New York City Council
Committee on Finance
May 21, 2024
·
09:30 AM
5 hr 32 min
Summary
A hearing on the Fiscal Year 2025 executive budget for New York City's three public library systems and the Department of Cultural Affairs. Discussions centered on proposed budget cuts that would force reduced operating hours, staffing cuts, fewer programs and services, and delays to capital projects for libraries as well as reductions in funding for cultural organizations and institutions. Library and cultural leaders testified about the devastating impacts these cuts would have on accessibility, programming, maintenance of facilities, and the overall ability to serve communities across the five boroughs. Featured testimony from the presidents of the Brooklyn Public Library, New York Public Library, Queens Public Library, Department of Cultural Affairs Commissioner, and the public.
Meeting chapters
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Council Member Justin Brannan opens Committee on Finance hearing on the Fiscal Year 2025 executive budget for the city's library systems and Department of Cultural Affairs
Council Member Justin Brannan opens the Committee on Finance hearing on the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 executive budget, focusing on the city's library systems and the Department of Cultural Affairs. …
0:01:51
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3 min
Council Member Carlina Rivera opens Committee on Cultural Affairs, Libraries, and International Intergroup Relations hearing on New York City library systems
Council Member Carlina Rivera outlines the proposed fiscal 2025 budget figures for New York City's three library systems, expressing disappointment over funding cuts and the need for budget restorations and …
0:05:32
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5 min
Linda Johnson, President and CEO of Brooklyn Public Library, on Severe Proposed Budget Cuts to Library Funding and Services
Linda Johnson, President and CEO of the Brooklyn Public Library, testifies about the devastating impacts of proposed $58.3 million in operating budget cuts and $125 million slash to capital funding …
0:12:00
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10 min
Tony Marx, President of the New York Public Library, on Devastating Impacts of Proposed Funding Cuts for Libraries
Tony Marx, President of the New York Public Library, testifies about the severe consequences of the proposed $58.3 million FY25 budget cut for New York City's libraries, with $25.5 million …
0:22:32
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9 min
Dennis Walcott, President and CEO of the Queens Public Library, on the Essential Role of Public Libraries and Urgent Need for Restoring Funding
Dennis Walcott testifies on the devastating impacts of budget cuts on the Queens Public Library's ability to serve communities. - Budget cuts have forced the end of Sunday service, resulting …
0:31:57
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8 min
Why was funding for the library systems not included in the administration's budget plan?
Council Member Justin Brannan questions why certain funding for the three library systems was not included in the administration's budget plan. Dennis Walcott, President and CEO of the Queens Public …
0:40:50
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54 sec
What would the $58.3 million budget restoration mean for New York City's public libraries?
The $58.3 million budget restoration would technically reset the budget for New York City's public library systems to their previous levels, but not immediately restore full services and programs. - …
0:41:46
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73 sec
What is the total number of active employees, including full-time and part-time staff, at each of the library systems?
Council Member Justin Brannan asks about the total headcount, including both full-time and part-time employees, at the three major New York City library systems. - The New York Public Library …
0:43:01
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84 sec
What are the current staff vacancy numbers at the New York, Brooklyn, and Queens public libraries?
Council Member Justin Brannan inquires about the current staff vacancy numbers at the public libraries in New York, Brooklyn, and Queens. Linda Johnson states that Brooklyn Public Library will have …
0:44:29
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19 sec
What capital projects have been paused or delayed due to funding cuts, and in what phases were these projects?
The council members inquired about the impact of $130 million in combined capital funding cuts on library capital projects across the three public library systems. - Queens Public Library stated …
0:44:49
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160 sec
What challenges are public libraries facing due to budget cuts and staff shortages?
Dennis Walcott explains that public libraries have stopped hiring due to budget uncertainty. - Libraries are already behind in staffing and operations even if budgets are restored - The hiring …
0:47:30
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138 sec
What specific funding amount would make New York City's libraries whole after their budget cuts?
