I’m very excited as we begin this Participatory Budgeting cycle. Participatory budgeting is a great way to get the pulse of the community and formulate the best use of city dollars. Participatory Budgeting shows the power and importance of this grassroots fueled process and I look forward to engaging the community.
Council Member Julie Menin is proud to announce an allocation of one million dollars to continue participatory budgeting for Council District 5 (Yorkville, Lenox Hill, Carnegie Hill, Roosevelt Island, Midtown East, Sutton Place, and El Barrio in East Harlem). Participatory Budgeting (PB) is a democratic process in which community members directly decide how to spend part of a public budget. Since her time serving on the Board of Citizens Union, Council Member Julie Menin has championed the importance of civic participation in our budgeting process.
A total of one million dollars of the Council Member's discretionary budget allocation can be used for physical infrastructure projects that benefit the public, cost at least $50,000, and have a lifespan of at least 5 years. For example, projects such as local improvements to schools, parks, libraries, housing, and other public spaces can be funded.
... residents are invited to share project ideas that could be implemented within her Council District by visiting this website and sharing proposals by January 23rd, 2022. Interested parties that wish to volunteer and assist with the process should create an account with (or sign into) NYC.ID. This platform allows residents to comment on and vote for their favorite ideas.
Ideas are then submitted to the respective City agency for evaluation and cost and Council Member Menin’s Office works with community partners to formulate a ballot for voting. Ballots will be distributed throughout the East Side of Manhattan and Roosevelt Island as well as through an online portal for voting from April 2nd through April 10th. Winners will be announced in late April and included in the City’s budget at adoption in June of 2022.
As previously reported, the Roosevelt Island PS/IS 217 green roof was built with Participatory Budget funds.
So far, one Roosevelt Island project has been submitted for participatory budget funding. Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) Children, Youth &
Education (CY&E) Ad Hoc Committee Chair Adib Mansour is proposing a Roosevelt Island Skateboard Park underneath the Motorgate Helix/Ramp.
Click here to learn more about the Participatory Budget funding process and to submit your proposal for a Roosevelt Island project.
The City Council’s application for discretionary funding is now live!
Eligible not-for-profit community-based organizations can apply for funding
until Tuesday, February 22, 2022. Applications can be submitted at
https://t.co/F470PIJx0gpic.twitter.com/aCB2ES761S
... accepting applications from volunteer-led community groups for its Neighborhood Grants program, which provides funding of up to $3,000 and project planning support for initiatives aimed at improving the local quality of life. The application deadline is January 20th and grassroots organizations from across the five boroughs are invited to apply. Organizations do not have to be a registered 501(c)(3) to receive an award from CCNYC. Eligible groups include block and civic associations, schools (PTAs, teachers, student-led groups), gardening groups, and others.
Grants of up to $3,000 will be awarded for neighborhood improvement projects planned and executed by local residents. Examples of eligible projects include turning a vacant lot into a community garden or community composting site; facilitating workshops on healthy cooking and eating; beautifying public spaces; arts and cultural programs; youth fitness initiatives; and much more. Groups working in the city’s most underserved and low-income neighborhoods will be given priority. In addition to funding, groups selected for a 2020 Neighborhood Grant will receive project planning assistance, opportunities to participate in skills-building workshops, and access to CCNYC’s equipment resource library....
... the Roosevelt Island Garden Club replaced and repaired all of its garden paths to make the infrastructure more accessible to all community members, including those who use wheelchairs, mobility devices, walkers, strollers, carts, and wagons. As Roosevelt Island is a geographically isolated Manhattan neighborhood, it is important for all residents to access the garden.
Don't miss this chance to apply for a CCNYC Neighborhood Grant for your Roosevelt Island project.
Tuesday, Dec 04th Join us for a very important General Meeting with Bill Dionne at 2:00 p.m. regarding fundings for the programs at the senior center. We will also be sharing upcoming events and much more. Light refreshments will be service.
... From its small beginnings with one person working in the Council office, the Carter Burden Network has grown into an agency with 12 programs in 7 locations and more than 80 employees. Now we serve approximately 5,000 seniors every year across the borough of Manhattan, with a significant expansion into East Harlem and on Roosevelt Island in the past few years....
As previously reported, the recent Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) Public Purpose Funds recommendations to the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) for the Carter Burden Roosevelt Island Senior Center was significantly less than other Roosevelt Island non profits:
... The RIRA recommendations ranged from $9,750 to $29,500 for 9 of the 10 Roosevelt Island non profit organizations. Left far behind was the Carter Burden Roosevelt Island Senior Center who received a recommendation for much less - $3,250.
The final decision on distribution of Public Purpose Funds is made by RIOC....
The Roosevelt Island Daily reported that some saw the RIRA Public Purpose recommendation as a slap in the face of Seniors:
Protest hit my inbox soon after the news was out. "Did you see this?" asked one resident. "Something is really wrong. This has to be adjusted." Easier said than done, but lets see if RIOC blows another one, letting the insular Common Council get away with a feelingless slap in the face to seniors....
... The Organization uses space at the Leonard Covello Senior Center, Lehman Village Senior Houses, and Roosevelt Island Center without charge. The estimated fair value of $1,761,270 has been recorded as an in-kind contribution and is reflected on the statement of functional expenses as contributed space....
Not sure if any other Roosevelt Island Public Purpose Funds applicant receives free rent space from RIOC.
The Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (“RIOC”) seeks to provide a grant to a New York City-based arts 501(c)(3) non-profit with the appropriate experience, qualifications, and capacity to help create and operate an Artist-In-Residence program including to enhance the artistic and musical community events and exhibits on Roosevelt Island. RIOC seeks to create a cohesive art program woven into the diverse Roosevelt Island community.
The grant term will be three (3) years, in the amount of $38,000 per year.
