THE COOPERATORS’ NEWSPAPER
Vol. 57 No. 3
February 2021
SERVING OVER 25,000 SHAREHOLDERS IN THE WORLD’S SECOND LARGEST HOUSING COOPERATIVE
Team NORC Getsat Rochdale shots in arms Village Pop-up clinic brings free, life-saving doses of COVID-19 vaccine to members of Rochdale Village community - Page 3 RV Public Safety adds environmentally friendly vehicles to fleet Page 11 & 17 Chief of Detectives Rodney Harrison makes history as NYPD’s Chief of Department Page 15 President’s ReportMessage - Pg. 2 - Pg. | 2 General Manager’s Report Report - Pg. 4 - Pg.| 4 Youth Art Gallery - Pgs. 14 |& 17 Projects | In RemembrancePg. 28 President’s | General Manager’s | Planning’s Did you know? - Pg. 15 Report - Pgs. 26-29
February 2021
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
ROCHDALE VILLAGE BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2020-2021
President’s Message
The Rochdale Village Board of Directors serves 5,860 middle income families and more than 25,000 people in the world’s second largest housing cooperative, located at 169-65 137th Avenue, Jamaica, NY 11434; Tel: 718276-5700 extension 3360..
OFFICERS OF THE BOARD Chairman of the Board Clifton Stanley Diaz President Jean Randolph-Castro Vice Presidents Talib Bey Timothy Mercer Janine Cross Ed Douglass Treasurer Barbara Staples Assistant Treasurer Glynis Urquhart Secretary Joyce Williams Assistant Secretary Lisa Stark
MEMBERS OF THE BOARD
Talib Bey Jean Randolph-Castro Janine Cross Clifton Stanley Diaz Ed Douglass Jean Hall Gary Hawkins Maryam Hubbard Sheila McKenzie Tim Mercer Derrick Shareef Barbara Staples Lisa Stark Glynis Urquhart Joyce Williams Name Pending (State Representative)
COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS Budget & Finance Barbara Staples Commercial Services Timothy Mercer Community Center Jean Randolph-Castro/Ed Douglass Community Relations Lisa Stark Legal & Management Jean Randolph-Castro Maintenance Janine Cross Orientation Clifton Stanley Diaz Public Safety Talib Bey Senior Citizens Joyce Williams Youth Planning Gary Hawkins Environmental Conservation Glynis Urquhart Parking Jean Randolph-Castro Information Technology Pending
MANAGEMENT Marion Scott Real Estate, Inc. General Manager Marion Scott Assistant Managers Lance Williams, MSI and Jay Williams, RVI Controller William Young Director of Maintenance Kelvin Pantaleon Public Safety Chief Adolph Osback Power Plant Director Corey Jones Human Resource Director Dolores Benner General Counsel Robert Bernstein
- by Jean Randolph-Castro
Greeting Cooperators,
Ms. Evelyn Wilson for their hard work in also getting many of our I pray that everyone is seniors vaccinated at outside sites. safe and is in good health. We are The seniors appreciated the patience; grateful that the Governor of New the love and professionalism Ms. York State is working around the Shivers always showed towards the clock to get the vaccine distributed health and well-being of our seniors. across NYC. This will help all of us. We are blessed for the Good News vaccine. This will enable us to I was informed at the Social enjoy the summer as I am hopeful Service Inc., Board meeting we and praying that this disease will go were able to secure another date away soon. for representatives to comeback to administer the vaccine and possibly Women’s History Month a Covid-19 testing site exclusively I would like to take the for Rochdale Village seniors/ opportunity to wish all the women of cooperators. I am very proud that Rochdale Village a blessed Women’s the first round of the vaccine was so History Month. There are many successful that the Director and the of the women at Rochdale Village team were able to bring them back who have played a significant role for vaccinations sometime in April. in contributing to history and have Look forward for the posting and even put Rochdale Village on the maybe you who have not received map. Many of them in the form of the vaccine will be able to get it in sports, politics, writing, education, this round. etc. Let us remember the great women in history who have paved Committee Meetings the way for an easier life for us in Moving forward, I am society. Kudos to all, keep striving pleased to inform you the Committee for the best. chairs in full transparency will be having zoom meetings such as the Public Safety, the Maintenance, Covid-19 Vaccination There are a number of sites Commercial Services and Parking opened that are now offering the committee meetings via zoom in vaccine for the COVID-19 virus. the month of March. These are I would like to encourage every four specific areas that require cooperator to go out and get the frequent updates as we continue to vaccine. I would like to thank the deal with this pandemic. Notices NORC Director Ms. Phara Coralei for the meetings will be sent out to and her staff Ms. Sade Afolabi for committee members and will also working diligently and organizing to be posted in the buildings. If you get some of our seniors vaccinated. would like to join and become a Along with the NORC office, Mr. member of a committee, please call Kevin Dilworth and myself worked the Board of Directors office to sign diligently as a team, the Board of up. Directors was able to secure the space here at Rochdale Village for the distribution of the vaccine. I am pleased to say that we had well over 200 people who received the vaccine. In addition to that giving thanks to the Senior Center Director Ms. Sheree Shivers and her team,
Additional Parking
As you know parking is still a huge problem that we must solve for our shareholders. Now that the weather is getting better, we are going to begin repaving
President, Jean Randolph-Castro
and reconfiguring lots 1, 2, 4 and 5 to provide additional parking in the spring once approved by the Parking Committee chairpersons and the Board of Directors. You will see signs at the proposed parking expansion locations. There is also an email address; parkingfeedback@ rochdalevillage.com where we want Cooperators to email us feedback on what they think of the proposed locations. Along with the parking lot repaving will also come additional parking lot cameras as well for additional coverage and resident safety. This is going to be done before the second level being built over lots 3A/3B which is in the planning stages.
Free Masks Giveaway
For the past weeks the Board of Directors have given away free masks to Rochdale Village young adults ONLY. The flyer was posted, but only a few cooperators came to the Board office to pick up. Later in the month of March, we will be hosting a mask giveaway event exclusively for the young adults of Rochdale Village. Cooperators will receive a pack of 10 masks. The flyer will be posted. The virus is still affecting us, and I encourage every cooperator to be
The next virtual meeting of the Rochdale Village Board of Directors takes place 7:45 p.m. on Monday, March 22, 2021
February 2021
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
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NORC gets ‘shots in arms’ with mobile pop-up vaccination event at Rochdale By Susan Van Brackle
R
ochdale’s NORC program helped to advance one of President Joe Biden’s key initiatives set for his first 100 days in office, which is to get ‘shots in arms’. From Thursday, February 25 to Saturday, February 27, a mobile COVID-19 vaccination clinic was set up in rooms 11/12/13 at the Rochdale Village Community Center much to the relief of local seniors and essential workers with limited access to available vaccination resources. NORC coordinated the popup vaccination event with New York City’s Department for the Aging (DFTA). The event would not have happened were it not for, “Officials having respect and interest in the success of Rochdale’s NORC,” said Kevin Dilworth Board President of Rochdale Village Social Services. While vaccination sites in southeast Queens are becoming more prevalent like the ones located at August Martin High School on Bais-
ley Boulevard and at York College on Guy R. Brewer Boulevard, this was not always so. Residents have had to travel distances, face parking challenges, wait outdoors and struggle through New York State’s complicated online registration process. Moreover, vulnerable seniors lacked web access and sometimes had to wait on telephone hold for hours. Confusion about vaccine availability has also occurred at locations like Rochdale’s Variety Drug Store in Mall #2, which was ill prepared to handle the number of patrons they solicited through the Rochdale Village Senior Center and NORC programs. According to RVSS President Dilworth, “NORC program director Phara Carolei and Rochdale NORC social worker Sade Afolabi transformed the dream of the pop-up clinic into a reality. The staff successfully handled the task of booking 217 registrants increased from 150, to receive their first of two Moderna vaccine doses.” Cooperators like Michael A. Williams, Nikita
NORC’s Director Phara Carolei, Rochdale Village Board President Jean Castro and Board Chairman Clifton Stanley Diaz. (Photo credit: Larry Love Moore)
Bush and John Daniel were relieved not to have to relentlessly try and find appointments elsewhere. They were among those who lucked out and got their NORC sponsored doses right here in Rochdale. “The goal was to keep people alive and safe from the deadly Coronavirus that’s claimed the lives of more than 500,000 people and kept even more people sick
and / or hospitalized. I am grateful to the efforts of both Polly Thomson, DFTA's NORC program officer, and Ruth Cordero, DFTA's director of services and housing initiatives at area NORCs, for showing true compassion and support for our Rochdale NORC, the non-profit program that seeks to keep people healthy, safe and active.”
