FreshDirect to Open New Headquarters in the Bronx

Company Will Invest $112 Million and Employ Nearly 3,000 Workers

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo, Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg, and Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., today announced that FreshDirect, a leading fresh food internet grocer, will invest $112.6 million to build its new headquarters and operations center at Harlem River Yards, retaining nearly 2,000 existing jobs and creating almost 1,000 new jobs.

The construction of the new facility will also result in the creation of approximately 684 construction jobs in the City.

“FreshDirect is a home-grown success that will now continue to grow and create jobs in New York,” Governor Cuomo said.

“Creating almost a thousand new jobs is a real victory for the Bronx and a clear sign that leading New York companies see this state as the place to start, stay and strengthen their businesses.”

New York City Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg noted, “Making sure that companies like FreshDirect can grow and invest in New York City is a key part of our strategy to rebuild and diversify our economy. A thousand new jobs at the Harlem River Yards is great news for the Bronx and a welcome boost to our City’s economy.”

“I welcome FreshDirect to the Bronx with open arms. This iconic company will not only stay in New York where it belongs thanks to this deal, they will bring 1,000 new jobs with them to our borough. More and more companies are discovering that the Bronx is a great place to do business, and FreshDirect’s move to our borough is a major positive step forward for our economy,” stated  Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

FreshDirect Chief Executive Officer Jason Ackerman added, "From day one, New York has been our home, and we are grateful for the support of Governor Cuomo and Mayor Bloomberg in making New York a place FreshDirect wants to stay and grow in, and for Bronx Borough President Diaz welcoming us. With significant growth in our customer base, we need to expand our operations. A new state-of-the-art facility at the Harlem River Yard in the Bronx would allow us to operate more efficiently, maintain our relationships with NYS vendors, local farmers and purveyors and continue our long track record of growth and job creation in New York.”

FreshDirect, founded in 1999 and currently based in Long Island City, New York, purchases produce, meat and dairy from over 60 New York State-based farms and serves a customer base of over 100,000 people with 97 percent of their employees coming from New York State.

To meet the needs of its rapidly growing customer base, FreshDirect will invest $112.6 million to construct a state-of-the-art 500,000 square foot facility on a 16 acre parcel at Harlem River Rail Yards in the Bronx. From its new headquarters and operations, the company will dramatically expand its service area to regions surrounding New York City, as well as New Jersey, Connecticut, and Philadelphia.

To encourage FreshDirect to retain and expand their operations in New York City, a package of state and city incentives valued at over $100 million is being provided to augment the company’s private investment including: New York State: $18.9 million in Excelsior tax credits (ESD), $9 million capital grant (ESD), $4 million in energy grants and incentives (NYPA/NYSERDA), $1 million loan (ESD), and up to $1 million in vouchers for the purchase of electric vehicles (NYSERDA).

New York City incentives include: Approximately $74 million in sales tax exemptions, mortgage recording tax deferral, and real estate tax exemption spending approval (NYCIDA), $9.5 million to acquire assets to be used at the new facility at Harlem River Rail Yards pending approval (NYCIDA), $4.9 million in energy benefits (NYCEDC), and $1 million loan (NYCEDC).

The Bronx Borough President's incentive includes a $1 million capital grant, and the Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation would receive a $3 million loan and a $500,000 capital grant.

FreshDirect plans to purchase 10 electric refrigerated electric trucks from Smith Electric Vehicles, and five additional electric refrigeration units that can be placed on existing trucks.

Smith Electric is a leader in zero-emission, all-electric commercial vehicles, which – through a federally-funded program and with assistance provided by New York City and State - recently announced plans to establish a clean technology manufacturing facility in the South Bronx that will create more than 100 new direct jobs.

A number of city officials praised the decision and expressed full support for the economic plan. They include the following: 

"Thanks to Governor Cuomo’s leadership, a true New York success story is staying in New York. This is another strong signal of how the Governor’s efforts to create a better business environment are paying off in the form of more jobs for New Yorkers." - Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Kenneth Adams.

“While New York City is the home to some of the most innovative companies in the world, there are few that have impacted the daily habits of New Yorkers like FreshDirect. Over the next decade, this project will lead to significant investment in the South Bronx, creating thousands of jobs for New Yorkers, generating hundreds of millions of dollars in overall economic activity, and ensuring that this hometown success story is able to continue its tremendous growth right here in the five boroughs where it belongs.” -  New York City Economic Development Corporation President Seth W. Pinsky

“FreshDirect’s decision to expand in the Bronx is a strong statement of confidence in New York City's future. Today’s announcement is the latest sign that more and more businesses want to be in New York City.” -  NYC Deputy Mayor Robert K. Steel.

“FreshDirect's move to the Bronx will bring much needed jobs to the borough, along with additional business opportunities here and across the region for companies of all types. I look forward to working with them to expand the borough’s economy for years to come.” -  Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation President Marlene Cintron

Image courtesy of http://www.prlog.org

Addabbo Responds to District High School Closures

"The Navigation Through this Process Will Not be an Easy Task"

Queens, NY, – New York State Senator Joseph Addabbo, Jr. (D-Queens) released the following statement today, reacting to Mayor Bloomberg’s State of the City comments regarding high school closures in his district:
   
I intend to work with both the NYS and NYC Department of Education, the mayor’s administration and other involved parties on ensuring the best quality education available to students at the three Turnaround schools in my district, namely Grover Cleveland, John Adams and Richmond Hill High Schools. I want to make sure that each student has a seat at the school they currently attend and that parents’ concerns are answered.

I believe that since these schools and their names have played an integral role in the character and history of our communities, any new name should take into consideration and incorporate the school’s current name. 

As a member of the State Senate Education Committee, I encourage all parents to work with their elected officials in obtaining information and addressing their issues with the Turnaround process and the quality of their child’s education at the schools. The Turnaround process has much at stake, such as the student’s education, critical federal funding and teachers’ and principals’ job stability. The navigation through this process will not be an easy task. 