Duties will include:
Creation of a rotating subsidized workspace program. RIOC is creating a studio* to provide selected artists a free work space. The grantee will provide daily management and oversight of artists working in the studio and will also use its arts experience to cultivate and manage interest in the workspace program.
Curation and oversight of the annual Roosevelt Island Fall for Arts Festival.
Curation and Oversight of the Motorgate Gallery.
Recruitment of artists willing to donate art to Roosevelt Island and/or perform on Roosevelt Island.
Coordinate exhibitions with artists, promote such exhibitions to the arts community (in coordination with RIOC), and be present for such exhibitions.
RIOC recognizes the strong presence of public art on Roosevelt Island. Recent installations include:
FDR Four Freedoms Park – designed by Louis Kahn;
The Blue Dragon – designed by Ulla and Gustav Kraitz;
The Good Shepherd Community Center streetscape and plinth installation – currently featuring the work of Michael Poast;
The Motorgate Gallery – featuring the work of various artists who volunteered time, effort and passion at RIOC’s annual Fall for Arts Festival;
The WPA-commissioned murals, removed from the former Coler-Goldwater Specialty Hospital and Nursing Facility and reinstalled in the Cornell Tech buildings.
The Request For Applications will be published on the RIOC website under competitive grants at rioc.ny.gov on September 5, 2018.
Image Of Plinth Sculpture at Good Shepherd Plaza
During the June 6, 2018 unveiling ceremony of Roosevelt Island Plinth sculpture at Good Shepherd Plaza,
RIOC President Susan Rosenthal announced plans
for a Roosevelt Island Art Trail and thanked our local Gallery RIVAA for its contribution to the Roosevelt Island art scene.
If you know of a Roosevelt Island non profit corporation seeking additional funds, let them know that the deadline to apply for NYC 2018 Expense Funding grants from Council Member Ben Kallos is Tuesday February 21.
... City Council Funding for Local Non-Profits Due February 21
Each year private non-profit corporations that serve thousands of residents of Council District 5 can apply for grants of $5,000 to $20,000 from my City Council office to supplement essential services in the neighborhood. You can review past budget results, resources funded through this process and learn more about the application at BenKallos.com/budget
The deadline this year for application is February 21. Learn more by contacting our Budget Director Sushant Harite at 212-860-1950 or Sharite@benkallos.com, or visit BenKallos.com/budget
Mr. Kallos adds:
This money is here for the community and I want as many local non-profits taking advantage of the opportunity. My main concern is that we are maximizing the return on services for every dollar my office spends.
My office holds a very open application process, anyone interested in seeing where past allocations have gone can see them at benkallos.com/budget/results. We encourage any non-profit to apply.
and have experience as a grant writer? If yes, the Roosevelt Island Disabled Association (RIDA) may have a job for you.
According to RIDA President Jim Bates:
RIDA is seeking a person to help fill out grant forms we receive annually.
We are looking for a person to fill out the paperwork for grants we receive from the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC), New York City Council and New York State Assembly.
Roosevelt Island Amalgamated Bank Branch Manager Albert Salas announced a $1 Thousand donation to the Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) for CPR Training on behalf of Amalgamated Bank during the December 2 RIRA Common Council Meeting. Mr. Salas presented the $1 thousand check to RIRA President Jeff Escobar at that meeting
Image Of Amalgamated Bank Albert Salas Presenting Check To RIRA's Jeff Escobar
and said Amalgamated Bank is looking forward:
... to being more involved in community events....
RIRA President Jeff Escobar thanked Mr. Salas for the Amalgamated Bank donation and for its commitment to the community. Mr. Escobar added that Amalgamated Bank:
... has become our partner in the community.
Amalgamated Bank's Executive Vice President of Community Banking Samantha Berg reports on their donations to Roosevelt Island organizations including:
Roosevelt Island Resident Association (RIRA) - $1,000 for CPR classes
Hopefully in 2015 we will be doing the Cherry Blossom Festival, Egg Hunt as well as Roosevelt Island Day. We are looking into a summer activity with RIRA as well.
The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Board of Directors will be meeting tomorrow, December 3 (Web cast will be available here). Among the items on the Agenda are:
1. Approval of the Proposed RIOC Budget for Fiscal Year 2016-17 (Board Action Required)
and:
3. Authorization of Expenditure of Funds for Roosevelt Island Youth Center (Board Action Required)
What was expected to be on the December 3 RIOC Board Agenda for discussion and approval was the Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) recommendations for allocating $100 Thousand in RIOC Public Purpose Funds (PPF) to local Roosevelt Island organizations. As of 1 PM today, the RIRA PPF recommendations are not yet on the RIOC Board Agenda for tomorrow's meeting.
Main Street Theater and Dance Alliance - Amount Requested: $35,000 Amount Recommended: $18,700
The Island Kids Board of Directors sent the following letter to the RIOC Board of Directors asking for a larger Public Purpose Funds allocation than was recommended by RIRA:
Dear Members of the RIOC Board of Directors,
We are writing to express our extreme disappointment regarding the Public Purpose Fund application process. We believe that RIRA’s recommended allocation for Island Kids was unfairly reduced, due to misinformation and lack of communication.
We feel the need to point out the following regarding RIOC’s fiscal year and the dissemination of funds. Despite repeated requests for clarification, we never received a definitive answer as to which Fiscal Year we were applying, from either RIOC or RIRA’s PPF Committee. However, at the Special Meeting on Nov. 11th, PPF Committee Chair Dave Evans explained that a determining factor that negatively affected our request was that it was for “reimbursement funds” for our 2015 Summer Camp season. Had the PPF process proceeded as it has in all other years, the allocation would have been made earlier in the year, (and spent over the summer). If we are indeed working within RIOC’s current fiscal year, which runs from April 1st to March 31st, won’t all payments to Public Purpose recipients be retroactive? This would be a contradiction to the concern expressed by the RIRA Public Purpose committee. Similarly, if the $7,000 we did receive is intended for next Summer’s Camp Scholarship Fund, we are precluded from applying for FY2016 - the only applying Organization facing such restriction.
