Consensus Commission Recommendations on page 9
What We Forget Should Never Forget About Black History Month
The Hall Monitor: Consolidation “Do I really want to be integrated into a Burning House? “
Urban CNY Money By Ken Jackson
There’s a muttering sound about the continued usefulness of Black History Month. As we’ve moved further away from segregation, Jim Crow and state sponsored terror some are forgetting the history of Black History Month. And why the ongoing celebration remains an important part of our struggle for the recognition of African Americans achievement. Inventions whose creators’ identity has been erased and their contributions to America have been buried, lost or stolen. Carter G. Woodson was the son of former slaves. He recognized that of all the
New York State Starts Student Loan Forgiveness Program 'Get On Your Feet' Began Accepting Applications
hundreds of Black men and women who produced substantial inventions, only four Black inventors have been inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame in Akron, Ohio. In 1916, Woodson cofounded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History, in 1976 the organization was renamed the Association for the Study of Afro-American Life and History. The purpose of the organization was to publish and fund research and writing pro-
jects about black history. And to train Black historians and to collect, preserve, and publish documents on Black life and Black people. In 1926, Negro History Week was established; the week was a time in which contributions by blacks were emphasized. The month of February was selected to honor Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln who were both born in that month. According to the Association for the Study of African Ameri(Continued on page 2)
Mayor Miner Calls for Greater Economic Opportunity for All in 2016 State of the City Address Syracuse Stage’s Timothy Bond Accepts Post at the University of Washington
(Continued from page 1)
can Life and History, “The response to Negro History Week was overwhelming: Black history clubs sprang up; teachers demanded materials to instruct their pupils; and progressive whites, not simply white scholars and philanthropists, stepped forward to endorse the effort.” Dr. Woodson's concept of recognizing this omission and his method of addressing the issue has given a profound sense of dignity to all Black Americans. Black inventors contributions were instrumental in the growth of America from an agricultural society to an industrial powerhouse. African-Americans
are responsible for product innovation we now take for granted; from the development of crop rotation, the traffic light, the mail box, gas mask, fountain pen, typewriter, telegraph, golf tee, automatic gear shift, commode toilet-- to the method of dry cleaning clothes, the electric lamp, and the automatic car coupler and air brake for the railroad. Just to name a few. What began as Negro History Week was only expanded to include the entire month by Presidential Proclamation, extending the time Americans would focus on the achievements of African -Americans. In 1976 during the nations Bicentennial, President
Gerald R. Ford urged Americans to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.” Woodson did not view “Negro History Week” as something that would continue indefinitely. In fact, according to historical accounts compiled by Dorothy E. Lyles, “Dr. Woodson often said that he hoped the time would come when Negro History Week would be unnecessary; when all Americans would willingly recognize the contributions of Black Americans as a legitimate and integral part of the history of this country.” That time “when all Americans would willingly recognize” is yet to come.
Syracuse City School District Hosts Bottled Water Collection for Flint, MI The city of Flint, Michigan is currently in a state of emergency, due to a recent public health crisis which left residents exposed to drinking water containing poisonous levels of lead and other toxic materials. The federal government is providing aid to these residents and the National Guard is currently distributing bottled water to the area. But, in an effort to help residents of Flint and the surrounding areas, the Syracuse City School District is joining with our neighbors at City Hall, the Southwest Community Center, People’s AME Zion Church, 100 Black Men, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and more in
A Gospel Music Celebration Saturday, February 13 2:30 pm Dr. Joan Hillsman and the Syracuse Chapter of the Gospel Music Workshop of America will present “A Gospel Music Celebration” at the Hazard Branch Library on Saturday, February 13 at 2:30 pm. The program will give an insight into Gospel Music, an African-American art form. There will be choral music and audience participation as well as Dr. Hillsman’s explanation of how Gospel Music has impacted our nation’s cultural heritage.
to this cause. Drop off sites include: City Hall (233 E. Washington Street), Southwest Community Center (401 South Ave), People’s AME Zion Church (2306 S. Salina Street) and all SCSD school buildings. Once in Fint, Michigan, The National Guard, Government officials and local churches will be distributing the water. Editor's Note: Local television stations are sending reporters along with the shipment to bring the information of local citizens responding to the Flint Michigan Water Crisis. a collection to help contribute fresh drinking water to those in the affected areas. Now through Thursday, February 4th, Syracuse residents are encouraged to donate cases of bottled water
By no means is this a solution however, this temporary measure coupled with water filters being installed voluntarily by local plumbers union will provide some temporary relief until there can be a solution to this urban tragedy.
