Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) President Susan Rosenthal reported to the February 16 RIOC Board of Directors meeting on:
free public community space temporarily located at the Cultural Center,
plans for free community space to be permanently located at renovated 2nd floor of Sportspark facility,
intent to hire Director of Parks & Recreation,
determining what type of future programming to be undertaken at Sportspark,
Sportspark ready to open since January but is being held up by problems at NYC Department of Building, not known for sure when Sportspark will open,
Blackwell House renovation construction to start this spring,
marketing campaign to persuade contractors to work on Roosevelt Island projects,
new Tram Station Elevator RFP to be issued next month with public relations campaign to persuade contractors to bid on project,
Tram Platform renovations on Manhattan and Roosevelt Island stations - want it completed before Cornell Tech ribbon cutting in September so Governor and Mayor won't be on platform under construction,
Veterans Program moving forward with upcoming evening meeting March 21
Here's the full RIOC President's report from Ms. Rosenthal.
Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) President Susan Rosenthal announced at the RIOC December 8 Board meeting that free community space for Roosevelt Island groups will be made available at the Cultural Center...
... Details are still to be worked out but one requirement is that the groups themselves not charge for the free community space....
Image Of Cultural Center Entrance
The details have been worked out. RIOC announced today:
Free Public Space Pilot Program Announcement:
Starting Monday, February 13th, RIOC will begin a pilot program offering free public space to island residents in the Roosevelt Island Cultural Center (548 Main St.). These spaces, both a common area and a privately reserved function room, will be made available from 10 AM – 2 PM, Monday – Wednesday and on Friday, for recreational, cultural, and/or educational purposes. The intention is to give the general public, unaffiliated with for-profit or non-profit corporations, the opportunity to utilize community space, which may include group study sessions, exercise activities, and book clubs; as well as quiet space for individuals to relax, read, study or meditate.
We hope this initial pilot program will gauge interest in underutilized community space and RIOC looks forward to working with island residents as the next steps for this project are determined. For more information or to sign up for the Public Space Pilot Program, please call Donna Masly at 212-891-6540 or via email at Permits@rioc.ny.gov.
For further information, and a downloadable flyer, please visit our website.
Here's Ms. Rosenthal announcing RIOC's plan for the free Roosevelt Island Cultural Center community space
Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) President Susan Rosenthal announced at the RIOC December 8 Board meeting that free community space for Roosevelt Island groups will be made available at the Cultural Center
Image Of Cultural Center Entrance
starting in January 2017. Permits will not be required but reservations will be necessary for the groups seeking to use the Cultural Center space for free.
Images Of Cultural Center Common Area Space and Studio
Ms Rosenthal added that groups do not have to be 501 c3 corporations to use the space. Details are still to be worked out but one requirement is that the groups themselves not charge for the free community space.
Here's what Ms. Rosenthal said about Roosevelt Island free community space at the Cultural Center.
The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Real Estate Development Advisory Committee will be meeting Tuesday April 26. 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 Tuesday, April 26, 2016 at 5:00 P.M. at the RIOC Administrative Office, 591 Main Street, Roosevelt Island, New York.
Agenda:
1. Presentation by New York Public Library Regarding the 501 Main Street Buildout.
2. Discussion of the Roosevelt Island Bridge Rampway and Eastern Promenade Bikeway Project.
3. Discussion of Landscaping on South East Corner of the Cornell Site.
4. Discussion on the Roosevelt Island Youth Center Space Refurbishment.
5. Update on Community Space Utilization.
6. Discussion of the Sportspark Boiler, Roof, and Pool Replacements and Repairs.
7. Review Status of Southpoint Open Space Community Stakeholders Plan Development.
8. Any Other Committee Business that may be Brought Before the Committee.
An audio web cast of the meeting will be available soon thereafter.
Tram Elevators – The design of the new elevators is only 60% finished. Soil testing at the site is completed and an elevator construction consultant is on board. RIOC has not issued a new estimated date for operation of the elevators. ISC’s realistic new estimate is that the elevators will not be in operation until fall, 2017. We hope this is wrong and we will be surprised if the elevators come on‐line earlier.
Sportspark – Only a few minor repairs and changes have been made since our 1/26/16 meeting with Sportspark’s staff. We are awaiting the completion of the new roof project (expected in July, 2016) and the start of a number of major projects to further improve the facility.
There are continuing complaints about the quality of several classes. We are trying to help Sportspark recruit new teachers who should be able to improve the Sportspark programs.