The council member asks for a specific dollar amount, not an aspirational figure, that would cover the losses incurred by New York City's libraries due to budget cuts. The library …
0:50:01
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140 sec
What is the rationale behind cutting Sunday library service and the restrictions on using endowments to cover operating expenses?
Linda Johnson explains that cutting Sunday service at Brooklyn Public Library was a financially driven decision to minimize impact during budget constraints. She states: - Sunday is the most expensive …
0:52:22
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63 sec
Is it allowed for public libraries to use their endowments to cover operating costs during budget cuts? If not, what options do they have to manage budget reductions?
The public library leaders explain that they are legally restricted from using their endowment funds to cover ongoing operating costs of branches and services during budget cuts. - The endowments …
0:53:26
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5 min
Council Member Carlina Rivera opens her questions by remarking on the importance of libraries and their services
Council Member Carlina Rivera delivers an opening statement highlighting the critical role of libraries in providing essential services to communities. - She shares personal reflections on the value of libraries …
0:59:19
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78 sec
What percentage of the public library system's budget comes from city funding?
The presidents and CEOs of the public library systems in New York City state the percentage of their budgets funded by the city. - Brooklyn Public Library receives 85% of …
1:00:37
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34 sec
What strategies are libraries employing to mitigate service disruptions from branch closures or reduced operations due to budget cuts?
Libraries are using various strategies to mitigate disruptions to service: - Libraries are deploying mobile book, tech, and kid mobiles to impacted areas - Temporary spaces are being utilized during …
1:01:13
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165 sec
What is the status of the Tompkins Square and West New Brighton library renovation projects? What are the projected completion dates and has the Department of Design and Construction remained on schedule?
Tony Marx provides an update on the comprehensive renovation projects for the Tompkins Square and West New Brighton libraries. - The $30.1 million Tompkins Square renovation is in the planning …
1:03:58
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100 sec
What are the details of the Eastern Parkway and Brownsville library renovation projects, including their budgets, scopes, and projected timelines?
The Eastern Parkway library renovation is a $20 million full restoration project planned to begin in spring of the following year, with an additional $750,000 requested for initial outfitting. - …
1:05:55
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74 sec
What is the current status and details of the planned expansion of the Corona library branch?
Dennis Walcott explains that the expansion will increase the Corona branch's floor area to around 16,000-18,000 square feet, with a construction budget of approximately $28.4 million. - The project is …
1:07:11
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57 sec
Council Member Carlina Rivera remarks on budget instability for neighborhood projects
Council Member Rivera expresses frustration over the constant state of budget instability for completing neighborhood projects. - She asks about the status of projects in specific neighborhoods - Rivera notes …
1:08:09
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23 sec
What funding is required to reinstate Sunday hours for all library systems?
The Brooklyn Public Library president responds that full restoration of funding would be required to enable this. - Full restoration of funding is needed to reinstate Sunday hours for all …
1:08:33
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25 sec
What languages are audiobooks and print books provided in by New York City's public libraries?
New York City's public library leaders explain the multilingual offerings available across their collections. - The libraries curate collections reflective of each neighborhood's linguistic needs. - Technology aids and multilingual …
1:09:01
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146 sec
What programs and accommodations do the library systems offer for toddlers and young children?
The library systems confirm the availability of early childhood programs like story hours that attract around a million visits per year. The programs provide a foundation for early literacy development, …
1:11:34
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116 sec
What virtual programs and services are the New York City public libraries continuing to offer?
The New York City public library representatives explain that they are maintaining a blend of virtual and in-person services following the shift to a digital model during the pandemic. - …
1:13:30
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4 min
How many businesses are supported through the MWBE Clinic in the Brooklyn Public Library branches, and how will budget cuts affect this programming?
Council Member Farah N. Louis questions the impact of budget cuts on the MWBE Clinic programming at the Brooklyn Public Library branches, emphasizing the clinic's role in supporting entrepreneurs and …
1:18:49
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59 sec
What are the potential impacts of the FY 25 budget cuts on program hours and scope at public libraries?