The Hazard Branch Library is located at 1620 West Genesee Street in Syracuse. Published monthly by: URBAN CNY Kenneth Jackson Editor and Publisher 315-807-9022 Walt Shepperd Senior Editor Urban CNY 105 Rann Ave. Syracuse, NY 13204
This event is free and open to the public. Call Hazard Branch Library at 435-5326 for more information. Hazard Branch Library 1620 W. Genesee St. Syracuse, NY 13204
For advertising and editorial: 315-807-9022 kjackson@urbancny.com Online at
urbancny.com
Consolidation: “Do I really want to be integrated into a Burning House? “
The Consensus project is the result of 18 months of planning and meeting with a mandate to determine the benefits of consolidation, in Onondaga County there are 19 Towns and 15 Villages, multiple Police Departments. In Street and Highway maintenance, there are 36 separate service providers in the SyracuseOnondaga community. In addition, there’s the belief and some statistical data that suggests those cities, towns and villages who embraced consolidation, the economic development attraction of the new entity had a positive economic impact on the combined geographic location.
There’s a Lot on the Table including political power We need to see the "fruits" of the other multi-million dollar plans before jumping on the bandwagon of consolidation. Don’t get me wrong, Let us have this conversation. There are plans to invest close to 500 million dollars over the next 5 years. There are so many promises made to the poor and underrepresented regarding employment and opportunities for economic inclusion. Holding those accountable for these initiatives should be our first priority, to see if the AfricanAmerican community benefits from the unprecedented investment in Central New York.
After 6 weeks of comments, were supposed to begin discussions on phases of the project that can be implemented. There’s a lot on the table for people to consider, if adopted our current system of government would no longer exist. Depending on which options are chosen, there may be one large municipal government configured to handle what are now independent town, village and city operations.
Most cities at this point in their development begin to elect more African-American City Council Members, then emerges a candidate for Mayor of that city. As NAACP President, now Syracuse Common Council member Van Robinson once touted the actual percentage it takes to put together such a coalition. With absolute consolidation, Democracy driven natural acquisition of political power by African-Americans would be The Changing Urban Landscape destroyed in Syracuse, as Onondaga County engulfs the increasing populations of African-American and In downtown Syracuse, buildings that were once prime Hispanic residents into its overwhelmingly white popoffice space are now being converted into apartments ulation. and condominiums. What once was a sucking sound, pulling all revenue from the city out into the suburbs As minorities and other coalitions are poised to seize has been reversed. The successful completion of Desti- power based on "democracy" the rules change. Instead ny USA, the return of hundreds of employees to the of determining our destiny as a majority of a jurisdiccity’s core, investments along the Connective Corridor tion, we once again become relegated to, "minority" has transformed the city of Syracuse. status. Over 200 homes through the Land Bank have been We've been promised so much over the last 4 decades sold and returned to the tax rolls. Clinton Plaza, one in this community and the lives of African Americans our cities failed apartment complexes has been given a have only gotten worse. As recent reports indicated, new lease on life. With millions being invested by affordable housing funding sources such as HOME, the property must remain “affordable”. This is a noticeable change from subsidized investments in highend housing for Downtown Syracuse. Armory Square housing is the most expensive in Syracuse, so having a renovated high-rise not developed exclusively for high rent paying customers is a victory for affordable housing advocates. The handwriting is on the wall. Do you think millennials want to live in a McMansion in Pompey? Cities across America are re-populating and are becoming the economic engines for the next 20 years.
65.2% of Syracuse African-Americans live in census tracts with extreme poverty levels. Let's see the results of the 500 million dollars, if it creates the 2,500 inner-city jobs, numbers of minority owned businesses, employment within a reasonable commuting distance jobs that inner-city residents can get to. Without reliable private or public transportation, a job 20 miles away can be out of reach for people living in our poorest census tracts. What happens to the anti- discrimination laws on the books in the city and not in the county, once this merger takes place? There’s a level of distrust between the city and suburbs, since many have said they wanted to get away from the people of the city. Having served a stint on the Onondaga County Legislature as a Republican, I learned in caucus what suburban based legislators wanted and it usually ran contrary to urban interests. Now, there’s a level of infighting within Onondaga County government that further exacerbates urban issues such as poverty, employment opportunities, pay raises, low morale of county employees, etc. In fact, if you observe the actions of both Onondaga County and City of Syracuse leaders and elected officials, one has to wonder, what kind of marriage would this be? Would it be an abusive relationship pitting city needs and against suburban power? As James Baldwin once said, “Do I really want to be integrated into a Burning House? “
Mayor Miner Calls for Greater Economic Opportunity for All in 2016 State of the City Address ing a data-oriented, innovation delivery approach to fully investigate infrastructure issues and develop solutions. Mayor Miner has made using innovative methods and new funding streams to repair aging infrastructure a priority of her administration, successfully advocating for $10 million in funding from the State of New York for water and road infrastructure that will support these new solutions.