Commercial Trash in Southtown – Last month the daily condition of the trash yard substantially deteriorated. We are working with Related’s new manager for commercial property to bring the yard back to meeting Dept. of Sanitation regulations. Just last week, there has been evidence of improvements. ISC will continue to monitor the situation until the yard routinely meets standards.
New Public Library – The library project remains on schedule for an opening sometime in late 2017 to early 2018.
Enhanced Services/Programs at Senior Center – We are not ready to meet with Senior Center officers as we are still developing information.
Community Use of Good Shepherd & Cultural Center – ISC has begun a fact‐ finding study of the conditions for community use of both Good Shepherd and the Cultural Center. We will check with all organizations that use these facilities to see if their needs are being met, review all RIOC regulations and policies governing use of the facilities, and determine what rental rates apply.
Respectfully Submitted,
Aaron Hamburger, ISC Chair
Mr. Hamburger and RIRA ISC member Suzy del Campo Perea provided an oral update of the ISC Report regarding the Tram Station Elevators, Southtown Commercial Garbage area, Sportspark improvements and playground inspections.
As reported earlier this week, the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) will be presenting plans for the new Roosevelt Island Manhattan Tram Station elevators at an April 12 Community Board 8 Meeting. All residents are encouraged to attend the meeting.
The use of Roosevelt Island Community space by various local groups is an important issue for some residents. If you are interested in using Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Cultural Center community space, plan on attending RIOC meeting tomorrow.
According to RIOC:
The meeting for scheduling Cultural Center permit requests on Thursday, February 25th at 9 AM has been moved to the Cultural Center Small Studio.
This meeting is open to individuals or groups seeking permits that fall between the dates of April 1, 2016 and June 30, 2016 only.
Attendees are required to RSVP and advise their anticipated space needs by February 24th by contacting Donna Masly at 212.891.6540 or emailing permits@rioc.ny.gov.
Images Of Cultural Center Theater, Studio and Common Area Space
The use of Roosevelt Island Community space by various local groups is an important issue for some residents. If you are interested in using Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) community space, plan on attending two upcoming RIOC meetings next week.
According to RIOC:
A meeting for scheduling permit requests for the Good Shepherd Community Center will take place on Monday, February 22nd at 9 AM at the RIOC main office (591 Main Street).
A meeting for scheduling permit requests for the Cultural Center will take place on Thursday, February 25th at 9 AM at the RIOC main office (591 Main Street).
These meetings will address permit requests that fall between the dates of April 1, 2016 and June 30, 2016. For more information, or to reserve a seat and receive a permit application, please contact Donna Masly at 212.891.6540 or email permits@rioc.ny.gov
... RIOC Director Howard Polivy provided an overview of Roosevelt Island community spaces including at Sportspark, Good Shepherd Community Center and the newly renovated Cultural Center space. Mr. Polivy emphasized that use of the community center spaces will "evolve" over time. RIOC President Charlene Indelicato added that all of the Roosevelt Island groups seeking community space:
... must be treated in a fair and equitable manner...
noting that Public Authorities, like RIOC, are under a great deal of scrutiny from NY State. Ms. Indelicato added that the intent of RIOC is not to make money on the Cultural Center
According to the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC):
Please be advised, due to floor re-surfacing, the Good Shepherd Community Center (543 Main Street) will be closed starting Thursday, January 28th through Saturday, January 30th. The Center will reopen for normal operating hours on Sunday, January 31st. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Frank Farance shares these photos of the new
Image From Frank Farance
Good Shepherd Chapel Floor.
Image From Frank Farance
As reported Monday, January 11, the Good Shepherd Community Center Chapel Floor was replaced earlier this month. Members of Roosevelt Island religious organizations that use the Chapel say that they were not given adequate notice of the floor replacement and:
... that Church objects were damaged and worship services disrupted due to the floor replacement...
RIOC disputes that adequate notice was not given to the religious groups about the floor replacement.
Hopefully, the Chapel Floor re-surfacing will be completed in time for Sunday services.
UPDATE 5:50 PM - Roosevelt Island St Cabrini Catholic parishioner Frank Farance comments below that religious groups who use the Good Shepherd Chapel were upset they were not notified of the Good Shepherd Chapel floor replacement. Mr. Farance says that Church objects were damaged and worship services disrupted due to the floor replacement.
I asked RIOC President Charlene Indelicato to comment on the matter. Ms. Indelicato replied:
All three parishes were notified last week that Good Shepherd would not be usable this weekend. Each one had alternate arrangements through myself and their parish managers. Public safety was also notified and instructed to allow access to set up/move what was necessary for mass at times that weren't listed on the booking report.