DFTA authorizes Rochdale Village Senior Center as vaccine scheduling hub By Susan Van Brackle
O
nce the COVID-19 vaccine became readily available, there was an increasing need for locations to open that would support vulnerable senior citizen populations in southeast Queens.
Getting shots into arms has become more possible thanks to the service and dedication of the Rochdale Village Senior Center staff. In February alone, Rochdale Village Senior Center Director Sheree Shivers and her team assisted 150 elderly Rochdalers to get inoculated at recently opened loca-
tions like August Martin High School, Jamaica Hospital, York College and The Greater Allen A.M.E. Cathedral. Vaccinated groups consisted of people receiving their first immunizations and those already returning to receive their second shot. New York City’s Department
for the Aging recognized their efforts too and has officially dedicated Rochdale Village Senior Center as an authorized vaccination scheduler for qualifying residents that want to get the shot. To reserve your time for the vaccine, call 718-525-2800. Enter extension 1 for the front desk.
those in the Rochdale Village community. Thank you to La Bari Pizzeria for donating towards the lunch. The staff was very much appreciative for the kind gesture. I want to thank the Chairman of the Board, Mr. Clifton Stanley Diaz for representing the Board and Mr. Larry Love for the pictures on the day of the event. Let us continue to appreciate the essential employees who have been there since day one of the pandemic.
including all the Group Managers, to Chief Adolph Osback and the entire Public Safety team for a job well done. With one generator working providing electricity for all twenty buildings, it was a possibility of a black out. The hard work and determination of each one of you to ensure the community did not experience a black out, was extraordinary. We are thankful that we did not experience a black out. Words cannot express my appreciation for the
President’s Message (continued from page 2) mindful and please wear a mask Thank you to Dr. Maria Hubbard and when out on the campus. We need Councilwoman Adrienne Adams for to protect and respect each other. the donation of the grocery boxes. And a special thank you to H&N insurance for the donation of the Senior Committee gifts. I am truly grateful for the Giveaway Event generosity and love towards the The Senior Citizens Rochdale Village seniors. Committee Chairperson Joyce Williams and I Jean Castro hosted a gift and grocery box giveaway for Recognition of Essential the committee members on March Workers As a token of our 03, 2021. Since the pandemic, the Senior Citizens committee appreciation the medical and was unable to hold their monthly essential staff of the Advantage Care breakfast meeting and other events Center on Campus, was treated with for the seniors. Thank you to the a Valentine’s Day Lunch. Thank Director of the Senior Center Ms. you to Mike, the owner of OB’s Sheree Shivers and her team for Bakery who without hesitation is helping distribute the grocery boxes. always willing to donated to help
Thank You
hard work that you all put in ensuring the comfort, safety and health of the Rochdale Village cooperators.
I would like to say thank you the Directors of the Power Plant Mr. Continue to stay safe. Corey Jones and the entire team, to Maintenance Director Mr. Kelvin Peace, Love & Blessings. Pantaleon and the Maintenance team Jean Randolph-Castro
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February 2021
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Monthly Report Monthly Report
-- by by Marion Marion Scott Scott
General Manager’s Monthly Report for January 2021 The Importance of Financial Stability Good financial stability is the cornerstone for running a successful housing company. Having a system in place, not only to generate and collect income but also to manage the budget is paramount to us. If any of those processes falter bills cannot be paid, services cannot be rendered and Rochdale cannot function. Prudent budget management is managing line-by-line, income and expenses, to ensure we are on target with our budget. This process is integral in keeping Rochdale Village affordable. We have reviewed our financial results for the nine months ended December 31, 2020 as compared to the nine months of the fiscal year 2021 budget. We want to share some of the highlights with you. For the nine months ended December 31, 2021, Rochdale’s Controllable income (“income before interest, depreciation, amortization and income taxes”) was $8,917,000 as compared to $8,539,000 in the FY 2021 budget. So, as you can see, we are trending slightly better than our FY 2021 budget. If the current trend continues, we will meet or exceed our Controllable income for the annual fiscal year 2021 budget of $10,642,000. It should be noted that we will exceed or meet our FY 2021 budget while experiencing the negative impact of COVID-19, which included:
center; and 3. The impact of additional costs for COVID-19 related expenses. On a positive note, we were able to: 1. Negotiate a new rate classification from National Grid which will save the company approximately $2 million a year; 2. Settle Shelter rent litigation that will save the company approximately $400,000 to $500,000 a year; 3. We obtained a $6,029,300 PPP loan from the Government that is in the process of being forgiven; and 4. An increased focus on expenses keeping those expenses relatively in line with the budget. In conclusion, in light of the negative impact of COVID-19 on the company, meeting our FY 2021 budget would be a tremendous achievement. Numbers do not lie and this shows that the housing company is financially healthy and the affordability for residents is not in jeopardy.
Shareholders Can Help Too While Rochdale Village Inc. has hired professionals to oversee the day-to-day operation, managing the budget being a part of that, it has been our experience that when cooperators are a part of the process, it instills pride of ownership and great communities become greater. When you 1. The deferment of the 2.9% look at your financial statements, carrying charge from August you will notice that our largest expenses are related to running the 2020 to June 2021; 2. The closing of the community Power Plant and Maintenance.
This is primarily due to the cost of utilities and an aging infrastructure requiring more care and attention. In addition, we must be mindful that unforeseen circumstances such as snowstorms and pipe leaks cost us millions of dollars when they occur. While we are not suggesting that residents assist in shoveling snow from the grounds or plumbing repairs there are many ways that you can help. Though it may seem insignificant, something as simple as turning out lights when not in use can have a major effect on reducing loads. We understand that many want to come home to a comfy apartment after a long day’s work however, leaving convectors running all day (winter or summer) increases energy consumption. Timely reporting of a runny toilet can minimize the impact to our water bill and alert our maintenance staff to underlying issues like pipe leaks, which has the added ramification of damaging property. Cooperators can assist in or influence our budget in numerous ways. None more important than paying carrying charges on time. Although utility and maintenance costs are incorporated in your monthly charges, this does not make them less real. We will continue to develop strategies to remain fiscally responsible; we only ask that you consider playing a role in this community’s success.