We’d like to share with you specifically how our Public Purpose Fund allocation is put to use, and shed some light on why we requested $20,000.
Island Kids runs a high-quality Summer Camp for children ages 4 - 10. We strive to keep our Camp as affordable as possible ($325 per week, compared to $600 - $800 for comparable “affordable”, non-Government funded camps in Manhattan). 100% of any Public Purpose Funding that we request goes to provide scholarships to families unable to otherwise afford the camp. When, earlier this year, it looked like Public Purpose Funding would be entirely taken away, our Board made the difficult decision to fund $10,000 in scholarships for the Summer Camp from our very scarce Operating reserve – a surplus we had for the first time in our history. This prevented us from taking on other improvement projects and supply purchases, and left us financially vulnerable should an emergency expenditure arise. In the end, we managed to provide scholarships to every qualifying RI family that applied for one.
We hoped that if PP Funding was reinstated, we could offset this expense ($10,000), as well as secure the same amount of funding ($10,000) for next Summer - thus the $20,000 request. The $7,000 Allocation that RIRA recommends not only leaves us at a deficit for this current fiscal year, but severely hampers our ability to offer Scholarships for next summer. Unlike last summer, without more funds, we will surely have to turn down scholarship applicants.
Island Kids has worked hard over the last several years to develop programming to ensure our financial stability. In addition, thanks to an in-kind grant from the Lawyer’s Alliance, we’ve taken measures to ensure that we are fully compliant with all applicable laws governing Non Profit Organizations. It would seem that a grant making organization would recognize these efforts. Instead, this year RIRA is recommended a $3,000 cut in our funds from the last grant cycle, the lowest amount Island Kids has ever received through Public Purpose funds.
Island Kids respectfully asks RIOC to consider our original award application and amount during your final award deliberations.
Sincerely,
Island Kids Inc. Board of Directors
During the November 11 RIRA meeting, PPF Chair Dave Evans and committee member Erin Feely-Nahem explained their rationale for the Island Kids recommendations saying that PPF funds could not be used for reimbursement of prior spending requested by Island Kids.
Also on the December 3 RIOC Board Agenda is distribution of funds to the Roosevelt Island Youth Program (RIYP). According to this November 20 memo from RIOC Staff to RIOC President Charlene Indelicato and the RIOC Directors in support of expenditure of funds for RIYP:
As you are aware, included in the Board approved FY 15-16 (April 1, 2015 – March 31, 2016) Budget is a $175,000 disbursement for the Roosevelt Island Youth Center (“Youth Center”) — currently being operated by the Roosevelt Island Youth Program (“RIYP”). The Youth Center through RIYP offers programs vital to the Island and its youth, consistent with the General Development Plan and RIOC’s Mission Statement.
Programs provided by RIYP include a summer day camp, fitness activities, computer lab access and music instruction. RIYP also manages extensive after school activities, an organized sports curriculum and other recreational programs as part of the PS/IS 217 Beacon Program, for which it receives NYC funding.
At its meeting of April 16, 2015 the Board of Directors approved the authorization to disburse a pro-rated amount of $131,250 of the budgeted $175,000 in order to ensure continuity of the programs while a Request for Proposals (“RFP”) was drafted and advertised. The RFP is now expected to be ready during the winter months, but at issue is the continuity of programming. It is my understanding that RIYP and other similarly situated programs are subject to new City requirements for Beacon Program funding, which has led to delays in the receipt of such funds with concomitant impacts to RIYP’s cash flow. This matter was discussed at the November 17, 2015 meeting of the Real Estate Development Advisory Committee and recommended to go before the Board for action.
Therefore, in order to ensure the continued operations of the Youth Center until the RFP is advertised and an operating agreement is let, we recommend the approval to disburse the remaining $43,750 out of the initial $175,000 budget for the Roosevelt Island Youth Program.
Below is the December 3 RIOC Board of Directors meeting Agenda.
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a Board of Directors meeting will be held on Thursday, December 3, 2015 at 5:30 p.m. at the Cultural Center Theater, 548 Main Street, Roosevelt Island, New York, for the purpose of transacting such business as shall come before the Board.
*
The Open Meetings Law of the State of New York requires that all public bodies conduct meetings, convened for the purpose of officially conducting public business, in a manner open to attendance by the general public to observe and listen.
AGENDA
DECEMBER 3, 2015 MEETING OF
THE ROOSEVELT ISLAND OPERATING CORPORATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS
THE CULTURAL CENTER THEATER, 548 MAIN STREET,
ROOSEVELT ISLAND, NEW YORK
5:30 P.M.[1]
I. Call to Order
II. Roll Call
III. Approval of Minutes
1. October 22, 2015 Board Meeting (Board Action Required)
IV. Old Business
V. New Business
1. Approval of the Proposed RIOC Budget for Fiscal Year 2016-17 (Board Action Required)
2. Schedule of 2016 Meetings of the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation Board of Directors (Board Action Required)
3. Authorization of Expenditure of Funds for Roosevelt Island Youth Center (Board Action Required)
4. Authorization to Enter into Contract with Blackbaud, Inc. for Financial Accounting Software Support & Maintenance Services (Board Action Required)
5. Authorization to Enter into Contract with ENVAC for On-Call AVAC Repair Services (Board Action Required)
6. Authorization to Amend the Contract with United Metro Energy Corp. for the Purchase of #2 Heating Oil (Board Action Required)
7. Authorization to Enter into Contract with Corporate Loss Prevention Association for Cultural Center Security and Building Manager (Board Action Required)
8. Authorization to Amend the License and Operating Agreement with the Main Street Theatre & Dance Alliance (MST&DA) (Board Action Required)
9. Authorization to Amend the License Agreement with the Roosevelt Island Garden Club, LTD (RIGC) (Board Action Required)
10. Authorization to Enter into Contract with Sprague Operating Resources LLC for the Purchase of Gasoline (Board Action Required)
11. President’s Report
12. Committee Reports
a. Audit Committee
b. Governance Committee
c. Operations Advisory Committee
[1] The RIOC Board Meeting will commence following a public comment period. The public comment period is not part of the meeting.