The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) is conducting tours of the newly renovated Cultural Center at 548 Main Street.
Image Of Roosevelt Island Cultural Center Entrance
According to RIOC:
On Thursday, April 9th, tours of the newly renovated Cultural Center will be offered at 10 AM and 6 PM. Advanced signups are recommended. If you wish to attend a tour, please email permits@rioc.ny.gov.
RIOC has established 3 different fee schedules for use of the various spaces at the Cultural Center by groups and individuals based upon the size of the space and whether the user is a resident, resident non profit group or non resident. Below is the Roosevelt Island Cultural Center Fee Schedule
... approved a non-exclusive license agreement for use of portions of the Cultural Center (the theater, workshop and theater storage room) at no cost in exchange for MST&DA to operate and maintain the space. MST&DA will be required to pay the non-profit hourly rate (see below) for areas outside of the agreed license....
The Main Street Theater & Dance Alliance (MST&DA) license agreement with RIOC for the Cultural Center space is through the end of 2015 at which time RIOC will issue a Request For Proposals (RFP) for the space. The history of MST&DA will be considered in evaluating the Cultural Center RFP.
Here's the Roosevelt Island Cultural Center Theater,
dressing room,
dance and exercise floors
as well as Common Area adjacent to meeting rooms.
Roosevelt Island Residents and organizations are encouraged to inform RIOC of any interest in using the Cultural Center Space for your meetings or other needs.
The Cultural Center use and fee schedule was discussed during the March 19 RIOC Real Estate Development Advisory Committee meeting held at the Cultural Center Theater (audio web cast of meeting). Here's what happened.
Part 1. RIOC Director Howard Polivy provided an overview of Roosevelt Island community spaces including at Sportspark, Good Shepherd Community Center and the newly renovated Cultural Center space. Mr. Polivy emphasized that use of the community center spaces will "evolve" over time. RIOC President Charlene Indelicato added that all of the Roosevelt Island groups seeking community space:
... must be treated in a fair and equitable manner...
noting that Public Authorities, like RIOC, are under a great deal of scrutiny from NY State. Ms. Indelicato added that the intent of RIOC is not to make money on the Cultural Center.
Part 2. RIOC Community Relations Specialist Erica Spencer-El discussed how the policy and procedures for the new Cultural Center space were determined.
Part 3. RIOC's Donna Masly discussed Cultural Center fees and usage policies followed by discussion between the RIOC and residents attending the meeting.
Also a very interesting, though brief, exchange (at the 35 minute 30 second mark) between RIOC Board Member Margie Smith, RIOC CFO Frances Walton and Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) Vice President Sherie Helstien regarding Roosevelt Island ground rent payed to RIOC being owed to NY State due to the State's prior infrastructure investment in Roosevelt Island.
Part 4. Discussion regarding why Main Street Theater & Dance Alliance is treated differently than other organizations seeking use of the Cultural Center Space. Also, discussion of religious organizations using the Cultural Center Space.
Bottom line, if you are interested in renting Roosevelt Island community space at the Cultural Center sign up to take the tour tomorrow and see the space for yourself.
More on Roosevelt Island Cultural Center Community space issues here, here and here.
RIOC President Charlene Indelicato reported that the agreement is a non exclusive use of the theater space by MST&DA until the end of 2015 at which time a Request For Proposals (RFP) will be issued for the space. Ms Indelicato noted that the history of MST&DA will be considered in evaluating the Cultural Center RFP.
Here's what Ms. Indelicato said:
Ms Indelicato also reported on the Cultural Center fee schedule, upcoming construction projects from Cornell, Riverwalk Building 7 and new Con Ed High Pressure Gas line to be installed as well as community volunteer efforts.
RIOC Director Howard Polivy provided more info about the construction projects, including Con Ed Gas Line, and asked for community patience during the needed work.
RIOC Community Relations Specialist Erica Spencer-El added:
...last night the board approved a non-exclusive license agreement for use of portions of the Cultural Center (the theater, workshop and theater storage room) at no cost in exchange for MST&DA to operate and maintain the space. MST&DA will be required to pay the non-profit hourly rate (see below) for areas outside of the agreed license.