Mayor Miner announced new solutions for aging infrastructure, which was the first area of focus for the Mayor’s Office of Innovation (i-team). Syracuse is one of nearly 20 cities around the world participating in Bloomberg Philanthropies’ Innovation Teams program. The program aims to improve the capacity of City Halls to effectively design and implement new approaches that improve citizens’ lives. Using Bloomberg Philanthropies’ tested Innovation Delivery approach, i-teams help agency leaders and staff through a data-driven process to assess problems, generate responsive new interventions, develop partnerships, and deliver measurable results. The new initiatives focus in three key areas:
Mayor Miner added, “While our challenges are many, our resources are precious and few. Every day we face the water main breaks and pock-marked roads caused by an era of deferred maintenance. It is critical that we take innovative approaches to solving these problems that focus on long-term results will allow us to stretch our resources as far as possible.”
ture interventions. New sensors will detect leaks in water mains, and cracks and potholes in the roads, so that repairs can be prioritized. A new technique, known as micropaving, will extend the life of roads without having to undergo costly mill and pave reconstruction. Micropaving costs 10% of tradition reconstruction while doubling the lifespan of roads. This will enable the improvement of more streets each year, tackling smaller problems before they become major potholes and cracks.
Mayor Miner’s 7th Annual State Of the City Outlined a Vision for Greater Economic Opportunity, Resulting from Meaningful Investments in Infrastructure, Education, and Economic Development Programs that Put People in Need First Miner: Through Sustainable Economic Development, Investments in Job-Creating Infrastructure and Education We Can Address the Challenges Faced by Our Neighbors in the City and Strive for a Better Future SYRACUSE, N.Y. – Mayor Stephanie A. Miner tonight delivered her seventh State of the City address to the people of the City of Syracuse, emphasizing the commitments her administration is making to ensure all citizens have access to greater economic opportunity. “Syracuse understands firsthand the struggle against income inequality and we are determined to ensure that our City is a beacon of hope and progress, not a place where your destiny is determined by your neighborhood,” said Syracuse Mayor Stephanie A. Miner. “We need to help those in need, make sure our children learn, help their parents find work, defuse violence, and create pathways to opportunity. Through sustainable economic development, investments in job -creating infrastructure and education, we can address the challenges faced by our neighbors in the City and strive for a better future.” The Mayor delivered her remarks at Carmelita Boatwright Court at the Southwest Community Center, located at 401 South Avenue in Syracuse. Miner addressed a crowd of several hundred citizens, community leaders, elected officials and the media.
Highlights of Mayor Miner’s address include: New Police and Fire Classes Mayor Miner announced she will begin hiring new classes for the Syracuse Police and Syracuse Fire Departments. In March, the City will begin the process of hiring 25 new officers for the Police Department. In April, the City will begin a similar process for the hiring of 25 new firefighters. Education
The Syracuse City School District saw an increase in graduation rates with results officially certified by the State of New York in late 2015. Impressively, the District’s dropout rate has decreased from 26% in 2008 to In her address, the Mayor also reaffirmed the City’s ongoing commitment to upgrade and modernize infra- 16% this year. The SCSD’s overall four year June graduation rate is 55%--the highest level since 2008. structure, announcing bold new initiatives developed by the City’s innovation team (i-team). Since May the The four-year August graduation rate improved from i-team, funded by a grant from Bloomberg Philanthro- 49% in 2008 to 58%. pies, has been working alongside the Departments of Innovative Solutions for Aging Infrastructure Public Works, Water, Engineering and others, employ-
·Data and technology to identify and inform infrastruc-
·Better coordinated infrastructure repair and replacement in rights of way. New planning processes will ensure that whenever a road is opened for a planned construction project, all underground infrastructure will be evaluated and replaced or repaired if necessary; reducing the number of times a road is opened and minimizing costs. ·Improved customer service. Starting today, residents can submit service requests using an improved, easy-to -use webpage – cityline.syrgov.net. And a new online notification center where people can easily find information about upcoming construction projects. CityLine Expansion (Continued on page 10)
www.urbancny.com
Urban CNY
Money
New York State Starts Student Loan Forgiveness Program 'Get On Your Feet' Began Accepting Applications on December 31
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced that New York State will begin accepting applications for the new 'Get On Your Feet' Loan Forgiveness Program on December 31. First announced as part of Governor Cuomo's 2015 Opportunity Agenda, the program offers up to 24 months of federal student loan debt relief to recent college graduates living in the State. "Ensuring students are able pay for college and not saddled with debt is critical for both their individual success and the continued economic growth of New York State," Governor Cuomo said. "With this program, we are telling recent graduates: if you invest in New York's future, we will invest in yours." Studies have shown time and time again that helping students pay for college is critical to ensuring their success after graduation. Students who graduate with
debt are less likely to start a small business or to purchase a home, and the consequences of defaulting on student loans can prevent a person from ever realizing their goals. This program offers that help by supplementing the federal Pay As You Earn loan repayment program and allowing eligible college graduates living in New York State to pay nothing on their student loans for the first two years out of school.
Already, more than 2,500 graduates from the class of 2015 have registered to apply for the program through the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation. Once fully implemented in 2020, more than 24,000 recent graduates are expected to participate.
