Update On Who Is In Charge Of Dysfunctional Roosevelt Island Operating Corp Management - RIOC President On Leave For 2 Months, Designates General Counsel To Be In Charge Of Roosevelt Island, Both Suing NY State Officials For Racial Discrimination - Does RIOC Board Approve, Does It Matter?

As reported September 16, Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) President Shelton Haynes 

and General Counsel Gretchen Robinson:

... filed a racial discrimination lawsuit in the Southern District Of NY against members of NY State Governor Kathy Hochul's Executive Chamber as well as the Commissioner, General Counsel and Deputy Counsel of the NY State Division of Homes and Community Renewal.

Though not named as defendants in the lawsuit, Mr Haynes and Ms Robinson claim in their lawsuit that NY State Senator Liz Krueger, NY State Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright and Roosevelt Island Daily publisher David Stone contributed to a "racist backlash" against them.

The lawsuit also claims that Mr Haynes and Ms Robinson were excluded from the appointment process of 3 new RIOC Board Members in an attempt to undermine their authority and "ability to discharge their job functions." Haynes and Robinson claim the 3 new RIOC board members are antagonistic to them.

According to the Haynes/Robinson lawsuit:

This is a case about how the Executive Chamber for the Office of the Governor of New York (the “Chamber”) and the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (“RIOC”) have unfairly subjected Shelton J. Haynes and Gretchen K. Robinson (“Robinson,” and together with Haynes, the “Plaintiffs”), two African American executives, to continuous and pervasive discrimination by, including but not limited to, subjecting Haynes and Robinson to frequent unwarranted investigations by the New York State Inspector General (“NYSIG”) as well as ordering an independent investigation by an outside counsel – something not done for other, more serious allegations – based entirely on specious allegations of wrongdoing. The Chamber did so while simultaneously thwarting Haynes’s and Robinson’s efforts to fight back against the discrimination and defend themselves and RIOC against a multitude of defamatory statements made by a local blogger and a group of disgruntled former employees....

Read the full Haynes/Robinson lawsuit here.

On October 5, I asked RIOC President Shelton Haynes, General Counsel Gretchen Robinson and RIOC Board Directors:

I am preparing a follow up to October 2 Roosevelt Islander Online article asking:

Who's In Charge Of Dysfunctional Roosevelt Island Operating Corp? RIOC President Shelton Haynes Tells RIOC Board Directors Not To Communicate With Staff And Staff Not To Talk With RIOC Board Directors

and following up on the September 27 and September 12 email inquiries below seeking comment regarding the:

• Haynes/Robinson racial discrimination lawsuit and
  
• Who's currently in charge of RIOC
  

Is Shelton Haynes still on Extended Leave from his position as RIOC President as described in Sept 14 RIOC Board meeting by Gretchen Robinson? If he is still on Extended Leave, who is the Acting President? Does the RIOC Board need to appoint  an Acting President or can it be done without formal RIOC Board approval?

In addition,why are RIOC Directors not allowed to speak with RIOC staff and RIOC Staff not allowed to speak with RIOC Directors. This has not been the policy under prior RIOC Presidents?

These are important issues of concern to the Roosevelt Island community. Answers from RIOC Board Members, Mr Haynes and Ms Robinson would be greatly appreciated.

On October 8, RIOC Board Director Ben Fhala answered:

I'd like to acknowledge receipt of your email.

Our board chair, RuthAnne Visnauskas, has instructed the RIOC executive team to prepare answers for review by the board and for the chair to respond. Please allow them sufficient time to work on a thorough response.

I followed up a few minutes later:

Thank you for the acknowledgment. 

Can you provide an estimate of what a sufficient time for the response is?

Mr Fhala replied last evening, October 11:

I have not received any communication from the executive team regarding the feedback requested by the chair.

Furthermore, I was  informed (not in writing) that Shelton has extended his medical leave. Aida made a statement to Lydia and me, which left us in some confusion, and we are currently awaiting clarification from the executive team. As a measure of caution, I believe it's best to allow the team more time to address our questions and yours, ultimately enabling the board to convey a unified message.

In addition, I want to note that I initially overlooked a message sent by Shelton on September 6th titled "RIOC Update" due to its subject. In that message, Shelton mentioned:

" ...through October 6th, with the possibility of extending it as needed.

... I am thrilled to announce that Gretchen Robinson, our Vice President & General Counsel, will be stepping up to act on my behalf."

This is the official communication as far as I'm aware that informed the staff regarding this matter. I'm aware that multiple team members have been confused or unaware prior to the last board meeting. Nevertheless, I eagerly await official updates from the executive team to hopefully clarify things.

Aida is Aida Morales,  Mr Haynes assistant and Lydia is Lydia Tang who was appointed to the RIOC Board on June 7, 2023 at the same time as Mr Fhala and Dr Michal Melamed.  

 

Mr Fhala had previously reported that RIOC:

... executive team has instructed staff to "ignore" communications from new Resident board members, a directive officially confirmed on 08/31 by Aida Morales....

10 minutes after receiving Mr Fhala's response, RIOC Communications Director Bryant Daniels replied:

Thank you for your inquiry. President Haynes notified the RIOC Board and staff in late August of his approved leave. He is set to return to the office in late October. In his absence, Vice President and General Counsel Gretchen Robinson will be temporarily in charge with the full support of the Board.

Please note that RIOC does not comment on matters of pending litigation.

This morning, I asked RIOC Board Members, RIOC President Shelton Haynes and General Counsel Gretchen Robinson:

In reply to my inquiry, last evening, RIOC Communications Director Bryant Daniels reported that RIOC President Shelton Haynes is on leave until the end of October and General Counsel Gretchen Robinson is temporarily in charge of RIOC with the full support of the Board....

... I followed up asking Mr Bryant this question. 

Has there been a vote of the full RIOC Board approving Gretchen Robinson being temporarily in charge? If not, how does she have full approval of the Board and under what authority is she placed in charge of RIOC?

As you know, Ms Robinson is currently a plaintiff in a racial discrimination lawsuit against the staff of Governor Hochul's Executive Chamber and the DHCR. How can she be placed in charge of RIOC when she is suing NY State officials for racial discrimination?

My understanding is that Mr Haynes has been on leave since the end of August making it at least 2 months of Ms Robinson in charge.

What is the procedure for someone taking over the role of RIOC President when the current RIOC President is unable to perform the job? Is a RIOC Board approval vote required or can the current RIOC President simply designate a replacement himself without a Board approval?

Any comment from RIOC Board members?

No response yet. Will update when more info becomes available. 

UPDATE 10/13: RIOC Communications Director Bryant Daniels adds this morning:

To clarify, Gretchen is serving as Mr. Haynes’ designee (proxy) until his return. This does not require Board approval as his leave is only temporary. Board action would only be required if she were appointed “Acting President” which is not the case. As Executive Vice President, she is permitted to act on Mr. Haynes’ behalf.