UPDATE 10:15 PM - The Roosevelt Island Residents Association Common Council met this evening and discussed issue of Public Purpose Funds not being on the RIOC Board meeting agenda for tomorrow.
UPDATE 12/3 8 PM - The RIRA Public Purpose Funds recommendations was a last minute late afternoon addition to today's RIOC Board Agenda.
The RIRA Public Purpose Funds recommendations were approved with no changes by the RIOC Board today.
It was also announced that Governor Cuomo signed the Roosevelt Island Public Purpose Funds legislation today allowing RIOC to allocate grants to Roosevelt Island non profit organizations.
Stay tuned for more on subject.
UPDATE 12/4 - Here's video of RIOC Board approving the RIRA Public Purpose Funds recommendations.
and RIOC President Charlene Indelicato congratulating RIRA and its Public Purpose Funds Committee Chair Dave Evans for a difficult job well done.
Roosevelt Island's NY State Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright said of Governor Cuomo signing the legislation allowing RIOC to distribute Public Purpose Fund grants:
The true beneficiaries of our persistence and dedication are the residents of Roosevelt Island. We thank all of the parties involved in successfully helping to assure that our legislation crossed the goal line.
I'm happy to learn that Governor Cuomo has signed my Roosevelt Island bill (S5813) into law. This law will authorize the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) to continue providing much-needed grants to not-for-profit organizations that provide vital services to the Roosevelt Island community. It's a pleasure to have worked with my colleague Assemblywoman Rebecca Seawright on this important legislation, and I'd like to thank her for her leadership. I'd also like to express my gratitude to Governor Cuomo for his support on this and many other critical issues.
In November 2015, the Stavros Niarchos Foundation and Charles H. Revson Foundation, in association with WNYC’s Brian Lehrer Show, are launching the third annual NYC Neighborhood Library Awards.
The NYC Neighborhood Library Awards recognize and reward public libraries for being the unsung heroes of New York – places where all are welcome, the programs and resources are free, and the librarians are making it all happen on a shoestring budget.
Since the City's neighborhoods are very diverse and each library is unique, we are asking you: Tell us why your library should win a NYC Neighborhood Library Award! New Yorkers can nominate their library for exceptional service to the community, online or in paper at local branches. Nomination forms are available in English, Spanish, Chinese, Russian, Korean, and Haitian Creole and will be accepted through December 18, 2015.
Based on patrons’ nominations, data on circulation and program attendance, visits to see the branches in action, and the recommendations of a philanthropic review committee, the pool will be narrowed down to ten finalists. From there, a group of eminent judges will pick five winning branches for the $20,000 prize. The remaining finalists will receive $10,000 each.
Last year, more than 13,000 New Yorkers wrote in, and the five winners have already put their winnings to good use. The Langston Hughes Community Library in Queens has added to the collections and lectures available at their Black Heritage Reference Center. New Lots Library in Brooklyn purchased new technology and launched an entrepreneurial series for teens. Stapleton Library in Staten Island is planning arts programs for adults and tech classes for students. In the Bronx, the Parkchester Library is adding furniture and materials to their "Spot for Tots," and the Mott Haven Library is remodeling their Children's Reading Room with an interactive wall display.
Last April, the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) approved a grant of $131,250 to the Roosevelt Island Youth Program (RIYP) to enable it to operate through the end of 2015. As reported at the time, the RIOC staff sent the following memo to RIOC President Charlene Indelicato and the RIOC Board of Directors in support of the allocation of funds to the RIYP:
... As you are aware, included in the Board approved FY 15-16 (April 1, 2015 – March 31, 2016) Budget is a $175,000 disbursement for the Roosevelt Island Youth Center (“Youth Center”) — currently being operated by the Roosevelt Island Youth Program (“RIYP”). The Youth Center through RIYP offers programs vital to the Island and its youth, consistent with the General Development Plan and RIOC’s Mission Statement.
Programs provided by RIYP include a summer day camp, fitness activities, computer lab access and music instruction. RIYP also manages extensive after school activities, an organized sports curriculum and other recreational programs as part of the PS/IS 217 Beacon Program, for which it receives NYC funding.
RIOC intends to issue a Request for Proposals in the fall of this year for an entity to operate the Youth Center. However, in order to provide for efficient continuity of these programs, the budgeted funds for the current fiscal year should be pro-rated to the RIYP through December 31, 2015, in the amount of $131,250. RIOC would also require RIYP to continue to provide an appropriate accounting of the funds.
Based on the foregoing, we recommend the approval of the disbursement of $131,250 to the Roosevelt Island Youth Program....
During the November 17 RIOC Real Estate Development Advisory Committee meeting (full audio web cast of meeting here), RIOC President Charlene Indelicato reported that the Youth Center RFP has not been issued yet and recommended extending the RIYP grant terms until the end of RIOC's 2015-16 Fiscal Year which is March 31 2016.
RIOC plans to issue a Request for Proposals for an entity to operate the Youth Center in late 2015/early 2016.
RIOC Director Michael Shinozaki expressed concerns regarding what he characterized as a lack of RIOC in depth oversight and due diligence regarding selecting and monitoring the operator of the Youth Center program.
RIOC Director Howard Polivy noted that RIOC has audited RIYP grants in the past and NYC audits the Beacon After School program, which is operated in conjunction with the RIYP. Mr. Polivy added that RIYP:
... is under a level of scrutiny and supervision...