Linda Johnson explains that while some library programs are privately funded, budget cuts leading to branch closures would limit physical access and the ability to offer these services. - Even …
1:19:49
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39 sec
What branches were impacted by staff shortages and unplanned closures? How have budget adjustments affected capital projects?
Council Member Selvena N. Brooks-Powers asks for details on which library branches faced unplanned closures and reduced hours due to staff shortages. - The New York Public Library president confirms …
1:20:33
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46 sec
What is the status of capital projects funded by the current administration that were rescinded, canceled, or pushed to future fiscal years?
Council Member Selvena N. Brooks-Powers requests an update on capital projects funded by the current administration that were canceled, rescinded entirely, or intentionally delayed to future fiscal years like fiscal …
1:21:21
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127 sec
What is the timeline for opening the new Far Rockaway library branch?
The council member asks about potentially expediting the opening of the new Far Rockaway library branch to early July. The Queens Public Library president responds that he cannot commit to …
1:23:28
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34 sec
Council Member Selvena N. Brooks-Powers advocated for prominently displaying the Far Rockaway name on the new library
Council Member Brooks-Powers advocates for prominently displaying the Far Rockaway name on the new library's design. - She wants the community to feel seen and recognized in the new design …
1:24:23
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42 sec
What is the status of the Laurelton library and its construction projects?
Council Member Brooks-Powers inquires about the status of the Laurelton library, and Dennis Walcott, President and CEO of Queens Public Library, provides an update. - The Laurelton library is currently …
1:25:05
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100 sec
Council Member Shahana Hanif remarks on the impact of potential New York City library service cuts
Council Member Shahana Hanif expresses gratitude for library workers and concern over potential cuts to library services and programs. - She states cuts have had a devastating effect on the …
1:26:50
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96 sec
What programs and services will be impacted by budget cuts to the Brooklyn Public Library?
The Brooklyn Public Library president explains that budget cuts will necessitate reducing programming by a third, impacting non-grant funded programs. - Fewer citizenship classes and visits to senior centers and …
1:28:27
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3 min
What are the impacts of reduced library hours and program cuts?
Council members and library leaders explain that reduced library hours and programs will significantly limit access and participation. - Library doors may not be open for scheduled programs like ESL …
1:31:53
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4 min
What are the initiatives to protect intellectual property and provide access to books across the country?
The Brooklyn Public Library has initiated the Books Unbanned program to provide nationwide access to books, including those that have been banned in some areas. - The program is funded …
1:36:07
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4 min
What is the process for renovating through the Economic Development Corporation (EDC) instead of the Department of Design and Construction (DDC)?
Council Member Gale A. Brewer asks how one goes about renovating with the Economic Development Corporation (EDC) rather than the Department of Design and Construction (DDC). - She asks her …
1:40:34
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10 sec
Do libraries still have access to the e-rate program and is it possible to utilize it with federal support to extend internet access to neighborhoods?
Gale A. Brewer inquires about the continuation of the e-rate program for libraries and the feasibility of leveraging federal support through it to provide internet connectivity in neighborhoods. - She …
1:40:44
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14 sec
What are the technology budgets and how could they be impacted by the need for new hardware or software every 5 years?
The council member asks about the technology budgets and how they could be impacted by the need to upgrade hardware or software every 5 years. - She asks her questions …
1:40:58
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12 sec
What are the wait lists for literacy programs? Are research libraries open on Sundays? What was previously baselined for libraries?
Council Member Gale A. Brewer inquires about the wait lists for literacy programs, whether research libraries are open on Sundays, and what funding was previously baselined for libraries. - She …
1:41:10
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25 sec
What is the reason for the New York Public Library research library being closed on Sundays?
The New York Public Library research library is not open on Sundays due to budget cuts from the city. - The research library is mostly privately funded but relies on …
1:41:37
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36 sec
What were the E Rate eligible costs for the New York Public Library in fiscal year 2024?
The president of the New York Public Library states that their E Rate eligible costs in fiscal year 2024 were $1.8 million. - The E Rate is an important partnership …
1:42:14
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21 sec
What are the challenges with working with agencies like the Economic Development Corporation (EDC) and the Department of Design and Construction (DDC) on library renovation projects?