NY Governor Kathy Hochul Vetoes Roosevelt Island Legislation To Require RIOC Board Members Who Move Away To Resign, Fill Vacant Board Seats Within 60 Days And Post All Job Vacancies On RIOC Website

As previously reported:

On January 10, 2022,  Roosevelt Island's NY State Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright and State Senator Jose Serrano introduced legislation

... to amend the public authorities law, in relation to requiring certain directors of the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation to be residents of Roosevelt Island and to require the appointment of certain vacant board positions within sixty days...

 ... The provisions of this bill would: 

• Clarify the residency requirement for certain public appointments to the board of directors of the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation and stipulate for their immediate resignation from the board upon termination of such residency; 
• Provide for the appointment of a successor within 60 days when a board vacancy occurs within an unexpired term; 
• Require the posting of job vacancies on the corporation's website; and, *Provide that this act shall take effect immediately....
  

Earlier today, I asked Governor Kathy Hochul's office:

I understand that Governor Hochul vetoed legislation regarding the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Board of Directors residency requirements and appointments.

Is that true?

Any comment on the reason for the veto of this legislation which was sponsored by Roosevelt Island’s State Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright and State Senator Jose Serrano?

Also, there are currently several vacant and expired seats on the Rioc Board of Directors. Any comment when nominees will be appointed to these seats?

Governor Hochul's spokesperson replied:

Re: RIOC’s board, the Governor is committed to filling board vacancies. 

and provided the Governor's veto message to the State Senate on the Roosevelt Island legislation:

TO THE SENATE:

I am returning herewith, without my approval, the following bill:

Senate Bill Number 7622-A, entitled: "AN ACT to amend the public authorities law, in relation to requiring certain directors of the Roosevelt Island operating corporation to be residents of Roosevelt Island and to require the appointment of certain vacant board positions within sixty days"

NOT APPROVED

This bill would require a director who is appointed to a seat on the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation ("RIOC") board of directors on the basis of residency to resign immediately when no longer a resident of Roosevelt Island. The bill would require the Governor to fill any vacancy among the gubernatorial seats on the RIOC board within sixty days of the vacancy occurring, regardless of the reason for the vacancy. The bill also would require that RIOC post all corporation employment vacancies publicly and to its website.

My administration is committed to good government that is responsive to the needs of communities served by the State's agencies and authorities. This legislation presents significant obstacles towards achieving that goal and presents risks to the effective administration of RIOC.

First, this legislation is unnecessary to ensure local representation on the board. Under current law five of the seven gubernatorial appointees to the board must be residents of Roosevelt Island. The large representation of residents on the board ensures continued local representation. Additionally, if a member appointed on the basis of their residency on Roosevelt Island moves away during their four-year tenure, they cannot be reappointed on that basis and could only be replaced by an island resident (unless the five-member resident requirement has been otherwise met).

Second, this legislation presents operational challenges to RIOC to the detriment of the community and the board. To require that a RIOC resident board member resign immediately upon moving would create vacancies, could compel effective directors to resign prematurely, and may disrupt the board's orderly management of its business affairs. Given the time needed to identify qualified candidates in the event of unanticipated vacancies, mandating a new director be appointed within sixty days in the event of any vacancy, regardless of cause, is impractical and could prevent well-qualified candidates from completing the nomi- nation and confirmation processes.

Finally, the requirement that RIOC post all corporation employment vacancies on its website is impractical as it makes no exceptions for practical or legal reasons, such as urgently needed positions or positions that may be subject to the terms of collective bargaining agreements which are subject to separate hiring processes.

For these reasons, I am constrained to veto this bill.

The bill is disapproved.

(signed) KATHY HOCHUL

Asked to comment on Governor Hochul's veto of her legislation, 

Ms Seawright speaking with Governor Hochul at the November 9,2021 Women In Service Veterans Day Tribute in Central Park)

Roosevelt Island NY State Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright replied:

We will persist in our vigorous efforts, working with longtime residents, on the issue of representation on the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) governing board. We must bring greater accountability and transparency to the board, which serves more than 12,000 residents. While we continue to believe that accomplishing this progress in statute is the appropriate course, we will forge ahead to achieve the best composition of the board and recommend only Roosevelt Island residents for appointments by the governor and mayor.

UPDATE 11/23 - Governor Hochul also vetoed legislation that would have required residents representation on the Battery Park City Authority.

My statement on the Governor vetoing my bill for more resident representation on the Battery Park Authority. pic.twitter.com/gKrLJ7BnhG

— Yuh-Line Niou (@yuhline) November 23, 2022

For example, the Roosevelt Island Operating Company, which governs Roosevelt Island and deals with similar issues like ground rent, is required by law to have a majority of its board members be residents.

— Yuh-Line Niou (@yuhline) November 23, 2022

It is clear that the Governor is creating excuses to veto a bill that would transfer power from the Governor and her well-connected appointees to our community residents.

— Yuh-Line Niou (@yuhline) November 23, 2022

Law Requiring Majority Of RIOC Directors And Chief Executive Officer To Be Roosevelt Island Residents Sponsored By Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright And State Senator Jose Serrano Passes NY State Legislature - Will Governor Hochul Sign It? Is It Good For Roosevelt Island?

The NY State Senate and NY State Assembly passed legislation earlier this month to require the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Chief Executive Officer and a majority of RIOC Board of Directors (5 of 9 members) to be residents of Roosevelt Island. 

Screenshot of Video From April 2022 RIOC Board Meeting Videoconference

The legislation was sponsored by State Senator Jose Serrano and Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright. 

According to this May 11 Press Release from Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright: 

The New York State Legislature this week approved Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright's legislation giving residents a majority vote on the governing board of the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation.

The measure is part of a series of reforms to bring greater accountability and transparency to the board, which serves more than 12,000 residents. 

Under the Seawright legislation, five of the nine appointees to the board, and majority, must reside on the island. The governor appoints four resident board members. The mayor appoints one resident board member. 

“The Founding Fathers’ cry of “no taxation without representation” has somehow eluded the Board of the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation,” said Seawright. "This long overdue reform will finally give residents a majority on the governing board to fight for a better Roosevelt Island.” 

State Senator José M. Serrano sponsored the companion bill in the Senate. The measure now moves to the desk of Governor Kathy Hochul for her signature. 

Other provisions of the Legislature's act would: 

• Clarify the residency requirement for certain public appointments to the Board of Directors of the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation and stipulate for their immediate resignation from the board upon the termination of such residency; 
• Provide for the appointment of a successor within 60 days when a board vacancy occurs within an unexpired term; 
• Require the posting of job vacancies on the corporation's website. 

The Legislature also approved a separate bill sponsored by Seawright and Serrano to require the corporation's Chief Executive Officer to reside on the island. A non-resident CEO would be required to relocate to the island within one year of appointment.

Asked if Governor Hochul will sign the legislation, a spokesperson replied:

Governor Hochul is reviewing the legislation.

I asked several Roosevelt Island residents involved with and knowledgeable about local governance issues their thoughts about the legislation.

