop conversion offering plan has been released this week.
Is that true?...
Any comment from RY Management on matter. Can you provide details about the plan.
Mr. Hirshhorn replied:
Yes, the Red Herring was filed with the Department of Law and copies were provided today to all Westview residents. The Plan is very similar to the Island House plan. We have now asked RIOC to extend the Westview Ground Lease on the same terms that RIOC extended the Island House Ground Lease.
I asked the residents from the Westview Task Force for comment as well but have received no reply yet.
The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) is conducting tours of the newly renovated Cultural Center at 548 Main Street.
Image Of Roosevelt Island Cultural Center Entrance
According to RIOC:
On Thursday, April 9th, tours of the newly renovated Cultural Center will be offered at 10 AM and 6 PM. Advanced signups are recommended. If you wish to attend a tour, please email permits@rioc.ny.gov.
RIOC has established 3 different fee schedules for use of the various spaces at the Cultural Center by groups and individuals based upon the size of the space and whether the user is a resident, resident non profit group or non resident. Below is the Roosevelt Island Cultural Center Fee Schedule
... approved a non-exclusive license agreement for use of portions of the Cultural Center (the theater, workshop and theater storage room) at no cost in exchange for MST&DA to operate and maintain the space. MST&DA will be required to pay the non-profit hourly rate (see below) for areas outside of the agreed license....
The Main Street Theater & Dance Alliance (MST&DA) license agreement with RIOC for the Cultural Center space is through the end of 2015 at which time RIOC will issue a Request For Proposals (RFP) for the space. The history of MST&DA will be considered in evaluating the Cultural Center RFP.
Here's the Roosevelt Island Cultural Center Theater,
dressing room,
dance and exercise floors
as well as Common Area adjacent to meeting rooms.
Roosevelt Island Residents and organizations are encouraged to inform RIOC of any interest in using the Cultural Center Space for your meetings or other needs.
The Cultural Center use and fee schedule was discussed during the March 19 RIOC Real Estate Development Advisory Committee meeting held at the Cultural Center Theater (audio web cast of meeting). Here's what happened.
Part 1. RIOC Director Howard Polivy provided an overview of Roosevelt Island community spaces including at Sportspark, Good Shepherd Community Center and the newly renovated Cultural Center space. Mr. Polivy emphasized that use of the community center spaces will "evolve" over time. RIOC President Charlene Indelicato added that all of the Roosevelt Island groups seeking community space:
... must be treated in a fair and equitable manner...
noting that Public Authorities, like RIOC, are under a great deal of scrutiny from NY State. Ms. Indelicato added that the intent of RIOC is not to make money on the Cultural Center.
Part 2. RIOC Community Relations Specialist Erica Spencer-El discussed how the policy and procedures for the new Cultural Center space were determined.
Part 3. RIOC's Donna Masly discussed Cultural Center fees and usage policies followed by discussion between the RIOC and residents attending the meeting.
Also a very interesting, though brief, exchange (at the 35 minute 30 second mark) between RIOC Board Member Margie Smith, RIOC CFO Frances Walton and Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) Vice President Sherie Helstien regarding Roosevelt Island ground rent payed to RIOC being owed to NY State due to the State's prior infrastructure investment in Roosevelt Island.
Part 4. Discussion regarding why Main Street Theater & Dance Alliance is treated differently than other organizations seeking use of the Cultural Center Space. Also, discussion of religious organizations using the Cultural Center Space.
Bottom line, if you are interested in renting Roosevelt Island community space at the Cultural Center sign up to take the tour tomorrow and see the space for yourself.
More on Roosevelt Island Cultural Center Community space issues here, here and here.
RIOC President Charlene Indelicato reported that the agreement is a non exclusive use of the theater space by MST&DA until the end of 2015 at which time a Request For Proposals (RFP) will be issued for the space. Ms Indelicato noted that the history of MST&DA will be considered in evaluating the Cultural Center RFP.
Here's what Ms. Indelicato said:
Ms Indelicato also reported on the Cultural Center fee schedule, upcoming construction projects from Cornell, Riverwalk Building 7 and new Con Ed High Pressure Gas line to be installed as well as community volunteer efforts.
RIOC Director Howard Polivy provided more info about the construction projects, including Con Ed Gas Line, and asked for community patience during the needed work.
RIOC Community Relations Specialist Erica Spencer-El added:
...last night the board approved a non-exclusive license agreement for use of portions of the Cultural Center (the theater, workshop and theater storage room) at no cost in exchange for MST&DA to operate and maintain the space. MST&DA will be required to pay the non-profit hourly rate (see below) for areas outside of the agreed license.
Ms. Spencer-El also provided the Cultural Center Fee Schedule below
and this list of organizations interested in using the Cultural Center Space:
1) Zalman Duchman,
2) Nina Lublin
3) RI Jewish Congregation
4) RI Explorers
5) Hope Church
6) Islamic Society of RI
7) Assembly member Seawright
8) RI Parents Network
9) Ashley Heart on behalf of a local Japanese group
10) Island Kids.
Here's the new Roosevelt Island Cultural Center Theater,
Image of Renovated Main Street Theater At Roosevelt Island Cultural Center
The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Board Of Directors meet later today.
Image Of December 2014 RIOC Board Of Directors Meeting
A public comment session is held prior to the start of the meeting. Here is the Agenda:
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a Board of Directors meeting will be held on Thursday, March 26, 2015 at 5:30 p.m. at the Manhattan Park Community Center, 8 River Road, Roosevelt Island, New York, for the purpose of transacting such business as shall come before the Board.