Image courtesy of http://www.clipartpal.com

An OTB Retiree Speaks Out

Former Rep Blasts Governor Cuomo and Mayor Bloomberg on Veto of Bill S. 4489

On June 27, New York State Senator Joseph Addabbo, Jr., (D-Queens), a member of the Senate’s Racing, Gaming & Wagering Committee, commended the Senate for bringing to the floor a vote on requiring the State of New York to maintain the health insurance and supplemental benefits received by retirees of the New York City Off-Track Betting Corporation (NYC OTB) (S.4489/Rules).

The bill noted that after the closure of NYC OTB on December 7, 2010, employees who had retired from the corporation were assured they and their dependents would receive health insurance and supplemental benefit coverage under their collective bargaining representative’s welfare benefit program. However, those benefits ceased upon closure of NYC OTB.

According to Addabbo, the State breaking a promise to supply benefits to retired NYC OTB employees and their dependents was one of the many reasons why he voted in favor of this bill and helped sought its passage.

“With the Senate’s commitment to provide health insurance and supplemental benefits to retirees of NYC OTB, the State is reaffirming its commitment to provide due benefits and recognition to former workers and families of NYC OTB. No one should have to endure financial hardships and choose which benefits to leave behind,” said Addabbo.

Former employees received supplemental benefits such as prescription drugs, optical and dental insurance through welfare fund benefit plans funded through employer contributions. Upon benefits ceasing to exist with the closure of NYC OTB, retirees were left to determine which prior benefits they could attain without employer contributions.

Addabbo noted it was illogical how benefits ceased to exist with plans in place to continue funding of benefits for retirees. “This bill is long overdue, and I am proud to stand with my Senate colleagues to provide for all present and future retirees the entitlement of benefits from any city-authorized health insurance or welfare benefit program,” he explained.

Under the proposed measure, the State would have reimbursed the city or its designee for the actual cost of benefits. Ultimately, the bill was vetoed by Governor Cuomo.

"I had written an August 10 letter to the Governor stating that I would be prepared to make additional appropriate budget cuts in spending or seek to further eliminate wasteful allocations in order to absorb the cost of S4489/A5785. I stand with the union members of DC 37 Local 2021 and Teamsters Local 858, who speak for the NYC OTB retirees now in crisis, who cannot continue monthly (COBRA) premiums, which exceed their monthly pension income," stated Senator Addabbo.

"Many of the 900 retirees, unwell and aging but who do not satisfy Medicare age requirements, are in the hospital and under unmanageable stress over how to pay their medical bills. Ineligible to enroll in Medicare, retirees have considered enrolling in Medicaid, only to be told that the average OTB retiree monthly income is slightly higher than the 2011 Medicaid monthly income guideline of $1,410.83 for a family of two. Once again, those retirees were ineligible for Medicaid. So today, these NYC OTB retirees are lying in hospital beds uninsured, through no fault of their own."

Addabbo continued by stating, "I'll fight along with the unions as we next propose a budget amendment, as soon as possible, to dispel the governor's concern that a lack of funding by the legislature to pay for the OTB health benefit was the reason he vetoed the bill. Expect to see the return of this OTB health bill in some form when the Senate convenes early next year. Until we get it right the next time, all OTB retirees under age 65 are between a rock and a hard place. No one should have to endure financial hardships and choose which benefits to leave behind.

It is truly unfortunate that the governor vetoed saving the health care and supplemental benefits for 900 NYC OTB retirees. He could have worked with the legislature to find spending cuts in other areas of the budget that would have cost the state nothing, by following the specific plan submitted by the Senate last year when a sincere proposal was offered to save those jobs.

Last December, the inaction of the former governor and the legislature cost some 1,000 OTB workers their jobs, with the financial cost to the state upwards of $500 million in pension benefits, a negative impact on the thoroughbred and horse racing industry in New York, and the possible detrimental effect that it may have on Aqueduct’s racing future.”

An OTB retiree, who served as a key figure withing the organization, recently contacted From The G-Man and requested an opportunity to comment on the situation. The person's identity is being concealed for fear of retaliation.

"Dear Editor,

Any media exposure that would foster public-attention regarding this vital issue is welcome. If that means that I enumerate the facts and expose the fallacies that have surrounded this controversy, I am a willing and able candidate.

Dc37 and Teamsters Local 858 knew well in advance that OTB retirees' health benefits were in jeopardy, yet they sat idly by until the ax had fallen, allowing the window of opportunity to close in their faces.

The Appellate Court case was a disaster; and the health legislation was thrown from pillar to post, until it finally arrived on Governor Cuomo's desk, 3 months after it was approved by the New York State Senate. Governor Cuomo waited until the last minute to veto the health legislation.

His tactics have proven that he is not the man that he claims to be. Quite the contrary, he is another typical politician who has decided to jump-ship at the first sign of inclement weather -- as he had done when he was the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) secretary and spear-headed its irresponsible housing policies, which caused the 2008-2009 Great Depression.

Governor Cuomo is responsible for sending middle-class Americans, to the state Medicaid office, which slammed its door in OTB retirees' faces because their pension income was $9.17 more, than the Medicaid income guideline for a family of two.

Mayor Bloomberg and Governor Cuomo have done a sterling job running middle-class citizens out of town, with nothing more than the shirts on their aching-backs. At the present time, NYC OTB retirees under age 65 are left high and dry, without health benefits.

Too young to enroll in Medicare and exceeding Medicaid income guidelines, OTB retirees have been hung out to dry, in sub-zero weather, and nobody seems to care. What else can I say?"