Former RIOC Director and Chair of the RIOC Governance Committee Margie Smith said:

I think this new law is good, but there’s some confusion about what the bill actually does. For many years, the law has required that a majority of the board members be residents. That’s not new. The way around it has been that when a resident member quits, the seat stays empty and that can quickly shift the balance of power. So, the part of the bill that requires a replacement member be put in within 60 days is terrific. Also terrific is the part that requires a member who moves off the Island to resign. I love both of those. And, the requirement to post jobs on local sites is great.

However, I don’t agree with the requirement that a CEO must reside on the Island. I don’t think it’s necessary to live here in order to do a good job. We’ve had a couple of good CEOs who lived off Island. The job of CEO is extremely difficult. It requires a very unique skill set; someone with the ability to manage facilities, including grounds and transportation, people, the press, etc. It also requires a knowledge of how to maneuver within a political structure which can be very difficult. Requiring that the CEO reside on Roosevelt Island severely limits our pool of candidates to fill this position. And, a good CEO doesn’t have to live here to understand the community and do a good job. It requires a smart person who has the background to handle the mechanics of the job and the ability to work with the community to understand our needs.

The real issue is, and has always been, the fact that the residents DO NOT ELECT the members of the board. Having fought this fight for years, I recognize it’s next to impossible to get a bill passed that allows this and I applaud Assemblywoman Rebecca Seawright and Senator Jose Serrano’s efforts. This bill is another step forward but we still have lots of work to do on getting ELECTED representation for the Island.

Former Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) Governance Committee Chair and current candidate for NY State Democratic Committeewoman Joyce Short said: 

I applaud the efforts Assembly Member Seawright and Senator Serrano are making to put residents on the RIOC Board and insure they are replaced when they no longer serve. But here's the problem even once this bill passes....

Having Roosevelt Islanders on the RIOC Board can only provide the elected government, that the Constitution guarantees, if those directors are elected by our community, not appointed and serving at the pleasure of the Governor- as is currently the case.

An important interest in my running for NY State Democratic Committeewoman is to insure that the flaws in our present "government by appointment" system, are corrected.

Our community is unique in that the state of NY re-inserts itself at the local level here on Roosevelt Island. It's one thing for a Public Benefit Corporation to manage the assets of the state. It's quite another for them to promulgate regulations for our residents...... and make up the laws as they go along.... like recently handcuffing a woman for a parking violation.

The land-leases our rents pay for cover the operating costs of the Island, not revenues from the State or City. RIOC's transparency failure and disregard for community input results from their being appointed, not elected to their positions.

While RIOC officers and Board members may try to do their best, the structure, itself, is a critical flaw that begs correction. 

Former RIRA President Matt Katz said:

I am absolutely blown away! 

I wonder if the recent incendiary letter by RIOC whistle-blowers wasn't the impetus for these monumental changes. 

Given that many of us have been working towards this for over twenty years and with succeeding generations of State representatives, frankly, I didn't expect these necessary and democratic provisions to be discussed, much less passed by the Legislature in Albany in my lifetime.. I am profoundly grateful to Assembly Member Seawright and Senator Serrano who were responsible for this accomplishment. Of course, Gov. Hochel must now sign this into law, but I can see no reason why she wouldn't. 

I hope that the Roosevelt Island Resident Association, which was responsible for seating many Island residents on the RIOC Board in past years, and through Island-wide elections, will take on the task of filling the vacant Board seats and---with Island residents. 

I'm dancing on air!!

RIRA Member Frank Farance said: 

This is just legislative hygiene, in case the law wasn't clear already.

There are existing laws on the books that RIOC doesn't comply with regarding directors, other than a first or second vacancy, I doubt this law will change the behavior of RIOC, the ABO, or the Governor.

Ho hum. What change do you expect in RIOC? RIOC has too many staff, many of them lack qualifications. For example, the PPF process was changed because of accounting and bookkeeping, but we need to outsource PPF - not have qualified people working for RIOC. So why would the posting of job vacancies help? Surely, I believe there should be a common posting, but many of the problems are caused by poor management and executive management at RIOC, not the transparency of job postings.

RIRA already reviewed this a couple years ago when Joyce Short told Seawright that the Island wanted this, but the RIRA Common Council had rejected this idea with many concerns, including: 

1. the requirement diminishes the pool of viable candidates; 
2. having an apartment on the Island doesn't mean that the CEO stays here as demonstrated by a prior RIOC President (Indelicato, I think); 
3. having an apartment in one of the apartment buildings might create a conflict of interest (as demonstrated by a prior RIOC President); 
4. the residency requirement will NOT require the RIOC President to give up their prior residence (very difficult housing market), nor will there Roosevelt Island residence become their Primary Residence, as it has other important consequences; and 
5. the cost of the apartment (probably additional $60-80K per year) will be paid by RIOC, categorized as Public Purpose (reducing money spent directly on residents), paid by our ground leases and, thus, paid via our own rents and maintenance payments - surely that $60-80K could be better spent on the Island, such as greater PPF monies each year for Island organizations.

Rather than listen to a couple of out-of-touch Roosevelt-Island-Whisperers, legislators would do better, say, by engaging with elected representatives in RIRA or the community directly in a Town Hall meeting. I suggest dropping the residency requirement for the RIOC President/CEO.

Former RIRA member Sherie Helstien said:

Residents not chosen by the people over whom they make community decisions are no better or different than ones from off-Island. Period.

As previously reported, in 2010 then Governor David Patterson vetoed RIOC governance legislation that would have required all 7 Public Members of the Board to be Roosevelt Island residents. According to Governor Patterson's veto statement: 

... While the interest of Roosevelt Island residents may often coincide with those of the State and the City there may be instances in which they do not. Roosevelt Island represents a large investment by the State of New York and is a complex operation with responsibilities to both New York State and New York City. RIOC's enabling statute makes clear that it is to function in the public interest "for the benefit of the people of the state"...

Below is Governor Patterson's veto statement.

When all the RIOC Board seats are filled there are 9 Directors. Two are NY State Officials, representing the Commissioner of NY State Division of Homes and Community Renewal and the Director of NY State Division of the Budget. 

Seven of the nine are public members. Two of the public members are recommended by the NYC Mayor, one of whom must be a Roosevelt Island resident. 5 are appointed by the NY Governor, 4 of whom must be Roosevelt Island residents.

There are currently 3 vacant RIOC Director seats.

What will Governor Hochul do?

Shelton Haynes Named Roosevelt Island Operating Corp President/CEO During March 16 RIOC Board Meeting, Says He's Eager To Work With Community To Enhance The Quality Of Life On Roosevelt Island

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) announced the appointment of Shelton Haynes as President and Chief Executive Officer during March 16 RIOC Board Of Directors Meeting (video of meeting here).

The Board of the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) appoints Shelton J. Haynes as President and Chief Executive Officer of RIOC – hooray for Mr. Haynes! To read more about it, visit https://t.co/LIS3i4LIQ0 pic.twitter.com/5GsOBScnBf

— RIOC NYS (@RIOCny) March 16, 2021

Mr Haynes has served as the RIOC Interim President/CEO since June 2020 following the abrupt and controversial firing of former RIOC President Susan Rosenthal, which is currently the subject of a wrongful termination lawsuit by Ms Rosenthal.