January 19, 2021, the order to proceed was issued to the manufacturer to begin production of the convectors. Due to anticipated cost increase for materials to manufacture the convectors, it was imperative to give the green light to ensure we keep the cost of the convectors at the original bid price. We expect the first batch of convectors to arrive in late spring / early summer 2021. Having solidified the purchase of the new convectors was instrumental in the planning of determining a process and timeline for the installation of the units. While we are still ironing out the specifics, what we have established is the following: • Notification to shareholders as follows: • 30-day written notice • 10-day hand delivered notice • 2-day hand delivered notice • Phone call 1-day before • Work will be scheduled Monday thru Friday. • Installs will be done along the apartment lines (vertically) – 13 floors = 13 apartments everyday. • Shareholders should plan on one (1) full day to remove old & install new convectors. Finish work such as painting will be scheduled at a later date with the contractor.
As we get closer to an actual start date, more details will be provided on what shareholders can expect throughout this Good Things on the Horizon project. At minimum it will Convectors The new convectors to be crucial to gain access to all be installed in every apartment apartments on the apartment (continued on page 10) is finally coming to fruition. On
February 2021
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Controller’s Report
- by William Young
Profit and Loss Financial Statement Narrative For the eight months ended December 31, 2020
For
Nine months ended December 31, 2020, Controllable Income before Interest, Depreciation, Amortization, and Income taxes increased $378,000 to $8,917,000 as compared to $8,539,000 in the Budget. Below you will find an explanation of the significant changes in each category: the
Controllable Income is defined as income less variable expenses that can be managed by the Company (“A measure of Operation efficiency of the Company). It is commonly known as EBITDA (Earnings before Interest, Taxes and Depreciation and Amortization).
Operating income and expense
REVENUE Total Revenue decreased $(1,499,000) to $59,906,000 as compared to $61,405,000 in the Budget. This decrease is explained in the Revenue analysis below: Apartment revenue decreased $(985,000) to $52,888,000 as compared to $53,874,000 in the Budget This decrease is principally due to the Budget reflecting a 2.9% carrying charge in August 2020 and the actual carrying charge increase was delayed till February 2021 along with the timing of Tenant subsidies. Commercial rental revenue decreased $(164,000) to $3,850,000 as compared to $4,014,000 in the Budget. The decrease is due to increase in store vacancies due to impact of COVID-19. Community Center revenue decreased $(356,000) to $84,000 as compared to $441,000 in the Budget. The decrease was principally due to the impact of the Community Center being closed during the COVID-19. Other Income increased $114,000 principally due to a National Grid rebate of $340,000 received in May 2020. EXPENSES Total expenses decreased $(1,877,000) to $50,989,000 as compared to $52,866,000 in the Budget. The decrease is explained in the following expense categories, as
well as, the impact of the COVID-19 lim- ing: (1) a decrease of approximately iting the amount of contract work being $(2,000,000) in National Grid costs related to the change in Rochdale’s done during the quarantine: billing classification; (2) offset, in Administrative: Management and part, by the increase of approximately administrative expenses decreased $1,017,000 in water costs. $(322,000) or 7.6% to $3,945,000 as compared to $4,268,000 in the 2. Other Power Plant Expenses Budget. The decrease is due to col- increased $145,000 to $3,302,000 as lection expenses being stopped be- compared to $3,157,000 in the Budcause the courts are closed during get. This increase is principally due the COVID-19 crisis and more re- to an increase in Boiler expenses recently collection efforts began but lated to repairs not anticipated in the are limited to cases prior to COV- Budget. ID-19. Insurance Expense : Insurance Janitorial & Grounds costs: expenses increased $1,007,000 Janitorial and Grounds expenses de- to $3,842,000 as compared to creased $(56,000) to $5,769,000 as $2,835,000 in the Budget. This incompared to $5,826,000 in the Bud- crease is principally due to a 39% inget. This decrease is principally due crease in General Liability insurance to (1) the Budget reflecting a full staff due to the FY 2021 market renewal and Janitorial & Grounds actual salaries rates increasing dramatically. are not at full staff yet (2) a decrease of $(115,000) in snow removal costs Real Estate Taxes (Shelter Rent) (3) an increased focus on managing ex- Real estate tax (Shelter rent) expenses penses; offset, in part, by an increase of decreased $(95,000) to $2,676,000 as approximately $390,000 in COVID-19 compared to $2,772,000 in the Budexpenses for sanitizing, masks, garbage get. The decrease is principally due to bags, etc.. impact of change in the calculation of Shelter Rent to include allocable exMaintenance and operating costs penses to the calculation. Maintenance and Operating costs decreased $(1,718,000) or 18.7% to Depreciation - See the Article 78 In $7,478,000 as compared to $9,197,000 the looking forward section of this rein the Budget. This decrease is princi- port. We anticipate that this litigation pally due to (1) the Budget reflecting a will result in a favorable ruling in FY full staff and Maintenance & Operating 2021 or FY 2022. actual salaries are not at full staff yet (2) less Repair Material, Tools and Supplies Bad Debt Expense – Bad debt exand less Contracted Service expenses pense increased $437,000 to $815,000 due to most work halted during the as compared to $378,000 in the BudCOVID-19 quarantine and a settlement get. The increase is due to an increase with a vendor which reduced expenses in the accrual to $100,000 per month by $300,000. for anticipated COVID-19 related expenses related to rent collections. Security: Security costs decreased $(502,000) or 11.6% to $3,835,000 Looking forward as compared to $4,338,000 in the 1. Paperless Solution – Due to COVBudget. This decrease is princi- ID-19, this project is on hold. We are pally due to the Budget reflecting considering investing in certain softa full staff and Security salaries ware products that will allow Rochdale are not at full staff yet. Village Inc. to work with our vendors to have invoices electronically transmitted Power Plant to Rochdale and uploaded to our soft1. Fuel and Utilities ware. Fuel and utility expenses decreased $(553,000) to $10,001,000 as com- 2. Computer Software solution – Due pared to $10,555,000 in the Budget. to COVID-19, this project is on hold. The decrease is related to the follow- We are also investigating certain soft-
ware products to replace our current software. This will upgrade our current DOS based system to a windowsbased system. We anticipate this project to resume in 2021. 3. Article 78 – During the Shelter Rent litigation, NYC did not agree to change the method they are using for Depreciation to GAAP. As a result, we have initiated litigation (called an Article 78) which should be filed in July. Recently, we received a phone call from NYC where they are looking to settle this case. Once we negotiate a settlement, we will advise on the outcome. Overall, Rochdale Village Inc.’s Controllable Income results For the Nine months ended December 31, 2020 show that Rochdale Village Inc.’s results have exceeded our Budget and is on track to exceed the Controllable Income Budget of $10,642,000 for the year. Balance Sheet Due to the COVID-19 impact, our Balance Sheet is impacted in June as follows: 1. Accounts Receivable – The Accounts Receivable balance increased $2,239,000 since the beginning of COVID-19. Of which, $1,624,000 relates to cooperators and $615,000 relates to commercial tenants. This increase is related to residents and commercial tenants not paying rent or the rents are being paid late. 2. PPP (Payroll Protection Program) In April, we received a $6,029,300 PPP loan that will be used to keep all employees employed. This loan was recorded in a separate cash account and set up as a liability until the loan is forgiven. We have completed our submission of documents to Citibank for Loan forgiveness and waiting for confirmation from Citibank that they are submitting to the Government for forgiveness. 3. Escrow Funds - The escrow balance increased from $68,648,133 in November to $72,079,839 in December 2020. The increase is due to recording the escrow related to the 6 months mortgage deferment and the related liability.