Image courtesy of nysenate.gov

Addabbo: 'Now the Work Begins'

Senator Provides Statement on the Effects of Hurricane Irene

New York State Senator Joseph Addabbo, Jr., today released the following statement on the effects of Hurricane Irene on his district:

Before Irene hit our area, my staff and I drove around the district and we were pleased to see how prepared people were in bracing for the hurricane. I believe this was a direct result of the media and governmental leaders like Governor Cuomo and Mayor Bloomberg repeatedly stressing the severity of the storm.

During the storm, I monitored the constituent calls received by my 24-hour live operator service and most inquiries were regarding possible evacuation procedures, trees, and electrical service issues.

On Sunday afternoon, I went throughout the district assessing the damage left by Irene. As I spoke to residents, many felt the damage could have been worse. I identified and reported specific roads with downed trees and wires. Areas suffering loss of utility services were also reported to the appropriate agency. Everyone in my district was impacted in some way by Hurricane Irene.

While some northern communities in my district like Middle Village experienced black-outs, the mid-district areas of Forest Park, Kew Gardens and Woodhaven had several fallen trees and downed utility poles, in addition to severe flooding that occurred in the southern communities of Howard Beach, especially Hamilton Beach, along with some power outages in Ozone Park.

Now the work begins. My staff and I will assist constituents as they recover from the storm; many of my residents are still without electrical power and utility services. Efforts must be made to ensure that FEMA rightfully compensates residents for the damage done to their property.

I intend to work with the offices of the mayor, the governor, FEMA and others to expedite surveys and reimbursements. This week I will also examine the issue of flood zoning classifications within my district for certain areas, such as Hamilton Beach, and seek changes--only if such changes would benefit my constituents.

Bloomberg's Taxi Plan Gets Thumbs Down from Addabbo

Statement by Senator Addabbo on Mayor's Taxi Plan

NYS Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. (D-Queens), released the following statement on the mayor’s Taxi Plan:

My reasoning for voting against Mayor Bloomberg’s Taxi Plan bill (S.5825) is twofold. First, this matter should have been decided or negotiated with the NYC Council. Many state lawmakers, like myself, believe the State Legislature was being used to circumvent the usual City government legislative process pertaining to these types of matters. Second, this bill would not truly benefit my residents and certainly would hurt the livery cab industry much more than helping the yellow cab companies.

I believe that this bill will minimize the value of existing taxi cab medallions by allowing the City to sell 1500 additional medallions to the pubic and would force the livery companies to purchase hail privilege permits for $1,500 to remain competitive with the taxi cabs.

I agree with the constituents and businesses that have reached out to me, that this plan did not help them and, therefore, did not merit my support. I also believe that a more appropriate plan can be negotiated in a more transparent and fair manner between the Mayor’s Office and industry representatives to better serve the residents of my district and throughout the city.

Image courtesy of http://www.openclipart.org

Yvette Marie Torres: The Brave One

"From The G-Man" Requesting J-Lo and Others Offer Reward, As 15-Year-Old Clings to Life

A week ago today, Yvette Marie Torres, a feisty and lovable, 15-year-old student at DeWitt Clinton High School in the Bronx, was shot in the head after a confrontation with two young men. The men were denied access to a party that Torres attended earlier, and they chose to express their displeasure and outrage by firing guns in the air.

Torres approached and berated them for acting in a foolish and reckless manner, which is probably something very few New York city residents would have the courage to do.

At a time when teen flash mobs and gang-related shootings are erupting all over the country, Yvette Marie Torres spoke out for not just the decent and good people of the Bronx, but for every person in the United States concerned about crime and street violence in America.

"She's a fighter and she hasn't given up. She's fighting hard to stay with us," said a close family friend -- who asked that his identity not be disclosed.

Torres has been clinging to life since the early morning hours of June 12. Her battle has intensified, as "The Brave One" -- again, who is only 15 -- is now in a medically-induced coma. I'll say it again. Yvette Marie Torres is now in a medically-induced coma, and that should have every parent that loves their child, and every law-abiding resident in the country, outraged beyond words.

"Her mother has not left her bedside and is not talking to anyone," said the family friend.

"She is still in a state of shock and has prayed non-stop. She cries every day for her daughter, and the parents are angry that no one has been willing to come forward or cooperate with police in the investigation. It makes no sense. Someone saw something, he concluded."

Apparently, the "snitch rule" is in full effect on the streets of the Bronx and other New York City boroughs, and no one is going to understand the real danger associated with this "gangsta" and ghetto-sanctioned rule until their mother, father, two-month-old sister, 10-year-old brother, aunt, uncle or 92-year-old grandmother becomes a victim of senseless violence.

The Brave One's parents need your prayers, but they also need your help. From The G-Man is urging anyone with vital information on the case to contact the 46th Precinct at (718) 220-5211. This news site would also like to enlist the help of Jennifer Lopez and other Bronx-born celebrities by respectfully requesting that they donate reward money toward the capture of the shooter.

Like the family friend indicated, someone saw something. If there's one thing that will force people to ignore the stupid snitch rule and get them talking, it's money!

Finally, From The G-Man is demanding that the national media start reporting on this story, considering the selfless act The Brave One undertook and the price she paid for doing so. The parents don't want to talk to the media or anyone else, which is perfectly understandable. However, that shouldn't prevent news organizations from providing some form of coverage and making the country aware of how a young girl tried to make the world a better place.

You folks never have a problem sticking a camera or microphone in the faces of Kim Kardashian, Paris Hilton, The Situation, Snooki or Justin Bieber when they do things that are completely meaningless to millions in the country. But when a 15-year-old Latina from the Bronx literally takes a stand for what's right -- and for Homeland Security, in a sense -- and ends up on life support, it only gets spot coverage. There is something very, very wrong with that.

I'll say it one more time. Yvette Marie (The Brave One) Torres is now in a medically-induced coma and fighting for her life. The question is......how many are going to come forward, finally, in order to help her and her family?

This commentary is from the heart and......From The G-Man.