Mr Haynes was the RIOC Vice President of Operations since 2016.

RIOC Board Chair Linda Manley reported to the Board Members during March 16 meeting:

It is my recommendation and I think the recommendation of the Executive Chamber that Shelton be appointed as President and CEO of the Corporation....

The Executive Chamber is the Office of NY State Governor Andrew Cuomo, also known commonly around RIOC as "The Second Floor".

 RIOC Board member David Kraut added:

I would note that I don't disagree with anything you said about Shelton. Shelton is prepared to do this job. 

This board did not do a search as is recommended in our bylaws. Such a search would ...  be very difficult at this point in time. 

I also note that the Executive Chamber has recommend Shelton to us and I see no reason to disagree with that recommendation but it did come from outside. The Governor does hold a seat on this Board in fact if not in law and we can proceed from there....

Here's video of discussion including remarks from Mr Haynes upon being approved as the new RIOC President.

 

 Mr Haynes later commented on Instagram: 

Thank you all for the overwhelming support with calls, emails, text messages, social media posts and etc. I am truly honored and humbled at being appointed as President/CEO of the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation. We have such a dynamic group of professionals that are committed to excellence. I am eager to continue to build upon our mission while working with the community to enhance the quality of life on Roosevelt Island.

And a press release from RIOC:

The Board of Directors of the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) today voted to appoint Shelton J. Haynes as President and Chief Executive Officer, a role in which he has been serving in an acting capacity since June of last year. Having first joined RIOC in April 2016 as Vice President of Operations, Mr. Haynes oversaw the Island’s day-to-day functions as well as management of the Corporation’s various administrative, operational, and planning departments, including the Public Safety Department. 

When Mr. Haynes was promoted to Chief Operating Officer, his vision was to provide strategic planning and create a results driven environment. He placed emphasis on enhancing the Corporation’s overall efficiency and internal subject matter expertise. He invested in critical training, redefining agency positions, recruiting top notch professionals, creating checks and balances, working tirelessly with the public, setting measurable goals with key performance indicators, and lastly, enhancing technology to streamline business processes. More importantly, he is committed to creating a culture where everyone is working toward a common goal.  

Mr. Haynes’ most visible impact on the Roosevelt Island community has been his leadership in dramatically increasing the scope of RIOC’s Capital Program. From 2013 to 2015, before Mr. Haynes arrived, RIOC spent an average of $4.5 million per year on capital projects. From 2017 all the way through 2020, the average amount spent on major capital projects such as the landmark restoration of Blackwell House, a newly renovated youth center, and the seawall railing replacement, has more than doubled to over $14.5 million per year. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, for FY 2020-21, Mr. Haynes was instrumental in working with the RIOC Board of Directors on the approval of $40 million towards the Capital Program.  

HCR Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “We are so pleased to see Shelton Haynes take the helm as President and CEO of RIOC after four years of outstanding service as Chief Operating Officer and then Acting President. Shelton’s extensive experience and expertise with strategic planning, corporate operations and management will build upon RIOC’s success and move the organization forward with fresh ideas. We look forward to continuing to work together with Shelton for the benefit of all who call Roosevelt Island home.”  

“I’m honored by the opportunity to serve such a diverse, engaged and passionate community alongside a team of extremely dedicated and talented group of professionals.” said RIOC President & Chief Executive Officer, Shelton J. Haynes. “I thank Governor Cuomo, RIOC Board Chair, RuthAnne Visnauskas, and the RIOC Board of Directors for this humbling opportunity. I look forward to enhancing the quality of life on Roosevelt Island and providing exceptional service to the community that we serve.”  

Mr. Haynes brings to the role more than two decades of experience with 10 years of executive level expertise and 16 years of overall management acumen. Previously, Mr. Haynes served as Chief Operating Officer at the Housing Authority of DeKalb County in Georgia, where he oversaw all agency operations, strategic and operational initiatives, as well as the executive management team. 

Under his leadership, the Housing Authority was able to transform underperforming departments into high performing ones, based on measurable key performance indicators and compliance audits. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from Hampton University.

Appointment Of Shelton Haynes As Acting RIOC President And Approval Of Annual Report Among Items On July 2 Roosevelt Island Operating Corp Board Of Directors Meeting Video Conference - You're Invited To Watch And Ask Questions During Public Comment Session Prior To Meeting

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Board of Directors will meet 5:30 PM Thursday, July 2  via video conference. You can watch the Board meeting and ,ask questions or share concerns about Roosevelt Island during the opening Public Session before the start of the meeting. Sign up to speak here.

Among the items on the Agenda are:

• Appointment of Shelton Haynes as Acting President/CEO and 
• Approval of the Annual Report

Image From RIOC

 Mr Haynes is scheduled to deliver a President's report as well. Will he address any of the issues relating to the June 19 dismissal of former President Susan Rosenthal based upon allegations made by an employee that Ms Rosenthal made inappropriate racial and sexual remarks and that RIOC senior leadership did nothing to stop the behavior? According to the employee's complaint which was found to be substantiated by a 7 day NY State Governor's Office investigation:

... My experience of working at RIOC for the last several years have been toxic as we've experienced offensive racial comments and jokes of a sexual nature by Ms. Susan Rosenthal, RIOC's Chief Executive Officer/President. I've witnessed the lack of regard for employees as senior leadership continues to make excuses and play a blind eye on these troublesome issues....

Here's the July 2 RIOC Board of Directors meeting agenda.

Read more »

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp Board Of Directors Meeting October 20 - Acting RIOC President/CEO Susan Rosenthal To Be Appointed Permanently To Position, Was There Any Executive Search Process For Job?

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Board Of Directors are meeting tomorrow, October 20. Late this afternoon, RIOC issued an amended agenda to include the appointment of Acting RIOC President/CEO/ and General Counsel Susan Rosenthal

 Image Of Acting RIOC President/CEO Susan Rosenthal

as the permanent RIOC President/CEO. According to the amended RIOC Agenda:

5. Appointment of Susan G. Rosenthal to the Position of President/Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation (Board Action Required–Materials to Follow)

I don't know if any other candidates were interviewed for the RIOC President/CEO position by the RIOC Board of Directors or if any executive search process was conducted to fill the position.

Here's the amended agenda:

OCTOBER 20, 2016 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. September 8, 2016 Board Meeting (Board Action Required)

IV. Old Business

New Business

1. Authorization to Amend Contract with Major Systems Mechanical Corp. for the Boiler Installation and Heating System Improvements at Sportspark (Board Action Required)

2. Authorization to Amend Contract with RJ Green Construction Corporation for the Sportspark Roof and Façade Repairs (Board Action Required)

3. Authorization to Enter into a License with the New York City Economic Development Corporation, Make Environmental Findings, Override Portions of the New York City Zoning Resolution and Take Related Actions for the “Citywide Ferry Service Project” (Board Action Required)

4. Authorization to Amend Contract with Hawkins Webb Jaeger, PLLC for Engineering Consulting Services (Board Action Required)

5. Appointment of Susan G. Rosenthal to the Position of President/Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation (Board Action Required–Materials to Follow)

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

UPDATE 10/21- Following a discussion in Executive Session, closed to the public, the RIOC Board approved appointment of Susan Rosenthal as the permanent RIOC President/CEO by a vote of 5 to 1.