Ms. Spencer-El also provided the Cultural Center Fee Schedule below
and this list of organizations interested in using the Cultural Center Space:
1) Zalman Duchman,
2) Nina Lublin
3) RI Jewish Congregation
4) RI Explorers
5) Hope Church
6) Islamic Society of RI
7) Assembly member Seawright
8) RI Parents Network
9) Ashley Heart on behalf of a local Japanese group
10) Island Kids.
Here's the new Roosevelt Island Cultural Center Theater,
According to this Press Release from Assembly Member Seawright's office:
In honor of Women’s History Month, Assembly Member Rebecca A. Seawright (D-Manhattan) hosted a Women of Distinction Awards ceremony to recognize the extraordinary women on the Upper East Side and Roosevelt Island. The awards ceremony was held at the Women’s History Celebration and ribbon cutting for the Community Office Grand Opening reception held at 1365 First Avenue on Friday, March 20th at 2pm. Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney, State Senator Jose Serrano, Council Member Ben Kallos and Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer were in attendance to recognize the outstanding work of the local nominees and to welcome the new community office. Mrs. Brown entertained the crowd with a poetry reading.
“I applaud the achievements, leadership and noteworthy contributions of women in our community,” said Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright. “It is important to recognize the women who came before us like Julia Richman, the first Jewish principal, first woman to be appointed a District Superintendent and the namesake of a fabulous public high school in my district. We stand taller because we stand on the shoulders of the women who came before us and they deserve to be recognized. I am thrilled to honor the following Women of Distinction:
Judith E. Schneider
Patricia Saunders
Barbara Chocky
Yvonne Fitzner
Judith Berdy
Monica Iken-Murphy
Jill Eisner
Helaine Eisenberg
Betty Cooper Wallerstein
Winifred Cudjoe
Helene Goldfarb
Rebecca Ocampo”
During March 23 Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Governance Committee meeting on Public Purpose Funds, Ms. Berdy explained the time consuming problems of obtaining NYC Council Discretionary Funds and advocated on behalf of local community organizations receiving needed funds from private developers. Ms Berdy made this plea:
... Go to the developers. Get them to donate to the community this year. they all are making lots of money. David Kramer is opening his rental office in 6 weeks... All of these people are making xxxxx good money and Cornell is screwing the community by not giving us a cent....
... If RIOC is stuck for a year, then I think it is time that everyone who has business on this Island, the big corporations, come up and help the community. Because without the community this is nothing. Every single organization was started by people who live on this Island and work on this Island and care about this Island....
... Get the xxxxx developers, get David Kramer. 100 Grand to Monadnock and Related is chicken feed. Get them to contribute....
Ms. Berdy also suggested putting a toll booth on Main Street to charge $100 per cement mixer.
Here's Ms. Berdy's full plea to the RIOC Governance Committee.
Image of Renovated Main Street Theater At Roosevelt Island Cultural Center
The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Board Of Directors meet later today.
Image Of December 2014 RIOC Board Of Directors Meeting
A public comment session is held prior to the start of the meeting. Here is the Agenda:
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a Board of Directors meeting will be held on Thursday, March 26, 2015 at 5:30 p.m. at the Manhattan Park Community Center, 8 River Road, Roosevelt Island, New York, for the purpose of transacting such business as shall come before the Board.
I. Call to Order
II.Roll Call
III. Approval of Minutes
1. February 26, 2015 Board Meeting (Board Action Required)
IV. Old Business
V. New Business
1. Authorization to Ratify and Amend Contract with JFA Insurance Brokerage & Associates, Inc. and Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. for Insurance Brokerage Services (Board Action Required)
2. Authorization to Enter Into Insurance Binders for 2015-16 (Board Action Required)
3. Authorization to Enter Into License and Operating Agreement with the Main Street Theater & Dance Alliance (MSTDA) (Board Action Required)
4. Authorization to Ratify and Amend License Agreement with the Roosevelt Island Garden Club, LTD (RIGC) (Board Action Required)
5. Authorization to Ratify and Amend License Agreement with Riverwalk Landings, LLC for Zipcar Parking at Southtown (Board Action Required)
6. President’s Report
7. Committee Reports
a. Audit Committee
b. Governance Committee
c. Operations Advisory Committee
d. Real Estate Development Advisory Committee
8. Public Safety Report
VI. Adjournment
[1] The RIOC Board Meeting will commence following a public comment period. The public comment period is not part of the meeting.
... As part of its Master Lease Agreement with the City of New York and its General Development Plan, RIOC’s mission is to develop a “comprehensive system of community facilities” which includes daycare centers for children on the Island, community rooms, and facilities for the elderly and youth, among other things. A comprehensive community also includes initiatives that better the lives of children and families through the creation of programs that enrich its members and yield a more vested, interested community-base.