Note: Please be advised that donations for a reward offering are not being accepted via the From The G-Man news site. The Paypal donation button at the top of the page is solely for contributions toward the support independent journalism, freedom of speech, and my efforts to manage the site full-time. Thank you.

Cuomo Introduces Pension Reform Legislation

New Pension Tier Will Increase Retirement Age and Require Greater Employee Contributions for New Hires

Governor Andrew Cuomo has introduced pension reform legislation that would impose a new Tier VI for future employees and save taxpayers $93 billion over the next 30 years, a figure that does not include New York City.

These reforms will reduce costs for local governments and schools and help get control of local property taxes for homeowners and businesses across the state. The bill also includes, at the request of Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg, a separate pension reform proposal for New York City and the uniformed services.

The new pension tier will increase the retirement age for new employees from 62 to 65, increase employee pension contributions and end so-called pension padding where employees accumulate substantial amounts of overtime in their final years of service to increase their pension.

"The numbers speak for themselves – the pension system as we know it is unsustainable," Governor Cuomo said.

"This bill institutes common-sense reforms to bring government benefits more in line with the private sector while still serving our employees and protecting our retirees. Reducing the skyrocketing pension burden faced by local governments and schools will also help get control of local property taxes that are driving New Yorkers from their homes and from the state."

Since 2001, pension contributions by the state, local governments and schools increased from $368 million to $6.6 billion outside New York City. During the same period for New York City, pension costs increased from $1.1 billion to $8.4 billion. This level of growth raises property taxes and impacts government's ability to provide services.

Provisions in the legislation include the following: Raising the retirement age from 62 to 65, ending early retirement, requiring employees to contribute six percent of their salary for the duration of their career, providing a 1.67 percent annual pension multiplier, vesting after 12 years instead of 10 years, excluding overtime from final average salary, using a five year final average salary calculation with an 8 percent anti-spiking cap, excluding wages above the Governor's salary of $179,000 from the final average salary calculation, eliminating lump sum payouts for unused vacation leave from the final average salary calculation, and prohibiting the use of unused sick leave for additional service credit at retirement.

The reform of the state pension system would impact new hires by the state and local governments, including school districts. The City pension reform plan would cover new employees of New York City, including the uniformed services.

The bill is available here. The bill memo is available here.

Mayor Michael Bloomberg said, "We have, for the last six months, been engaging with stakeholders in City and State government and our partners in municipal labor, on a vital question we've raised for years: how to protect both city services and the strength of our retirement funds over the long term. The Governor's bill will do just that -- by making sensible pension reforms that won't impact a single current employee or existing retiree, this legislation will create $30 billion in savings over the next 30 years for the City, which will ensure we can afford the services and workforce that City residents depend on, and provide a secure retirement for municipal employees long into the future."

"Rapidly rising pension costs have squeezed the budgets of every government in New York State and contributed to New York’s high tax burden. New York needs an affordable pension plan that reflects current economic times and can be sustained over the long term. Governor Cuomo’s proposal for a new tier is fiscally responsible and would provide significant relief to taxpayers and local governments, " stated Carol Kellermann, President of the Citizens Budget Commission.

Stephen J. Acquario, Executive Director of the New York State Association of Counties, noted, "Pension costs are projected to rise at unsustainable rates for public employers and their taxpayers. Governor Cuomo's Tier VI measure will provide much-needed long-term relief while still protecting the financial integrity of the retirement system. NYSAC supports the Governor's proposal which will modernize the State's pension system and provide efficiency and stability to ease the local burden of skyrocketing pension costs."

"Governor Cuomo's proposal to add a new Tier to the pension system is good news for local governments and their property taxpayers. The cost of the public pension system has grown out of control, and we need to take proactive steps to rein it in. This plan will ultimately save billions in taxpayer dollars while providing a stable, secure retirement system for public employees. We look forward to seeing the Governor's bill pass this session," said Peter Baynes, Executive Director of the New York Conference of Mayors, said,

Timothy G. Kremer, Executive Director of the New York State School Boards Association, also lauded the legislation, "School districts have been punished by escalating pension costs for the last several years. The current retirement systems are no longer sustainable. Saving $93 billion over time will provide welcome relief to school districts and taxpayers struggling to make ends meet."

Robert J. Reidy, Jr., Ph.D., Executive Director of the New York State Council of School Superintendents said, "Governor Cuomo's measure to rein in pension costs is commendable. In recent years, most school districts have had to freeze or cut all other spending to absorb steep pension cost increases. This plan will save billions in taxpayer dollars and provide much-needed relief to school districts all over New York state."

Image courtesy of http://www.openclipart.org.

Cuomo/Bloomberg Legislation Passes Unanimously

Bill Protects New York City Ratepayers from Massive Increases

Governor Andrew Cuomo and Mayor Michael Bloomberg announced that their legislation to prevent a massive rate hike on New York City energy customers has passed the Legislature unanimously in both houses.

The measure proposed by Governor Cuomo and Mayor Bloomberg will allow the City to guarantee property tax abatements to power plants. This will change property tax abatements for power plants from a discretionary program back to an "as-of-right" program and, in doing so, addresses the primary reason the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) cited for requiring the rate increase.

"With New York City ratepayers facing hundreds of millions of dollars in unwarranted electricity rate increases, we moved quickly with our partners in government and the Legislature to protect consumers and address the issues cited by FERC in its initial decision," Governor Cuomo said. "Now that the bill has passed, there are no grounds to increase rates; therefore we are moving immediately to file papers with FERC seeking a reversal of its January decision."

"The moment the decision came down from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to give power companies an unjustified windfall that would translate into a 12 percent electricity rate increase for ratepayers we began working to have it reversed," Mayor Bloomberg said.