I. Call to Order
II.Roll Call
III. Approval of Minutes
1. February 26, 2015 Board Meeting (Board Action Required)
IV. Old Business
V. New Business
1. Authorization to Ratify and Amend Contract with JFA Insurance Brokerage & Associates, Inc. and Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. for Insurance Brokerage Services (Board Action Required)
2. Authorization to Enter Into Insurance Binders for 2015-16 (Board Action Required)
3. Authorization to Enter Into License and Operating Agreement with the Main Street Theater & Dance Alliance (MSTDA) (Board Action Required)
4. Authorization to Ratify and Amend License Agreement with the Roosevelt Island Garden Club, LTD (RIGC) (Board Action Required)
5. Authorization to Ratify and Amend License Agreement with Riverwalk Landings, LLC for Zipcar Parking at Southtown (Board Action Required)
6. President’s Report
7. Committee Reports
a. Audit Committee
b. Governance Committee
c. Operations Advisory Committee
d. Real Estate Development Advisory Committee
8. Public Safety Report
VI. Adjournment
[1] The RIOC Board Meeting will commence following a public comment period. The public comment period is not part of the meeting.
... As part of its Master Lease Agreement with the City of New York and its General Development Plan, RIOC’s mission is to develop a “comprehensive system of community facilities” which includes daycare centers for children on the Island, community rooms, and facilities for the elderly and youth, among other things. A comprehensive community also includes initiatives that better the lives of children and families through the creation of programs that enrich its members and yield a more vested, interested community-base.
One such facility is a performing arts theater that provides a source of recreation for the residents of Roosevelt Island. Much like a youth center nurtures children through activities and other learning experiences that greatly add to their growth in becoming responsible adults, a performing arts theater is an integral part of community relations because it offers interesting opportunities that bring its members together. Indeed, theater creates a core place for residents to interact and actively participate in theater productions. For these reasons, RIOC seeks an Island-based theater group to operate the performing arts theater, located at the Cultural Center.
Upon much consideration, The Main Street Theater and Dance Alliance (“MSTDA”) is the appropriate organization to fulfill that task. MSTDA is a community-based theater production group that has served the residents of Roosevelt Island for over thirty years. MSTDA is run by a professional staff, primarily of volunteers, who are also Roosevelt Island residents. MSTDA strives to enhance the community experience by creating high quality performance and dance training opportunities for all members of the Roosevelt Island community....
... As part of its Mission Statement, RIOC’s mission is to “provide an appropriate level of services to develop and maintain public facilities, open spaces, and commercial facilities,” among other things. As part of its Master Lease with the City of New York, “Open Space Areas” shall be developed as parks. Accordingly, RIOC, in seeking an Island-based gardening group to operate the garden space at Octagon Park, wishes to extend the Permit for Limited Activities on Roosevelt Island License, Waiver of Liability and Indemnity Agreement, Revocable License Agreement, and the Waste Removal Letter Agreement (“The Agreements”) currently in effect with Roosevelt Island Garden Club (“RIGC”), to December 31, 2015.
In 1989, RIOC created a group, consisting of community organizations and Island residents, to develop a comprehensive plan for the landscaping of Octagon Park. In 1990, it was determined by this group that Octagon Park would “include ballfields, community gardens, open lawn areas and an ‘ecological park.’”
RIGC, founded by current and former members of the community in 1975, who had an interest in beautifying the Island, moved its gardens from the Commons Area to Octagon Park, once the development plan for that open space was formulated. RIGC has been operating its garden programs at Octagon Park for over twenty years and consists of Roosevelt Island residents.
Today, RIGC’s website states that its mission is to “manage a community garden in the manner that provides a rewarding and enjoyable gardening experience for its members.” RIGC strives to impart an appreciation for gardening among its members and the Roosevelt Island community and in so doing, manages over 132 gardening plots, including six plots designated for disabled members. Its responsibilities include: Managing the grounds, designating specified hours of operation, implementing waste removal procedures, and maintaining insurance coverage for its programs. RIGC also offers educational classes and workshops to its members and the community, as well as a composting program. And, having a good relationship with Green Thumb, RIGC has also taken advantage of Green Thumb’s gardening amenities, classes, and free supplies
To that end, RIOC wishes to extend the Agreements with RIGC that are due to expire on March 31, 2015, to December 31, 2015.....
At the June 2010 Board Meeting, the RIOC Board approved a one-year license agreement between the Corporation and the Riverwalk Landing LLC. The purpose of the license agreement was to provide three parking spaces for Zipcar vehicles at the Southtown location. The Zipcar venture proved to be successful on Roosevelt Island, so the original license was amended by the Board in June 2011 and in May 2012. The license was subsequently extended by the Board through May 2013. It was further extended through its current expiration date of April 30, 2015.
As noted, the current one-year Zipcar license expires on April 30, 2015. Therefore, RIOC would like to extend it on the following terms:
The number of Zipcar vehicles will remain the same – three (3)
The license fee will increase from $192 to $200
The license will be extended for an additional one-year period
I recommend the ratification and amendment of Zipcar license agreement with Riverwalk Landing LLC for Board approval on the terms set forth above.
UPDATE 9:15 PM - The RIOC Board of Directors approved Main Street Theater & Dance Alliance license agreement. The Garden Club and Zipcar motions were postponed for a future meeting.
Roosevelt Island is a mixed income, racially diverse waterfront community situated in the East River of New York City between Manhattan and Queens and is jurisdictionally part of Manhattan. The Roosevelt Island Tramway, which connects Roosevelt Island to the rest of Manhattan, has become the iconic symbol of Roosevelt Island to its residents.
The Purpose of this Blog is to provide accurate and timely information about Roosevelt Island as well as a forum for residents to express opinions and engage in a dialogue to improve our community.