The New York Public Library president explains that working with agencies like EDC can help get renovation projects done faster and cheaper, but it is not their primary role or …
1:42:36
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99 sec
What is the wait list for literacy classes?
There is a wait list of over 1,000 people for English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) literacy classes at the Queens Public Library.
1:44:19
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22 sec
What is the amount of the e-rate funding received by the Queens Public Library?
Dennis Walcott, President and CEO of the Queens Public Library, states that the library's e-rate funding is roughly $750,000.
1:44:43
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13 sec
What funding sources do public libraries rely on for capital projects?
The Queens Public Library president explains that their main source of capital funding comes from the New York City Department of Design and Construction (DDC) unless they are doing a …
1:44:57
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20 sec
What is the waitlist for ESOL classes at the Brooklyn Public Library?
The Brooklyn Public Library is facing a significant waitlist for English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes, with over 2,800 people on the waitlist. - There has been a …
1:45:19
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32 sec
What is the budget for technology and funding sources at the Brooklyn Public Library?
The Brooklyn Public Library has a technology budget of $4.6 million which is approximately 5% of their overall budget. They receive around $1 million per year in E-Rate funding for …
1:45:52
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15 sec
Why is the Department of Design and Construction (DDC) more expensive than the Economic Development Corporation (EDC) for public projects?
The council member questions why the DDC is more expensive than the EDC for public projects like library renovations. - The president of the Brooklyn Public Library explains that DDC …
1:46:07
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74 sec
What role are public libraries playing in supporting immigrants and asylum seekers?
The New York Public Library president explains that they are providing a record number of English language classes for immigrants and asylum seekers. - The library filled nearly 14,000 seats …
1:47:25
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57 sec
How many ESOL sessions were held by the Queens Public Library?
The Queens Public Library held 4,752 ESOL sessions, attended by approximately 57,710 people.
1:48:38
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20 sec
Council Member Justin Brannan opens the final executive budget hearing on the Department of Cultural Affairs
Council Member Justin Brannan, who chairs the Committee on Finance, opened the final executive budget hearing focused on the Department of Cultural Affairs' budget. - He was joined by Council …
2:09:33
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172 sec
Council Member Carlina Rivera opens Committee on Cultural Affairs Libraries And International Intergroup Relations hearing on the Department of Cultural Affairs executive budget plan
Council Member Carlina Rivera opens a hearing on the Department of Cultural Affairs (DCLA) executive budget plan for fiscal year 2025. - She highlights the proposed $152 million DCLA budget, …
2:12:31
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4 min
Laurie Cumbo, Commissioner of the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, on the Mayor's Fiscal Year 25 Executive Budget Proposal for NYC Cultural Programs and Initiatives
Laurie Cumbo testifies on the proposed Fiscal Year 2025 budget for the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs, which allocates $151 million for various cultural programs and initiatives. - She provides …
2:17:41
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14 min
Why were the Program to Eliminate the Gap (PEGs) not fully restored this year and did the Department of Cultural Affairs fight for full restoration of the Scheduling and Grants (Sigs) and Cultural Development Fund (CDFs) budgets with city hall?
Commissioner Laurie Cumbo explains that the Department of Cultural Affairs has advocated for restoring arts funding but there was only a partial restoration from prior cost-saving measures. - The department …
2:32:12
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3 min
Council Member Justin Brannan remarks on importance of New York City's cultural institutions
Justin Brannan, chair of the NYC Council's Finance Committee, expresses concern that the city agency overseeing cultural affairs (DCLA) receives only 0.1% of the total city budget, despite the exponential …
2:35:43
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95 sec
What is being done to increase funding for arts and cultural institutions in New York City?
The Commissioner explains that record-breaking funding has been allocated to arts and culture in recent city budgets. - The last two budget cycles had groundbreaking, record-breaking funding for arts and …
2:37:20
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161 sec
Why did the Cultural Development Fund (CDF) receive $23.5 million and the CIGs receive $16.5 million from the additional $40 million in DCLA's FY 2024 budget?