One such facility is a performing arts theater that provides a source of recreation for the residents of Roosevelt Island. Much like a youth center nurtures children through activities and other learning experiences that greatly add to their growth in becoming responsible adults, a performing arts theater is an integral part of community relations because it offers interesting opportunities that bring its members together. Indeed, theater creates a core place for residents to interact and actively participate in theater productions. For these reasons, RIOC seeks an Island-based theater group to operate the performing arts theater, located at the Cultural Center.
Upon much consideration, The Main Street Theater and Dance Alliance (“MSTDA”) is the appropriate organization to fulfill that task. MSTDA is a community-based theater production group that has served the residents of Roosevelt Island for over thirty years. MSTDA is run by a professional staff, primarily of volunteers, who are also Roosevelt Island residents. MSTDA strives to enhance the community experience by creating high quality performance and dance training opportunities for all members of the Roosevelt Island community....
... As part of its Mission Statement, RIOC’s mission is to “provide an appropriate level of services to develop and maintain public facilities, open spaces, and commercial facilities,” among other things. As part of its Master Lease with the City of New York, “Open Space Areas” shall be developed as parks. Accordingly, RIOC, in seeking an Island-based gardening group to operate the garden space at Octagon Park, wishes to extend the Permit for Limited Activities on Roosevelt Island License, Waiver of Liability and Indemnity Agreement, Revocable License Agreement, and the Waste Removal Letter Agreement (“The Agreements”) currently in effect with Roosevelt Island Garden Club (“RIGC”), to December 31, 2015.
In 1989, RIOC created a group, consisting of community organizations and Island residents, to develop a comprehensive plan for the landscaping of Octagon Park. In 1990, it was determined by this group that Octagon Park would “include ballfields, community gardens, open lawn areas and an ‘ecological park.’”
RIGC, founded by current and former members of the community in 1975, who had an interest in beautifying the Island, moved its gardens from the Commons Area to Octagon Park, once the development plan for that open space was formulated. RIGC has been operating its garden programs at Octagon Park for over twenty years and consists of Roosevelt Island residents.
Today, RIGC’s website states that its mission is to “manage a community garden in the manner that provides a rewarding and enjoyable gardening experience for its members.” RIGC strives to impart an appreciation for gardening among its members and the Roosevelt Island community and in so doing, manages over 132 gardening plots, including six plots designated for disabled members. Its responsibilities include: Managing the grounds, designating specified hours of operation, implementing waste removal procedures, and maintaining insurance coverage for its programs. RIGC also offers educational classes and workshops to its members and the community, as well as a composting program. And, having a good relationship with Green Thumb, RIGC has also taken advantage of Green Thumb’s gardening amenities, classes, and free supplies
To that end, RIOC wishes to extend the Agreements with RIGC that are due to expire on March 31, 2015, to December 31, 2015.....
At the June 2010 Board Meeting, the RIOC Board approved a one-year license agreement between the Corporation and the Riverwalk Landing LLC. The purpose of the license agreement was to provide three parking spaces for Zipcar vehicles at the Southtown location. The Zipcar venture proved to be successful on Roosevelt Island, so the original license was amended by the Board in June 2011 and in May 2012. The license was subsequently extended by the Board through May 2013. It was further extended through its current expiration date of April 30, 2015.
As noted, the current one-year Zipcar license expires on April 30, 2015. Therefore, RIOC would like to extend it on the following terms:
The number of Zipcar vehicles will remain the same – three (3)
The license fee will increase from $192 to $200
The license will be extended for an additional one-year period
I recommend the ratification and amendment of Zipcar license agreement with Riverwalk Landing LLC for Board approval on the terms set forth above.
UPDATE 9:15 PM - The RIOC Board of Directors approved Main Street Theater & Dance Alliance license agreement. The Garden Club and Zipcar motions were postponed for a future meeting.
The Chapel of the Good Shepherd has been a community center for Roosevelt Island residents... but it was originally built in 1888-9 to serve as an Episcopal mission to the Almshouse on then-named Blackwell’s Island....
... From 1997 to 2002, state assembly representative Pete Grannis and the New York State legislature allocated a series of state grants, totaling $312,000, towards the restoration of Good Shepherd...