SUNY Student Assembly President and Binghamton University Student Thomas Mastro said, "The 'Get on Your Feet' loan forgiveness program ensures that To qualify, applicants must have earned an undergrad- SUNY graduates have time to settle into New York uate degree from a college or university located in State careers before taking on the added financial burNew York State in or after December 2014, have an den of having to make student loan payments. The adjusted gross income of less than $50,000, and be SUNY Student Assembly is proud to stand behind this enrolled in the federal Income Based Repayment plan innovative program and we encourage all eligible stuor Pay as You Earn plan. Recipients will have a maxi- dents to apply when they are eligible." mum of 24 payments, equal to their monthly student loan repayment amount, paid on their behalf. Applica- To learn more or apply, visit hesc.ny.gov/ tions are accepted year round. GetOnYourFeet
Caribbean Cinematic Festival – February 4 – 7, 2016 The four day festival will highlight cultural contributions as well as address polarizing issues in the Caribbean and the Caribbean Diaspora. These highlights will be explored through film, dance, postfilm discussion, spoken word, and food.This year’s festival is an expansion of previous CCF festivities, which explored films from the Eastern and Western Caribbean. The festival brings together filmmakers, as well as Syracuse University and Syracuse community members.
(90 minutes – NAR) Trapped in the nervous desperation of Havana, Raúl dreams of escaping to Miami. When accused of assaulting a tourist, his only option is to flee. He begs his best friend, Elio, to abandon everything, including his family, and help him reach the forbidden land 90 miles across the ocean. Elio’s commitment is tested when he is torn between helping Raúl escape and protecting his twin sister, Lila. Brimming with the nervous energy of Havana’s restless youth in the crumbling sun-bleached capital, Una Noche follows one sweltering day, full of hope and fraught with tension, that burns to a shocking climax
THURSDAY FEBRUARY 4, 2016
6:00PM – Babymother (80 min – NAR) A single mother determined to make it as a singer puts together an all girl reggae group named Neeta, Sweeta, & Nastie with her friends. Liv- SATURDAY ing in a housing project with little support, the odds are FEBRUARY 6, 2016 obviously against her. Emotionally she struggles too as she learns at her mother’s death that her actual mother is the woman she had thought was her older sister. With the help of a female agent, the group starts to get some exposure and rises above their setting.
FRIDAY FEBRUARY 5, 2016
6:00PM – Elza (78 min – NAR) A single mother in Paris, Bernadette tried hard to give her daughters everything. She is thrilled when her eldest, Elza, the first college graduate in the family, completes her master’s degree. However, Elza breaks her mother’s heart by running away to their native Guadeloupe in search of a distant childhood memory: the father she barely remembers. This feature debut by writer/director Mariette Monpierre offers an unusual insider’s view of lush island culture as she captures the passion and contradictions of this family. 8:00PM – Thea St. Omer Tribute 9:00PM – Sombra di Kolo (73 min – DOC) In five neighborhoods on the Island of Curaçao – a former Dutch colony – each neighborhood distinct in its racial and class make-up, a total of thirty Curaçaoans of all ages and all walks of life share what “race” and “skin color” mean to them today. Language: Papiamentu, Dutch, English subtitles.
4:00PM – (104 min – NAR)
11:00AM – Pelo Malo (93 min – NAR)
A nineyear-old boy’s preening obsession with straightening his hair elicits a tidal wave of homophobic panic in his hard-working mother.
King Curtis, a vagrant on the streets of Port of Spain, is constantly ignored by passersby. He speaks and if he has to – sometimes shouts the truth about the stories behind the newspaper headlines. As the conductor of our story, King Curtis introduces us to a young man named Charlie… Charlie, a resident east of the lighthouse, is trying his best to stay on the right path. However, with no job in sight, he is finding it hard to say no to other “opportunities”. A chance of redemption presents itself when Dinah, a professional streetwalker, crosses his path in need of help. As the story unfolds, King Curtis reveals the ripple effect created by a person’s decision making; leading to moments of triumph and moments of tragedy. 6:00PM – Dominica SUNDAY FEBRUARY 7, 2016
1:00PM – Earth Water Woman (22 min – DOC) Earth, Water, Woman spotlights the Fondes Amandes Community Re-Forestation Project in Trinidad and To-
11:00AM – Sunday Brunch catered by Jerk Hut 12:00PM – Animated Shorts, Noka 22min, Trini toons
Eight-year-old Gabriel has been treated for a rare form of schizophrenia all his life; a disease he inherited from his recently deceased grandfather. While attending his grandfather’s funeral, bago, and its Akilah Jaramogi, in their ongoing efforts Gabriel encounters an old “friend of the family” who to transform barren hillsides into a vibrant, healthy claims Gabriel and his grandfather weren’t sick at all ecosystem. A micro solution for the macro problem of but are instead gatekeepers for an unseen supernatural climate change, this documentary urges viewers every- realm. Gabriel must abandon all he knows and loves to where to examine their relationship to Mother Earth. fulfill his purpose, his legacy, as a NOKA. 2:00PM – Una Noche 1:00PM – City on the Hill (47 min – DOC)
Governor Cuomo Announces Energy Bill Refunds for More Than 1,500 New Yorkers State's Consumer Advocate Secures Nearly $1 Million in Refunds from Ambit Energy Following Customer Complaints
Governor Cuomo announced that an investigation by the Department of Public Service’s Consumer Advocate has resulted in 1,566 utility consumers receiving $950,700 in energy bill refunds from Ambit Energy, a retail electricity provider, following customer complaints filed against the company in New York State.