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February 2021
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Controller’s Report
- by William Young
Rochdale Village Inc. PROFIT & LOSS STATEMENT FY & YTD 2020 and 2021
Rochdale Village, Inc. ACCOUNTS PAYABLE AGING FY 2020
Rochdale Village, Inc. BALANCE SHEET FY 2019, 2020 and 2021
February 2021
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Controller’s Report
- by William Young
Rochdale Village Inc. Summary of Accounts Receivable Activity FY 2019 and 2020
Rochdale Village Inc. Summary of Accounts Receivable Carrying Charges (ONLY) >$100 in Aging FY 2020 and 2021
Rochdale Village Inc. Community Center Profit & Loss Statement FY 2019, 2020 and 2021 Actual vs. Budget
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February 2021
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Public Safety Report
- by Chief Adolph Osback
Public Safety Monthly Report January 2021
Enclosed is the statistical data relative to the performance of the Rochdale Village Public Safety Department during the month of January 2021. Public Safety maintains 24 hour /7 days a week coverage.
COMPLAINTS:
1. During the month of January 2021, the Public Safety Department has continued to focus attention on loitering, trespassing, noise complaints and all other quality of life violations. As a result, Public Safety Department officers responded to a total of (75) loitering and (179) noise complaints from Cooperators which were resolved as follows::
a) Founded-Compliant- (42) Loiterers complied with officers’ directives to leave and (68) of the noise complaint sources corrected the volume of the noise. b) Unfounded Calls-(42) unfounded loitering complaints and (49) unfounded noise complaints (officers responded but no loiterers were present or no noise could be heard). c) Founded/Non-Compliant Calls- Loitering individuals and noise complaints - Non-compliant of directives – (5) received violations for loitering and (10) received a violation for noise complaints.
For the month of January 2021 there was a grand total of (12) arrests made on Rochdale Village Grounds. The Public Safety Department will continue to organize in order to better serve the Rochdale Village community.
DVR UNIT ACTIVITY:
RISK MANAGEMENT INCIDENTS 10 INVESTIGATIVE INCIDENTS 31 VIOLATIONS ISSUED 00 RELATED ARREST INCIDENTS 12 FIRE INCIDENTS 00 TOTAL INCIDENTS 53
TASK FORCE UNIT ACTIVITIES: • • • •
Conducted (66) Directed & Routine Verticals. Made (0) arrests, issued (0) Trespass Notifications, issued (0) C-Summonses, issued (0) violations to include (2) for loitering and encountered (52) Loiterers during routine and directed patrols. Responded to assigned calls from Central Dispatch (26). Conducted (0) Tenant Verifications
*There was significant reduction in activity due to the Task Force being re-deployed to assist with COVID-19 related activities. These included the following: meal deliveries to homebound seniors, COVID-19 testing site crowd control and back-filling post vacancies due to staff call-outs.
TOWING ACTIVITY
The Public Safety Department towed (16) vehicles and issued (149) warning stickers for the violation of various parking rules throughout the complex.
ROUTINE AND *DIRECTED VERTICAL PATROLS BY ROCHDALE PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICERS AND SUPERVISORS:
Vertical patrols are conducted on a daily basis. Officers and Supervisors patrol the stairwells, hallways, rooftops and parking lots at different hours in an effort to curtail unlawful activities. *Directed verticals are additional post inspections performed in order to proactively reduce Quality of Life conditions in designated “Hot Spots” as determined by community complaints and the analysis of various patrol reports.
BUILDING VERTICALS, GROUND FLOOR INSPECTIONS AND PARKING LOT CHECKS: 4581 416 *DIRECTED VERTICALS: TOTAL POST INSPECTIONS: 4997
PUBLIC SAFETY RESPONDED TO CALLS FOR ASSISTANCE REFERRED CALLS TO THE MAINTENANCE DEPARTMENT TOTAL CALLS RECEIVED FOR ASSISTANCE:
904 634 1538
COOPERATOR ESCORTS AIDED SICK/ INJURY AND ELEVATOR ENTRAPMENTS: TOTAL INCIDENT REPORTS GENERATED:
109 . 92 135
MAIL VOLUME DELIVERED BY PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICER:
550
ARREST(S): 12 IN HOUSE DETAINED: 13 GRAND TOTAL OF ARRESTS: 12 VIOLATIONS ISSUED: 53 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF/AUTO: 06 EVICTION(S): 00
VIOLATIONS
Listed are the classifications of Notice of Violations issued:
February 2021
Page 9
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Provided by 113th Precinct Sergeant Kevin Watz, Crime Analysis Division to Public Safety Chief Adolph Osback, Public Safety Chair Talib Bey and Co-Chair Clifton Stanley Diaz
Rochdale Village Text/Tip numbers currently being reassigned 455-9373 or Rochdale Bulletin text number (347) 480ffective immediately, 9479. Area code changes in please do not use Pub- Jamaica, Queens prompted lic Safety’s text/tip line (347) text number reassignments
By Susan Van Brackle
E
since area code (347), which both the Rochdale Bulletin and Public Safety department were using, has migrated to area codes (646) and (929).
New text numbers will be announced as soon as they are assigned. As always for immediate, qualified emergencies, dial 911.
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
General Manager’s Report (continued from page 4)
line that is being worked to the most intriguing part is the avoid any disruption in cool- potential to have solar powered carports over every resiing/heating services. dential and commercial lot. Solar/EV Stations This in no way negates our Management is current- plan to increase parking spaces ly in the process of research- or the addition of a second tier ing how Rochdale may benefit for lots 3A/3B but it would be from solar energy. The inten- an added feature with the bention is not to replace the exist- efit of reducing the need for ing service being provided by snow removal, which is not the power plant but rather to only costly but a nuisance. supplement it. One such pro- Recognizing that the posal calls for installation of future of automobiles is leansolar panels on the residential ing toward electric vehicles, and commercial rooftops, but we are in the very early stages
February 2021
portance of financial stability section, we received a positive ruling from the courts regarding allocation of corporate expenses. In FY 2021, we initiated another Article 78 litigation regarding depreciation. We were notified by NYC and HCR that they would like to settle this litigation. We anticipate that this settlement will have a positive impact on the Company’s Shelter Rent – Depreciation income for the prior year as As indicated in the im- well as going forward. of investigating having charging stations on campus. This would allow shareholders that are in the market for an electric vehicle to have somewhere to go within the confines of Rochdale to charge their cars. Details, location and implementation has not been determined however, it is something we must consider now given the current climate and administration.
Needed upgrades to RV’s breaker panels and distribution panels underway
in order to make the replacement. very old and it’s a hassle to get Understanding that the fixed. We can’t get parts even if world is currently in the midst of repairs are needed so we’re tryn aggressive round of repairs is underway to repair Rochdale’s aging electrical equipment at the cooperative. By now, each apartment group has or will receive advance notice about the upcoming work. According to the Maintenance department’s schedule, two electrical equipment upgrades are taking place concurrently; expansion of the main distribution panel that is located in the service hallway of each lobby and circuit breaker panel replacements that are located a COVID-19 pandemic, great care ing to get ahead of it. Besides, has been taken to assure that work- it lowers our insurance premiums in each apartment. The main distribution pan- ers follow all CDC guidelines and in the process. We don’t want els are located in service hallways COVID-19 protocols to protect any [electrical] failures.” Getting ahead of potenand control how electricity is dis- themselves and residents like weartributed throughout each building ing PPE while work is being done. tial electrical emergencies is a Residents are asked to mask up and prudent course of action conin the groups. The circuit breaker panels maintain their social distance too. sidering that Rochdale Village According to Rochdale’s is off Con Edison’s power grid located inside of apartments requires that contractors gain access assistant general manager Jay and maintains a plant that profor a minimum of 2-hours per unit Williams, “This equipment is duces its own electrical energy.