... The chapel was commissioned by George M. Bliss (1816-1896), an important New York banker, who began his career in the dry goods business. Through successful speculation during the Civil War, he amassed a large fortune, and in 1869 he joined Levi P. Moron, later a Vice-President of the United States, in a banking business under the firm name of Morton, Bliss & Company. In his later years he served as Treasurer of the Protestant Episcopal Mission Society which administered the Chapel of the Good Shepherd.
Today the chapel serves a new and more general purpose, as a community center for the residents of the island’s new housing complex. It has also been rededicated to serve as an ecumenical place of worship....
Fr. Thomas Kallumady cannot be here tonight so he has asked me to go on record and explain what is happening to our faith community at Good Shepherd.
We have been asked by RIOC several months ago to pay up front for our use of GS by a term of six months. Fr. Has explained to RIOC that we don’t receive our collections 6 months in advance and that it is not possible for us to pay for our mass times 6 months in advance. After much negotiation RIOC agreed, but stated they want three months in advance and if we don’t give that to them, we would lose our mass times. Fr. Again informed RIOC that we don’t get our collection three months in advance, but only monthly. We could not do this. We had not heard back from RIOC and continued to make our monthly payments.
For those here tonight who are not Catholic, our mass times are universal, international mass times. They do not change parish to parish, state to state, country to country.
At our parish council meeting last night, Fr. Shared with us the email he received from Donna Moseley. It stated that we were to pay three months in advance by April 1st or we would be locked out of GS and they would have personnel at the door to make sure we could not enter.
Not only were we deeply offended with the tone RIOC took with us, the timing of their negotiations puts us out of our worship space at the beginning of Holy week, with Easter Sunday on the 5th.
When Good Shepherd Chapel was built it was built with the intent of being used as a worship space. However and why ever worship space changed into a community center left us with a serious issue. RIOC states to us that anyone who rents space at GS must pay in advance for that space. We are sure that RIOC understands the differences between for profit and not for profit. How can any church that depends on its collections to pay the rent be treated as a for profit that can pay in advance.
We have lost revenue by the closing of our thrift shop. We are operating on a month to month basis. We would like our faith communities of residents on Roosevelt Island to come together to discuss with RIOC a way we can continue to worship in our space and have the respect of RIOC while we additionally respect the requirements of the for profits that also occupy the same space. We are NOT asking that we not pay rent, only that we pay as we and other faiths in the same space have always paid, month to month.
Thank you.
Here is the email sent from RIOC to Father Kallumudy regarding fees for the use of Good Shepherd Community Center:
Good Afternoon-
Attached you will find your invoices for April, May, and June. The total permit fee is $2540.00. Payment must be received IN FULL before you may enter the Good Shepherd Community Center in April. We will have staff present to ensure compliance with our permitting policies.
Just to reiterate, as is RIOC policy across the board for ALL permits, no one will be permitted into the Good Shepherd Community Center if the permit fee is not received prior to your first scheduled date.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Today, I asked RIOC President Charlene Indelicato:
During last night's RIRA meeting, it was reported that RIOC is seeking 3 months rent in advance from the local Catholic Parish for their Mass times at the Good Shepherd Community Center.
It was also stated that if the 3 month rental fee was not provided to RIOC by April 1, the parish would be "locked out" of using Good Shepherd.
Is that true?
Any comment on this matter.
Ms. Indelicato replied that RIOC must treat all organizations seeking to use RIOC controlled premises, such as the Good Shepherd Community Center, on a first come equal basis.
She added that if the St. Francis Cabrini Catholic Parish wants to pay for the use of Good Shepherd Chapel on a monthly basis they may do so but that will not guarantee the Catholic Parish's use of the Chapel for the next month if another group pays for it before Cabrini.
During last evening's RIRA meeting, the RIRA Common Council approved a motion asking RIOC to maintain the monthly fee
for Roosevelt Island religious organizations using Good Shepherd Chapel.
Roosevelt Island is a growing community with a variety of organizations, both established and new, seeking low cost or no cost meeting space. It is an ongoing issue not only with the Catholic Parish's use of Good Shepherd but other groups such as the Main Street Theater & Dance Alliance's use of the recently renovated Cultural Center.
Image Of Roosevelt Island Cultural Center Entrance At 548 Main Street
As previously reported, the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) plans on charging fees to organizations using the newly renovated and about to be re-opened Cultural Center. Before the renovation, organizations were not charged fees for use of the Cultural Center by RIOC.
During the February 26 RIOC Board of Directors Public Session, Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) Vice President Sherie Helsien criticized RIOC for instituting any new Cultural Center fees, particularly as it applies to the Main Street Theater & Dance Alliance.