were moved from a guaranteed-savings plan into a variable rate plan charging significantly more.
ers, adhere to rules regarding customer services. Since January, consumers have seen more than $3 million in returned fees as a direct result of investigations conAs a result of the investigation, Ambit has made major ducted by the Office of Consumer Advocate, not inadjustments to customers’ bills in an effort to both cluding Ambit’s refunds. resolve concerns raised by the Department and satisfy customers who were charged more after being moved The Department closely monitors the number and “New York has no tolerance for companies who out of the guaranteed-savings plan. In concluding its types of complaints received against all utilities and change the rules and rob ratepayers of an even playing investigation, the Department reviewed the company’s energy service companies operating in New York field," Governor Cuomo said. "The State's Consumer response and determined that it had adequately adState. The Department ensures that utilities and energy Advocate was created to correct these inequities and, dressed deficiencies and had appropriately adjusted companies fulfill their obligations to provide effective as this action illustrates, return hard-earned money to customer rates and bills. The actual level of refund is customer service in compliance with the laws, rules, New Yorkers who have been wronged.” dependent on a number of factors, including how long regulations and policies that the Department enforces. the customer was charged a higher rate. “It is critically important that energy providers follow Energy service companies such as Ambit are required New York’s vigorous rules and regulations and adhere The Department of Public Service’s Consumer Advo- to comply with the Department’s Uniform Business to best practices in regards to customer service,” cate led the investigation into Ambit’s activities. First Practices (UBP) to sell natural gas and electric serAudrey Zibelman, Chief Executive Officer of the De- established in 2015, the Consumer Advocate works to vices in New York. Failure to comply with the UBP partment of Public Service said. “Rather than run the ensure consumers receive the utmost protection from may result in a variety of enforcement actions, includrisk of losing its ability to do business in New York, energy companies and regulated utilities, and that ing the State Public Service Commission revoking a Ambit agreed to address the outstanding consumer these companies, as well as third-party service provid- competitive energy provider’s eligibility to serve cuscomplaints investigated by our tomers in New York State. CusElectric & Gas Service Territory Refunds DPS Consumer Advocate and tomers who believe their rates Customers refund the approximately $1 Hudson Valley 43 $14,300 are not accurate are encouraged million owed to customers.” to file a complaint with the DeNew York City 153 $62,200 partment of Public Service’s Central / Eastern New The investigation was launched 774 $500,100 Consumer Advocate. York after the Department of Public Southern Tier 396 $275,900 *While more than 1,500 customer accounts Service raised concerns over will be receiving refunds, some may reAmbit’s customer disclosure Western New York 200 $98,200 ceive a refund for both electric and gas. statements and renewal notices, $950,700 Grand Total 1,566 particularly for customers who
Just the FATS Ma’am, February is American Heart Month… Let’s see what you know about fat and pick up some heart healthy tips too! True or false: all fats are unhealthy for your body False. Not all fats are unhealthy for you. Certain types of fats called monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats are healthy fats. Eating healthy fats can help lower risk of heart disease. Which food(s) are good sources of a healthy fat? A. Olive Oil B. Canola Oil C. Nuts D. All of the above All of the above are a good source of a healthy fat. Other good sources of healthy fats include safflower, soybean, corn, and cottonseed oils. As a rule of thumb, fat at room temperature that is liquid is usually a healthful fat and fat at room temperature that is solid
is an unhealthy fat. Fat can be hidden in food so mak- ids. Animal fats (not including seafood) found in dairy ing this a rule is a little tricky to always follow, so it’s products, meat trimmings, butter, or lard are unimportant to know which foods are high in unhealthy healthy fats and should be eaten in small amounts. fats as well. Which spread is best for your bread? True or false: a diet that has a lot of saturated fats A. Butter and trans fatty acids increases your risk of heart dis- B. Soft margarine with no trans fatty acids ease. C. Butter blend D. Natural peanut butter without added sugar and True. To reduce your risk of heart trans fats disease, limit the amount of foods that contain saturated and trans fatty D. Choose natural peanut butter withacids in your diet. These fats are harmful to your out added sugar and trans fats for a health. creamy spread on your morning toast. To make sure there are no trans fatty acids, check the Which food(s) have a lot of unhealthy fats in them? food label. Specifically look at the ingredients list, be A. Full fat cheese sure the word “hydrogenated” is not listed. B. Grain based desserts Make changes in the fats that you eat and you will C. Sausage improve your health. To learn more about healthy D. All of the above fats and eating healthy visit: http://www.cdc.gov/ healthyweight/healthy_eating/ D. All of these foods have a high amount of fats that are not healthy such as saturated and trans fatty ac-