By Susan Van Brackle
A
Consider too the recent power loss stemming from a transformer fire that impacted Rochdale’s sister residence Coop City. The aging complex experienced multiple outages over the course of three days that unfortunately left Bronx cooperators without heat, light and elevator service resulting in one death. While Co-op City is also off Con Edison’s power grid, the complex maintains underground feeders that serve as backup power, which allowed their crumbling infrastructure to resume normal activities at the residence. The panel upgrade project is just beginning and will require patience. If residents or a representative are unable to be in attendance to grant contractors apartment access please call the Group Manager to schedule an appointment.
Councilmember Adams, Dr. Maria Hubbard and H&N Insurance donate food and more By Susan Van Brackle
I
t is officially one year since the coronavirus pandemic shut down access to the Community Center and interrupted monthly gatherings of Rochdale’s Senior Citizens’ Committee members. Senior Citizen Committee
meetings were so much a part of the regular interaction and camaraderie that local seniors shared and looked forward to. That’s why Committee Chairperson Joyce Williams and Co-Chair Jean Castro sprang into action when they saw the opportunity to do a pop-up giveaway of food boxes and gifts on Wednesday, March 3.
Food donations were contributed by Councilmember Adrienne Adams and Dr. Maria Hubbard. The gifts were provided by H&N Insurance Company and Director Sheree Shivers of the Rochdale Village Senior Center provided manpower for the mass delivery of food boxes to shut in residents. (Photos page 16)
(l. to r.) Board President Jean Castro, Dr. Maria Hubbard and Senior Center Director Sheree Shivers.
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Rochdale Maintenance up to the challenge as multiple snowstorms abound By Susan Van Brackle
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his month, old man winter thought he had Rochdale Village on the ropes. There were no less than five snow storms that dumped 35 inches of snow on the 120 acre complex between January 21 and February 18 but no one backs Rochdale Maintenance into a corner. According to Grounds Manager Junior Deyes, all hands were on
deck keeping cooperators safe and walkways clear including building porters, groundsmen and contractors hired to keep parking lot pathways open. The key to storm management on a residence this size is advance preparation. According to Mr. Deyes, “Workers used 22 skids (1,232 bags) of calcium chloride and rock salt. He added, “Looking at the whole New York, the snow this year was
significantly more than usual.” The snow was indeed more than usual as confirmed by NY1 meteorologist Chris Bianchi who established that February 2021 was the snowiest in the last five years. This is the perfect opportunity to extend special thanks to Rochdale’s essential workers and supervisors that went the distance through rain, snow, sleet and hail to maintain the cooperative and allow us to prevail.
Winter of 2021 at Rochdale.
Public Safety reduces carbon footprint with environmentally friendly vehicles By Olayemi Okeniyi
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ublic Safety recently purchased two new vehicles to aid in the task of discouraging crime and mischief on Rochdale’s campus. According to Chairman of the Board Clifton Stanley Diaz, the job of keeping the community safe is a 24-hour one that takes no days off and involves extensive patrols in buildings and on the grounds. Vice President of Rochdale’s Board and Chairman of the Public Safety Committee Talib Bey explained that the two vehicles come with a full police package and have been designed to withstand wear and tear while requiring minimal maintenance. Public Safety Chief Adolph Osback added, “More
vehicles mean increased patrols, sometimes we have officers but not enough cars to go out there with them. We’ll have more of a presence with the vehicles.” He also said that the department attempted to use regular cars for patrols but that they easily broke down. “A regular car is driven for a few hours but rests for several hours in between rides, meanwhile patrol vehicles work for almost 24 hours because each shift takes it out,” he said. Chief Osback shared that in 2018 the department purchased and had good success with older models of the new hybrids, which do not require any maintenance, besides oil, battery, and tire changes. He explained that patrol vehicles were built stronger, with
heavy-duty suspension, and increased visibility, while being all terrain and allwheel drive. The Chief added that the vehicles not only look good but would also benefit Public Safety’s efforts towards environmental conservation by reducing the department’s carbon dioxide output and they save approximately $3,500 on fuel costs
continue providing services to neighborhood senior citizens and youth. Since the last article, people who are interested in donating have reached out to the Bulletin office for clearer instructions on how to contribute via Amazon Smile. 1) Begin by typing Smile.Amazon.com into your computer’s browser the same way you would if you
were conducting any search. 2) First time users will see a button that reads ‘Get Started’. Click on that. 3) You’ll be prompted to pick a charity. Scroll to ‘Rochdale Village Social Services, Inc.’ then select it. 4) The next prompt will instruct you to ‘Start Shopping’. When you use Amazon Smile there is no need to con-
Energy efficient patrol cars added to Public Safety’s fleet. each year. “These new vehicles along with the increased use of bike patrols over the warmer months will greatly help this department take an active part in preserving our environment,” Osback said. Mr. Clifton Stanley Diaz was instrumental in procuring vehicles equipped with the Police Package for our Rochdale Village Public Safety fleet.
How to use Amazon Smile for making donations to Rochdale’s Social Services By Susan Van Brackle
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he Bulletin recently published an article about a fundraising effort that Rochdale Village Social Services (RVSS) is engaged in via Amazon Smile. Rochdale’s nonprofit arm, which is based in the community center, is in need of financial support in order to
duct the registration process again. Each time you shop just enter Smile.Amazon.com in your browser, log into your Amazon account like you normally would then shop and Amazon donates 0.5% of the price of your eligible Amazon Smile purchases to RVSS.. Shopping with a purpose helps you and RVSS so please donate today.
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
~Poetry Corner & Musings...~ CHERISH By Anthony Blake Enrich Embrace Laugh with Joy It is ok to cry Smell the beauty of the flowers Cherish every given hour Marvel the skies seeking understanding Observe the stars at Night No need to wish just observe It’s not the stars twinkle, but it is the Night shine Observe the ocean waves The waves are suggesting, “Be calm and behave” It’s a new day and a new moment A time to live Appreciation and encouragement to give Moment by Moment Hour by hour Minute by minute Cherish See tomorrow But remember yesterday Feel the glory You are the story Just cherish You live to see But give thanks to Thee Just cherish more
ON WALT WHITMAN’S SONG By Ed Miller The voices Walt Whitman heard are muted or silent The factories where mechanics were blithe and strong are gated The carpenter replaced by prefab homes, pre-measured for staple guns The mason at home, unemployed by plastic siding, hats imported from China The boatman at the drydock, his haul of fish condemned, mercury contaminated The shoemaker, no repairs. Nike, Adidas have replaced Thorn McCann Giant machines need no intermission as the woodcutter and ploughboy did Barney sings mother’s delicious songs, while the young wife works two jobs And the husband sends endless resumes while he plants the for sale sign. Each too exhausted, depressed to sing, except to mouth the words of the CD Earphones blasting Rock or Rap, escape into violence and obscenity Or sleep on the E train or A or lie over a subway grate for warmth, Or stop at a sports bar to shout praises of the Redsocks, Yankees or Jets. WHAT THEY CUT OFF THE SHOW! SORRY!