Commissioner Laurie Cumbo explains the criteria used to determine the funding split between the CDF and Sigs in DCLA's FY 2024 budget. - There is a baseline amount of funding …
2:40:03
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120 sec
What was the average increase in funding that Cultural Development Fund (CDF) recipients received from the one-time $40,000,000 allocation?
The Department of Cultural Affairs commissioner explained that there was no fixed average increase from the $40,000,000 allocation. - Funding increases or decreases for CDF recipients are determined through a …
2:42:03
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152 sec
What processes are involved in factoring community perspectives into capital planning and decision making for equity?
The commissioner explains the capital planning process that factors in community perspectives for equity. - An annual process involves discussions with borough presidents to prioritize funding requests for capital projects. …
2:44:40
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169 sec
What are the costs covered by the capital program budget versus the expense budget?
The commissioner explains that capital construction projects are separate from operational expenses. - Capital project budgets do not cover staff salaries, utilities, maintenance, or other recurring costs - The department …
2:47:30
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130 sec
What is the adequacy of the proposed headcount increase for meeting the cultural community's needs?
The commissioner explains that although more resources would enhance capacity, the department is conducting interviews to fill positions now that a hiring freeze has been partially lifted. She expresses confidence …
2:49:46
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74 sec
Council Member Carlina Rivera remarks on cuts to cultural institutions
Council Member Carlina Rivera expresses frustration with the administration's lack of cooperation in expanding the budget for cultural institutions. - Rivera states the administration has not been a willing partner …
2:51:09
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3 min
What are the reasons for DCLA's reliance on one-time council funds to cover the Social Inclusion Grants (SIG) operating costs and the exclusion of $45,000,000 urged funding in the executive budget?
The council member inquires about the Department of Cultural Affairs (DCLA) relying on one-time council funds to cover the operating costs of the Social Inclusion Grants (SIG) program and the …
2:54:12
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3 min
What is the impact of budget cuts on New York City's cultural programs and economy?
Commissioner Laurie Cumbo explains that the significant budget cuts were necessary due to the fiscal crisis faced by Mayor Eric Adams' administration, which lacked federal support. - The budget constraints …
2:58:07
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105 sec
What are the details regarding the funding calculations and impact on Cultural Development Fund (CDF) groups due to budget cuts?
Lance Polivy explains that the CDF funding allocations are calculated based on the total available funding, not predetermined amounts that are then adjusted. - The CDF uses complex formulas to …
2:59:52
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58 sec
What is being done to ensure equitable distribution of cultural funding across the boroughs?
The Department of Cultural Affairs ensures borough parity in funding distribution through their application review process, which yields award percentages that match the percentage of applicants from each borough within …
3:00:51
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3 min
How will the safety net funding be funded, and will it address organizations that faced significant budget cuts in fiscal year 2024?
The safety net funding will come from additional funds added at the budget adoption stage, not from the baseline cultural affairs funding that goes through the panel review process. - …
3:04:32
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169 sec
Will organizations that were denied funding last year be able to receive funding in the current cycle?
Commissioner Laurie Cumbo informs that organizations that were "zeroed out" and denied funding in the previous year will unfortunately not be able to capture some of the funding in the …
3:07:21
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99 sec
What reforms have been made to the panel review process for cultural affairs funding applications? What further improvements are being considered?
Commissioner Cumbo explains that 80% of applicants to the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs are funded, which is a high rate compared to other agencies. The panel review process has …
3:09:00
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3 min
How did the Department of Cultural Affairs evaluate and improve the inclusivity of the Culture Development Fund (CDF) process?
The commissioner explains the efforts to make the CDF process more equitable and inclusive. - The department engaged the city council, administration, arts/cultural groups, and the public for feedback - …
3:12:04
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115 sec
What steps is the Department of Cultural Affairs taking to support cultural organizations beyond the traditional funding process?