RIOC Director Margie Smith was the only dissenting vote, not she said because of any objection to Ms. Rosenthal, but because Ms. Smith objected to the process of excluding the RIOC Directors from participating in the selection process once again by the Governor's office.

Video of the discussion on this subject here.

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp To Discuss Status Of Search For New RIOC President At May 19 Board Of Directors Meeting - In Executive Session Closed To The Public

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Board of Directors Governance Committee will meet tomorrow in Executive Session to discuss status of search for a new President. According to RIOC:

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a special meeting of the Board of Directors will be held on Thursday, May 19, 2016 at 5:30 p.m. at The Cultural Center Roosevelt Room, 548 Main Street, Roosevelt Island, New York for the purpose of transacting such business as shall come before the Board.

AGENDA

I. Call to Order

II. Roll Call

III. New Business

1. Chair’s Motion for Executive Session to Discuss Status of Presidential Search for RIOC

IV. Adjournment

* * *

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.

RIOC General Counsel Susan Rosenthal has been the RIOC Acting President since the March 18 departure of former RIOC President Charlene Indelicato.

According to the NY Department of State Committee on Open Government:

... a public body may conduct an executive session for the below enumerated purposes only, provided, however, that no action by formal vote shall be taken to appropriate public moneys:...

f. the medical, financial, credit or employment history of a particular person or corporation, or matters leading to the appointment, employment, promotion, demotion, discipline, suspension, dismissal or removal of a particular person or corporation;...

To date, the RIOC Board of Directors have not interviewed any candidates for the position of RIOC President.

NY State Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright Introduces Legislation This Week To Bring Major Changes For Roosevelt Island Governance - RIOC CEO To Be Appointed By Board Directors And CEO Must Live On Roosevelt Island

Roosevelt Island's NY State Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright
 

 Image Of Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright At 2015 Roosevelt Island Town Hall

introduced Bill A09605 which, if passed by the Legislature and signed by the Governor, would bring major changes to the governance of Roosevelt Island by the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC).

According to Assembly Member Seawright:

This bill allows the board to appoint the CEO of RIOC, determine the term of office and requires that the CEO complies with the rules that apply to public officers. It is a pivotal step towards self-governance for Roosevelt Island residents, creating accountability and requiring greater transparency.

The legislation, introduced on March 22, would also require the RIOC CEO to be a resident of Roosevelt Island or become one within 6 months of being appointed to the position.

Below is the purpose, summary and justification for the legislation as outlined in Bill A09605:

PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL:

To establish the position of chief executive officer of the Roosevelt Island operating corporation, and the requirements for such position.

SUMMARY OF SPECIFIC PROVISIONS:

Section one of the bill makes a technical amendment, and provides the following:

1. The board shall appoint a chief executive officer of RIOC, who must be a resident of Roosevelt Island or become a resident within 6 months of appointment;

2. The board shall determine the term of office, fix the compensation and prescribe the duties for the position; and

3. The CEO must comply with, and be subject to, certain rules that apply to public officers.

Section two provides that this act shall take effect immediately, except that the term of the current chief executive officer shall end at such time as a successor chief executive officer is appointed.

JUSTIFICATION:

Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) was created in 1984 to manage Roosevelt Island, oversee its continued development through the Master Plan and allocate state capital funding and operational support.
The directors of RIOC board are not elected but rather appointed. Presently, there is neither residency requirement for all RIOC board directors nor for the President/Chief Executive Officer. The President/CEO is primarily responsible for operations of daily life on Roosevelt Island. There has never been a RI resident appointed to this position but rather only persons who reside outside the community once appointed, the President/CEO has never moved into the community.

This bill provides a step toward self-governance for Roosevelt Island residents by requiring the next newly appointed CEO to be a resident or become a resident within six months of his/her appointment. This residency requirement will ensure the CEO is a member of the community.

This bill would make the next CEO more accountable to the residents he/she will serve. The RIOC Board of Directors will appoint the CEO, determine the term of office, fix the compensation to be paid, prescribe the duties and responsibilities and may remove him/her for cause. This bill requires greater transparency because the next CEO will be subject to the Public Officers Law including financial disclosures and a Code of Conduct.

and the contents of the full Bill.

Image From NY State Assembly

Click here for more information on Bill A09605 introduced by NY State Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright regarding Roosevelt Island governance.

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp Board Of Directors Approve Appointment Of New RIOC Chief Financial Officer And VP Of Operations Despite Objections To Being Left Out Of Interview Process

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) approved the appointment of Kimberly L. Quinones as the new Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Shelton J. Haynes as the new Vice President Of Operations during the March 10 RIOC Board of Directors meeting (video web cast of the RIOC Board Meeting here.)

Image Of Mr. Haynes and Ms. Quinones Following 3/10 RIOC Board Meeting

RIOC provided their biographies below.

Chief Financial Officer Kimberly L. Quinones

Ms. Quinones is a Public Finance banker with over thirty years of experience meeting the infrastructure and general fund financing needs of state and local governments. Her expertise includes the general fund, infrastructure and transportation sectors, serving as the lead banker for some of the largest states and cities nationwide. Most recently, she managed the Western Region banking effort for Ramirez & Co., Inc., a privately-held securities firm based in New York. Prior to 2002, Ms. Quinones was with Citigroup, Raymond James Financial and Prudential-Bache Capital Funding in New York, working with the City of New York, and state agencies in the tri-state area and Puerto Rico.

Ms. Quinones also served in the public sector, working with the New York City Deputy Mayor for Economic Development and Planning in 1996-1997. She represented the Mayor’s office on the boards of the New York City Economic Development Corporation and the New York City Industrial Development Authority.

Ms. Quinones holds a BA in Economics from Princeton University. She was the 2000-2001 President of the Financial Women’s Association of New York and served on the Boards of Governors of the Municipal Forum and the Vanderbilt YMCA. Governor Mario Cuomo appointed Ms. Quinones to the Committee on Fiscal and Economic Priorities in 1994.

Shelton J. Haynes is the Vice President of Operations of the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC). He is responsible for the oversight of the Island's day-to-day functions as well as management of the Corporation's various administrative and operational departments.

In addition, his role is to ensure that the corporation's operations and core functions effectively serve the needs of Roosevelt Island residents and other stakeholders, while complying with applicable laws and regulations.

Mr. Haynes previously served as Chief Operating Officer at the Housing Authority of DeKalb County in Georgia, where he oversaw all agency operations, strategic and operational initiatives as well as the executive management team. Under his leadership he was able to transform under performing departments into high performing based on measurable key performance indicators and compliance audits.