BLACK POETS By Ed Miller Great Black-American Poets Knew which words to choose A brother named Countee Cullen Another, Langston Hughes. Wrote about the people In rhythm and rhymes Describing hardships and happy times. A wonderful sister, Professor, poet, too, Acts in, writes plays, Maya Angelou Writing prose and poetry When the spirit moves you Enjoying prose and poetry Certainly will improve you. Hear the new Black poets, Rapping what they say, Telling it ‘like it is’, In a syncopated way. From way back in Africa Brothers wrote poetry, Sisters sang their songs, Even in slavery. Brothers and Sisters, Black, brown or white, Share our cultural heritage, It’s truthful and it’s right.
THE FOUR SEASONS By Alanda I. Wasserman Edwards Winter Season Snow: How beautiful are the seasons Spring Summer Fall Winter In New York I love them all Here we are in the Winter 2021 season snow How Majestic it is to know that God Above is in the making of the chills Of the beauty of the white snow His Grace is with this beauty
New York gets to have The four seasons and enjoy An array of season such as Spring flowers on this campus Summer sunshine through the flowers Autumn color and leaves Winter chill and snow on the grounds All representing seasons we can feel Emotions as symbols Of his love and care to us As we move through this life Change and grow
As the environment let’s us look To the Lord for strength to be encouraged To make it through to the next season As God provides us strength and patience Whatever season we are in We can make it through The next one He is our rock of all ages!! Be encouraged God Bless you
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Rochdale Village Board of Directors Women History Month Kamala Harris United States Vice President
Wishing all the phenomenal women of Rochdale Village a blessed and wonderful Women History Month. Let us take a moment and salute the great women in our community who have had a significant impact in contributing to culture, society, history, sports, politics, and the list goes on. There are some amongst us right here at Rochdale Village, let us acknowledge their hard work and dedication as we celebrate Women History Month.
Melinda Katz Vivian Cook Letitia James Adrienne Adams Dalilah Muhammad Track & Field Athlete NYS Assembly Member NYS Councilmember NYS Attorney General Queens District Attorney
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Did you Know?... NYPD’s Chief of Detectives Rodney Harrison elevated to Chief of Department By Susan Van Brackle
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YPD’s Chief of Detectives Rodney Harrison has truly made Black History! This achievement occurred when he was the first African American in 175 years to be appointed as the police department’s Chief of Detectives and now again this man of color has been selected for a leadership role as Chief of Department replacing outgoing Chief Terrence “Terry” Monahan who is retiring. Chief Harrison is a thinking man’s cop and a consummate professional that applies training and experience to every role he has encountered. With approximately 28 years on the police force, he has commanded two precincts with distinction; Brooklyn North and the New York City Police Department’s Patrol division. This rising star is one to watch. Accolades are pouring in for this native son of the Rochdale Village housing cooperative in Jamaica, Queens. Board Chairman and Public Safety
Committee Co-Chairman, Clifton Stanley Diaz said, “On behalf of the more than 25,000 cooperators residing in the Rochdale Village community, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Chief of Detectives Rodney Harrison on being promoted to the highest uniformed rank in the New York City Police Department – Chief of Department. What an honor. Chief Harrison’s roots are from none other than Rochdale Village! The entire Harrison family and I have known each other for more than 30 years. Chief Harrison has worked every borough, passed every test, served in every rank and he knows the streets of New York. Yes, he is extremely qualified to hold the position of Chief of Department. With that in mind, in my capacity as the Chairman of the Rochdale Village Board of Directors, I previously had the pleasure of presenting him with a Partnership Award for his major contributions towards improving the trust between the police and our community. This has always been an important
(Left to right) NYPD’s newest Chief of Department and Rochdale’s own Chief Rodney Harrison with Rochdale’s Chairman of the Board and Public Safety Co-Chair Clifton Stanley Diaz at 1 Police Plaza.
part of Chief Harrison’s career with the New York City Police Department. When Mayor DeBlasio mentioned that he was from Queens and asked him if he wanted to say anything, he mentioned that he was definitely
qualified for the position and his hometown was Rochdale Village! Thank you Mayor DeBlasio for selecting my Harrison family hometown friend for the position of Chief of the New York City Police Department.”
Ring security systems now available for purchase at Rochdale Village By Susan Van Brackle
R
ochdale Village management has negotiated affordable pricing for cooperators that are interested in purchasing Ring home security equipment for their apartments. The battery operated system takes approximately two days to install onto your existing entry door. Purchasers are required to have a smart phone in order to receive security reports, system updates and alerts from Ring as well as to be able to monitor your premises on the go. The cost for hardware,
equipment and installation is $125.00. The advantage of having Ring service at residences is that cooperators can monitor their homes and property while on the premises or remotely while they are away. Since the unit runs on batteries, the surveillance sensor also can be turned on or off to extend battery life. Purchasers should know that apartments with Ring security systems have helped to reduce vandalism, package theft and other untoward behaviors here at the cooperative. Supplies of Ring security equipment are limited and are avail-
The Ring security system affixes neatly to Rochdale entrance doors.
able to cooperators on a first-come, first-served basis. Once cooperators have purchased the Ring from Rochdale Maintenance, the annual subscription for monitoring, servicing, tech support and any other fol-
low up must be directed to Ring. com. Interested parties should contact their respective Group Managers with any questions or to reserve installation.
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February 2021
Advantage Care Physicians gets Valentine’s greetings from Board Chairman (photo credits: Larry Love Moore)
Healthcare professionals at Advantage Care Physicians (formerly HIP Medical Center) hold up Valentine’s Day greetings. Board Chairman Clifton Stanley Diaz standing center.
Note from Rochdale’s Board leadership and property management sent to Advantage Care healthcare workers on Valentine’s Day.
A surprise Valentine’s Day luncheon was thrown for Advantage Care staff compliments of Rochdale’s Board of Directors, La Bari Pizzeria and OB’s Bakery at Mall #1.
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Highlights of What’s Happening in the Rochdale Village Community
(3rd from left) Talib Bey, 1st Vice President of the Board of Directors and Public Safety Chairman; (5th from left) Chairman of the Board of Directors Clifton Stanley Diaz and Co-Chairman of the Public Safety Committee and (last man standing) Public Safety Chief, Adolph Osback flanked by professionals of the Rochdale Village Public Safety Department and new environmentally friendly additions to the automobile fleet. (Photo credit: Larry Love Moore)
NORC’S pop up vaccination event in rooms 11/12/13 handled everything from client screening, to vaccinations to observation afterwards.
(left to right) Assistant Treasurer Glynis Urquhart and Lisa Stark Assistant Secretary of the Board of Directors, lead by example in getting the COVID-19 vaccination at Rochdale Village.
Resident and retiree, Nikita Bush seen after getting her first of two doses of the Moderna vaccination. She urges her neighbors at Rochdale “get the shot!”