According to Ms. Helstien, RIOC should be:
... asking for no more than a Dollar a month compensation if they must have something from this long time community service.
and added:
... RIOC and the State want our money. It seems at almost any cost to this community. Shame on RIOC but they have no shame and they have no backbone to stand up for us.
The State is, and I am not talking necessarily about the RIOC Board members, our neighbors, I am talking about RIOC the corporation. The State is and almost never has been a friend to this community and we all know this well....
... Is there anyone on the RIOC Board or staff looking after the interests of this beleaguered community?...
RIOC Director Margie Smith responded to Ms. Helstien saying:
There was a mandate by the State that has to do with grants and the way we can spend money. We have been knocking ourselves out trying to come up with a way to get everybody back in there for as little as possible....
... You say we don't have your back - believe me we have your back...
... As a group these guys are doing everything they can to get everybody back in the cultural center, all the groups and to make it as fair as possible. And to do it without breaking the law of NY State and without going against the mandate.
...State and local authorities, as defined by Section 2 of the Public Authorities Law, whether created as public benefit corporations or formed as not- for-profit corporations, have only those powers explicitly granted or necessarily implied by statute. Accordingly, state and local authorities may engage in only those activities and exercise those powers which are expressly authorized in law or which are incidental to performing their statutory purposes.
Authorities Budget Office Policy Guidance: This limitation applies to the power of a state or local authority to award its monies in the form of grants and loans to public or private interests. Such financial assistance is prohibited unless expressly authorized in statute.
A state and local authority (other than an industrial development agency) formed as public benefit corporation may not award grants or issue loans of its own funds unless such power is expressly permitted in its enabling statute. The authority to make grants and execute loans is not an implied power of a public benefit corporation....
Apparently, RIOC can no longer subsidize Roosevelt Island organizations with below market rent for space it controls under this new NY State mandate.
The Main Street Theater & Dance Alliance (MST&DA) and the Roosevelt Island Jewish Congregation (RIJC) have been unable to use the space they formerly occupied at the Cultural Center following a July 2012 flooding incident which caused substantial damage to the premises.
Image Of Roosevelt Island Cultural Center Entrance At 548 Main Street
Since that time RIOC has been in the process of repairing the damaged Cultural Center and establishing procedures for future use of the space by Roosevelt Island community groups including former occupants such as the MST&DA, RIJC and other groups seeking space.
The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) has finally repaired the damage caused by July 2012 flooding and made worse by the October 2012 Hurricane Sandy. RIOC recently completed the renovation of the Cultural Center but the MST&DA may not be able to return to the new Cultural Center reports its Executive Director Owen Johnston during last night's Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) Public Session.
Mr. Johnston told the RIRA Common Council that RIOC is seeking a $8 Thousand monthly fee from MST&DA in order to use the Cultural Center space and noted:
... the idea that we would not be able to dance on our own dance studio floors does not make any sense....
In response to questions from RIRA's Aaron Hamburger, Mr. Johnston added:
... the fees they are discussing are beyond onerous. Quite frankly, they are absurd. Its not anything we as an organization have ever experienced. It's been in the past, RIOC has understood the benefit we bring to the community.
Also, Mr. Johnston said RIOC intends to use a portion of the Cultural Center space for some of its own office and storage use.
Mr. Johnston will be meeting today with RIOC to discuss the issue further and will be seeking the support of the Roosevelt Island community to return the MST&DA to the newly renovated Cultural Center.
Last evening, I asked RIOC President Charlene Indelicato:
Owen Johnston of Main Street Theater & Dance Alliance claims that Rioc is seeking what he claims to be an exorbitant rent of $8 thousand per month for the newly renovated Cultural Center Space.
Is it true that Rioc is seeking $8 thousand per month from Main Street theater for the space?
Also, any comment from Rioc regarding issue of Cultural Center space and it's use by community organizations.
Ms. Indelicato replied:
I have no comment at this time other than to say the amount stated was never discussed
Here's what Mr. Johnston said at RIRA meeting last night.
Stay tuned.
UPDATE 6:50 PM - MST&DA Board President Jenine Olsen reports on today's meeting with RIOC:
We had a meeting today with RIOC and came away with a firm belief that they understand and personally value the contributions we have made for so many years to this community. We also came away with a better understanding of the constraints RIOC is faced with under the current political directives.