But the approval was not unanimous. During the March 10 RIOC Board meeting, Directors Margie Smith, Michael Shinozaki and Kathy Grimm objected to the process by which the new RIOC CFO and VP of Operations were selected, not the qualifications of the individual candidates themselves. Ms. Smith voted not to approve the candidates. Mr. Shinozaki and Ms. Grimm voted to abstain.

Ms Smith noted that although multiple candidates were interviewed for each position by "various people", including RIOC staff, only Ms Quinones and Mr. Shelton were presented to be interviewed by the RIOC Board Directors. According to Ms. Smith, this same hiring process of excluding the RIOC Board Directors from the interview process has happened before in the selection of candidates for RIOC President, Chief Financial Officer and General Counsel.

Ms. Smith said that Andrew Kennedy of the NY Governor's Office had previously promised the RIOC Board they would be involved in interviewing future multiple candidates for senior staff positions and that Mr. Kennedy:

... made a commitment to us that we would be part of the interviewing process, not just the approval. We would get 3 candidates for any position to interview before we had to vote. I don't think it's right that we didn't do that this time.... That why I am going to be voting no....

RIOC Director Fay Christian agreed with the comments of Ms. Smith but voted to approve because in her view it is necessary to fill these vacant positions immediately.

Here's an excerpt of the March 10 RIOC Board discussion on hiring of new CFO.



The RIOC Board approved hiring of the new CFO and Vice President Of Operations with a vote of 5 approving, 2 abstentions and 1 no.

Roosevelt Island resident Board Directors Howard Polivy and David Kraut joined Ms Christian in voting to approve the hiring of the new CFO and VP Of Operations as did RIOC Chair Jamie Rubin and the NY State Budget Office representative.

Here's the full March 10 RIOC Board discussion regarding hiring the new CFO, VP Of Operations and current General Counsel Susan Rosenthal to be Acting RIOC President.



Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) Vice President Sherie Helstien said it was "cowardly" not to allow the RIOC Board to do its job by interviewing candidates for the CFO and VP Operations positions (at the 9 minute mark of video).

RIRA Government Relations Chair Joyce M. Short adds:

The State of NY routinely disregards their own laws and the US Constitution by how it runs the Island. It is required to submit at least 3 choices to the RIOC Board. It did not. And what's more, the board itself is not consistent with the structure of government provided for by the US Constitution.

Government is supposed to serve the people, and government bodies, including RIOC, are supposed to be comprised of elected members, not political appointments, and not even when they are our neighbors. If they actually had to stand for election, RIOC board members would never allow themselves to be bulldozed this way.

It's unfortunate that NY State's way of doing business detracts from the appointment of people who could otherwise be viewed as highly competent to handle the job. While we wish our new RIOC staffers well, we also wish that Roosevelt Island enjoyed the same right to representative government that the rest of the country enjoys.

Welcome to Roosevelt Island Ms Quinones and Mr. Haynes.

RIRA Vice President Asks RIOC Board Public Session About Roosevelt Island Public Purpose Funds, Tram Station Elevator Replacement & Selecting New President - Receives Answers Too

Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) Vice President Sherie Helstien addressed the Public Session of the March 10 Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Board of Directors Meeting (web cast of full March 10 RIOC Board meeting here) .

Ms Helstien asked the RIOC Board members questions about:

• Distribution of 2015 RIOC Public Purpose Funds (PPF),
• Status of Tram Station Elevators replacement and
• Whether an independent executive search process will be undertaken to select new RIOC President

Fortunately, Ms Helstien questions were answered. Usually, at RIOC Board Meeting Public Sessions, residents would ask questions but receive no answers back.

RIOC Board Chair Jamie Rubin replied there would be an independent outside search for RIOC President which has not yet started.

RIOC President Charlene Indelicato said some of the PPF funds have been distributed to approved organizations and advised to call RIOC for specifics.

RIOC General Counsel and soon to be Acting President Susan Rosenthal reviewed the current status of Tram Station Elevator replacement project. RIOC Director of Engineering John Bost added that the new Tram Station elevators are still scheduled to be completed by the Autumn of 2016.

We also learned that RIOC Director Of Operations Cy Opperman is very well liked.

Here's the full discussion.



RIOC Chair Jamie Rubin may have started a new policy for the RIOC Board meeting Pubic Session - Questions and answers. Wouldn't that be great!!!

Final Report From RIOC President Charlene Indelicato - Reviews Time On Roosevelt Island And Is Thanked For Service To The Community

As previously reported,Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) President Charlene Indelicato is leaving RIOC to take a position as Dobbs Ferry Village Administrator. Ms Indelicato's last day at RIOC is March 18. Current RIOC General Counsel Susan Rosenthal will be the Acting President/CEO until a permanent President/CEO is selected.

 Ms Indelicato (center) Ms Rosenthal (right) RIOC Board Chair Jamie Rubin (left) at 3/10 Board Meeting

Ms Indelicato gave her final RIOC President's Report at last evening's RIOC Board of Directors meeting.

Ms. Indelicato reviewed her time as RIOC President including:

• Fixing the Public Safety Department, regaining the trust of the community,
• Negotiating Cornell Tech Agreement with help of Roosevelt Island Community Coalition (RICC),
• Improving  relationship with FDR Four Freedoms Park,
• Cultural Center renovation and use,
• Relationship with Board of Directors, residents and RIOC employees.

and noted these upcoming RIOC initiatives 

• Facilitator for Southpoint Park and Smallpox Hospital,
• Cornell Tech Helix Bike Ramp,

Ms. Indelicato concluded:

... Anything that has been accomplished during my tenure has been accomplished because of the employees, the State the Board and many, many residents. If in fact people have been disappointed I have not met expectations, I apologize. I have tried my best... I have done everything I can possibly do...

Following Ms. Indelicato's remarks, the residents, RIOC staff and Board members in audience thanked her for her service to the Roosevelt Island community with a round of applause.

Here's the final Roosevelt Island Report from RIOC President Charlene Indelicato.



RIOC Board Chair Jamie Rubin reported during the meeting that an independent search process for a new RIOC President will be conducted.

UPDATE 12:30 PM - Jamie Rubin, RIOC Board Chair and Commissioner of NYS Homes and Community Renewal, thanks RIOC President Indelicato on her service to the Roosevelt Island community.

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Board Of Directors Meeting Tomorrow, - Appointment Of General Counsel Susan Rosenthal As Acting President/CEO Among Items On Agenda

Image Of September 2015 RIOC Board Meeting

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Board of Directors will be meeting tomorrow, March 10. Below is the Agenda:

AMENDED AGENDA

MARCH 10, 2016 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. January 28, 2016 Board Meeting (Board Action Required)
IV. Old Business
V. New Business

1. Approval of Amendments to Procurement Guidelines (Board Action Required - Materials to Follow)
2. Authorization to Amend Contract with Nelson & Pope Engineers & Land Surveyors, PLLC for the Bus Garage and Warehouse Renovation Project (Board Action Required)
3. Ratification of Change Order with Architectural & Engineering Group (AEG) for the South Wing Motorgate Garage Repairs (Board Action Required)
4. Appointment of Susan G. Rosenthal to the Position of Acting President/Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation (Board Action Required)
5. President's Report
6. Committee Reports
a. Audit Committee
b. Governance Committee
c. Operations Advisory Committee
d. Real Estate Development Advisory Committee
7. 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.

