Ty Hankerson Wins City Council District 28 Primary!
Page 19.
Serving over 25,000 cooperators in the world’s second largest housing cooperative.
$30 MILLION FOR ROCHDALE VILLAGE!
By Cynthia Bernadine
In a decisive move aimed at addressing the financial challenges faced by Rochdale Village, Congressman Gregory Meeks announced at his Town Hall meeting for Rochdale residents on Saturday, June 14, 2025 that NYS Assemblyman Carl Heastie and Assemblywoman Vivian E. Cook helped to facilitate the allocation of $30 million in funding dedicated to operational and capital projects. This significant investment is poised to uplift the community and provide essential resources to mitigate the ongoing financial crisis that has impacted residents and Rochdale Village operations.
Rochdale Village currently faces immediate capital needs amounting to around $52 million. The two funding allocations of $30 million ($5 million in direct operating funds and $25 million for capital projects) will play a crucial role in lowering the anticipated increases in carrying charges, alleviating much of the concern and uncertainty residents have been experiencing in recent months.
Assemblywoman Cook visited Rochdale Village on Friday, June 20th and again on Monday, June 23rd, 2025 where she announced this news to the community. More information will be shared with the community as it comes in regarding the process.
ROCHDALE VILLAGE BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2023-2024
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: 718-276-5700 extension 3360.
OFFICERS OF THE BOARD
Chairwoman of the Board
Dr. Althea Hicks
President
Jean Hall
Vice Presidents
Khedda Hayden-Ryan
Keysha Beasley
Cody Hamblin
Nadine Browne
Treasurer
Kamal Saleem
Assistant Treasurer
Sheila McKenzie
Secretary
Stacey Francis
Assistant Secretary
Dr. Yvette Joy Harris-Smith
MEMBERS OF THE BOARD
Keysha Beasley
Talib Bey
Nadine Browne
Janine Cross
Stacey Francis
Jean Hall
Cody Hamblin
Dr. Yvette Joy Harris-Smith
Khedda Hayden-Ryan
Dr. Althea Hicks
Sheila McKenzie
Jean Randolph-Castro
Kamal Saleem
Lisa Stark
Jacqueline Telfer
George Simon (State Representative)
COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS
Budget & Finance
Jean Hall
Commercial Services
Dr. Yvette Joy Harris-Smith
Community Center
Khedda Hayden-Ryan
Community Relations
Jean Randolph-Castro
Environment, Parks, Recreation & Parking
Althea Hicks
Legal & Management
Jean Hall
Maintenance
Keysha Beasley
Media & IT
Stacey Francis
Orientation
Keysha Beasley
Public Safety
Khedda Hayden-Ryan
Senior Citizens
Jean Hall
Youth Planning
Nadine Browne
MANAGEMENT
Summit Property Management Services Inc.
General Manager
Jay Williams
Assistant Manager
Wilfred Rodriguez
Assistant Manager
Leacroft Gordon
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
Dean Roberts
President’s Message
OLD HABITS & NORMS MUST NOT RESURFACE
Greetings Shareholders,
Changing the culture of complacency and familiarity will not be easy here at Rochdale Village. The desire by some to go back to old habits and norms must not resurface if our community is to move beyond this current crisis.
While I cannot confirm that certain things are being carried out on purpose, I can tell you from where I sit at times it sure as heck feels like it. If one cannot admit an error or acknowledge that perhaps a different decision should have
- by Jean Hall
been made or could have been made, then I feel it’s like an addict that can never recognize they have a problem. You cannot correct something that you fail to acknowledge exists.
For some it is easier to blame rather than become part of the solutions. Your board of directors voluntarily serves this community. Those I work closely with do it because we love our community and know that we have not even scratched the surface of greatness for Rochdale Village. We serve because we have a desire to make our home a place where everyone is proud to live. A place where residents play an active role no matter how big or small in fostering community and excellence.
We have serious challenges to face. We need serious people to lead our community. This work is not for the faint of heart, nor for leaders who are afraid to tell the truth, or for leaders who are afraid of change and/or unwilling to make needed changes. This work is not for those who simply want to go back to old habits and norms. This work is not for wishy washy folks who change depending on how the wind blows or who gives them their way. Rather this work is for those willing to uphold the principles of transparency, accountability and integrity. This work is for those who are not afraid to speak the truth to power.
Rochdale must continue to move forward. Therefore, we cannot hold on to outdated habits and displaced loyalties. We must embrace change and recognize that we have been a step behind for a prolonged period. That has hurt us and now we stand at a crossroad. You may ask yourself; can I believe in this new leadership that is dissecting this organizational structure one piece at a time and revealing inconsistencies, bad practices and more. Or should I retreat to what may be more familiar and less alarming.
Rochdale Village has work to do and that work must be done together. There are no more shortcuts or kicking the can down the road. We are here and we must take corrective action. Our homes are affordable, and we must continue to do the work to make sure we are not priced out.
I urge each resident to continue to engage with your leadership and allow us to continue to rebuild this community. A community where you will be able to live and thrive. Going backwards is simply not a viable option. I am reminded of these words by former President Barack Obama, “Instead of giving in to cynicism and division, let’s move forward with the confidence and optimism and unity that define us as a people.”
We are One Rochdale, a community built on family!
President, Jean Hall
ROCHDALE VILLAGE RESIDENTS HEAD TO ALBANY
By Cynthia Bernadine
Rochdale Village, residents and board banded together to voice their discontent over the recently announced carrying charge increase and headed to Albany. The atmosphere was charged with a mix of determination and frustration as community members gathered on the steps of the Capitol with signs, aimed at drawing attention to their cause.
The protest on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, held outside the State Capitol offices, was organized in response to the unexpected rise in carrying charges that has sparked concern among Rochdale Village residents. For many, this proposed increase threatens not only their financial stability but also the sense of community that they have cultivated over the years.
Many residents of Roch-
dale Village were caught off guard by the announcement made a few months ago. As a neighborhood that prides itself on inclusivity and affordability, such increases can have far-reaching implications. “We are concerned about how these charges will impact our monthly budgets,” said one resident who participated in the protest. “A lot of us are living paycheck to paycheck, and any additional financial burden just makes it harder to make ends meet.”
Senator James Sanders, Jr. who attended the protest along with Ty Hankerson, Chief of Staff for Speaker Adrienne Adams, joined Rochdale Board and Shareholders, emphasized the need for dialogue between residents and Albany officials. Senator Sanders, Jr. held a press conference on the reknowned Capitol Million Dollar Staircase and spoke, highlighting the importance of community involvement in decision-making processes that
affect the everyday lives of residents. Board President, Jean Hall as well as Board Member Jean Randolph-Castro and Board Treasurer Kamal Saleem met with state legislators and agency representatives throughout the day. Towards the end of the visit, Jean Hall, Kamal Saleem and a Shareholder, Beverly Benjamin did an interview with 1010 wins which was facilitated by Senator Sanders, Jr.
Moreover, residents expressed uncertainty about how these increases will affect essential services they rely on and their everyday lives. Many seniors voiced their concerns about how the potential increase can cause a decline in the quality of life if financial pressures continue to grow. The fear of losing what they love most about their community — its accessibility to affordable housing and sense of belonging — has galvanized residents to speak out.
In the face of rising carrying charges, residents ended the day with an optimistic outlook, reaffirming their commitment to fighting for their community. “We will not back down,” said one resident as the rally came to a close. “We’ll continue to stand up until our concerns are addressed and we see real changes.”
Before leaving Albany, Assembly Member Khaleel M. Anderson (Assembly District 31) came on the bus to speak with Shareholders and offer them support and encouragement.
This protest serves as a reminder of the power of community action and the necessity of an open dialogue between residents and the organizations that govern them. As the situation unfolds, residents remain hopeful that their collective efforts will lead to a resolution that benefits everyone in the community.
(Photo Credit: Shannon Vassell).
-
by Jay Williams
General Manager’s Monthly Report for June 2025
UPDATE ON THE CARRYING CHARGE INCREASE:
Before I give the update, I have a short history review for those that may not have been to the last few budget and finance committee meetings. If you only want the update, please read only the last paragraph of this section.
During the BRD process we cut expenses where we could from our 400 plus line budget, bringing our projected increase numbers to a 2-step approach of 22.3% in year one and 4.5% in year 2. While many shareholders balked at this percentage, it was the absolute lowest percentage that can balance the budget. This approach only works if vendor arrears are spread over a 5-year period and it does not consider any capital improvement work. Alternative options for different increase percentages were given at the budget and finance committee meetings. Two options did include refinancing and capital work, but the minimum option is what the committee members voted for.
I also made it clear that getting NYS Homes and Community Renewal (“HCR”) to agree to a 5-year vendor payout would be an uphill battle. We anticipated that HCR would want the vendor arrears handled in 2 years to coincide with the 2-year budget. In past budget years the vendor payments did not impact the BRD increase percentage. However, across the Mitchell lama portfolio this has become a real problem. Post Covid vendor arrears have spiked throughout NYS causing vendors to put mechanics liens on properties. We have no liens at Rochdale. This is because we have kept open communications with all our vendors regarding payment delays and make sure we pay as much as we can to keep services going.