"The passage of our bill clarifies for the Commission the true costs of producing power and there is now zero justification for the massive rate increase. We asked the Commission to re-examine this case and the passage of today's law is another reason they should render a new decision that will be more equitable to New York City ratepayers. I want thank Governor Cuomo and thank Senator Schumer for their strong leadership in fighting to protect New Yorkers from an unjust electric bill increase. I also want to thank Speaker Silver, Assemblyman Farrell and the rest of the Assembly for moving this bill quickly through the Assembly, and I also want to thank the State Senate, Majority Leader Skelos and in particular Senator Lanza for passage in the State Senate."

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) decided in January to allow power plants in the City to be paid energy capacity prices that factored in the cost of property taxes, even though many power plant operators in the City do not pay any property taxes at all. FERC's order concluded that since new power plants were not guaranteed property tax abatement, as they were in the past, those taxes should be built into the federally approved capacity prices that are passed on to ratepayers. This would have increased electricity bills for residents and businesses in New York City by as much as $1 billion over the next three years and provided a windfall to existing plants that do not pay property taxes.

The bill proposed by Governor Cuomo and Mayor Bloomberg adds peaking power plants, which are used by the FERC to determine capacity prices, to the City's as-of-right property tax abatement program, and will provide 100 percent property tax abatement for 15 years. It also extends the City's existing Industrial and Commercial Abatement Program (ICAP), which is currently set to expire this year, and does not impact property tax revenue because the City already planned to provide tax abatement for these units in their discretionary program.

The rate hikes were set to take effect in June.

'This Measure Will Protect Already-Strapped Ratepayers in New York City'

Cuomo, Bloomberg Propose Legislation to Protect New York City Ratepayers from Massive Rate Increase

Governor Andrew Cuomo and Mayor Michael Bloomberg today announced that they proposed a measure to prevent a massive rate hike on New York City energy customers.

The measure proposed by Governor Cuomo and Mayor Bloomberg will allow the city to guarantee property tax abatements to power plants. This would change property tax abatements for power plants from a discretionary program back to an "as-of-right" program and, in doing that, address the primary reason FERC (Federal Energy Regulatory Commission) cited for requiring the rate increase.

"This legislation is targeted to resolve the issues raised by FERC and should give them no choice but to reverse their decision," Governor Cuomo said.

"This measure will protect already-strapped ratepayers in New York City from being charged hundreds of millions of dollars per year. Once our bill is enacted, we will immediately petition FERC and request that it reverse the January decision."

"When the Commission proposed a hike in New Yorkers' energy bills that was based on false assumptions, and which would provide no benefits to consumers, we immediately raised a red flag," said Mayor Bloomberg.

"Now, by amending the existing tax benefits, we are removing any and all justification for this decision. I want to thank Governor Cuomo for working with us to propose this legislation, Senator Schumer for his continued leadership on this issue, and numerous other elected officials, like Senator Gillibrand and Congressman Crowley, for their advocacy on behalf of New York City consumers."

FERC decided in January to allow power plants in the city to be paid energy capacity prices that factored in the cost of property taxes, even though many power plant operators in the city do not pay any property taxes at all.

FERC's order concluded that since new power plants were not guaranteed property tax abatement, as they were in the past, those taxes should be built into the federally approved capacity prices that are passed on to ratepayers. This would have increased electricity bills for residents and businesses in New York City by as much as $1 billion over the next three years and provided a windfall to existing plants that do not pay property taxes.

The bill proposed by Governor Cuomo and Mayor Bloomberg adds peaking power plants, which are used by the FERC to determine capacity prices, to the city's as-of-right property tax abatement program, and will provide 100 percent property tax abatement for 15 years; extends the city's existing Industrial and Commercial Abatement Program (ICAP), which is currently set to expire this year; and does not impact property tax revenue because the city already planned to provide tax abatement for these units in their discretionary program.

The rate hikes are set to take effect in June. The FERC's next meeting is May 19.

"In these tough budgetary times and with all of our efforts to improve our struggling economy, the last thing New Yorkers need is a massive increase in their electric utility rates. This legislation will protect consumers from a hypothetical assumption made by FERC when they interpreted the City of New York's tax law. It would have resulted in a windfall for power plant operators and devastated consumers. This bill will prevent the city's electric utility customers from paying twice and without causing any loss of revenue to the city," said Speaker Sheldon Silver.

"Without this bill, New York City consumers would be burdened with even higher utility rates than they're already paying. I'm very pleased that this legislation will make the changes necessary for FERC to have every reason to re-evaluate their earlier ruling and decide on an industrial and commercial tax abatement program that is more realistic and fair," said Assembly Ways and Means Committee Chair Herman D. Farrell.

Senator Andrew Lanza said, "Staten Islanders already pay too much for electricity and now the federal government is threatening to raise the cost even more. This legislation should stave off significant federal rate increases."

U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer said, "I commend the governor and mayor for working to ensure this unfair rate hike never sees the light of day. We will continue to press FERC to ensure that ratepayers aren't forced to pay obscene rate hikes while power generators are collecting massive tax breaks. As summer approaches and electricity bills rise, we need to do everything we can to make sure New York families aren't getting squeezed by power generators."

New York Energy Consumers Council Executive Director David Bomke said, "The New York Energy Consumers Council members represent a broad spectrum of energy buyers, including hospitals, universities, financial institutions, residential and commercial property managers, public benefit corporations, energy service companies, and energy consultants. Collectively, our members spend more on electricity than any other single consumer class in Con Edison's service territory. NYECC strongly endorses the proposed legislation to ensure the right of property tax exemption for peak power generators. This legislation would eliminate the basis for an unprecedented hike in capacity charges as a result of tax exemption uncertainty."

AARP New York State Director Lois Wagh Aronstein noted, "AARP commends Governor Cuomo and Mayor Bloomberg for introducing legislation that would close a loophole that could raise electricity prices for residents of New York City. New Yorkers pay some of the highest energy costs in the nation and older adults who are on limited or fixed incomes are even less able to bear such price increases."