Due to the slowness in receiving allocated funds from the City Of NY, the RIYP would have difficulty remaining open without the grant extension from RIOC.
The RIOC Real Estate Committee recommended approving the grant extension which will be voted upon during the December 3 full RIOC Board of Directors meeting.
It is with regret that the PPF Committee report did not arrive in time for proper distribution to the Common Council for its review. For that, I take full responsibility. I am also fully aware of the fact that the applicants are anxious to know, and for valid reasons, the extent of funds that could possibly be availed them. I sought confirmation of when the decision of the Council would be acted upon at RIOC, the answer effectively being as early as a Board Meeting in December though there would be staff work required in advance of that. As evidenced during the November meeting, the Council will find a proper way to make this happen.
All of the presentations made by Roosevelt Island organizations to the RIRA PPF committee can be viewed on video here. Watching them is a very good way to learn about the programs and services they provide and may be available to you.
Here's the recommendations of the RIRA PPF Committee which will be reviewed, debated, voted upon and sent to RIOC for final approval.
Summary of 2015 Public Purpose Fund (PPF) Committee Funding Recommendations
The PTA remains an active supporter of PS‐IS/217. The essence of their request is to support a program (Salvadori Centre Globe) that focuses on a project‐based approach to learning math and science. Grades four through eight will continue to be targeted in an effort to further increase the number of students who achieve proficiency ratings on the NY State exams. The committee believes this enrichment effort could provide medium to high benefit and will contribute to and enhance student performance, especially in math and science. In fact, recent reports of an increase in testing performance might in part be attributed to Salvadori. Further, it is hoped to help mitigate losses from PS‐IS/217 of the “best and brightest” to other schools due to any lingering concerns parents might have about school performance.
The RIVAA application describes in a broad manner the program activities that PPF could address. Yet, as evidenced by questions answered at the public review session, the high cost of rent at its location is the greatest challenge facing RIVAA. In fact, RIVAA remains concerned about this as indicated by the following statement in its application: “Funding is necessary for us to continue operating. Currently, we pay monthly rent of $3000. This amount is way beyond the amount that we take in monthly from our exhibition sales or funding from other sources.” Several of the key questions asked were about the scope of RIVAA’s fund‐ raising efforts, size of membership and the prospects for dues to help off‐set expenses. Further, a lingering question is whether there are island locations available at lower cost. It is the sense of the Committee that there is value to having this art gallery on the island and there is also the potential for growth. The challenge remains with regards to being able to meet operating costs.
The Life Frames program continues to be directed by an energetic leadership and supporting staff inclusive of parental support. Observations confirm that many children actively participate in the gardening activities. The gardening site near the Youth Center is the primary operating location and, when the children are there, it is a delight to observe the joy and lessons it provides them. As noted in prior years, Life Frames continues to be well‐funded in California but also continues to face more challenges in its funding effort in New York City. This funding challenge, given the breadth of what Life Frames could do, is inimical to its broader goals.
The Historical Society seeks funding support to: (a) maintain a viable number of contract staff at the Visitors Center, (b) compensate other administrative support, and (c) pursue a project to record the oral history of the island. As to the latter, not only could students benefit if availed to them, but also, “the lessons could eventually be captured in a book for the shelves of the center”. Though unable to recommend a higher amount of the PPF, the Committee is of the view that the Visitors Center, given its location, will benefit from the increasing number of residents and visitors to the island and especially the near‐future Cornell presence. Further, it is hoped that the number of operating days and hours of the Visitor Center can eventually be increased.
The RISA continues to provide a valuable service to and advocacy for island senior residents. In its application, the association seeks funding primarily to increase offerings to its members and, with an open door policy for visitors consistent with the rules of their governing authority. Apparently, some off‐island seniors also find their way to the Center. Classes in aerobic activity such as various dance styles have proven so effective and popular in demand that the intent is to expand them so to offer on a more regular basis.
The Island Kids program is well‐received throughout the island and has again requested funding to support its scholarship efforts for the summer camp. The scholarship program allows for a wider number of children to attend who otherwise would not be able to engage in such organized summer activities due to limited family resources. Furthermore, the summer camp is unique to four and five year olds on the island. Thus, the committee felt the program’s scope merited funding given its outreach, inclusiveness, and uniqueness.
The RIDA program has various needs as highlighted in its application for PPF. The primary need is based upon the fact that the RIDA bus has been out of commission for a lengthy period of time. This has greatly affected the quality of life opportunities for its members. As in the past, the Committee noted that the bus is capable of accommodating ten wheelchairs and with travel, creates opportunities for its occupants that many of us take for granted. It is primarily for this and associated reasons that the Committee concluded the funds would be put to good use with high benefit to those served through the RIDA.
The IDig2Learn program is well accepted by islanders and is multi‐faced – serving the “PS IS/217 during the day and the Roosevelt Island Youth Program and its Beacon after school”. Under the overall direction of its energetic leader, the approach of this program is aimed at, among other goals, keeping children in touch with nature and growing fresh fruit and vegetables. The possible benefits to participants in this broad program include proper eating, an awareness of ‘mother nature’, and enhanced social and academic achievements. The Committee is optimistic about the prospects of this specific program expanding further and with obvious benefits to island residents.
It is obvious that MST&DA has made significant strides since coming forth as a first time applicant to express needs subsequent to the trauma of hurricane Sandy. Their application focused upon the help that PPF could provide in support of their scholarship program and further offers. The scholarship program helps ensure islanders (children through seniors) can participate who otherwise could not. Further, there are a variety of dance and fitness programs offered. The need for supplies and equipment continue as well. PPF can help this resource to the island as it continues to get stronger going forward in terms of self‐sufficiency.
UPDATE 11/11 10:30 PM - The RIRA Common Council approved the Public Purpose Funds Committee recommendations for allocating $100 Thousand to Roosevelt Island non-profit organizations. The recommendations now get sent to RIOC for final approval.