At the time of our submission, HCR indicated that their preliminary increase per-
centage was a 36.6% one step approach or a 44% two step approach. We did not agree but we waited for them to complete their process, understanding that these numbers were preliminary. It was shocking when they sent us a spreadsheet in May reflecting a 57% increase. This was shared with the Board and an immediate meeting request was also sent to HCR to discuss.
Update:
Since that time, we have been meeting weekly with HCR to negotiate final increase percentage down as much as possible. The three driving factors of the increase are the projected budget deficit for fiscal years 26/27, the vendor arrears and the completion of our façade work. We are close to finalizing our negotiation but do not have any definitive answers from HCR on the final increase percentage number.
NEGOTIATING THE INCREASE
We have 3 main factors determining the final increase percentage. Below is a short description of the factors and our approach to arguing our position:
1. Budget deficit: We have a projected budget deficit of 12.6% in year one ($11.4 million) and 16.7% ($15 million) in year two. The causes here have been discussed many times. Just to reiterate, our insurance costs have risen 275% in the last 4 years and inflation has caused material to increase 24% or $3.6 million. Our income has not increased at the same rate.
Action: We have implemented budget cuts where possible to reduce expenses.
2. Vendor Arrears: We use every incoming dollar to pay as many vendors as possible every month. Please keep in mind that this is a moving target. We are still being billed monthly for services as we use them (e.g. plumbing,
apartment repair, supplies). Bottom line, there is not enough income to cover all our expenses. Currently we owe approximately $18 million on our water bill and $9.4 million to the remaining vendors.
Action: Began talks with the NYC waterboard in October of 2024 with help from NYC Council Speaker Adams office. NYS Senator Sanders office and NYS Assemblywoman Cook’s office also assisted in helping to negotiate a 10-year payment plan. This enables HCR to remove approximately $14.4 million from their 2-year budget calculation. Worked with the NYS Assemblywoman Vivian Cook since February of 2025 on Rochdale’s immediate and long-term needs resulting in $5 million for vendor arrears. This also enables HCR to remove $5 million from their 2-year budget calculation.
3. Façade Work: The Local Law 11 façade work will be an estimated $30 million to complete based on the Cycle 9 requirements. Cycle 9 is more expensive to comply with than any previous one due to the increased inspection and repair obligations. We have completed $10 million so far giving us substantial completion of group 2 and partial completion of group 4.
Action: Began a low interest loan application (3%) to complete façade work with NYC Housing Preservation and Development (“HPD”) in April of 2024. The original loan request of $24 million was scaled back to $11 million due to funding shortages at HPD. Worked with the NYS Assemblywoman Vivian Cook since February of 2025 on Rochdale’s immediate and long-term needs resulting in a $25 million grant for capital work. These two initiatives enable HCR to remove $30 million from their 2-year budget calculation.
Monthly Report
- by Jay Williams
General Manager’s Monthly Report for June 2025 (cont’d)
EXPLAINING THE WATER BILL DECISION:
I keep hearing that we are going to receive an increase because of an unpaid water bill. That is not the case. We need an increase because our expenses have gone up higher than our income. This rise in expenses is not due to any Board or Management decision. It is due to insurance rates skyrocketing and material costs due to inflation. So, what do you do when there is not enough money coming in to cover your bills; you prioritize.
What do we pay every month:
• Mortgage/Taxes (Shelter Rent): we must pay to avoid foreclosure for missed payments.
• Insurance: we must be insured to avoid liability exposure.
• Gas: we must pay gas so that the power plant can make electricity.
• Elevator Maintenance: we must pay this to keep our elevators working.
• Plumbing Service: we must pay this to ensure major leaks are repaired quickly.
• Apartment Supplies: we must pay this to make sure apartments are maintained.
The water bill ranges anywhere between $500k - $650k per month depending on usage. The choice to defer the water payment was out of the necessity to keep up with the bills to the best of our ability. In this we succeeded in keeping current with our mortgage, keeping Rochdale insured, keeping the lights on, keeping the elevators working and apartment repair work going.
The water bill payment plan we entered is very similar to an unsecured loan. This agreement is at 6% interest over 10 years with no prepayment penalty. I cannot even think of any banks that would offer terms like this today. And given the financial strain we find ourselves in I cannot think of another set of choices that would have given us this result. If we had deferred payment to our lender, Wells Fargo, we would not have been given this kind of option. The same goes for any other vendor.
NYS ASSEMBLY WOMAN VIVIAN COOK COMES THROUGH FOR ROCHDALE!!:
I am happy to announce that our NYS Assemblywoman Vivian Cook has gotten Rochdale $30 million during one of our greatest times of need! $5 million of the funds will be allocated to our operations (bills) and the rest will go toward our capital needs. The chief need among them currently is the completion of our façade work.
Once our supervising agency, HCR, has received the official notice from the NYS Assembly’s office of the award, these additional funds will be calculated as part of our 2-year budget. This will go a long way toward helping lower our final increase percentage.
In addition, we received confirmation that the grant we applied for in June of 2023 for the community room renovation project has also been approved for funding. The amount of this grant is $1.5 million. So, the total of grant funding received from the
Assembly woman is $31.5 million. Thank you, Assembly Woman Vivian Cook!
MANAGEMENT AND THE BOARD WORKING TOGETHER THROUGH CRISIS:
These days I have been making my rounds throughout the Mitchell Lama communities talking to different Boards about their issues. I have found that most of them have the same financial problems as us for the same reasons. Some communities have defaulted on their mortgage and some have not. All the ones I spoke with are in arrears with their vendors and looking down the barrel of a double-digit increase. As Congressman Gregory Meeks stated at his Rochdale townhall meeting, Mitchell Lama’s statewide have been affected by this rise in expenses.
However, the difference I see between them and us is the collaborative efforts We [Management and the Board] to act on behalf of the shareholders. In the past year we have held a total of 9 in-person/hybrid community meetings about our finances. This kind of effort is absent in many other Mitchell Lama’s. We are trying to keep the community informed. We are also communicating our needs to our elected officials. Judging by some of the funding announcements we are getting results. We are fighting collectively for Rochdale Village and will continue to do so. Please ask us questions if you have them. An informed community is a strong community. Thank you.
The next meeting of the Board of Directors will be on Monday, July 28, 2025 in the Community Center and on Zoom at 7:00 p.m.
Public Safety Report
- by Chief Adolph Osback
May 2025
The Public Safety department maintains 24 hour / 7 day a week coverage.
COMPLAINTS:
Loitering complaints of which 21 were marked as unfounded (officers responded but no loiters were present) 112 Noise complaints of which 74 were marked as unfounded (officers responded but no noise could be heard)
These verticals resulted in 37 violations being issued and 42 loiterers encountered during the vertical patrols. In addition, 1 tenant verifications were made. Note: Directed verticals are additional post inspections
to proactively reduce quality of life conditions in designated “hot spots” as determined by community complaints and analysis of various patrol reports.
Provided by 113th Precinct P.O. Smith, Crime Analysis Division to Public Safety Chief Adolph Osback, Public Safety Chair Khedda Hayden-Ryan
28 DAY ROCHDALE VILLAGE INDEX CRIMES SUMMARY:
Greetings cooperators:
A Message From The Chief
This month we are reporting progress in the following area:
Quality of life issues related to building 17 – Part two (see May bulletin for Part 1):
On May 29th at approximately 0620 hours members of the NYPD”s Queens Narcotics Division were present in building 17 A-Section for the execution of a search warrant. This warrant resulted in the arrest of two individuals and the recovery of over 40 glassines containing heroin. They were charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, criminal possession of a controlled substance w/intent to sell, criminal sale of a controlled substance and criminal possession of drug paraphernalia.
This search warrant was the result of a several month joint-investigation between the NYPD and the Public Safety Department into complaints of loitering, trespassing and strange people ringing doorbells during late night hours throughout building 17. Our investigation revealed that the source of these complaints was drug activity taking place in both the “C & A” sections of the building. Subject # 1 was arrested on April 30 and charged with the drug sales taking place in the C-Section where crack-cocaine and a loaded revolver were recovered. During this recent warrant, subjects 2 & 3 were arrested and charged for their roles in the drug activity taking place in the A-section (heroin recovered).
Adolph
Osback
Public Safety Chief
Controller’s Report -
by William Young
Profit and Loss Financial Statement Narrative
For the Month Ended April 30, 2025 (FY 2026)
Rochdale Village Inc. PROFIT & LOSS STATEMENT FY 2025 vs. Budget Summary of Key Performance Indicators For the Year Ended April 30, 2025 (FY 2026)
(NOTE: We are still in the process of a software conversion. there are reclassifications and account mapping issues that will be resolved once the conversion is complete.)
Rochdale Village Inc. Summary of Total Revenue For the Year Ended April 30, 2025 (FY 2026)
Community Center Revenue - Community Center Revenue was in-line with the Budget.