We are working on a proposal which we feel will be received in a positive way and allow us to again deliver our quality programs at 548 Main Street. The $8000 monthly fee was one interpretation that Owen came away with after being given the rates proposed for the spaces we would use at the hours we would need. We are optimistic that our rent will not be near that amount when we meet again with RIOC and present our proposal.
... The Main Street Theater & Dance Alliance (MST&DA) and the Roosevelt Island Jewish Congregation (RIJC) have been unable to use the space they formerly occupied at the Cultural Center following a July 2012 flooding incident which caused substantial damage to the premises.
Since that time RIOC has been in the process of repairing the damaged Cultural Center and establishing procedures for future use of the space by Roosevelt Island community groups including former occupants such as the MST&DA, RIJC and other groups seeking space. To date, the additional community groups seeking to share space in the Cultural Center are the Roosevelt Island Islamic Community and the Jewish Chabad congregation who are seeking places of worship for their members...
... If you know of a Roosevelt Island non profit community group seeking space, have them contact RIOC so that RIOC is aware of their needs....
Today, RIOC sent the following update:
Construction on Roosevelt Island Cultural Center
In 2012, the Roosevelt Island Cultural Center suffered water damage from flooding and unfortunately, was severely harmed several months later during Hurricane Sandy. Work is ongoing to restore the Center in order to make it available to the community once more. Debris and damaged areas will have been cleared as of this Friday; restoration work is currently in the design stage.
Currently, RIOC is working to complete the construction plans and specifications by the end of November 2013. Once these documents are complete, a formal Request For Proposals will be issued and final bids to complete the work should be received by January 15, 2014. RIOC will review the bids, select the contractor and award the contract for the necessary construction during the month of February. Renovation is expected to be completed by the end of summer 2014.
Our main priorities for the renovation of the Cultural Center are to restore the space for community use and to prevent water damage in the future. We know that the Center is an important space on Roosevelt Island, and RIOC is working hard to make sure that the work is conducted accordingly.
According to the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC):
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a meeting of the Operations Advisory Committee of the RIOC Board of Directors will be held on Monday, August 26, 2013 at 5:30 p.m. at the RIOC administrative office, 591 Main Street, Roosevelt Island, New York.
Agenda:
Discussions of:
1. Pier Repairs
2. Steam Plant Closing
3. Cornell Infrastructure
4. Permit Fees
5. Lighthouse Park Repairs
6. Security Camera Project
7. Advertising and Posting Policy
8. Cultural Center Repairs
9. Southpoint Seawall Repairs
10. Outdoor Exercise Equipment
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.
During the August 22 RIOC Real Estate Advisory Committee Meeting (here's audio webcast of meeting), RIOC Director Howard Polivy and President Charlene Indelicato reported that the Roosevelt Island Sportspark facility
may have to temporarily close for an unknown period of time because of the scheduled closing of the Steam Plant.
Image Of Roosevelt Island Steam Plant
Mr. Polivy explained that the Steam Plant supplies power to the Sportspark and without the Steam Plant, or, a substitute energy source, the Sportspark cannot operate. Ms Indelicato noted that Sportspark could be closed for as little as one or two weeks in order to install a temporary energy source. It is unknown at this time if Sportspark would be closed for a prolonged period of time.
According to the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC)
NOTICE OF THE
AUGUST 21, 2013 MEETING OF THE
REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE
OF THE ROOSEVELT ISLAND OPERATING CORPORATION
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a meeting of the Real Estate Development Advisory Committee of the RIOC Board of Directors will be held on Wednesday, August 21, 2013 at 5:30 p.m. at the RIOC administrative office, 591 Main Street, Roosevelt Island, New York.
Agenda:
1. Presentation by Trellis Proprietor
2. Update on 548 Main Street Cultural Center Repairs and Management Plan
3. Discussion of the Development of Park and Community Space General Utilization Plan
4. Discussion of the Request to Move the Southtown Dog Walk
5. 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.
The Main Street Theater & Dance Alliance (MST&DA) and the Roosevelt Island Jewish Congregation (RIJC) have been unable to use the space they formerly occupied at the Cultural Center following a July 2012 flooding incident which caused substantial damage to the premises.
Since that time RIOC has been in the process of repairing the damaged Cultural Center and establishing procedures for future use of the space by Roosevelt Island community groups including former occupants such as the MST&DA, RIJC and other groups seeking space. To date, the additional community groups seeking to share space in the Cultural Center are the Roosevelt Island Islamic Community and the Jewish Chabad congregation who are seeking places of worship for their members.
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.