Ms Rosenthal will hold dual positions as General Counsel and Acting President/CEO.

UPDATE 6 PM - Here's amended agenda for March 10 RIOC Board meeting which includes appointment of new Chief Financial Officer, Vice President Of Operations and approval of Octagon building leasehold interest refinancing.

SECOND AMENDED AGENDA


MARCH 10, 2016 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. January 28, 2016 Board Meeting (Board Action Required)

IV. Old Business

V. New Business

1. Appointment of Susan G. Rosenthal to the Position of Acting President/Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation (Board Action Required)

2. Appointment of Kimberly L. Quinones to the Position of Chief Financial Officer and Vice President for Financial Affairs of the Corporation (Board Action Required)

3. Appointment of Shelton J. Haynes to the Position of Vice President for Operations of the Corporation (Board Action Required)

4. Authorization to Waive the Notice Period and to Consent to MEPT Octagon LLC’s Refinancing its Leasehold Interest in the Octagon Lease (Board Action Required)

5. Authorization to Amend Contract with Nelson & Pope Engineers & Land Surveyors, PLLC for the Bus Garage and Warehouse Renovation Project (Board Action Required)

6. Ratification of Change Order with Architectural & Engineering Group (AEG) for the South Wing Motorgate Garage Repairs (Board Action Required)

7. Authorization to Enter into Contract with Elan Engineering, LLC for Seawall Railing Design and Consulting Services (Board Action Required)

8. President’s Report

9. Committee Reports

a. Audit Committee

b. Governance Committee

c. Operations Advisory Committee

d. Real Estate Development Advisory Committee

10. Public Safety Report

VI. Adjournment

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp Needs A New President, Chief Financial Officer And VP Of Operations, RIOC Board Of Directors Meeting Today To Discuss - Also Real Estate Issues On Agenda Today

As reported February 23, Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) President Charlene Indelicato is leaving her position as of March 18 to take a position as Administrator of the Village of Dobbs Ferry. Current RIOC General Counsel Susan Rosenthal is expected to be named interim RIOC President pending the selection of a permanent President.

RIOC is also currently seeking to fill vacancies for Chief Financial Officer and Vice President of Operations.

Later today, the RIOC Board of Directors are meeting in Executive Session, closed to the public, to discuss personnel issues. According to RIOC:

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a special meeting of the Board of Directors will be held on Monday, March 7, 2016 at 5:30 p.m. at The Cultural Center Roosevelt Room, 548 Main Street, Roosevelt Island, New York for the purpose of transacting such business as shall come before the Board.

AGENDA

I. Call to Order
II. Roll Call
III. Old Business
IV. New Business
1. Chair's Motion for Executive Session to Review and Discuss Personnel Matters; and
2. Any Other Business Which may be Brought Before the Board of Directors.
V. Adjournment

* * *

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.

Among the reasons a RIOC meeting can be held in Executive Session are:

...matters leading to the appointment, employment, promotion, demotion, discipline, suspension, dismissal or removal of a particular person or corporation;...

Following the RIOC Special Board meeting, a public meeting of the RIOC Real Estate Development Advisory Committee will be held. According to RIOC:

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a meeting of the Real Estate Development Advisory Committee of the RIOC Board of Directors will be held on Monday, March 7, 2016 at 6:30 p.m. at The Cultural Center Roosevelt Room, 548 Main Street, Roosevelt Island, New York.

Agenda:

Update on Master Retail Sublease.

Update on Wayfinding Signage.

Discussion of Community Space Usage, Including Sports Venues.

Update on Infrastructure and Facilities Projects.

Any Other Committee Business That May be Brought Before the Committee

***
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.

An audio web cast of the RIOC Real Estate Committee meeting will be available soon thereafter.

UPDATE 3/9 Audio web cast of the Real Estate Committee meeting now available.

BREAKING NEWS - Charlene Indelicato Leaving As President Of Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) - Will Become Dobbs Ferry NY Village Administrator

 Image From RIOC

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) will be looking for a new President. A former Roosevelt Island resident now living in Dobbs Ferry New York sent in a tip reporting this Dobbs Ferry Board Of Trustees Agenda Item for meeting tonight, February 23:

Appointment: Appoint Charlene Indelicato as Village Administrator of the Village of Dobbs Ferry for a term of one year for a salary of $170,000, effective April 4, 2016, and authorize the Mayor to execute a contract with Ms. Indelicato on terms and conditions approved by the Attorney for the Village, Labor Counsel and the Board of Trustees.

Ms. Indelicato was appointed RIOC President in April 2013.

In my view, Ms. Indelicato has been an excellent RIOC President. Her leaving is a big loss for Roosevelt Island.

Image RIOC President Indelicato Holding Asylum For Insane Mug With RIHS Judy Berdy

No word yet on who will be the new RIOC President, either on a permanent or temporary basis.

Stay tuned for more.

UPDATE  3/3- Ms. Indelicato's final day at RIOC will be March 18. It is expected that current RIOC General Counsel Susan Rosenthal, appointed in May 2015, will be named as Interim President upon approval by the RIOC Board of Directors.

Report From RIOC President Charlene Indelicato - After One Year Anniversary On The Job As RIOC President Finds Trust Relationship Developing On Roosevelt Island

Image of Charlene Indelicato From RIOC

During May 15 meeting of Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Board Of Directors (web cast here), RIOC President Charlene Indelicato noted that it has been exactly one year for her on the job as RIOC President. Ms. Indelicato noted in her remarks:

... I find it after a year sometimes very frustrating, sometimes very aggravating, maybe its the Stockholm Syndrome, but I love my work and I find the residents concern helpful sometimes aggravating but always, always, at this point in time open minded and ready to listen why I can't do something or why RIOC can't do it

I think at this point in time, we are developing a trust relationship, not only the residents trusting us but RIOC trusting you and that has alot to do with the Board so I thank you all for that.

Ms. Indelicato reminded us of this past year's endless winter which dropped 57.3 inches of snow on NYC and thanked the RIOC staff for an outstanding job adding that her job is essentially one of:

an air traffic controller.

Here's Ms. Indellicato's remarks followed by comments from some RIOC Directors.



Here's Ms. Indelicato's first appearance at a RIOC Board Meeting upon her appointment as RIOC President.

In my view, Ms. Indelicato has done an excellent job as RIOC President this past year.

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp Reschedules May 23 Board Meeting To May 30 - Agenda Item Includes Amendment To Resolution Approving New RIOC President Charlene Indelicato

Reported on April 4:

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Board Of Directors today approved Governor Cuomo's selection of Charlene Indelicato (former Mount Vernon Commissioner of Planning and Development Department) as the new RIOC President/CEO. The vote was 5 for approval and 3 abstentions....

Ms Indelicato began her new position as RIOC President last week.