The Department of Cultural Affairs provides individual feedback to organizations through program officers on how to improve equity and transparency in the funding process. - It looks at data on …
3:14:03
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134 sec
What is the process for organizations to appeal funding decisions and receive feedback on their applications?
The commissioner explains that organizations have opportunities to speak with program officers and receive feedback on how to submit more competitive applications. - The applications go through a peer review …
3:16:30
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3 min
What efforts are being made to promote and monitor arts education in public schools?
The commissioner of the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs states that they work closely with the Department of Education on arts education guidelines and advocacy, but the ability to increase …
3:20:10
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117 sec
What additional efforts are being made to provide housing for artists in New York City?
The council member inquires about specific efforts and buildings identified to provide housing for artists in New York City. The commissioner mentions ongoing discussions to explore utilizing different affordable housing …
3:22:07
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121 sec
What should the DCLA budget be if it kept pace with the overall city budget increases over time?
Commissioner Cumbo states that while the DCLA baseline budget has not changed since 2009, additional funding at adoption has grown the cultural budget each year, making DCLA the largest cultural …
3:24:15
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140 sec
What is the Department of Cultural Affairs doing to support cultural institutions and workforce development in the arts?
The commissioner explains that the Department of Cultural Affairs is developing the Culture at Risk program to connect cultural organizations with resources from city, state and federal agencies, as well …
3:26:36
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153 sec
Council Member Carlina Rivera concludes her questions
Council Member Rivera thanks members and discusses upcoming programs and initiatives. - She looks forward to a program and working together with someone named Anne - She mentions the Citi …
3:29:09
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43 sec
Council Member Laurie Cumbo concludes her segment
The commissioner of the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs opens the council hearing with some lighthearted banter. - Laurie Cumbo, the commissioner, states it's an honor and privilege to testify …
3:29:56
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17 sec
Leonard Paul, President of Local 374, on the Devastating Impact of Budget Cuts on New York City's Public Library Systems and Workers
Leonard Paul, President of Local 374, testifies about the detrimental effects of budget cuts on the New York City public library systems and their workers. - He highlights the invaluable …
3:45:14
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119 sec
Deborah D. Allman, President of the New York Public Library Guild Local 1930, on the Impact of Budget Cuts on Library Services and Staffing
Deborah D. Allman testified about the significant negative impact of budget cuts on New York Public Library services and staffing levels. - The New York Public Library Guild Local 1930 …
3:47:28
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159 sec
George Olken, President of Local 1482 Brooklyn Library Guild, on the Impacts of Budget Cuts on Brooklyn Public Library Workers and Operations
George Olken, representing the Brooklyn Library Guild union, testifies about the challenging effects of proposed budget cuts on Brooklyn Public Library's workforce and services. - He shares examples of librarians …
3:50:10
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129 sec
John Hyslop, President of the Queens Library Guild Local 1321, on Staffing Shortages Impacting Library Services and Facilities at Queens Library
Hyslop presents testimonies from Queens Library staff highlighting the effects of inadequate staffing on library operations and services. - Due to limited staff, libraries struggle to cover reference desks, programs …
3:52:22
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133 sec
Council Members Brannan and Rivera thank the panelists
Council Members Brannan and Rivera thank the panelists. - Brannan thanks the panelists. - Council Member Carlina Rivera expresses gratitude to the attendees for creating special moments in the city. …
3:54:36
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47 sec
Panelists congratulate Council Member Carlina Rivera on her baby
Leonard Paul congratulates Council Member Carlina Rivera on the arrival of her baby. This will be the 4th generation of her family that he has met.