Addabbo: 'We Have a Long Way to Go in Securing Areas 10 Years After 9/11'

Senate Revisits Public Protection Concerns

UPDATE: Senator Addabbo issued the following statements during an April 8 public hearing on Homeland Security. The comments were not included when the article below was published earlier.

It was my intent to participate in a focused hearing which was to examine the security of the New York City residents, and surrounding areas, ten years after the tragedy of 9/11. Based on the testimony of witnesses and my questioning of those witnesses, my main concern continues to be the governmental funding and interaction of the entities involved in maintaining the safety of individuals, namely the NYPD, FDNY, MTA and Port Authority.

In my opinion, there should have been separate hearings with one having witnesses from governmental entities who would testify as to their plans to secure people and another, separate hearing with witnesses of all backgrounds giving testimony on their cultural and ideological theories toward their views on Americans. The global issue of terrorism as it pertains to our safety is so complex and intricate, that I believe separate Senate hearings were warranted.

I intend, as the ranking member of the Senate Veterans, Homeland Security and Military Affairs Committee, to continue my efforts in finding the means available to improve the safety and security of people locally and throughout the city and state.

Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. (D-Queens), who serves as ranking Minority member on the Senate’s Veterans, Homeland Security, & Military Affairs Committee, participated in a public hearing on Homeland Security, which was held April 8 -- nearly 10 years after the September 11, attacks -- to listen and respond to testimony on public protection since the terrorist attacks.

Among the attended witnesses were Peter King, United States Congressman and Chairman of the Committee on Homeland Security; Michael O’Meara, Executive Vice President of the Metropolitan Transit Authority Police Benevolent Association; Richard Daddario, NYPD Assistant Deputy Commissioner for Counterterrorism; and Douglas Zeigler, Director of Security for the Metropolitan Transit Authority.

While the hearing became increasingly contentious when the topic of religious sects were discussed, the first half of the hearing included testimony from the NYPD, MTA, the Port Authority and other public safety personnel.

“The critical issues were the lack of funding allocations for improved security measures and the need for upgrading the communication systems between our safety-related agencies,” stated Senator Addabbo.

It was mentioned at the hearing that some of the radios and means of communicating among the agencies were over 20 years old. Addabbo said that he intends to discuss with the Port Authority the issue of security at JFK Airport and on the Airtrain.

Congressman King spoke at great length as to how terrorist threat levels are as high as 9/11, and reiterated that these are very real threats as we approach the tenth anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.

O’Meara provided insight on the issue of communication between the Metropolitan Transit Authority Police and the ongoing discussions with the MTA to correct and improve radio frequency communications between MTA Police and the MTA. The radio system, according to O’Meara, has not worked since its implementation some 20 years ago.

The use and placement of security cameras on New York State tunnels, bridges and pedestrian areas was explained by Douglas Ziegler. Currently, almost 4,000 cameras have been placed within the MTA system, with the intention of more to come.

A future similar Senate hearing concerning the status of security measures since the 9/11 tragedy is being scheduled in Albany.

"Shelter Skelter"

The 30th Street Men's Shelter in lower Manhattan

Homeless Journalist Rips Bloomberg Over Abuse, Drugs & Rape in NYC Shelters

This article will shock and perhaps anger you. I truly hope that it does. I hope people will be so angry that they’ll finally wake up and realize that Mayor Michael Bloomberg, in his attempt to display New York City as “Emerald City”, is not only supporting the idea of one-way tickets for the homeless to get rid of them, he is blatantly ignoring dangerous situations and extremely unhealthy conditions within the city's shelter system. This is not hyperbole. This is a fact based on my decent into homelessness!

When explaining the Beatles classic song 'Helter Skelter', Sir Paul McCartney said he was using the symbol of a helter skelter to restructure the rock and roll sound. “It could be described as a ride from the top to the bottom—the rise and fall of the Roman Empire," said McCartney. Well, my fall began back in March of 2009. I was working a Staff Writer for “Felony Magazine” and as an account manager for a Brooklyn-based marketing and sales company called “Max Advance”. One day, completely out of the blue, both companies shut down without any warning, and I was left absolutely destitute. I didn’t even have time to look for another job before the axes fell. I couldn’t even file for unemployment because I hadn’t worked for either company long enough.

I scrambled to pick up gigs in and outside of journalism just to keep a roof over my head and food on the table, but the economic climate prevented that from ever happening. My family lives in different parts of the country and is having a tough time, too. Thus, living with them, even temporarily, was not an option. Dejected and embarrassed, I was forced onto the streets June 10 with no job prospects, no money and no hope.

I spent most nights walking from one end of uptown Manhattan to the other or riding the “A” or “E” train back and forth. Staying in one location for too long when you’re on the streets is dangerous, so I had to keep moving. I heard stories in the past about the city shelters, so I was a little reluctant to seek them out for assistance. Thus, I attempted to spend a few nights huddled in little, dark corners of buildings, particularly around 34^th Street and Penn Station. This is where the hell ride began.... and where I saw the worst in humanity.

In one example, a Port Authority (P.A.) police officer, who was of Asian decent, was cursing and threatening a frail, black woman who was clearly mentally ill and no more than 100 pounds soaking wet. “Get the fuck out of here before I put my foot in your ass”, said the officer, as the woman paced back and forth mumbling incoherently. The woman offered no resistance and continued to mumble as she made her way toward an exit. The officer, apparently not satisfied that she was moving fast enough, began to literally stalk her. The most alarming aspect was the fact that he put on his gloves and punched his palms as he followed her into a secluded section on the station. I have no idea what happened after that.