Ms Indelicato (seated on right) with RIOC Board Members and Staff At 5/15 Real Estate Comm Meeting

I noticed this Agenda Item on the schedule for the May 23 RIOC Board of Directors Meeting regarding Ms. Indelicato's appointment as RIOC President:

 6. Amendment of Resolution Appointing Charlene Indelicato to Position of President/Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation (Board Action Required)...

and yesterday sent the following inquiry to Ms. Indelicato and the RIOC Board Directors:

What is the reason for this amendment and what will the amended resolution say?

Have not received any response to the inquiry.

The full RIOC Board Agenda for May 23 meeting below:

MAY 23, 2013 MEETING OF
THE ROOSEVELT ISLAND OPERATING CORPORATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS
THE MANHATTAN PARK COMMUNITY CENTER,
8 RIVER ROAD, ROOSEVELT ISLAND, NEW YORK
5:30 P.M.

AGENDA

I. Call to Order
II. Roll Call
III. Approval of Minutes
1. April 4, 2013 Board Meeting (Board Action Required)
IV. Old Business
V. New Business
1. Authorization to Enter into Contract with Local 32BJ (Materials to Follow - Board Action Required)
2. Presentation of the FY 2012-2013 QTR 4 Procurement Report
3. Authorization to Enter into Contract with Gandhi Engineering, Inc. for the Engineering Design Services in
Connection with the Roosevelt Island Helix Ramp Rehabilitation Project (Board Action Required)
4. Authorization to Enter into Contract with KS Engineers, P.C. for the Structural Evaluation and Feasibility Study of
the Sportspark Facility (Board Action Required)
5. Ratification of Contract with Hill International, Inc. for Owner's Representative Services (Senior Project Manager)
(Board Action Required)
6. Amendment of Resolution Appointing Charlene Indelicato to Position of President/Chief Executive Officer of the
Corporation (Board Action Required)
7. President�s Report
8. Committee Reports
a. Audit Committee
b. Governance Committee
c. Operations Advisory Committee
d. Real Estate Development Advisory Committee
9. Public Safety Report
VI. Adjournment

Earlier today, RIOC rescheduled tomorrow's Board Meeting to next week:

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Directors meeting previously scheduled for Thursday, May 23, 2013 has been rescheduled and will be held on Thursday, May 30, 2013 at 5:30 p.m. at the Child School (Legacy High School) Auditorium, 566 Main Street, Roosevelt Island, New York.

Will update if an explanation is received regarding the amended resolution appointing Ms. Indelicato as RIOC President.

May 30 is also the meeting date for Manhattan Community Board 8's Roosevelt Island Committee.

Meeting Date:
Thursday, May 30, 2013 - 6:30pm
Meeting Location:
Manhattan Park
4 River Road, Community Room
Roosevelt Island, NY

Introduction of co-chairs and committee members.
Discussion of role of Community Board 8 and the formation and role of this committee
Review of recent island issues reviewed by CB 8 and its committees
(a) Cornell-Technion Project/Cornell-Technion Task force
(b) MTA Q102/ Transportation Committee
(c) Queensboro Bridge Bike Access/Transportation Committee
(d) CitiBank Bike Share Program/Transportation Committee
(e) Relocation of Goldwater Residents/Health, Seniors and Social Services Committee
Volunteers to be public member
Public Session – open discussion

Jeffrey Escobar and Laurence Parnes, Co-Chairs

It would be beneficial for RIOC and CB 8 to coordinate with each other to avoid such scheduling conflicts.

New RIOC President Charlene Indelicato Starts Work This Week - She Will Be Our Roosevelt Island Neighbor As Well

Reported last April 3:

I had been hearing rumors yesterday that a new President for the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) was about to be announced. During yesterday's RIOC Real Estate advisory committee meeting, I asked RIOC Directors present as well as Acting President Don Lewis and CFO Steve Chironis if a new President was selected. All indicated no knowledge of such an appointment.

Earlier today, I received word that Charlene Indelicato was to be named RIOC President at tomorrow's RIOC Board meeting....

Ms. Indelicato started work this week as the new RIOC President and attended her first RIOC Board Committee meeting yesterday - the Real Estate Advisory Committee meeting on status of Southtown (Riverwalk) Building 7 negotiations with Hudson Related Companies. The meeting was held in Executive Session, closed to the public, but before getting kicked out, I took this picture of Ms. Indelicato sitting (on right) with RIOC Staff and Directors.

Earlier in the afternoon, Ms Indelicato met with Hudson Related's David Kramer.

Have any of you met Ms. Indelicato yet. Octagon building residents will be seeing her often since she will be moving there.

RIOC Board Approves Charlene Indelicato As New President/CEO - She Says Roosevelt Island Is Her Dream Job

Image From City Of Mount Vernon

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Board Of Directors today approved Governor Cuomo's selection of Charlene Indelicato (former Mount Vernon Commissioner of Planning and Development Department) as the new RIOC President/CEO. The vote was 5 for approval and 3 abstentions. The 5 RIOC Directors voting to approve Ms. Indelicato were NY State representatives:

• Chair Darryl Towns,
• The NY State Budget Director Representative

and resident directors:

• David Kraut,
• Howard Polivy and
• Fay Christian.

The 3 Directors who abstained were:

• Michael Shinozaki,
• Margie Smith and
• Katherine Grimm.

The directors who abstained made it clear that they were not objecting to Ms. Indelicato qualifications for the RIOC President/CEO position but were objecting to the process by which she was selected without an Executive Search by the RIOC Board and without competing candidates. The Resident Directors who voted to approve Ms Indelicato also objected to the process by which she was selected but asserted that on balance the urgent need for a permanent RIOC President coupled with her qualifications outweighed their concerns over process.

Ms. Indelicato spoke briefly near the end of the RIOC Board meeting saying:

... Whatever the vote was, the vote was.... I know we can work together for the benefit of Roosevelt Island. ... I've been following the blog for many months and I just want to say this is one of the most interesting communities I have ever seen, really wonderful reading... I have worked in cities and small towns and this is a job that is a dream of mine to tell the truth, to run and operate the policy of this board, a small city in a big city is the most wonderful thing in the world for me...

Here's Ms. Indelicato's introductory remarks to the Roosevelt Island community:



More on Ms. Indelicato's selection as RIOC President from previous post and will update with more video from the meeting tomorrow.

UPDATE 4/5 - Here is the RIOC Board Directors discussion and vote approving Ms. Indelicato as RIOC President/CEO



and statement by former Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) Secretary Sherrie Helstien expressing her disappointment and shame at the two resident RIOC Directors (Howard Polivy and Fay Christian) who voted "lock step" to approve Governor Cuomo's selection of Ms. Indelicato without the appropriate vetting of her candidacy.



Before the vote during RIOC's Public Session, Roosevelt Island's Assembly Member Micah Kellner expressed disappointment at the lack of transparency in the selection process of Ms. Indelicato by Governor Cuomo.



Mr. Kellner also spoke of the lack of trust existing between the Roosevelt Island community and Public Safety Department and the need for reform of the Department.