Legislation extending Roosevelt Island Public Purpose Funds will be in the next batch of bills sent to Governor Cuomo for his signature. The Governor has 10 days upon receipt of the bill to sign it.
Ms Seawright has secured $5 Thousands for RIRA from the NY State Assembly
RIRA President Jeff Escobar added that the $5 Thousand grant from Ms. Seawright will be used for RIRA programming purposes and pubic events.
... didn't receive any of the $32 million that Borough President Melinda Katz has set aside for park improvements. Instead, many are upset that $300,000 is being allocated for the Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park on Roosevelt Island, which is in Manhattan.
"We probably need about $1 million to fix this place, but a lot of little things could be done with several hundred thousand," said Richard Fassett, who is part of a resident group called Let's Fix Rosemary's Playground.
According to Katz's office, the money for Roosevelt Island will be used to improve the lighting along the shorefront facing Queens to make it more attractive to people in what she likes to say is the World's Borough.
From what we saw, the best view of Four Freedoms Park is from a group of high-rise buildings, which is another point of contention.
"The city is becoming a center for the rich people, and they need to have certain places fixed," said one New Yorker....
to some Roosevelt Island organizations and other Roosevelt Island organizations that did not receive any of these funds because they missed the application deadline. I inquired of Mr. Kallos:
...I am aware of these organizations that have received funding and amounts. Is the list accurate?
Roosevelt Island Seniors 30,000
ISLAND KIDS 15,000
Junior Tennis League 10,000
Child School 5,000
Four Freedoms Park 10,000
TOTAL $70,000
Did any other Roosevelt Island organization receive funding?
I suspect the Roosevelt Island Disabled Organization, Roosevelt Island Historical Society and Roosevelt Island Youth Program may not be happy being left out of funding....
A spokesperson for Mr. Kallos confirmed the funding list was accurate, adding:
... We engaged in aggressive outreach via email blasts and phone calls to inform the Roosevelt Island and East Side communities about discretionary funding opportunities and deadlines. We funded every Roosevelt Island group that applied, and the amounts were equal to or more than the amounts they received last year. From what I know, Roosevelt Island Disabled Association, Roosevelt Island Historical Society, and Roosevelt Island Youth Program do valuable work serving the Roosevelt Island community, and I strongly encourage them to apply for funding next year...
Roosevelt Island organizations may not have to wait until next year to receive NYC Council discretionary funds.
According to this August 5 email from the Budget Director Of Council Member Kallos:
The City Council has decided to reopen the discretionary application process however it is limited to the post budget initiative designations. This is intended to provide an opportunity to groups that missed the original deadline. The initiatives are narrow in scope and not all details regarding eligibility are available but in the interest of exploring every option, the Council Member has requested that you complete the application at the following link: http://council.nyc.gov/html/budget/application.shtml
This does not guarantee funding but allows consideration where this was not possible before. The deadline for this application is the close of business on August 15th. We urge you to complete it in advance of the deadline in case any issues arise. Please take note of the reference number at the end of the application and forward this information to us....
Each council member was given $400,000 in base funding, plus $110,000 for aging initiatives and $150,000 for youth programs. They were then allocated an extra $25,000, $50,000, $75,000 or $100,000 based on the poverty level in their district, as determined by 2012 American Community Survey data....
What Roosevelt Island nonprofit organizations received NYC Council discretionary funding? I asked Roosevelt Island/Upper East Side NYC Council member Ben Kallos:
I am preparing story on Roosevelt Island organizations that received NYC Council funding from the Kallos office and those that did not.
I am aware of these organizations that have received funding and amounts. Is the list accurate?
Roosevelt Island Seniors 30,000
ISLAND KIDS 15,000
Junior Tennis League 10,000
Child School 5,000
Four Freedoms Park 10,000
TOTAL $70,000
Did any other Roosevelt Island organization receive funding?
I suspect the Roosevelt Island Disabled Organization, Roosevelt Island Historical Society and Roosevelt Island Youth Program may not be happy being left out of funding.
I am also told that several organizations were not informed by your office about deadlines for applying for the funds....
A spokesperson for Mr. Kallos confirmed that the Roosevelt Island organization funding list above was correct and added that:
Bike New York was granted $5000 and Lenox Hill Neighborhood House $15,000, both of whom will use the funds in part for Roosevelt Island-specific programming and
Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts was granted $5,000.00 entirely for programming at PS 217.
We engaged in aggressive outreach via email blasts and phone calls to inform the Roosevelt Island and East Side communities about discretionary funding opportunities and deadlines. We funded every Roosevelt Island group that applied, and the amounts were equal to or more than the amounts they received last year. From what I know, Roosevelt Island Disabled Association, Roosevelt Island Historical Society, and Roosevelt Island Youth Program do valuable work serving the Roosevelt Island community, and I strongly encourage them to apply for funding next year.
Click here to view a chart showing how each NYC Council Member distributed their discretionary funds to local nonprofit organizations. According to the chart, Roosevelt Island organizations received funds for these purposes:
Roosevelt Island Seniors Association (RISA) $ 30,000
To support programming and classes for seniors, including tai Chi ,Zumba, building strength, art, Spanish, salsa, yoga stretch, and yoga for the mind.
Child School-Legacy High School $ 5,000
To provide funding for supplemental reading and math programs, to include both materials and initial and ongoing training for school staff, which will assist in remediation and skill improvement for students.
Four Freedoms Park Conservancy $ 10,000
To support programs that will help engage the public in an appreciation of the FDR Four Freedoms Park and President Roosevelt’s life and legacy including the return of Yoga classes; a Family Arts Workshop series; Music of Freedom, featuring programs by the American Wind Symphony on the Louis I. Kahn-design Floating Arts Center, The Amigos, and at least two other artists; Story Hour with actors, librarians, and educators; a lecture/reading series with distinguished scholars; and the development of school-based curriculum around the lessons of the Four Freedoms.