3:55:23
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30 sec
Lucy Sexton, Executive Director of New Yorkers for Culture and Arts, on the Crisis in New York City's Cultural Sector Due to Budget Cuts
Lucy Sexton testifies that budget cuts have severely impacted New York City's cultural sector, leading to reduced programs, staff, and operating hours for cultural organizations. - Cultural organizations have been …
3:56:50
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132 sec
Coco Killingsworth, Vice President of Creative Social Impact at BAM, on Restoring Funding for Cultural Institutions Group (CIGs) and the Cultural Development Fund (CDF)
Killingsworth advocates for the full restoration of FY24 budget cuts and an additional $53 million in baseline funding for FY25 for the Cultural Institutions Group (CIGs) and Cultural Development Fund …
3:59:06
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150 sec
Fran Garber-Cohen, President of Regina Opera Company, on the Impact of Budget Cuts on Regina Opera's Services for Senior Citizens and Low-Income Communities in Brooklyn
Fran Garber-Cohen testifies about the adverse impacts of the 5% budget cuts to culture on Regina Opera Company's ability to provide affordable and accessible cultural programming for senior citizens and …
4:01:47
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126 sec
Lisa Gold, Executive Director of the Asian American Arts Alliance, on the Inequitable Impact of Funding Cuts on Small and Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Organizations
Gold advocates for restoring $76 million in funding cuts that disproportionately hurt small organizations serving Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities. - She highlights that AAPI organizations receive less …
4:03:56
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134 sec
Judith Insell, Executive Director of the Bronx Arts Ensemble, on the Need for Increased Funding for Community Arts and Cultural Programming in the Bronx
Judith Insell advocates for increasing the cultural budget to restore and baseline funding for the Bronx Arts Ensemble and other cultural organizations in the borough. The Bronx Arts Ensemble annually …
4:06:18
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3 min
Risa Shoup, Co-Executive Director of the Alliance of Resident Theatres New York, on the Importance of Funding for Arts and Culture Organizations in New York City
Shoup emphasizes the vital role of arts and culture in making New York City a desirable place to live, work, and visit. - They call for restoring fiscal year 2024 …
4:09:35
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178 sec
Dohini Sompura, Director of Governmental Affairs at the American Museum of Natural History, on Increasing Operational Funding for Cultural Institutions in New York City
Sompura advocates for increased operational funding for cultural institutions in New York City. - She emphasizes the vital economic role of cultural institutions in powering tourism, employment, and commerce - …
4:12:38
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103 sec
Rosa Chang, Co-Founder and President of Gotham Park, on the Importance of Public Libraries as Gateways to Imagination and Dreams
Rosa Chang passionately advocates for fully funding public libraries, librarians, artists, and cultural institutions as essential nourishment for growing minds and goals. - She is the co-founder of Gotham Park, …
4:15:25
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3 min
Claire Mooney, Outreach Librarian at the Brooklyn Public Library, on Supporting Newcomers and Asylum Seekers
Mooney testifies about the efforts of libraries in New York City to assist newcomers, especially French West African migrants and asylum seekers. The Brooklyn Public Library staff has translated documents, …
4:18:42
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78 sec
Matthew Zadrozny, President of SaveNYPL.org on Restoring Extensive New York City Public Library Service Hours, Including Sundays
Zadrozny criticizes the reduction in New York City public library service hours, with libraries now closed on Sundays, depriving millions of access to safe study spaces and resources. - He …
4:20:10
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3 min
Lauren Comito, Librarian and Executive Director of Urban Librarians Unite, on the Impacts of Budget Cuts on Library Staff and Services
Comito testifies that the proposed $58.3 million budget cuts for fiscal year 2025 would severely impact library services and staff. - The cuts would eliminate Saturday service at most city …
4:23:50
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168 sec
David S. Pecoraro, President of the Friends of Rosedale Library, on Budget Cuts Impacting Public Library Services and Programming in Queens
Pecoraro expresses concern over the proposed $58.3 million cut to New York City's public libraries in the fiscal year 2025 budget. - The cuts would force the end of Saturday …
4:26:43
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161 sec
Sheila Lewandowski, Executive Director of Chocolate Factory Theater, on Increased Funding for Arts and Culture in New York City to Support the City's Recovery