Total revenue For the Month Ended April 30, 2025 (FY 2026)Total revenue increased $59,000 to $7,552,000 as compared to $7,483,000 in the FY 2026 Budget. Although the Total Revenue was inline with the Budget, there were variances which are explained below:
Apartment revenue - For the Month Ended April 30, 2025 (FY 2026)Apartment revenue was relatively in-line with the FY 2026 Budget at $6,650,000 as compared to $6,614,000 in the FY 2026 Budget.
Commercial rental revenue – For the Month Ended April 30, 2025 (FY 2026)Commercial rental revenue increased $75,000 to $554,000 as compared to $479,000 in the FY 2026 Budget. This increase is due to significant improvements in occupancy since April 30, 2025 and incremental rent increases during FY 2025.
Other Rental Revenue - (Includes Parking) - Other rental revenue decreased $(32,000) to $138,000 as compared to $171,000 in the Budget. The decrease is related to less Parking lot Rent.
NOTE: - Approximately 80% of Other rental revenue is related to Parking revenue.
Other Income (accounts - Laundry, & Interest income) - For the Month Ended April 30, 2025 (FY 2026)other income was in-line with the Budget.
Controller’s Report -
by William Young
Rochdale Village, Inc. Summary of Administrative, Janitorial & Ground, Maintenance & Operating and Public Safety Expenses For the Year Ended April 30, 2025 (FY 2026)
Administrative - For the Month Ended April 30, 2025 (FY 2026)Administrative expenses Decreased (77,000) to $452,000 as compared to $530,000 in the Budget.
Janitorial & Grounds - For the Month Ended April 30, 2025 (FY 2026), Janitorial & Grounds expenses were inline with the Budget.
(NOTE: During the software conversion process, there are reclassifications and mapping issues that will be resolved when the conversion is completed.
Maintenance and Operating Costs - For the Month Ended April 30, 2025 (FY 2026) Maintenance and Operating costs increased $718,000 to $2,007,000 as compared to $1,289,000 in the Budget. The increase in Repairs Material, tools & supplies is related to the impact of inflation on purchases and the Budget was spread out evenly over 12 months.
Public Safety - For the Month Ended April 30, 2025 (FY 2026) Public Safety expenses decreased $(89,000) to $407,000 as compared to $496,000 in the FY 2026 Budget. The decrease is related to the Budget projected at Full Staff and we are not at Full Staff.
Village, Inc. Summary of Power Plant (Fuel & Utilities), Water, Salaries and Other Expenses For the Year Ended April 30, 2025 (FY 2026)
Power Plant - Power Plant - For the Month Ended April 30, 2025 (FY 2026) Total expenses increased $400,000 to $2,187,000 as compared to $1,787,000 in the FY 2026 Budget. This variance is explained below:
a. Fuel & Utilities increased $132,000 as compared to the Budget The increase is due to (1) increased cooperator usage (2) seasonality of the spreading the Fuel & Utilities Budget cost is based upon prior years % of monthly costs impacts the comparison to actual usage by month, plus weather also contributes to the monthly variances (4) National Grid has passed along a price increase which is impacting costs of 30% which is also impacting these costs.
b. Water & Sewer increased $309,000 due to cooperator usage due to price increases and the budget was spread out evenly when there is seasonality in the actual expenses.
c. Salaries & Other decreased $41,000.
Rochdale Village, Inc. Summary of Insurance, Shelter Rent, Employee Benefits & Payroll Taxes Expenses For the Year Ended April 30, 2025 (FY 2026)
Insurance Expense (Property, General Liability & Workers Compensation) - For the Month Ended April 30, 2025 (FY 2026)Insurance expenses were relatively in-line with the Budget. The increase is related to the significant industry wide increases in Property, General Liability and Works Compensation premiums. This trend continued in our recent renewal where our renewal % increase was 9.2% plus the impact of the previous year’s increase which was in effect for 5 months of FY 2025. These increases were significantly higher than the Budget
Real Estate Taxes (Shelter Rent) - For the Month Ended April 30, 2026, Real Estate Taxes (Shelter Rent) expenses decreased $(224,000) to $333,000 as compared to $558,000 in the Budget. The budget was spread out evenly over the year. In comparing the HCR Calculation to the NYC billing, it was noted that NYC is over-billing Rochdale by approximately $800,000 to $1,000,000 per year since FY 2020. The Company is initiating and Article 78 to proceed again the agencies to collect our approximately $5,000,000 in over-billing.
Rochdale Village, Inc. Summary of Bad Debt, Inventory Usage and Community Center Expenses For the Year Ended April 30, 2025 (FY 2026)
Bad Debt Expense - Bad Debt Expense was relatively in-line with the Budget.
Inventory Usage - The inventory usage account rewas relatively in-line with the Budget.
Community Center - The community center expense was relatively in-line with the Budget.
Rochdale Village, Inc. Summary of Board, Election, Social Services, Bulletin and Committee Expenses For the Year Ended April 30, 2025 (FY 2026)
Note: For the Month Ended April 30, 2025, these expense were all in-line with the Budget.
(CONTINUED NEXT PAGE)
Rochdale Village, Inc. Summary of Board, Election, Social Services, Bulletin and Committee Expenses For the Year Ended April 30, 2025 (FY 2026)
(NOTE: We are still in the process of a software conversion. There are reclassifications and account mapping issues that will be resolved once the conversion is complete.)
Rochdale Village Inc. Summary of Accounts Payable by Month (4 Month Trend) FY 2025
Rochdale Village Inc. (NET) Accounts Receivable by Year & Current Month
Rochdale Village Inc. Balance Sheet
FY 2024, FY 2025 AND FY 2026
(NOTE: We are still in the process of a software conversion. There are reclassifications and account mapping issues that will be resolved once the conversion is complete.)
Community Day
On Saturday, June 21, 2025, the Community Relations Committee and AGAPE, in partnership with NYC Council Speaker Adrienne Adams and the NYC Parks Department, hosted a Community Fun Day in Rochdale Park starting at 12:00 p.m. The event had games, live animals, face painting, and a toy giveaway!
ANNUAL HEALTH FAIR
The Annual Health Fair is hosted every year by the Community Relations Committee in the open area of the Rochdale big mall with local healthcare businesses, large companies, non-profit organizations, and representatives from city departments as vendors ready to discuss various aspects of health. This year, the event was on Saturday, June 28, 2025. The mall locations allowed even those who did not know about the event to stop and gather information they might not already have. Attendees were able to talk to experts, receive pamphlets and free nutritional assessments, free checkups for blood pressure, cholesterol, bone density, and more, as well as general health screenings for adults and children. It was a knowledgeful afternoon!
(Photo Credit: Shannon Vassell).
(Photo Credit : AGAPE.)
ROCHDALE VILLAGE PRESENTS
The Star Graduate Edition 2025
o L uwape L umi a kran
Pelumi Akran is a proud graduate of Hunters Point Community Middle School. He is a dedicated student and talented track athlete, known for his determination and leadership. This fall, he will attend Maspeth High School, where he plans to continue pursuing both academic excellence and his passion for running.
a ndrea c o L eman
Andrea graduated with a Master of Science in Animal Behavior from Bucknell University. There she conducted research at the Primate Lab, studying the effects of feeding competition on play behavior and social cohesion on hamadryas baboons. She is pursuing a career in wildlife research, focusing on conservation and animal welfare.
X avier G i L more
Xavier Gilmore (my son) is a scholar who is bright, an engaging student who consistently contributes positively to the classroom environment. His accomplishments are a testament to his hard work and dedication to see himself succeed. Xavier graduated from The Cambria Heights School and will attend Queens United Middle School in the fall/
L eah a L ston
Leah Alston, age 10 who lives in Rochdale Village is graduating the 5th grade at P.S.80. Leah is apart of the MSK program and Destined 2 Dance studios. Leah will attend M.S. 72 in the fall of 2025.
J acob F arr
Jacob Farr is leaving The Jermaine L. Green Stem Institute of Queens and will attend Eagle Academy for Young Men of Southeast Queens in the Fall. Jacob wants to become an Entomologist. Jacob, we are so proud of you and keep up the good work.
Love Aprel & Bryan Farr, parents
Z aiyah G reer - m urray
Rochdale Early Advantage Charter School 5th Grade
Zaiyah will be returning back to REACS for the 6th grade. Zaiyah has done well academically at REACS. She has made the Gold and Silver Honor Roll, Student of the Month, Academics, and Perseverance.
J a L ay L a L ynch
My name is Jalaya from the age of 16 years old. I worked part-time and went to school. Completed and passed all classes. I graduated from West Charlotte NC and will be attending Southeastern College for Ultrasound teach. My goal is to work with women having babies.
s hareè m onestine
Shareè Monestine was raised here in Rochdale. She graduated from John Jay Criminal Law School obtaining her Bachelors Degree. She will be starting her Masters in Criminal Law at John Jay in August.
Career Path: Criminal Defense Attorney.