Consensus Commission on Local Government Modernization Releases Preliminary Report Containing 50 Recommendations to Make Government More Efficient and Effective Series of Public Meetings Scheduled to Hear From Onondaga County Residents Public Input Process through March 16 Will Guide Final Report to be Released in April
The Consensus commission, which includes 19 civic, business and local government leaders, is led by cochairs, Murphy, who most recently served as president of SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry; Catherine Richardson a retired attorney with the SYRACUSE, NY -- Consensus, the commission on firm Bond, Schoeneck & King, PLLC.; and former local government modernization, today released its Congressman James Walsh. Options Report & Preliminary Committee Recommen- Commission members were represented on five comdations to the community. mittees, each of which issued findings in the report. A The report, which culminates 18 months of research sixth committee, Public Engagement, is charged with and public input directing the on local governpublic input ment, outlines process. opportunities to Committee reduce the cost findings in the of governance, report focus improve services on the followand promote ing areas: greater economic Infrastructure growth in Onondaga County. – Street and highway maintenance, water, wastewater, With the release of the report, Consensus begins a six- solid waste collection week public comment period (January 26 – March 16), in which it will facilitate and document input from Public Safety – Fire protection, emergency medical Syracuse-Onondaga residents through a series of pub- services, police and corrections lic meetings and online via a new website, www.consensuscomment.com, as well as through Fa- Municipal Operation - Tax assessment, financial adcebook and email. Based on the public input, the Com- ministration, courts, code enforcement, clerk, social mission plans to publish a final report by the end of services, public health and libraries April. Economic Development - Fiscal and economic rela“The size of government and the cost to taxpayers in tionships among the County’s governments, as well as Onondaga County keeps growing while the tax base the land use and policy falls and the business climate inhibits economic growth. This path is unsustainable. We need to do Governance - Overarching structure of local and rebetter. This report provides a framework for the com- gional governance munity to make substantive changes in the way we govern and promote economic growth,” commented “We need to rethink and rebalance government at all Neil Murphy, co-chairman of Consensus. levels – towns and villages and county and city – to deliver services in more effective and efficient ways. The Options Report includes over 50 recommendations We’ve studied and talked with other communities, like for every level of government in Onondaga County -- Indianapolis, Louisville and others, who have been opportunities to improve service delivery and reduce through this and are now reaping the benefits of incosts through proven approaches and best practices creased economic growth and opportunity. Working that could include: together as one community we can make this happen here in Onondaga County,” said Walsh. Public Input Is Critical Creation of a new metropolitan government via “opt-in” referendum The Consensus report is not final, rather it’s a starting point for further community dialogue, according to Catherine Richardson, co-chair of Consensus. “It’s Shared purchasing and training agreements important for the community to know that no decisions have been made, and no proposals have been approved. Shared maintenance and planning of infrastructure We need public input to complete the process. The final recommendations published in April will directed and assets by the comments we receive over the next six weeks,” she explained. Creation of centrally-managed “metro” authorities, The Consensus commission is coordinating a variety of agencies, departments, and service areas ways to elicit citizen input during the January 26 – March 16 public comment period, including hosting a Adoption of common software and digital record- series of public meetings throughout the community to present the findings and field public input. The first keeping systems meetings will be held on February 1 at the Southwest Community Center and the DeWitt Community Library. Increased state assumption of responsibility for public benefit programs
A full list of all meetings is available on the new Consensus public engagement website, www.consensuscomment.com. The website, which is