Island Kids $ 15,000
To support the Summer Camp program. Funds will be used to offset the costs associated with additional space rental, insurance, art and sports supplies, as well as costs related to expanding the science program to include an animal education component.
New York Junior Tennis League $ 10,000
To provide free recreational tennis and educational programs for beginner andintermediate players, ages 5-18 years in district five during the summer, fall, winter or spring
Bike New York, Inc. $5,000
To provide free educational programming includes after school programs, summer camp programs, weekend classes and school assembly programs. Requested funding will be used to purchase equipment, maintain equipment and the cost for instructors.
Public School 217 - $20,000
School residencies such as Ballroom Dancing, Yoga, Salvadori Center/ urban planning, NY Historical Society, STUDIO in a School, Drama and Character development.
DOE - PS 217 - The Roosevelt Island School $225,000
Technology update to further support the STEM programs that will be incorporated into the curriculums. Need of updated Active Boards, computers, laptops, smart devices ie. tablets, ipads, chrome books, and document cameras.
Roosevelt Island Historical Society $5,000 Lappin Local
To support lectures and tours of Roosevelt Island, operation of the RIHS Visitor Center Kiosk, and for archival research and other programming for visitors and scholars
Roosevelt Island Youth Program, Inc. $10,000 Lappin Youth
To support and expand youth Music Program.
Roosevelt Island Seniors Association (RISA, Inc.) $28,000 Lappin Aging
To support programming and classes for seniors, including Tai Chi, Yoga, Zumba, weight training, art, and dance.
Roosevelt Island Disabled Association $6,000 Lappin Aging
To provide transportation for all disabled tenants of Roosevelt Island to attend concerts, plays, sporting events and other events and activities.
New York Junior Tennis League, Inc. $10,000 Lappin Youth
To provide free recreational tennis and educational programs for beginner and intermediate players, ages 5-18 in the council member's district. Loaner racquets and balls will be provided to all participants. Special events, team tennis tournaments, and trips are a regular part of the program.
Island Kids $5,000 Lappin Youth
To support the Summer Camp program. Funds will be used to offset the costs associated with additional space rental, insurance, art and sports supplies, as well as costs related to expanding our science program to include an animal education component.
Capital New York has more on the NYC Council discretionary funding process.
Assembly Member Micah Kellner reports that the New York Public Library (NYPL) signed a lease with Hudson Related Companies for a new Roosevelt Island branch at 504 Main Street.
Image of New Site of Roosevelt Island Public Library at 504 Main Street
Mr. Kellner adds:
The New York Public Library has already initiated the Roosevelt Island Library project with the New York City Department of Design & Construction (DDC), which begin working on architect selection, which, along with the contract development and registration process, will take approximately five months or so. Current projected schedule is to start design 12/2013 or 1/2014, start construction some time in 2015, and open the new branch in 2017, and the current budget is approximately $4.5 million. Capital funding has been provided by the Mayor, City Counci Member Jessica Lappin and Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer.
The NYPL issued this Press Release earlier today:
The New York Public Library has taken a critical step in its plan to build a new and improved library on Roosevelt Island.
On July 1 the Library signed a lease for a property on the ground floor at 504 Main Street, which will be the site of a new Roosevelt Island branch. The new library will be more than double the size of the current library – which is only a short distance away at 524 Main Street – and is expected to be completed in 2017.
“The Roosevelt Island Library has been a beloved institution on the Island since its beginning in 1976,” said NYPL President Tony Marx. “After nearly 40 years, this ever-growing community requires a new and improved building that can support the neighborhood and its residents. This new space, a short walk from the current location, is a wonderful opportunity for our staff to further its work on Roosevelt Island, accommodate the residents’ need for the Library’s resources and services, and expand what we can offer. ”
The new library will be approximately 5,200 square feet, more than double the 2,500 square feet offered at the current Roosevelt Island branch. It will offer the public materials including books, CDs and DVDs, as well as computers, wi-fi capabilities and programming spaces. It will also be ADA accessible. During the construction of the new building, the existing branch will remain open to the public.
In Fiscal Year 2012, the Roosevelt Island Library received almost 90,000 visits, and circulated over 115,000 items.
Funding for the new branch, which totals $5.5 million, has been provided by City Council Member Jessica Lappin and the City Council, Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer, and Mayor Bloomberg
"I am thrilled that the lease has been signed for the new Roosevelt Island Library. And I am proud to have secured $ 4 million dollars in capital funding to make this library a reality. With the funding in place and the lease signed, our dream of a new, state-of-the art library that can accommodate an ever growing population of Roosevelt Islanders, is now coming true," said Council Member Jessica Lappin, representative of the 5th District of Manhattan.
“Our City’s public libraries are an invaluable gateway to knowledge and learning for New Yorkers of all ages and economic backgrounds. That’s why we must ensure that they are growing with the demands and needs of our residents,” said Manhattan Borough President Scott M. Stringer, whose office provided $1 million in capital funds for the development of the library. “I’m extremely pleased that my office could help support the badly needed expansion of a library on Roosevelt Island. From literature to computer access, it’s my hope that all nearby residents will be able to enjoy these additional resources and services.”
The project is being managed by the New York City Department of Design and Construction.
The Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) will undertake certain construction work to assist the NYPL relocation. In addition to the installation of new exterior doors and windows and a new building entrance, RIOC will demolish the interior to clear the way for the new and improved library.
“The RIOC Board has long been committed to assisting with the expansion of the library, and is pleased that with this development the library will double in size. The magnified presence of the library will greatly benefit Island residents and visitors, while adding to the momentum of the revitalization of our Main Street,” said a RIOC spokesperson.
The landlord for the library is Hudson Related Retail LLC (“HRR”). HRR entered into a Master Retail Sublease agreement with RIOC in August 2011 in order to lead the Roosevelt Island Main Street corridor rejuvenation.