LSAT’s in September. Law School upon Graduation.
ROCHDALE VILLAGE PRESENTS
The Star Graduate Edition 2025
b rook r od G ers
We are proud to congratulate Brook Rodgers, a shining star of the 2025 graduating class from JHS 157 Stephen A. Halsey. In September, she will start high school at Gramercy Arts, where she plans to continue honing her acting skills. Congratulations, Brook- your future is as bright as your spirit.
k hami LL a t hurmond
Khamilla will be graduating with platinum honors from QCHS. Active in her school community she is on the fencing team and does choreography for assemblies. She also enjoys broadway shows. She will study Early Childhood Education at BMCC to become a teacher. We love her and wish her all the best.
a L i J ah w i LL iams
My name is Alijah Williams, an 18-year-old lifelong resident of Rochdale Village and recent graduate of Queens High School of Teaching, Liberal Arts & The Sciences. This fall, I’ll study business at Hofstra University. I’m passionate about leadership, creativity, and growth, and I strive to make a positive impact.
J ay L a s anders
Jayla is a proud PS 354 graduate heading to Queens Collegiate. She’s an honor roll student, National Honor Society member, and a cheer and step team standout. Jayla’s dedication, kindness, and sparkle inspire everyone around her. We can’t wait to see the amazing things she’ll do next.
a L e X is w arren
Alexis Warren graduated from LIU Brooklyn December 2024 where she studied for her Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing. She will continue in the Fall of 2025 attending the School of Nursing’s online program to obtain Her Masters of Nursing Degree from LIU.
c haniece w i LL iams
Homegrown in Rochdale Village, Dr. Williams earned her M.D., specializing in OBGYN, from the illustrious Howard University College of Medicine. She’s an incessant high achiever, Phi Beta Kappa, and graduated Summa Cum Laude with a bachelor’s degree. She’s an entrepreneur, renowned in Rochdale for her tutoring business Achieve with Chaniece.
FATHER’S DAY IN ROCHDALE FATHER’S DAY IN ROCHDALE
A NIGHT OF
CIGARS & GAMES
This one’s for the Fathers of Rochdale! On Saturday, June 14, 2025, Cooperators came to the Community Center for an evening of cigars and games. Normally held outside in the Courtyard, the festivities had to be moved inside due to inclement weather. The event, hosted by the Community Center Committee, started at 7:00 p.m. and continued into the night. Many women came out to support the event and the men of the community; fun was had by all who attended.
(Photo Credit : NyreeCPhotography.)
SALUTING OUR ROCHDALE VILLAGE ROCHDALE VILLAGE KINGS
took time out on Sunday, June 15, 2025,
The Community Relations Committee and AGAPE
to make fathers of the community feel like kings. Fathers were able to be nominated by love ones to receive awards at the event, which was sponsored by NYC Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, and Queensborough President Donovan Richards, in partnership with Councilwomen Nantasha Williams and Selvena Brooks-Powers, State Senators Leroy Comrie and James Sanders, Jr. and Assemblywoman Vivian E. Cook.
(Photo Credit: Larry ‘Love’ Moore).
CONGRESSMAN GREGORY MEEKS HOSTS TOWN HALL WITH ROCHDALE RESIDENTS
VISITING WITH NEWS!
Assemblywoman Vivian E. Cook made a stop at the Jewel Cafe on Friday, June 20, 2025. She came to talk to the Seniors discussing recent challenges and sharing good news of funding allocations. See the front cover story for more details.
ASSEMBLYWOMAN VIVIAN E. COOK HOSTS ELECTION DAY BRUNCH
In order to gear up for Primary Election Day on June 24, 2025, the 32nd Allied Dems with Free Dems, hosted a Pre-Election Day Brunch in the Grand Ballroom on Monday June 23rd. Attendees had the chance to meet and speak with Assemblywoman Vivian E. Cook and City Council District 28 Candidate Reuben Wells.
Congressman Gregory Meeks stopped by Rochdale Village on Saturday, June 14, 2025, to host a Town Hall and discuss the issues that are currently affecting Rochdale residents. Assemblywoman Vivian Cook, board members, and General Manager Jay Williams were present.
(Photo Credit : Gregory Meeks Office.)
(Photo Credit : Shannon Vassell.)
(Photo Credit : Shannon Vassell.)
FROM ONE ROCHDALE TO ANOTHER ROCHDALE VILLAGE
By Cynthia Bernadine
On Friday, June 13, 2025, the Managing Director of the Rochdale AFC Soccer Team, Andy Duff and his wife, made a trip to the U.S. and visited Rochdale Village. Rochdale Village was named after the English town of Rochdale, England, where homesteading pioneers developed the “Rochdale Principles of Cooperation”.
Mr. Duff, who started a search about 12 months ago, to locate different Rochdales around the world stumbled across the “Jewel of Jamaica” and was excited to come see the community he read so much about.
During the visit, Mr. Duff and his wife met with Board President Jean Hall, Board Member
GETS A VISIT FROM ROCHDALE AFC
Jean Randolph-Castro, General Manager Jay Williams, and Assistant General Manager Leacroft Gordon, who provided a guided tour of the campus. As a gesture of goodwill, Mr. Duff presented two squad-signed 2024/2025 home jerseys and shared insights into the rich history of Rochdale AFC.
He hopes this new connection will allow him to build opportunities to work with the Rochdale Village Community offering community soccer sessions, a pop up retail space and more.
Andy Duff stated “It was a privilege to present Rochdale AFC to another Rochdale and I’m very grateful for the welcome and hospitality that we received on our visit.”
JUNE 2025 PRIMARY ELECTION RESULTS
Tuesday, June 24, 2025, was Primary Election Day. Here are the results of the elections that affect Rochdale Village.
MAYOR
On the ballot were: Zohran Mamdani, Andrew M. Cuomo, Brad Lander, Adrienne Adams, Scott M. Stringer, Zellnor Myrie, Whitney Tilson, Michael Blake, Jessica Ramos, Paperboy Love Prince, and Selma Bartholomew for the Demoratic primary. While the results were not official until July 1st, within two hours of polls closing, it was obvious that Democrat Zohran Mamdani was the frontrunner. Three rounds of counting due to rank choice voting confirmed this. He will go on the face unopposed Republican Curtis Silwa and any third party opponents in November. Current Mayor Eric Adams has entered the race under a third party.
PUBLIC ADVOCATE
Incumbent Democrat Jumaane Williams ran for re-election against Jenifer Rajkumar and Marty Dolan and won. He will face uncontested Republican Gonzalo Durano in November.
COMPTROLLER
On the ballot were Mark Levine, Justin Brannan, Ismael Perez for the Democrats, and Peter Kefalas and Danniel Maio for Republicans. Democrat Mark Levine (who won the primary after Round 3) and Republican Peter Kefalas will face off in November.
CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 28
On the ballot were Ty Hankerson, Japneet Singh, Latoya LeGrand, Ruben Wills, and Romeo Hitlall. There was only a primary for Democrats. Ty Hankerson came out on top after all rounds of rank choice voting were counted.
(Photo Credit : Shannon Vassell.)
See what’s going on in and around our community... There’s a little something for everyone!
Monthly Meeting Minutes
Date: 6/11/2025 @ 7:00PM
BudgeT & Finance commiTTee
Held at Location Community Center Ballroom
Chairperson: Jean Hall
PLANNED AGENDA:
1. Update on information regarding the status of the BRD (budget rent determination)
2. Cash Flow Information – April 2025
3. Current Payment agreements for RV
4. Presentation – Jeffrey P. Roude –SAX LLP
5. Request for a forensic audit
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
• N/A
DISCUSSION:
1. Update on status of the BRD by Jay Williams – General Manager
The Budget Rent Determination (BRD) was submitted originally in March 2025. In that submission, Rochdale Village proposed a two-step increase, year 1 22.3% and year 2 4.5%. This two-step increase would cover our deficits and put us on a 5-year payment plan to pay our vendor arrears.
Upon review of our financial numbers NYS Homes & Community Renewal (HCR), our supervising agency came back with a 57% increase. This increase is not sustainable for Rochdale’s affordability. Therefore, the Board, Management and Community began to advocate by contacting lawmakers, a trip to Albany, and even media coverage.
The Board also entered into an agreement with the NYC water board, which will enable us to resubmit numbers to HCR of approximately 5 million due over a two-year period vs 17 million over two years. This will impact on the proposed increase number.
June 14, 2025, we received notification that the NY State Assembly will provide 5 million dollars immediately for operations and 25 million for FY 26. We are awaiting the award letters and will submit another revision to the BRD which should impact on our numbers.
Once this information is factored in –this should reduce the proposed 57% from HCR. We will keep shareholders informed as the process continues.
2. Presentation by Jeffrey P. Roude – SAX LLP
SAX LLP is the independent firm that conducts the audit for Rochdale Village. The last audit they performed was for the financial statements ending March 2023 and March 2024.
Mr. Roude explained that the purpose of the yearly independent audit is to render an opinion based on the auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAS). The objective is to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion.