available in English and Spanish versions, also has downloadable versions of the Options Report and a condensed summary of the report. The public is encouraged to visit the website to submit comments. This input will be collected and considered for the final report. Comments are also being accepted at www.facebook.com/consensuscny, as well as via email at info@consensuscny.com. Respondents are asked to include name and city, town or village of residence of the person making the submission. Calls to 315-4701980 will also record comments. After the public comment period has concluded on March 16, the Commission will reconvene to review the input collected and begin work on completing a final report to the community, which is due to be published by the end of April. Consensus was formed in 2014, with the support of county and city government leaders and a $250,000 state grant, secured by Sen. John DeFrancisco with support from Sen. David Valesky. Consensus was also designated $25 million in Upstate Revitalization Inititiative funding, which will be used for our local governments to implement reforms, beginning in 2017. The establishment of the commission has received broad support from the community. Together, SYRACUSE 20/20, CenterState CEO, FOCUS Greater Syracuse, the League of Women Voters of Syracuse Metropolitan Area, Onondaga Citizens League and the Homebuilders & Remodelers Association of CNY called for the creation of a local government modernization commission. It was also one of four key initiates outlined in the region’s business plan – The CenterState Agenda for Economic Opportunity. To learn more about Consensus, visit: www.consensuscny.com. Consensus Commission Members: Co-Chairmen: Cornelius (Neil) B. Murphy, Former President, SUNY ESF M. Catherine Richardson, Retired Attorney, Bond, Schoeneck & King, PLLC James T. Walsh, Government Affairs Counselor, K&L Gates LLP Members: Aminy I.Audi, L. & J.G. Stickley, Inc. Laurence G. Bousquet, Bousquet Holstein PLLC William M. Byrne, Byrne Dairy Mark Nicotra, Town of Salina Donna DeSiato, East Syracuse-Minoa Central School District Darlene Kerr, Niagara Mohawk (ret.) Patrick Kilmartin, Onondaga County Legislature Melanie W. Littlejohn, National Grid Andrew Maxwell, City of Syracuse, Office of Policy and Innovation Stephen Meyer, Welch Allyn, Inc. Dennis Nave, CNY Physician Teamster Alliance Mark Olson, Village of Fayetteville Sharon F. Owens, Syracuse Model Neighborhood Facility Ann Rooney, Onondaga County Bea Gonzalez, Syracuse University
Financing Approved For Renovation of Clinton Plaza Apartments Mayor Miner Announces New Financing Agreement, Including $675,000 in City of Syracuse HOME Funding, Which Will Leverage $40 Million in Improvements 305-Unit Affordable Housing Facility in Downtown Syracuse Has Seen No Significant Investment in 45 Years; 60 Units Have Been Offline Due to Quality Issues SYRACUSE, N.Y. – Mayor Stephanie A. Miner announced on January 28th that the City has closed on financing with The Mullholland Group, LLC enabling the developer to perform a significant renovation of Clinton Plaza, a 305-unit affordable housing facility located in Armory Square.
playing in making this project possible. We are committed to providing our citizens with excellent, accessible housing choices, in downtown and throughout our city. This project is a significant step advancing that cause.”
Built in 1971, this 305-unit affordable high rise has not seen significant investment sent it was constructed 45 years ago. 60 units have been completely offline for “Developing high quality, affordable housing is crucial over 10 years due to their deteriorating condition. to building a greater City,” said Syracuse Mayor Most recently, the affordability covenants on the propStephanie A. Miner. “I am proud of the role we are erty expired, which would have meant tenants faced
with the prospect of the building turning market-rate, could have been forced to find alternative housing. This renovation will be made possible with $675,000 in funding from the City of Syracuse HOME program, using funds awarded to the City from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Clinton Plaza also received a property tax exemption through the Syracuse Industrial Development Agency. Units will have their affordability guaranteed through HUD’s Rent Adjustment Demonstration (RAD) program. This will allow tenants to continue living in affordable housing while important, high-quality upgrades are made. Façade and other exterior improvements will be undertaken to tie the property in to the overall motif of Downtown Syracuse.
Mayor Miner Announces Legislation to Curb Vehicle Booting on Private Property New Legislation Would Fine Property Owners $500 for Using Unauthorized Vehicle Immobilization Devices on Cars on Their Properties Miner: While Drivers Should Be Careful Not To Park in Private Lots, It Is Entirely Unfair for Businesses to Boot Their Cars, Trapping Drivers While They Are Forced to Wait and Pay Hefty Fees SYRACUSE, N.Y. – Mayor Stephanie A. Miner announced today legislation which would ban the practice of booting on private property.
“This legislation takes an important action in safeguarding car owners from often expensive and exploitative booting on private property,” said Syracuse Mayor Stephanie A. Miner. “While drivers should be careful not to park in private lots, it is entirely unfair for businesses to boot their cars, trapping drivers while they are forced to wait and pay hefty fees.”