Created in 1976 by Dorothy and Herman Reade, the one-room Roosevelt Island Community Library served residents for 20 years. In 1997, the Roosevelt Island Library became one of The New York Public Library’s local branches serving the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island.
Following Ms. Lappin's announcements I asked how much money is necessary to open the new Roosevelt Island Library and when it can be expected to open. Ms Lappin said they had enough money to build the new branch and NYPL President Marx said the library could be ready within a matter of months.
But, at the conclusion of Ms. Lappin's remarks, NYPL Spokesperson Angela Montefinise told me that the new Roosevelt Island library may not open quite so fast and that additional monies may be necessary.
Ms. Montefinise followed up with the following message:
1 - We are still in the very early stages of negotiating a lease for 504 Main Street, but regardless of what happens on the second floor, we are going to require sound proofing of our space.
2 - As for money, thanks to the support of Councilwoman Lappin and others, we have more than enough to move forward with the new Roosevelt Island Library. As for the final pricetag, that will depend on the concrete design and plans.
3 - We don't not have a firm timeline yet (when Tony said a few months, he was talking about the time it would take for the space to be ready for us to take over).
I asked Ms. Montefinise:
I just want to make sure I correctly understand whether any additional funds are necessary to open the new Roosevelt Island library at 504 Main Street.
You indicated in earlier message
As for money, thanks to the support of Councilwoman Lappin and others, we have more than enough to move forward with the new Roosevelt Island Library. As for the final pricetag, that will depend on the concrete design and plans.
Is the money now available to "move forward" sufficient to pay whatever the "final pricetag" may be for the Roosevelt Island Library or will additional funds be required? If not and additional funds are required, can you provide a ballpark estimate of how much money is needed?
Will update when additional information is received.
Here's the Press Release from Ms. Lappin's office announcing that she has secured funding for Roosevelt Island organizations and projects
Councilwoman Jessica Lappin is pleased to announce that she successfully secured over $4 million for Roosevelt Island projects and organizations in the FY 13 city budget passed by the New York City Council on June 28th. That funding includes $2 million for the Roosevelt Island Library to move into a new space at 504 Main Street, $1.85 million for the completion of the FDR Four Freedoms Memorial, which is scheduled to open in October 2012, and $150,000 for the FDR Hope Memorial.
“Roosevelt Island is going through a spectacular transformation, and I’m proud to support the groups that have been there in the past and will continue to shape the Island in the future,” Lappin said. “It’s especially exciting that this funding will help build a new home for the Island’s public library.” The current cramped branch has been beset by problems for years, including water leaks that have harmed the collection. Previously, Councilwoman Lappin secured $1 million for the new space, and this year Mayor Michael Bloomberg allocated $500,000 for it.
“We are enormously grateful to Councilmember Lappin, whose $3 million capital commitment allows us to proceed with a vastly improved library for the growing community on Roosevelt Island," said Anthony W. Marx, President of the New York Public Library. "Thanks to the strong support of the Councilmember, as well as Mayor Bloomberg and Borough President Scott Stringer, we can double the size of the Roosevelt Island branch, and in turn offer our patrons increased access to programming, computers, classes, books, and all the services the library has to offer."
“Every step of the way, Jessica provided financial support and personal advocacy to ensure the first memorial to President Franklin Roosevelt in his home state would finally be built as planned on Roosevelt Island,” said Sally Minard, President of FDR Four Freedoms Park. “Without Jessica’s early and constant advocacy, we would not be delivering this new civic space to New Yorkers and citizens of the world, on budget and on schedule, this fall.”
“Jessica has been an absolutely critical champion for this project,” said Gina Pollara, Executive Director of FDR Four Freedoms Park. “We are grateful for her commitment and her understanding of the importance of the park for our city and our nation.”
"The Roosevelt Island Disabled Association and its subcommittee the FDR Hope Memorial Subcommittee have worked to turn a historical fact into a memory and from that memory a memorial that is becoming a constant inspiration to people of all ages and health stages,” said Jim Bates, Chairman of the Roosevelt Island Disabled Association. “This is being brought steps closer by a grant from Councilwoman Jessica Lappin and we appreciate it so much"
“We're thrilled with the all of the tireless work that Council Member Lappin has done to help Roosevelt Island,” said Leslie Torres, President of the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC). “The funding that she has secured will directly benefit Roosevelt Islanders of all ages, from school children and little leaguers to members of our senior association. We're also grateful for her support and funding for the FDR Four Freedoms Memorial, which will open in October at the south end of Southpoint Park, and will further establish Roosevelt Island as a must-see destination for visitors. Council Member Lappin continues to be a great friend to our community.”
Council Member Lappin was able to allocate city money for the following:
Roosevelt Island Public Library
$2 million to complete interior and rehabilitate exterior
FDR Four Freedoms Park
$1.85 million for Phase 1-3 of construction
FDR Hope Memorial
$150,000 for construction of memorial in Southpoint Park
PS/IS 217
$175,000 for library upgrade
Roosevelt Island Senior Association (RISA)
$28,000 for senior education and recreation programs
PS/IS 217 Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
$10,000 for in-school art program
Roosevelt Island Youth Program
$10,000 for youth music lessons and free Little League program
New York Junior Tennis League, Inc.
$10,000 for free tennis lessons at Octagon Park.
Roosevelt Island Disabled Association
$6,000 for transportation to events and venues
The Child School
$5,000 for after-school program for children with emotional learning disabilities.
Roosevelt Island Historical Society
$5,000 for preservation and presentation of archival materials and public programming
UPDATE 7/18 - A NYPL representative advises that the exact cost of building the Roosevelt Island Library at 504 Main Street will not be known until actual plans are developed. However, they anticipate that sufficient funds from a variety of sources will be available for it to be built.
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.