Another incident involved officers standing over sleeping vagrants and kicking them to wake them up. Some were grabbed, shoved and pushed into walls and told to exit the station. I would repeatedly pass groups of P.A. officers, who probably pegged me for homeless because of my knapsack and travel bags, and they’d glare at me as though I was a piece of shit. No “How are you, sir?” or anything in the way of a cordial response. One of them asked, “What are you looking at, asshole? Keep moving!” I just laughed and walked away. Now, I understand the Port Authority police have a job to do, but I couldn’t understand why people lacking their full mental capacity, or those like myself who were simply minding their own business, were treated so harshly or as though they were less than human.

After several days, I finally decided to go to a shelter because fatigue and hunger began to take a serious toll. I wearily made my way to 41^st Street and Ninth Avenue. The facility was called “The Open Door”, and the line of disheveled and displaced people, which consisted of military veterans, very young mothers and people recently released from prison or drug rehabilitation programs, seemed infinite. I was informed that all were waiting to be served dinner and that everyone would have to come back outside to line up and get a bed for the night. There was no guarantee you'd get a bed. The only guarantee was that the “bed line” would be three to four-times longer than the dinner line. That's what most of the veterans told me.

I sat on the ground watching young mothers nurse their children. Old men were nodding off as if in a drug-induced state, while others sold “loosie” cigarettes for fifty cents each. Tattooed gang-bangers brazenly stood in line making drug sales with police cars in close proximity. Watching them sell a myriad of drugs was one thing, but when the dealers and customers started “weeding up” in front of young children, that was more than I could take. I covered my nose, and one of the gang members took offense. “What? You got a problem, bitch? You got a fuckin' problem,” he yelled. “Yeah, I do. You need to smoke that somewhere away from these kids,” I proclaimed.” His homeboy walked over and said “My bad, son!” and they walked away.

There was no security to be found. I asked a man seated next to me about it, who happened to be wearing a U.S. Navy veteran cap, and he indicated there was never any security in front of the building. “They’re always inside. If you want to know the truth about it, they don’t and can’t protect anybody here,” he said. “You see that pregnant woman over there? Someone in the shelter raped her. That kind of thing happens all the time in these damn places. I’ve seen it, and it sickens me. All these young girls getting pregnant because they get raped,” the veteran continued. A 38-year-old woman seated a few feet away from us, who only wanted to be identified as “Cheena”, exhaled cigarette smoke and nodded in disgust and agreement.

“You got some crazy-ass, out of control people here, man. You got convicted murderers, gang members, mental patients, rapists and pedophiles mixed with members of the general population. That is a recipe for disaster,” said the man I dubbed “Old Navy”. “The shelters are the worst place for children because of what they see and what can happen to them. This is why people don’t want to go and would rather take their chances on the streets or subways,” he continued. It was at this point that the gang member returned and began to stare at me. Old Navy whispered in my ear. “Be careful, young man. Someone cut him in the food line two weeks ago, and he picked up one of those metal trashcans and hit the person in the head. Busted him wide open! The man needed 40 stitches to close the wound. I’m telling you, man. The shelters are a dangerous place. People have no idea.” The gang member walked over and deliberately brushed up against me. With 34 years of experience in Chinese martial arts, I confidently stated, “You touch me again and you’re going to the morgue.” He pulled out his cell phone and someone in line said, “Oh shit! It’s on now!” It was then that I realized horrid, tasteless, processed food the size of a “Lean Cuisine” meal wasn’t worth risking my life for, let alone a bed. I left The Open Door and never returned.

I spent several more nights on the trains before I ended up at the 30^th Street Men's Shelter on 29^th Street and First Avenue. Not surprisingly, the facility once served as Bellevue Psychiatric Hospital. Everything from the registration process to the administrators was in total disarray, and people would often spend 10 to 12 hours, usually crammed into a small room filled with the stench of bad hygiene and urine, just waiting to be processed or to receive what's known as an “overnight bed”. This is where I met “Eric”, a 21-year-old Caucasian and exceptionally gifted sketch artist from upstate New York struggling with substance abuse. “I came from a good family, man. My parents are wealthy as hell and gave me a lot of love. How I ended up on drugs and in a shit-hole like this is beyond me,” he said. In effort to clean himself up, he was making plans to regularly attend Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings.

“Joey”, 43, was an Italian construction worker and respected leader within one of the largest unions in the state. His manner of speaking made him seem as though he was straight out of “The Sopranos”. His wife, whom he always referred to as “the cunt”, had him arrested and banished him from their home after he drank a bottle of vodka and tried to attack her lover, a 23-year veteran of the New York City Police Department, with a machete. “That fuckin' cunt! She and that motherfucker are eating food I bought and having sex in my bed.... in a house that I'm still paying the fuckin' mortgage on. The cunt won't even let me talk to my 16-year-old daughter! It's fuckin' Father's Day, for Christ's sake,” he yelled. He, too, was making plans to go into rehab because he wanted to be able to spend quality time with his daughter and acquire work on a frequent basis.

“Black”, 28, was an electrician transplanted from the island of Jamaica. He was doing amateur porn films on the side to earn extra money after work dried up in his field. “I've made enough money to pay my way into the electrician's union. I did about five films, at $500 to $600 a pop, with some of the hottest female stars in the biz. I didn't fuck those bitches raw, though. I love to fuck, but I'm not stupid,” he said. “I'll be called for electrician's gigs in the coming weeks and I'll leave the porn biz. I just did it to make money to get into the union. Now, I'm out!” Several men inquired as to how they could take advantage of the offer, and Black provided them with an address and contact name for immediate work.

“Jim”, 51, was a former broker who lost everything in the Wall Street meltdown of AIG, Merrill Lynch and Bear-Sterns. Clinging tightly to his bags, he nervously looked around the room repeatedly, which was filled with black and Latino men. Someone broke into his locker during an overnight stay and stole his wallet. His clean-cut, Khaki pant, Bob Costas appearance completely jolted me because he didn't fit the description of those typically associated with homelessness. Then again, neither did I. The director of security indicated that they would do all they could to locate his property. Jim, apparently frustrated beyond words, wheeled his three suitcases through the front entrance and disappeared, while the director and members of his security team repeatedly joked about the situation and made fun of him.