families are assigned a caseworker who can CityLine, which has been in existence since the 1980s quickly evaluate their as a method by which constituents can ask questions of needs and help move City government and report concerns, can now be ac- them into a sustainable cessed through an improved online portal. Using situation. Additionally, www.cityline.syrgov.net, citizens will now be able to as part of the national enter complaints directly into the City’s online comMayors Challenge to End Veteran Homelessness, the plaint system, IPS, receive a tracking number, and City of Syracuse reached “functional zero,” meaning follow the progress of their complaint through its reso- any homeless veteran in the community will have aclution. cess to a network of support which will ensure permanent housing will be made available within 45 days. Housing First Land Bank Using the successful “housing first” model of addressing homelessness, the number of occupied shelter beds The Mayor announced that, since its inception, Land from 600 per night to 380 during the first week of Jan- Bank has sold 250 properties, which leveraged $8.2 uary, 2016 was reduced. The “housing first” model put million in private investment. These sales have rean emphasis on rapidly re-housing homeless families turned $10 million in assessed value to taxable status with children. Working with service providers, these (Continued from page 4)
With this new legislation, the use of vehicle immobilization devices on private property by property owners or by private companies hired by property owners will be prohibited. Violations of this ordinance will be enforced by the police. Violators will be cited and subject to a $500 fine or 60 days in prison. Mayor Miner added, “We are taking this issue very seriously. It is important to safeguard car owners as they try to do business around the City of Syracuse.” The legislation will be presented to the Common Council by the Miner administration at a study session happening today at 12:00 p.m. The legislation could be voted on as soon as Monday, February 8 at the Council’s next voting meeting. which generates an additional $400,000 in revenue for the City. Interconnect Project Phase II Miner announced that this year, the City will work to complete the second phase of the Interconnect project, designed to synchronize traffic signals by using closed -circuit TV (CCTV) monitoring and computer synchronized light timing. This year, the System will add 44 more intersections to the system and enhance the CCTV and fiber-optic communication network used for monitoring. This project is designed to improve safety and reduce traffic congestion and thereby reducing emissions released from vehicles. For more information on Mayor Miner’s 2016 State of the City address, including to view a video of the presentation and to read the full text of the speech, please visit the City’s website, www.syrgov.net.
Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Celebration at Nottingham High School
Caramya Mere-Kitchen, a fourth grader at Roberts Pre-K-8 School disassembles a sewing machine under the guidance of Cathy Racine as a way to experience science and engineering during the annual Syracuse University Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Celebration held at Nottingham High School. Photo by John Berry
Student performs at The annual Syracuse University Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Celebration was held at Nottingham High School. Part of the annual event is to go into the Syracuse community, not just remain on campus. This year Nottingham High School was the designated local community location. Photo by John Berry
Syracuse Stage’s Timothy Bond Accepts Post at the University of Washington (Syracuse, NY) - Syracuse Stage announced today that producing artistic director Timothy Bond has been appointed full professor at the University of Washington’s School of Drama in Seattle, WA.
“This is big and wonderful news for the School of Drama,” said Todd London, the School’s executive director. “It represents a real homecoming—to Seattle and the University of Washington—for a major American artist and educator.”
Bond says he will also continue his artistic work by pursuing freelance directing opportunities. In addition to his work at Syracuse Stage, Bond has directed at numerous theatres including the Oregon Shakespeare Bond announced last Festival, where he was an associate artistic director for May that the current Sy- 11 years, and the Seattle Group Theatre, where he racuse Stage season, served for 13 years including five years as artistic di2015/16, would be his last with the company, where he rector. In a theatre career spanning nearly 30 years, has served since 2007. Bond’s credits also include productions at Seattle Repertory Theatre, Actors Theatre of Louisville, The “I am thrilled about returning to my artistic birthplace Guthrie, and Arena Stage, among others. in Seattle and honored to join the distinguished faculty at the University of Washington School of Drama. I Among the many highlights of Bond’s tenure at Syralook forward to sharing my passion for social activism cuse Stage was the company’s first international transand inclusive theatre with the next generation of artis- fer. In 2012, Bond directed Tarell Alvin McCraney’s tic leaders and global citizens," Bond said. The Brothers Size. Following the play’s run in Syracuse, the production transferred to the Baxter Theatre As a full professor at the University of Washington, in Cape Town, South Africa, and from there to the Bond will teach acting and directing on the undergradfamed Market Theatre in Johannesburg. Three uate and graduate levels in the School of Drama beginyears later, Stage presented The Market Theatre’s ning in the fall of 2016. Bond received his MFA in production of Sizwe Banzi is Dead directed by Tony Directing from the University in 1983 and began his Award-winner and internationally acclaimed theatre professional career in Seattle at the Group Theatre. artist John Kani.
Bond also brought internationally renowned artist and National Medal of Arts recipient Ping Chong to Syracuse Stage. In 2008, Chong created Tales from the Salt City based on the lives of seven Central New Yorkers. In 2012, Chong returned for Cry for Peace: Voices from the Congo, a play co-written with Syracuse Stage dramaturg Kyle Bass based on the experiences of members of Syracuse’s Congolese community. As a director, Bond also made an impact with his own productions including five plays from August Wilson’s Century Cycle: Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, Fences, Radio Golf, Two Trains Running, and The Piano Lesson. Other notable productions were The Diary of Anne Frank, The Price, No Child . . ., The Boys Next Door, The Whipping Man, and Other Desert Cities. Bond closes out his tenure at Syracuse Stage with the upcoming To Kill a Mockingbird and The Christians. Bond was the fourth artistic leader in Syracuse Stage’s 43-year history. He was preceded by Robert Moss (1996-2007), Tazewell Thompson (1992-95), and founding producing artistic director Arthur Storch (1974-1992). On January 7, Syracuse Stage announced the appointment of Robert Hupp as the company’s new artistic director.