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February 2021
ROCHDALE SENIOR CENTER. . . 169-65 137th Avenue, Jamaica, NY 11434
718 525-2800 - 1st Recording Hit #1 for Senior Center 2nd Recording Ext. 1
WOMEN’S HISTORY CELEBRATION WITH A “SURPRISE” PERFORMANCE FRIDAY, MARCH 26, 2021 MEETING ID # & PASSWORD: TO BE ANNOUNCED Funded in Part by – New York City Council–Councilmember Adrienne Adams and Department for the Aging
February 2021
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Rochdale board and restaurants gift Advantage Care team with Valentine’s Day lunch
Healthcare and essential workers at Rochdale’s Advantage Care Physicians (formerly known as the HIP Medical Center) enjoyed a complimentary Valentine’s Day lunch collaborated between the Board of Directors, OB’s Bakery and LeBari Pizzeria of Queens. (Photo credits Larry Love Moore)
By Susan Van Brackle
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he past year has been a grueling one for healthcare workers on the frontline battling the coronavirus pandemic. To show appreciation for essential workers, members of the Rochdale Village Board of Directors stopped by Advantage Care Phy-
Chairman of the Board, Clifton Stanley Diaz, checks to see if everything has arrived.
sicians here on campus to wish the staff ‘Happy Valentine’s Day’ and treat team members to a surprise luncheon. Rochdale’s Board President Jean Castro and Board Chairman Clifton Stanley Diaz collaborated with OB’s Bakery located in Mall #1 on Baisley Boulevard and La Bari Pizzeria at 136-13 Farmers Boule-
vard to donate the holiday meals. The professionals at Advantage Care Physicians also received a Valentine’s Day note written from the Board President, Board Chairman and Management that listed each worker by name. The team looked genuinely surprised and grateful for the gesture. (More photos on page 16).
Doctor’s Serge Alerte and Karl Deratus read Valentine’s Day note from Board and Management. with medical staff.
Dr. Alerte compares lunch plates with medical staff member.
Digital Passports may soon be used as verification for COVID-free travel By Susan Van Brackle
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he health and tourism industries are abuzz about a potential ‘next step’ towards getting back to travel after the coronavirus pandemic. News is circulating
that individuals who’ve already gotten a COVID-19 vaccine may now qualify their health status via a digital app or ‘digital passport’ before making a trek. Digital passports are already being used in parts of the world like Israel.
Areas of Europe, like the United Kingdom, are strongly considering this feature before allowing visitors through their borders. Countries around the globe including the U.S., currently require proof of a negative COVID-19
test 1-3 days before embarking on a journey or arriving. The United States requires similar confirmation from visiting guests. As vacation season heats up, stay tuned for information more to come about using digital passports.
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February 2021
Rochdale Village NORC Calendar - March 2021
PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING TO REDUCE THE SPREAD OF COVID-19.
6 Feet
February 2021
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Rochdale Village Senior Center - March 2021
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February 2021
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Rochdale Village Board of Directors Meeting Resolutions - February 1, 2021
ELECTION OF BOARD OFFICERS: Chairperson Clifton Stanley Diaz; President Jean Randolph-Castro; First Vice-President Talib Bey; Second Vice-President Timothy Mercer; Fourth Vice-President Edward Douglass; Secretary Joyce Williams; Treasurer Barbara Staples; Assistant Treasurer Glynis Urquhart
Community Relations Lisa Stark &
Barbara Staples
Informational Technology Legal and Management Maintenance
Jean Randolph-Castro Janine Cross
Moved by: Lisa Stark Second by: Talib Bey
Parking Clifton Stanley Diaz &
FOR Talib Bey Janine Cross Edward Douglass Maryam Hubbard Timothy Mercer Barbara Staples Glynis Urquhart
Public Safety Senior Citizens Youth Planning Environmental Conservation
Jean Randolph-Castro Clifton Stanley Diaz Gary Hawkins Sheila McKenzie Derrick Shareef Lisa Stark Joyce Williams
ABSTENTIONS Jean Hall Fourteen four, one abstention; motion passes. BOARD OFFICER: Third Vice-President Janine Cross Moved by: Lisa Stark Second by: Clifton Stanley Diaz Secretary cast one vote for Janine Cross for Third-Vice President. One abstention noted: Jean Hall. Janine Cross is Third Vice-President Assistant Secretary Lisa Stark Moved by: Janine Cross Second by: Clifton Stanley Diaz Secretary cast one vote for Lisa Stark for Assistant Secretary. One abstention noted: Jean Hall Lisa Stark is Assistant Secretary. COMMITTEE CHAIRS Budget and Finance Commercial Services Community Center Jean Randolph-Castro &
Barbara Staples Tim Mercer Edward Douglass
Orientation Clifton Stanley Diaz & Glynis Urquhart Jean Randolph-Castro Talib Bey Joyce Williams Gary Hawkins Glynis Urquhart
Moved by: Clifton Stanley Diaz Seconded by: Lisa Stark Secretary cast one vote for Glynis Urquhart for Assistant Secretary and for all other Committee Chairs to remain the same. One abstention noted: Jean Hall. R01-21: WHEREAS, to ensure the safety of the workers and pedestrians a new fence is needed at the auger site (adjacent to parking lot 8), WHEREAS, proposals were sought for fencing to remove and install a security fence around the auger site located on Bedell Street, WHEREAS, the new fence will act as a barrier preventing unauthorized access from the railroad area, WHEREAS, three (3) companies responded of which Schiano Bros. Inc. provided the lowest responsible bid as follows: Contractor Bid(installed) Schiano Bros. $64,454.00 Pipe-Line of Smithtown $67,502.50 Brett Fencing & Contracting $70,768.85 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Rochdale Village, Inc. Board of Directors accepts the proposal from Schiano Bros. Inc. based upon their bid totaling $64,454.00 to be funded from the Wells Fargo Escrow, subject to approval from the New York State Homes & Community Renewal. Moved by: Janine Cross Seconded by: Jean Randolph-Castro FOR Talib Bey Jean Randolph-Castro Janine Cross Clifton Stanley Diaz
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Rochdale Village Board of Directors Meeting Resolutions - February 1, 2021
Edward Douglass Gary Hawkins Sheila McKenzie Derrick Shareef Lisa Stark Joyce Williams
Jean Hall Maryam Hubbard Timothy Mercer Barbara Staples Glynis Urquhart
Fifteen for; motion passes. R02-21 WHEREAS, an investigation was conducted by staff on all sixty (60) bulkheads (3-per Building) revealing dire need of repairs due to cracks in bricks, open joints and missing capstones on 59 of the 60 bulkheads (Building 11C was repaired on an emergency basis); WHEREAS, repairs and replacements would include but not be limited to masonry,cinderblock, glass block, blazed brick, caulking, capstone and concrete; WHEREAS, proposals were sought from qualified contractors to provide cost in ten specified categories (see attached bid results sheet); and WHEREAS, O & C General Construction provided the lowest responsible price in each of the ten categories and they are a company that has performed work to the satisfaction of Management on other projects. BE IT RESOLVED, that the Rochdale Village, Inc. Board of Directors approves the proposal from O & C General Construction based upon their unit prices, subject to approval from the New York State Homes & Community Renewal. Moved by: Clifton Stanley Diaz Seconded by: Edward Douglass FOR Talib Bey Janine Cross Edward Douglass Gary Hawkins Sheila McKenzie Derrick Shareef Lisa Stark Joyce Williams
Jean Randolph-Castro Clifton Stanley Diaz Jean Hall Maryam Hubbard Timothy Mercer Barbara Staples Glynis Urquhart
Fifteen for; motion passes. R03-21: TELEPHONE VOTE WHEREAS, the December 2020 Board Meeting at Rochdale Village is scheduled for December 28, 2020, three days after Christmas day; and WHEREAS, this is a difficult time of the year for Cooperators and Board Members to attend the meeting and the December meeting hasbeen cancelled for many years at Rochdale Village. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Rochdale Village, Inc. Board of Directors cancels the December 2020 Board Meeting. FOR Talib Bey Jean Randolph-Castro
Janine Cross Edward Douglass Gary Hawkins Sheila McKenzie Derrick Shareef Lisa Stark Joyce Williams
Clifton Stanley Diaz Jean Hall Maryam Hubbard Timothy Mercer Barbara Staples Glynis Urquhart
Fifteen for: Telephone vote passes. TELEPHONE VOTE R04-21: WHEREAS, in June of 2020 the Board of Directors voted to postpone the second carrying charge increase scheduled to be implemented from August 1, 2020 to February 1, 2021; WHEREAS, the Covid-19 pandemic is still seriously impacting Rochdale Village Cooperators; WHEREAS, the Board would like to extend the second carrying charge increase delay from February 1, 2021 to be implemented on June 1, 2021; and WHEREAS, the financial position of the Corporation can sustain the delay. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the 2.9% carrying charge increase delay will be extended from February 1, 2021 to be implemented on June 1, 2021. FOR Talib Bey Jean Randolph-Castro Janine Cross Clifton Stanley Diaz Edward Douglass Jean Hall Gary Hawkins Maryam Hubbard Timothy Mercer Sheila McKenzie Derrick Shareef Barbara Staples Lisa Stark Glynis Urquhart Joyce Williams Fifteen for: Telephone vote passes. TELEPHONE VOTE R05-21: WHEREAS, the January 2021 Board Meeting at Rochdale Village is scheduled for January 25, 2021; WHEREAS, due to inadvertently not providing enough notice for the meeting via postings in all buildings the Board meeting is cancelled; WHEREAS, moving the monthly Board Meeting to February 1, 2021 would allow adequatetime for the meeting notices to be posted conspicuously in all buildings. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Rochdale Village, Inc. Board of Directors approves rescheduling the January 2021 Board Meeting to take place on February 1, 2021. FOR Talib Bey Janine Cross Edward Douglass Gary Hawkins Sheila McKenzie Derrick Shareef
Jean Randolph-Castro Clifton Stanley Diaz Jean Hall Maryam Hubbard Timothy Mercer Barbara Staples
February 2021
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Rochdale Village Board of Directors Meeting Resolutions - February 1, 2021
Lisa Stark Joyce Williams
Glynis Urquhart
Fifteen for: Telephone vote passes.