If we detect any fraud or areas of concern, we submit our findings to the Board of Directors.
Mr. Roude when over a five-year analysis from March 2020 – March 2024 showing how expenses have increased over the years. (see attached chart). He noted while the deficits increased due to monies from the Payroll Protection Program aka PPP of $5,856,600 and the Employee Retention Credit of $7,202,146 Rochdale Village was able to avoid higher carrying charge increases in FY 23 and FY 24.
Mr. Roude noted that the primary source of income comes from the shareholders at 88%, commercial represents 7% and other income is 5%. Our biggest expense is maintenance and operating at 25% and fuel and utilities are 15%.
Mr. Roude advised that if we are considering a forensic audit the expenses for such an audit will likely be several hundred thousand dollars. JH, Chair advised this will require us to bid out any contract exceeding $100,000.00.
Mr. Roude participated in a brief Q&A session based on his presentation.
3. Cash Flow Information
Chair, JH went over the actual figures for the April 2025 monthly cash flow. This detailed how much money came in and how much money went out.
Our normal income should be 6.6 million from shareholders and 535,000 from commercial. (what was not indicated is how much we did not receive for the month of April, which I feel is Germane to ongoing analysis) We have fixed monthly expenses which include mortgage payments, gas utilities, payment agreements and union fees. It was noted that $250,000 due to Local 94 not paid, which means we are ending with a negative balance going into the next month.
We also paid for certain variable expenses such as vendor payments, contractors and others. Based on these amounts we paid out in the month of April $7,697,825.00. This left with a balance of $39,692.00 however, since we owe Local 94 – we have a shortfall of $210,308.00.
4. Current Payment Agreements
Chair, JH, outlined the current payment agreements that Rochdale Village has entered:
• National Grid
• NYC Water Board
• Engie
• Noble Mechanical Corporation
• Proto
5. Request for forensic audit
The following recommendation was submitted to the committee for consideration:
Given the concerns about mismanagement or theft of funds, the members of the Budget & Finance Committee recommend that the Board of Directors take their necessary action to have a forensic audit performed.
We want the scope of the audit to include:
1. Detection of Fraud
2. Detection of mismanagement
3. Assessment of the financial health of the corporation.
A vote was taken and a majority of those present voted for the forensic audit to be submitted to the Board of Directors for their consideration.
Note: A handout detailing the overview of the Mitchell-Lama Rent Increase Process was given to all present.
UPCOMING EVENTS: N/A
Chairperson, Jean Hall.
NEXT MEETING: TBD
Meeting ended at: 9:15 P.M. Attendance: 120
Minutes submitted by: Jean Hall
communiTy RelaTions commiTTee
Monthly Meeting Minutes
Date: 5/22/2025 @ 7:00PM
Held at Location Community Center
Rm 11/12/13
Chairperson: Jean Randolph-Castro
PLANNED AGENDA:
• Update on the Annual Health Fair
• Open
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
• Monday, June 16, 2025, was selected for the next meeting due to Thursday June 19, 2025, is Juneteenth.
• The Community relations committee will not host a Juneteenth event this year due to a tight budget, and another committee is already hosting a Father’s Day event.
DISCUSSION:
Chairperson Jean Randolph-Castro thanked the committee members who assisted in the spring fling event. The spring fling was a very successful event. Some vendors sold out by 5pm. Positive feedback was received from both vendors and patrons.
The committee collaborated with Senator James Sanders office to host a 2-day event in celebration of Malcolm X 100 birthday. The “Who killed Malcolm” Netflix documentary was shown on Friday May 16, 2025. This was very informative shedding light on
the investigation on the assassination of Malcolm X.
On Sunday, May 18, 2025, there was a panel discussion with Malcolm X scholars Dr. William Sales, Jr., and Dr. Abdul Alkalimat along with moderator Kevin Mathews for Research in Black culture. This shed light on the people who would try to take down leaders, especially the people of color.
Some members suggested having the MLK event again because they missed it.
Chairperson, Jean Randolph-Castro.
communiTy RelaTions commiTTee
Ms. Castro reiterate the point of doing better in the community, there should be unity, love no matter who it is, and being there for each other. We must “agree to disagree”, working towards what is best for Rochdale Village.
Update on Annual Health Fair
♦ The fair will be on Saturday, June 28, 2025, from 10:00am – 4:00pm
♦ A total of Nineteen (19) vendors registered. There will be free health checkups and giveaways
♦ Registration is still open, vendors can call the Board office to register
♦ Committee members were asked to come in early to assist with setting up and welcoming the vendors
♦ A committee member suggested having tables and chairs available for attendees
Monthly Meeting Minutes
Date: 6/4/25 Time: 10:00am
Location: Grand Ballroom
Chairperson: Jean Hall
♦ A light breakfast of coffee, tea and bagels will be provided, pizza and sandwiches for lunch.
Open
A question was raised as to who the Chief of Staff for Assemblywoman Vivian Cook is, highlighting the mission statement of the community relations committee and what the relationship with elected officials is. How to be more educated about politics and having better relationships with officials, bringing us close together for addressing Rochdale issues.
This was answered by the chairperson who stated hopefully in the month of June or the near future, the committee will partner with Community Board 12 and reach out to our community leaders to address the issue of our green spaces.
She also stated she has used her own money to go to Albany on numerous occasions to lobby and beg on behalf of Rochdale Village. She named a few elected officials who gave funds to Rochdale under her leadership. Assemblywoman Vivian Cook, Speaker Adrienne Adams, Congressman Gregory Meeks, Borough President Donovan Richards, District Attorney Melinda Katz, to name a few.
There are things that can be done to generate monies at Rochdale Village. The pavilion can be used as a rented space for events; it can be used as an extension to the Ballroom. For over 25 years the satellite dish was an eyesore.
Ms. Janine Cross also pointed out that
the elected officials collaborate with several committees to host events both educational and fun, catering for every age range. Rochdale has a very big voting population. We do not always have to go to the elected officials; they also come to us.
UPCOMING EVENTS:
Family Day in August (to be discussed at next meeting)
NEXT MEETING: Monday June 16, 2025, at 7:00 P.M.
Meeting ended at: N/A
Attendance: 17
Minutes submitted by: Jean RandolphCastro
senioR ciTizen commiTTee
Co-Chairs Jean Randolph-Castro & Clara Sheppeard
PLANNED AGENDA:
1. Briefing from Trip to Albany
2. Finalizing details for Hell’s Kitchen
– 7 seats left
3. Fourth of July Celebration
4. Fellowship
ANNOUNCEMENTS: N/A
DISCUSSION:
Trip to Albany:
JH explained that the trip to Albany, NY to speak with lawmakers regarding the proposed 57% carrying charge increase was organized in less than one week.
Rochdale did not pay for the buses!
The buses were paid for by Congressman Gregory Meeks, NY State Senator James Sanders, Assemblywoman Vivian Cook, Speaker Adrienne Adams, District Leader Patrick B. Jenkins, Democrat for City Council Ty Hankerson, Connective Strategies and Dunton Consulting LLC.
There were two (2) buses that left the library on 137th at 7AM!
When we arrived, we were split into three (3) groups. It was said that some people were unhappy because they did not get to sit with lawmakers personally. However, JH reminded them that
the lawmakers were at work and sessions for both the Assembly and Senate were taking place.
Our objective was to make sure our collective voices were heard to empathically state we cannot afford a 57% increase, and our current financial picture requires an infusion of funding and/or grants.
We appreciated meeting with lawmakers and/or their staff. This was about affordability for the residents of Rochdale Village.
Meetings took place with the NYS Attorney General Letitia James, which focused on the high insurance costs. Other groups met with Senator James Sanders and Assemblywoman Vivian Cook.
Senator Sanders held a press conference where all those in attendance from Rochdale were present. He reiterated that the 57% cannot stand and directly asked Gov. Hochul for her help.
Senator Sanders also organized a meeting with Gov. Hochul’s staff, HCR and board members Jean Hall, Kamal Saleem and Jean Castro. The meeting again focused on the need for financial assistance, the non-feasibility of the proposed 57% increase from HCR and what will be the path forward.
JC also stated her group met with Assemblymember Manny De Los Santos who told them that bill A6432 would be a lifeline for Mitchell Lama developments.
Key provisions of the bill include:
1. Independent Agency: The bill mandates the creation of an independent agency or office by the New York State Homes and Community Renewal, in consultation with the New York City Department of Housing Preservation. This agency will handle residents’ complaints and provide unbiased grievance and complaint procedures.
2. Scope: The bill covers both current and converted Mitchell-Lama residents, ensuring their rights are protected regardless of changes in their housing status.
3. Independent Oversight: Any rent or carrying charge increases approved by New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) or New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) must receive final approval from the respective New York City or New York State Comptroller.
4. Financial Justification: The comptroller must certify that the increase is financially necessary and supported by a comprehensive expense report.
5. Transparency Measures: Owners and co-op boards cannot continue increasing rents unless the comptroller officially agrees to monitor and confirm the validity of future expenses or losses.