“T-Rex”, 25, was a former member of the “The Bloods”. You could say he was born into it, since his father was a high-profile member and his mother swore allegiance to “The Latin Kings”. He was desperately trying to turn his life around by enrolling in the Doe Fund Inc's “Ready, Willing and Able” training and employment program. The shelter caseworkers provided referrals for the program, if they felt like it. T-Rex left the gang after fathering an infant daughter. He is expecting his second child soon. Thus, he plans to reunite with the mother of his children and provide a loving, safe and stable environment for his family.

I ultimately formed a unique bond with some of the men at the shelter, and it was from them, as well as frustrated and tenured shelter administrators, that I discovered many of the New York City shelters were just as appalling as the 30^th Street Men's Shelter: from the moldy, feces-smeared shower curtains and slimy, bacteria-filled shower floors....to the callous, rude and judgmental security personnel. To be honest, the security guards were in no position to judge anyone; not when they were openly using the word nigger and having sex with fellow guards and shelter residents! I literally saw male guards touching the breast, ass and vagina of the female guards. Now, let me stress that some of the guards understood that they were only one paycheck away from being in our position and had sympathy for us, but most of the wannabe cops acted like they were superior in every way to each homeless person they encountered, including me. I suspect they'll regret how they treated me and the others after this article goes public. Fuck'em!

Through it all, I constantly battled to keep my sanity. The countless restrictions that were enforced, such as not being able to use electrical outlets or appliances – even small radios or televisions - and 10 pm curfew created a prison-like atmosphere. Hardened criminals, murderers, gang-bangers and the mentally unstable were quick to confront you if you so much as looked at them the wrong way. This combustible cocktail was bad enough, but what made the situation worse was when the inner demons began ripping and devouring pieces of my self-esteem and faith in God. They often appeared at night to torment me. “You’re a sorry, worthless bastard! So what if you’ve helped hundreds of people with your news stories and features! So what if you've received commendations for journalism and community service from some of the most prominent government officials in the country! Look at you now! You’re a fuckin’ loser! Some of your closest friends have abandoned you because they’re embarrassed and ashamed of you. No woman will have your homeless, pathetic, broke ass!” These are some of the things the demons would say, but what kept me focused was the fact that I was going to have a major story to tell that thousands, if not millions, would want to hear once I left Bellevue, or, as I affectionately referred to it, “Hellview”. As I post this article, I pray that will still be the case.

After much procrastination and resistance, I filed for public assistance. They indicated they could find me decent housing through the New York City Housing Authority, but it wasn't guaranteed. There's an exceedingly long waiting list and single, “undomicled” men are not considered priority. I doubt they'll be in a hurry to find me anything after this article hits the Internet. I'll take my chances. I hated filing because I prefer to work, and I pray that I will be given an opportunity to expand my career in the field of journalism or scriptwriting. I don't want to be on public assistance or get caught up in its hellish system. I've been gainfully employed most of my adult life and feel as though I've taking a major step back for a man in his late 40’s. One of the employees at the Jamaica (Queens) Social Services office put everything in perspective for me after discovering I was a journalist and writer.

“This is only temporary, young man. I think God wants you to go through this. Who better to write about all this than a journalist? You’ve gone through the shelter and welfare system and have a mountain of evidence to prove it. The public needs to know these things are happening, and it's happening at facilities that provide these services nationwide. In New York, the Department of Social Services has reached a crisis point and we, as employees, have our hands tied,” she said. “We want to do so much more to help these people, but the system won't allow us to. Abuse is running rampant throughout the shelter system. I hear horror stories every single day. People are not safe! Bloomberg acts like everything is okay, but the fact is he and his people need to step up, stop doing so much for the wealthy and help those in need. Buying homeless people one-way tickets is not the answer,” she strongly proclaimed. “I don't expect him to fix everything in the shelter system, but I expect him to find ways to improve the system so people and families can feel safe and seek them out when they have no place else to go. Just imagine how many young, single mothers with babies are on the street right now because they fear the shelters! God willing, your story will force the mayor to open his damn eyes, set things in motion and implement some serious changes.”

I'm entering my seventh week of this ordeal, and I have no idea what fate awaits me in the coming days, weeks and months. I'm no longer at Hellview, but I'm still in a New York City shelter. The restrictions, as well as the asinine programs you're required to attend in order to qualify and maintain benefits through the Department of Social Services, are greatly affecting my ability to write and meet with people that could help me and my career. All I know is that I'm fighting a lonely battle to regain employment in or outside the profession I love, a place to call my own and a sense of peace. With that said, I would like to direct my closing statement to Mayor Michael Bloomberg and the members of his callous, oblivious and well-heeled administration.

Mr. Mayor, in many respects, you have been good for New York City. You now seek a third term, and while you have managed to gain quite a following in the city and abroad, now is the time to step up your ass up and prove that you are a mayor for all people and not just the wealthy. You cannot claim to be doing great things for the city of New York and all New Yorkers when people – particularly mothers with infant children – are forced to live among crack or heroin addicts....or raped and impregnated in your shelters. Cut the bullshit! You're a tough man, Mr. Mayor, but I seriously doubt you would be able to tolerate the streets, a city shelter or the E train for several nights. In fact, I'm issuing a public challenge for you to try living in a city shelter for three days, without any special treatment or assistance from your staffers, in order to have a complete understanding of what desperation and homelessness are all about. Do you have the billion-dollar balls to do it? It's hell, and it's no damn joke, Mr. Mayor. Take it from someone who has become the latest addition to the homeless population in “Bloom-Town”.

Photo credit: Flickr

Author: edenpictures