Lisa Stark Joyce Williams
Glynis Urquhart
Fifteen for; motion passes.
TELEPHONE VOTE R07-21: R06-21: WHEREAS, with the help of Reverend Craig and the WHEREAS, TANYA ARMSTRONG and DIPA WEBB have previously each filed complaints with the New York City Mayor's office, Rochdale Village was contacted about viable space to perform Covid-19 vaccinations for the Phase 1B including people Commission on Human Rights alleging that Rochdale Village, Inc. failed to provide them with a reasonable accommodation with respect over seventy-five (75) years old; WHEREAS, the Rochdale Village Ballroom has suffito disabled parking as well as other cient space at 10,000 square feet to host such an event; and allegations; and WHEREAS, the proposed dates and time of the event WHEREAS, lengthy discussions and settlement param- are yet to be determined and will be decided upon once they become eters have been conducted between the parties; and available. WHEREAS, the New York City Commission on Hu THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the man Rights, TANYA ARMSTRONG and DIPA WEBB have agreed to settle their claims pursuant to the terms and conditions contained in Rochdale Village Inc. Board of Directors approves the use of the Rochdale Village Ballroom to perform Covid-19 vaccinations for the the attached proposed Stipulation and Order; and Phase 1B including people over seventy-five (75) years old. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Directors of Rochdale Village, Inc. approves the attached FOR Stipulation and Order. Jean Randolph-Castro Talib Bey Janine Cross Clifton Stanley Diaz Moved by: Janine Cross Jean Hall Edward Douglass Seconded by: Talib Bey Gary Hawkins Maryam Hubbard Sheila McKenzie Timothy Mercer FOR Derrick Shareef Barbara Staples Talib Bey Jean Randolph-Castro Lisa Stark Glynis Urquhart Janine Cross Clifton Stanley Diaz Joyce Williams Jean Hall Edward Douglass Gary Hawkins Maryam Hubbard Sheila McKenzie Timothy Mercer Fifteen for: Telephone vote passes. Barbara Staples Derrick Shareef
Rochdale Village Board of Directors Meeting Resolutions - February 1, 2021
Meeting began: 7:20 p.m. Board Members: Present Clifton Stanley Diaz - Chairperson Jean Randolph Castro - President Talib Bey - 1st Vice President Tim Mercer - 2nd Vice President Lisa Stark - 3rd Vice President Edward Douglass - 4th Vice President Joyce Williams - Secretary Janine Cross - Assistant Secretary Barbara Staples - Treasurer (Arrived 7:25 p.m.) Glynis Urquhart - Assistant Treasurer Jean Hall - Director Gary Hawkins - Director Maryam Hubbard - Director
Also present MSI Real Estate Herbert Freedman - General Manager Jay Williams - Assistant General Manager Lance Williams - Assistant General Manager Robert Bernstein, Esq., Corporate Counsel William Young - Controller Kelvin Pantaleon - Director of Maintenance Adolph Osback - Chief of Public Safety Corey Jones - Director, Power Plant The agenda for the evening: 1. Motions 2. Adjournment 3. Cooperator’s Session The roll call was taken upon opening the meeting. Based on the attendance, a quorum was reached. There were (9) motions requiring board action (see the Board Resolutions). Motion to adjourn came at 8:40 p.m.
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February 2021
Projects Report February 2021
SAVE TIME PAY ONLINE WITH PAY LEASE 866-729-5327
Project Name
WELLS FARGO PROJECTS
DescripDon
Status
3/5/21
Original Budget
Funding Source
Rochdale Village Inc. Overview of Wells Fargo and HCR Projects February 8, 2021
Contract Amount
Money Spent
Money Remaining
AnDcipated Start
CompleDon ProjecDon
February 2021 The Rochdale Village Bulletin Page 27
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February 2021
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Save a trip to the management office! • • • •
Set up monthly carrying charge payments online. Start by subscribing to rochdalevillage.com. Contact the Rochdale Village Bulletin office to register. Call 718-276-5700 x3590 or x3600
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Rochdale Village Board of Directors Calendar March 2021
See what’s going on in and around our community... There’s a little something for everyone!
Share What’s Happening in Our Community If you are a part of a community organization or have a special event that you would like to be posted, email Rochdalebulletin@gmail.com with the date, time and the subject heading “Community Calendar.” Postings will be at the Editor’s discretion. KEY CL = Club Lounge RM = Room Within the RV Community Center
NOTE: This schedule is tentative. Committee Chairpersons, PLEASE CONTACT THE BOARD OFFICE TO CONFIRM OR ADVISE OF ANY CHANGES TO YOUR SCHEDULED MEETING DATES.
THE DEADLINE FOR SUBMITTING MATERIAL TO THE ROCHDALE VILLAGE BULLETIN IS THE 2nd WEEK OF THE MONTH.
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SERVING OVER 25,000 SHAREHOLDERS IN THE WORLD’S SECOND LARGEST HOUSING COOPERATIVE
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REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS
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718-276-5700 X3590 • rochdalebulletin@gmail.com The Rochdale Village Bulletin is published monthly. Articles submitted for consideration should not exceed three typed, double spaced pages. We reserve the right to edit all material submitted for publication. Please note that submission of articles does not guarantee publication. All material is subject to review for approval. All articles, advertising and photographs submitted for consideration must include the name, address and telephone number of the author or photographer. All materials submitted, as well as photographs, become the property of Rochdale Village, Inc.
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February 2021