The bill was introduced by Assemblymember Latrice M. Walker on March 4, 2025, and Assemblymember Sanots is a co-sponsor. It is currently in the Housing Committee.
All in all, the trip to Albany was positive and productive!
No significant questions were raised and the membership enjoyed good food, good music and the fellowship of one another.
UPCOMING EVENTS:
We are going to see Hell’s Kitchen –Broadway Show on Wednesday, June 25, 2025. The bus will leave at 9:30AM – in front of library on 137th Avenue.
We have 5 tickets left, if you wish to come with us, please call 718-276-5700 ext. 3360.
NEXT MEETING: We will not have a meeting in July, as we will celebrate July 4th on Friday!!!
Meeting ended at: 11:16 AM
Attendance: 124
Note: In honor of Father’s Day – all men present were given a special token of appreciation. JH acknowledged them and wished them Happy Father’s Day!
We collected $119.00
Minutes submitted by: Jean Hall, Chair
Chairperson, Jean Hall.
synoPsis oF cooPeRaToR’s session
- for May 19, 2025 board meeting
Board President, Jean Hall opened the cooperator’s session at 7:09PM.
Question: I feel hiring another company to do some financial oversight when we are having financial difficulties is a little ridiculous. We have SAX LLP, aren’t they doing our audits? The Board can’t talk to them about their questions. So, I am against hiring another firm.
Question: Can general counsel explain the lien process?
Question: Why did we not use the reserve funds to help pay down this water bill debt?
Response: The lien sale process in NYC is a mechanism that the city reinstituted. They suspended it during the pandemic, and it is a way for the city to sell liens to investors for either taxes or unpaid water bills.
The lien sale you are referencing is a list that was on-line, and the May 6th list has not been updated. I have recently been involved in conversations with DEP. The eight parcels that were on that list have been removed.
***Note when multiple questions are asked at one time, often when replies are made some of the original questions do not get answered. Maybe, ask a question and get a response before moving on to the next question. ***
Question: We know that there has been some mismanagement in terms of the money so I would like to ask the board if it is possible for you to do a forensic audit.
Response: We will take your request for a forensic audit into consideration.
Question: How often does Rochdale make a budget?
Question: Two years ago, were we at a deficit?
Question: What were the major expenses that have risen in two years?
Question: Why did we stop paying the water bill?
Responses: Rochdale does a budget every two years. Yes, we were in a deficit two years ago. The major expense that has risen in two years is insurance. The situation before management was that our revenues were not sufficient to pay every bill. Therefore, we decided to pay the mortgage, and gas bills. We did not have enough to pay the water bill.
Question: Will Summit Property Management be present at tomorrow night’s meeting with our elected officials?
Response: No.
Question: Who is paying for the flyer sent by Lisa Stark and the management newsletter sent a few weeks ago?
Response: The management newsletter was paid from Rochdale’s operating account. The Stark flyer was paid by “we”.
Question: What is going on with Legionnaires Disease in circle 2?
Question: What is going on with the gas meters? How is that coming?
Question: What is going on with this back rent? I pay my carrying charges every month and I can’t be responsible for those who do not.
Question: The parking lot that was set up in Mall 2 with those tickets, whatever happened to that?
Responses: We have been treating the water ever since the first notification regarding Legionnaire’s was received in building 7. We follow all the Department of Health recommendations. As we receive updates we will inform the residents.
We have currently installed close to 1200 gas detectors. We are continuing the process.
As far as collection of past due carrying charges, every tenant who is behind in their rent is in court.
In the small mall we are taking action against cars that are parked overnight without the proper permits.
Question: When was the amount that was due on the water bill, was it paid out of the reserves
Question: I mean the money owed on the power plant? Was it paid and then something else was not paid?
Question: What about the notice regarding the lien that was placed on the front door?
Question: You keep saying one month the water bill was $500,000 monthly and then another month it is $700,000 monthly – I am getting confused.
Question: When you say the cost of materials has gone up, what materials are you referring to?
Responses: No money has been paid on the water bill. No money was paid for the power plant. Even though the lien for the power plant has been removed no money was paid. The water bill can change every month it ranges from $500,00 to $700,000. The budget is normally based on the last five-year history and if expenses hold normally all is ok. But recently that has not been the case particularly with insurance costs. All material from plaster to bleach to garbage bags, everything.
Question: Why didn’t we initially enter into a payment agreement regarding the water bill? Do you have to make a payment to have the lien sale removed?
Response: We did not have enough money. When you enter into a payment agreement you normally pay a portion of past due monies plus the current amount due. We did not have sufficient revenue to make such payments. We did not make a payment. Rather we have an understanding and working with our elected officials the water board has indicated they are willing to work with Rochdale.
Question: What is the worst-case scenario for our development?
Response: The worst-case scenario is foreclosure. The lender would take the property, a new owner would come in and shareholders would lose your equity, and you would become renters.
Question: For people who are in arrears can management take their equity payment?
Response: No.
Statement: Shareholder expressed concern about the lack of involvement from shareholders. There were years with no increases no one complained, some are trying to blame the current board members, but we all have a role in this, the only time we come out is if you get hit in the pocket. We must stay involved at all times.
No further questions, the cooperators session ended at 8:20 PM.
Rochdale Village BoaRd oF diRecToRs meeTing Resolutions
- May 19, 2025
R14-25:
Moved by: Talib Bey
Seconded by: Jean Randolph-Castro
WHEREAS, Rochdale Village, Inc. (“Rochdale”) owes National Grid $591,990.46 for overdue invoices;
WHEREAS, National Grid has agreed to a payment plan which will require Rochdale Village, Inc. to make a $295,995.23 downpayment which represents 50% of the overdue National Grid balance and pay the remaining balance over a twenty-four (24) month period at a rate of $12,333.13 per month; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors approves the downpayment of $295,995.23 to be paid out of HCR Reserves.
FOR
Talib Bey
Janine Cross
Jean Hall
Nadine Browne
Stacey Francis
Cody Hamblin
Khedda Hayden-Ryan Althea Hicks
Sheila McKenzie Jean Randolph-Castro
Kamal Saleem Lisa Stark
Jacqueline Telfer
ABSTAIN
Yvette Joy Harris-Smith
ABSENT FOR VOTE
Keysha Beasley
Thirteen for, one abstention, one absent: motion passes.
R15-25:
Moved by: Stacey Francis
Seconded by: Khedda Hayden-Ryan
WHEREAS, the Board of Directors as part of its fiduciary duties has been reviewing the professional services provided by the cooperative’s current management firm, Summit Property Management; and WHEREAS, the current management agreement expires by its terms on June 30, 2025; and
WHEREAS, it is recommended best business practices to conduct a review of professional services so that the cost and benefits can be analyzed and compared;
WHEREAS, the Board of Directors has determined that a request for proposals (“RFP”) should be issued to a select number of management firms that have experience with regulated cooperatives to provide property management and related services to the cooperative.
IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED THAT: The Board of Directors directs the cooperative’s legal counsel, Norris, McLaughlin, P.A., to prepare an RFP for qualified management firms selected by the Board of Directors requesting that they submit written proposals for supervision and management of the cooperative. The deadline for these proposals shall be on or before July 15, 2025, which may be extended to facilitate complete and meaningful proposals. Thereafter, the proposals sent shall be reviewed by the Board of Directors with the assistance of legal counsel.
Upon the selection of a management firm by the Board of Directors and approval by HCR, legal counsel shall be authorized and directed to advise the cooperative’s current management firm of the termination of their services, should they not be selected from the submitted proposals.
FOR
Keysha Beasley
Nadine Browne
Stacey Francis Jean Hall
Cody Hamblin
Khedda Hayden-Ryan
Kamal Saleem
Yvette Joy Harris-Smith
Althea Hicks
Jacqueline Telfer
Talib Bey
AGAINST
Janine Cross
Sheila McKenzie Jean Randolph-Castro
Lisa Stark
Ten for, five against; motion passes.
BOARD MEMBERS
Althea Hicks
Chairperson
Jean Hall
President
Khedda Hayden-Ryan
First Vice President
Keysha Beasley
Second Vice-President
Cody Hamblin
Third Vice-President
Nadine Browne
Fourth Vice-President
Stacey Francis
Secretary
Yvette Joy Harris-Smith
Assistant Secretary
Kamal Saleem
Treasurer
Sheila Mckenzie
Assistant Treasurer
Talib Bey
Janine Cross
Jean Randolph-Castro
Lisa Stark
Jacqueline Telfer
SUMMIT PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SERVICES, INC.
Jay Williams (Not Present)
General Manager
Wilfred Rodriguez
Assistant General Manager
Leacroft Gordon
Assistant General Manager
Mike Reilly, Esq. Corporate Counsel
Norris, Mclaughlin
William Young
Controller
Kelvin Pantaleon
Director Of Maintenance
Adolph Osback
Chief Public Safety
Junior Medina
IT Systems Manager
have you missed a board meeting? zoom video links of board meetings are available for viewing on the rochdale village website after each meeting. log in to view.
Poetry & Art Corner
PEARLY GATES HORSE AND CARRIAGE JOURNEY HONOR OF MRS OTTILIE EVANS
By Anthony Blake
Amazing Grace how sweet the sound
Harmony of Heaven
Spiritual tact
A Soul rose and soared far beyond the eyes to
see
Beyond loving hearts
Pearly Gates a wait
Accompanied by a Driver, White Horse and Carriage
Pure and Secrete
Onward to everlasting life
Every horse Gallup establishing every step walked on Earth
The pain and anguished confronted
This was Ms. Evans hour to shine among
The many that passed before her Three Doves flown in the sky of her life she lived, ‘PEACE, FAITH, HOPE AND LOVE”
Winds of her spirit
Concrete and devoted
Ms. Evans Legacy will live on, but Heaven will be her home in continued roam
Home at last
Stay strong family
Cry not
Just embrace in how my life encouraged and influenced you
No more pain and sickness
I have conquered
Let my life reflect in how we are supposed to live
Love one another
My tomorrow came at the right time
Too my husband, Joe Evans I leave behind, we will see each other again It is not goodbye, but until we meet again I have been welcomed in Heaven
I will be sitting high, but observing below
My journey is complete
My work is finished
Love you all God bless now and forever.
SHARE YOUR VOICE
GOD THE FATHER PERFECT LOVE
By Alanda I. Wasserman Edwards
We are thankful for our Heavenly Father’s Perfect love,
How we are enriched to be able to Feel it countless blessings from above!
We do not ever take it for granted It is what has brought our fathers Through generations and help Shaped their lives
As they have encourage their Families and push ahead as they Raised their sons and daughter
In our communities as they Tirelessly work hard long hours
And come up with ideas pray to The Lord for strength during the night Hour and sought The Lord for answers To questions And solutions to Problems placed in Their laps and Received real answers To their prayers From heaven above Never forgetting to Thanks the master above For His love
So Dad we Salute you This Father’s Day
One & all natural or adopted God bless you & keep you Be encourage too.
Happy Father’s Day.
Submit your original poetry, spoken word, or artwork to be published in the Rochdale Village Bulletin! Send to mrichards@rochdalevillage.com
PROJECTS IN PROGRESS
Project Name: Convectors
Description: Replace all (20,000) convectors with modern convectors with washable filters, thermostats, and leak prevention.
Status: Installation is complete in the following Buildings: 20,19,18,17,8,7,6,5, we are currently working in Building #9 and scheduled to be complete June 28, 2025.
It became necessary to add freeze protection to the fan coil units to prevent freezing up during winter operation. A change order was approved to add additional equipment to the units for a cost of $1.7 million dollars. Genysis has completed the first pass through in Building 20. Genesys is currently in Building 19 bringing the total retrofit installation total to 4,000.
Funding Source: Wells Fargo
Contract Amount: $33,219,155
Money Spent: $21,125,281
Projected Completion: September 2026
Project Name: Federal Pacific Breaker Panels in Apartments
Description: Replace electric panel located in hallway in every apartment.
Status: In Progress: (3583 installed)
Funding Source: Wells Fargo Contract Amount: $2,380,480
Money Spent: $1,983,808
Projected Completion: January 2025
Project Name: Building Capacitors
Description: Upgrade to improve quality of electrical distribution and replace electric panels at ground level.
Status: All capacitors were installed, and the specialized breakers are back ordered. Once received, we have 36 breakers remaining to install.
Funding Source: Wells Fargo
Contract Amount: $1,210,325
Money Spent: $1,139,113
Projected Completion: January 2024
Project Name: Parking Lot Repair & Sidewalk/Curb Repair Architect
Description: Repave, restripe,
MAY 2025
and add expansion parking lots 1, 2,4,5,9a/9b and Big Mall.
Status: O&S submitted revised drawings after receiving the Board’s input. Jay to create RFP for Parking Lot repair/expansion. O&S created RFP for Sidewalk/Curb Repair HM-23AE pending approval.
Funding Source: Wells Fargo Contract Amount: $246,500.00
Money Spent: $50,132.00
Projected Completion: TBD
Project Name: Parking Lot Repave/Repair Contractor
Description: Repave and restripe parking lots 1,2,4,5,9a/9b and Mall 1.
Status: On hold. Three Lots completed: #2 (11 new spaces), #9A (1 new space), 9B. Stasi- Brothers were the lowest responsible bidder awaiting board approval
Funding Source: Wells Fargo
Contract Amount: $2,554,110.00
Money Spent: $489,970.80
Projected Completion: TBD
Project Name: Sidewalk & Curb Repair Contractor
Description: Concrete repair of worst areas campus wide.
Status: Completed: Groups #1, 2, 3 & 5. Group 4 is on hold for Façade work. MSS is the lowest bidder at $360,000 and Board approved.
Funding Source: Wells Fargo Contract Amount: $369,000.00
Money Spent: $297,293.04
Projected Completion: TBD
Project Name: Deaeration Tank
Description: Used to remove oxygen and other gases from the water that feeds into boilers that generate steam and prevent corrosion.
Status: Deaeration Tank: Installed May 10, 2022. The Unit will be connected to the existing system soon. We anticipate completion in the spring 2024 as work needs to be done in the shoulder season (Power Plant switches from heating to cooling). We will begin upon completion of Deisel #2 to maintain Plant redundancy while we make final connections.
Funding Source: Wells Fargo
Contract Amount: $1,169,000
Money Spent: $1,010,380
Projected Completion: August 2024
Project Name: Diesel Generators
Description: Replace or rebuild two emergency backup diesel generators in Power Plant.
Status: In Progress - Diesel #2 Is dismantled and parts and quotes for the for necessary work are being reviewed by the project representative.
Funding Source: Wells Fargo
Contract Amount: $4,529,672
Money Spent: $201,392
Projected Completion: July 2024
Project Name: Various
Description: Engineers and Architects and Construction mgmt. - allowance for architect, engineer, and construction mgmt. fees.
Status: Ongoing
Funding Source: Wells Fargo Contract Amount: $400,000
Money Spent: $291,908
Projected Completion: N/A.
Project Name: Central Plant Engineering Work
Description: Remedial Work for Cooling Towers and Tower Dunnage, Screen-Wall, and other necessary control, filtering and piping life-cycle evaluation and energy management work.
Status: Revaluating the most effective approach for new condenser lines (plumbing) and steel dunnage (cooling tower structural supports and beams).
Funding Source: Reserves Contract Amount: $115,300
Money Spent: $115,300
Projected Completion: April 2023
Project Name: Fire Alarm/Sprinkler in Big Mall
Description: Install sprinkler system as required by FDNY in Mall 1 common area.
Status: Fire Alarm: Sprinkler and Smoke Purge system completed. As of August 11, 2021, we are still awaiting NYC FDNY approval of system. FDNY Application was resubmitted, and we are awaiting FDNY approval. Sprinkler: Completed as of 2/7/2020
Funding Source: Reserves
Original Contract Amount: $815,000 Change Order: $115,000; Total Contract: $930,000
Money Spent: $648,995.48
Projected Completion: TBD
Project Name: Fire Alarm for 18 Bldgs.
Description: Install fire alarms in building community rooms as required by FDNY.
Status: Eleven (11) rooms completed (#1, 3, 4, 5, 8, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18, & 20) Bldg. #4 is completed and inspected by FDNY. Bldg. 15 filed at FDNY - Awaiting approval. Eight (8) bldgs. approved by management and sent to contractor for FDNY filing. Awaiting NYCFD approval.HM-23 pending at HCR. HM-180 approved 10/23/19
Funding Source: Reserves
Contract Amount: $438,857
Money Spent: $338,194
Projected Completion: TBD
Project Name: Public AssemblyPA’s
Description: Certificate required for places where people gather for parties, meetings, etc.
Status: This work is on track with the other renovations of the community rooms. Architect - DOB search for all 20 Bldgs. Architect will file when fire alarms are completed for all 16 social rooms and the 4 nurseries.
Funding Source: Reserves
Contract Amount: TBD
Money Spent: N/A
Projected Completion: TBD
Project Name: Bldg. Community Room Renovation
Description: Renovate all building community rooms including main area, bathrooms, and kitchens. The lathe and plaster ceilings will be removed and re-placed with 24’ x 24’ dropped ceilings.
Status: Bldg. #15 is in progress and twelve (12) Bldgs. are completed: #1, 3, 4, 5, 8, 10, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18, & 20. Two (2) bldgs. remaining for 2023 (#2 & 7) drawings are still pending at DOB for approval. HM-23 pending at HCR & HM-180 approved.
Funding Source: Reserves
Contract Amount: $1,995,612
Money Spent: $1,138,460.09
Projected Completion: October 2024
Project Name: Sitewide Roofing Replacement/Repairs Consultant
Description: Long-term contract for roof repairs and replacement
throughout Rochdale Village.
Status: Consultant is William Davis.
Funding Source: Reserves
Contract Amount: $100,800
Money Spent: $100,800
Projected Completion: June 2023
Project Name: Sitewide Roofing Replacement/Repairs Contractor
Description: Long-term contract for roof repairs and replacement throughout Rochdale Village. The contractor is Bay restoration. Roofing Mfr. is SIPLAST. Completed work carries a 20 year no dollar limit guarantee.
Status: Eight (8) Bldgs. Completed: #1 - 5, 12, 17 & 20. Year 1 (#1, 3, 4, 12 & 17); Year 2 (#2, 5, & 20). Management, Architect & Contractor agreed to close out/ place this project on hold until funding is available. Five (5) remaining buildings (#6, 7, 8, 18 & 19) will be rebid and done later.
Funding Source: Reserves
Contract Amount: $8,277,850
Money Spent: $5,481,466
Projected Completion: N/A
Project Name: Bulkhead Repairs
Description: Repairs include Pointing, Lintels, Caulking, brick replacement, and Coping Stone Replacement.
Status: Start date: 7/27/21. Nine (9) Bldgs. Completed: #1 - 6, 12, 17 & 20. This project will be placed on hold until funding is available to complete the remaining buildings (7-11, 13-16, 18-19).
Funding Source: Reserves
Contract Amount: $700,000
Money Spent: $205,533
Projected Completion: Re-evaluating
Project Name: Façade
Description: Long-term plan for brick and terrace repairs including Local law 11 work every 5 years.
Status: Probes inspections: Completed (#11, 13, 14 &16). In progress (#3, 4, 15)
FAÇADE & BALCONY: Four (4) Bldgs. are completed: #5- 8. In progress: #15 (75%) & 16 (75%). Will recommence with inspection and probes once funding has been approved by the Board. HM23 pending at HCR. HM-180 approved.
MAY 2025
Funding Source: Reserves
Contract Amount: $12,764,400
Money Spent: $5,119,204
Projected Completion: November 2026
Project Name: Façade
Description: Long term plan for brick and terrace repairs including FISP each 5 years.
Status: RJSA selected by Management HM-23AE pending at HCR as of 1/28/2020.
Funding Source: Reserves
Contract Amount: $880,000
Money Spent: $812,867
Projected Completion: November 2026
Project Name: Air Monitoring
Description: Service contract
Status: Ongoing
Funding Source: Reserves
Contract Amount: $200,000
Money Spent: $28,694
Projected Completion: N/A
Project Name: Mold Assessment
Description: Service contract
Status: Ongoing
Funding Source: Reserves
Contract Amount: $100,000
Money Spent: $39,940
Projected Completion: N/A
Project Name: Brownfield SSDS
Mall 1 & 2
Description: Air clean up underground
Status: Exhaust fan installation completed. Awaiting the Certificate of Completion (COC) from DEC. Mall 1 - JS Cleaners Remediation is completed. Mall 2 - HIP cleaners Remediation is completed.
Funding Source: Reserves
Contract Amount: $411,800
Money Spent: $341,500
Projected Completion: N/A
Project Name: Pylon Signs
Description: Merchant list signs for Mall #1.
Status: In progress. New designsigns awarded to ASG.
Funding Source: Reserves
Contract Amount: $288,683
Money Spent: $250,815
Projected Completion: November 2023
Project Name: Pylon Signs
Description: Merchant list signs
for Mall #1.
Status: Structural work for pylon bases was competitively bid and awarded to Sky, Inc.
Funding Source: Reserves
Contract Amount: $145,400
Money Spent: $14,580
Projected Completion: September 2023
Project Name: General Consultant
Description: Service contract. Status: Ongoing
Funding Source: Reserves
Contract Amount: $210,000
Money Spent: $160,498
Projected Completion: N/A
PROJECTS ON-HOLD
Project Name: Lobby Enhancement & Door Replacement & ADA
Accessible Vestibules
Description: Replace 20 lobby entrances, doors and make ADA complaint.
Status: On Hold. Management is working with Wells Fargo and Freddie Mac on reallocating funds from this project to fund convector change order. This project will be revisited at a later date.
Funding Source: Wells Fargo Contract Amount: $800,000
Money Spent: $323
Anticipated Re-start: This project will be reevaluated once funding is available.
Project Name: Elevators/Utilities/ Demising Walls - Mall 1
Description: The installation of an elevator, demising walls, and utilities on the 2nd floor of mall.
Status: On Hold. All work is complete and funded except the 2nd elevator which is no longer being done. Management is working with Wells Fargo and Freddie Mac on reallocating funds from this project to fund convector change order.
Funding Source: Wells Fargo Contract Amount: $750,000
Money Spent: $213,100.00
Projected Completion: N/A
Project Name: Elevator Modernization & Preventative Maintenance
Description: Elevator modernization including new maintenance. Status: On hold, however, we are moving forward with the preventative maintenance portion.
Funding Source: Reserves
Contract Amount: N/A
Money Spent: N/A
Anticipated Re-start: This project will be reevaluated once funding is available.
Project Name: 15 Cardboard Balers
Description: Machine to compress cardboard waste into small and compact bales.
Status: On hold
Funding Source: Reserves
Contract Amount: N/A
Money Spent: N/A
Anticipated Re-start: This project will be reevaluated once funding is available.
PROJECTS TO BE REMOVED
Project Name: Lot 3A/3B Tier 1
Architect
Description: Design Work for Building a tier above Lot 3A/3B to create additional parking
Status: To be removed. Original budget of $5 million no longer applies due to Covid-19, supply chain issues and inflation total cost ow exceeds $12 million for adding approximately 300 new spaces. These considerations make this project financially infeasible. Management will continue to look at other alternatives to address the parking issues.
Funding Source: Reserves
Contract Amount: N/A
Money Spent: N/A
Anticipated Re-start: N/A
Project Name: Lot 3A/3B Tier 1
Contractor
Description: Building a tier above Lot 3A/3B to create additional parking.
Status: To be removed. Original budget of $5 million no longer applies due to Covid-19, supply chain issues and inflation total cost now exceeds $12 million for adding approximately 300 new spaces. These considerations make this project financially infeasible. Management will continue to look at other alternatives to address the parking issues.
Funding Source: Reserves
Contract Amount: N/A
Money Spent: N/A
Anticipated Re-start: N/A
Rochdale Village Board of Directors
Shareholders Community Room Contract
1. I affirm that I am the current shareholder (lease holder) of Rochdale Village.
2. I will use the community room between the hours of 3PM to 9PM.
3. I affirm that I will be present throughout the affair.
4. I agree to use only MASKING TAPE to hang decorations on the walls.
5.I agree that no tape will be used on the ceiling.
6. I will not serve or allow the consumption of alcoholic beverages in the community room.
7. There will be no smoking of cigarettes, vaping, or cannabis during the affair in the community room.
8.I will leave the kitchen, bathrooms and community room clean and free of garbage and debris.
9. I will use the garbage bags and place the bags in the service hallway when my affair is over.
10. I will remove all my decorations from the room when my affair is over.
11. I will advise my guests to remain inside of the community rooms and not roam and/or play in the hallway or on the grass.
12. I will not use the community room for personal profit or religious meetings.
13. I nor my guests will not remove any items that belong to the building community rooms.
14. I will be responsible for any damage to the building community room.
15. I will not leave any food items in the refrigerator.
16. I understand the maximum capacity for the room is 125 people.
17. I understand if the rules are not followed, or there are excessive noise complaints my affair may be shut down.
In addition, if significant damage is caused these factors may result in me losing the right to use any of the building community rooms in the future.
18. No outside barbecuing allowed, events take place in the community room only
Additional Notes:
To be eligible to rent the room, cooperators must be up to date on their account ($0 balance). To ensure fair access to the room, cooperators will be limited to 3 events per year (eliminate persons going from building to building and/or group to group)
Holiday bookings will be rotated to ensure everyone gets a chance to use the room
Please no DJ equipment, no boom box or loud music – the music is for your guests.
No confetti.
No bouncy houses in or outside the community room
No grilling
No deep frying
No Pop-up shops
Please do not push chairs or tables against the walls, all chairs should be placed on the chair rack
JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS SEMINAR
On Friday, May 30, 2025, the Citizen Preparedness Corps, worked with the Senior Center
On Tuesday, June 17, 2025, The Senior Center recognized and celebrated Juneteenth with a performance by Shades of Truth Theatre in the Grand Ballroom.
(Photo Credit : Shannon Vassell.)
(Photo Credit : Shannon Vassell.)
Senior Prom2025
The Seniors showed up and showed out at their Senior Prom on Wednesday, June 18, 2025 in the Grand Ballroom. The prom was hosted by the Senior Center and sponsored by 100 Suits and Connective Strategies In Conjunction with Assemblywoman Vivian E. Cook, State Senator James Sanders Jr., and NYC Council Speaker Adrienne Adams. The seniors had the full prom experience, even down to the Prom King and Queen!
(Photo Credit : Shannon Vassell.)
The Rochdale Village BulleTin