Lewandowski testifies on the critical need for increased cultural funding in New York City. - She highlights the role arts and culture play in the city's economic recovery, especially post-COVID. …
4:30:15
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3 min
Candace Thompson-Zachery, Co-Executive Director of Dance/NYC, on the Vital Role of Dance Workers and the Need for Investment in NYC's Dance Community
Thompson-Zachery testifies on the significance of NYC's dance community, which generates $300 million in economic activity and encompasses diverse roles like performers, educators, and cross-sector workers. - She highlights dance …
4:33:29
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148 sec
Melody Capote, Executive Director of the Caribbean Cultural Center African Diaspora Institute, on Inequities in City Funding for Arts and Cultural Organizations Serving Communities of Color
Capote criticizes the outdated criteria used to allocate city funding for arts and culture, which disproportionately benefits large institutions over community-based organizations led by and serving communities of color. - …
4:36:02
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4 min
Kate Madigan, Government Affairs Coordinator for the Public Theater, on the Financial Challenges Facing Cultural Institutions and the Need for Increased City Support
Kate Madigan testifies about the financial struggles cultural institutions like the Public Theater are facing due to inflation and lingering pandemic effects. - She calls for restoring $75.6 million in …
4:40:17
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126 sec
Kimberly Olsen, Executive Director of the New York City Arts And Education Roundtable on the Importance of Arts Education and Funding for Cultural Organizations Partnering with NYC Schools
Olsen emphasizes the critical role of arts and cultural organizations in providing arts instruction and resources to NYC schools. - Over 600 arts and cultural organizations partnered with schools last …
4:42:27
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172 sec
David Freudenthal, Director of Government Relations at Carnegie Hall, on Funding for Carnegie Hall and the Cultural Institutions Group (CIG)
Freudenthal underscores the necessity for a full restoration of $53 million in fiscal year 2025 and the baselining of all one-time funding for Carnegie Hall and the Cultural Institutions Group …
4:45:24
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121 sec
Lisa Alpert, Senior Vice President of Development and Programming at Green-Wood Cemetery, on the Cultural Programs and Services Offered by the Cemetery
Lisa Alpert testifies about the extensive cultural programming and services Green-Wood Cemetery provides to New Yorkers. - The cemetery is a national historic landmark spanning 478 acres in Brooklyn. - …
4:47:31
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127 sec
What is the status of data compilation and transparency for arts education in New York City schools?
The council member explains that the Department of Education's annual arts and schools report is derived from state data and a survey completed by only 70-80% of schools, typically by …
4:49:41
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92 sec
Council Member Carlina Rivera thanks the panelists
Council Member Rivera thanks everyone who testified about the devastating impact of the budget cuts on cultural institutions and public libraries. - Rivera acknowledges the institutions employ many people, including …
4:51:19
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25 sec
Michelle Lima, New York City Culture Curator and Influencer, on the Importance of Arts, Culture, and Public Services for New Yorkers
Michelle Lima, a New York City culture curator and influencer representing 88,000 New Yorkers, presents a testimony advocating for increased support and funding for arts, culture, public libraries, public schools, …
4:52:51
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4 min
Elise Buxbaum on educational and cultural impacts of Jewish Heritage Museum
Elise Buxbaum, Chief Operating Officer of the Museum of Jewish Heritage, shares the museum's impactful educational and cultural contributions through a personal story about receiving an email from a 4th-grade …
4:57:24
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98 sec
Nicole Gardner, Director of Advancement for Building for the Arts NY, on supporting NYC's cultural ecosystem through theater renovations and expanding music education
Gardner testified about Building for the Arts NY's requests for council funding support. - The nonprofit seeks funding for modern lighting systems in their 5 theaters to provide subsidized access …
4:59:12
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138 sec
Ryan Gilliam, Executive Director of FABnyc and Community Board Member, on Supporting Arts, Culture, and Communities in the Lower East Side
Gilliam advocates for increased funding and support for arts and culture initiatives in the Lower East Side neighborhood. - She speaks on behalf of FABnyc's 45 cultural organization members as …
5:01:38
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145 sec
Tamia Blackman Santana, Chief Officer of Engagements and Inclusion at Ballet Hispanico, on the Vital Role of Arts and Culture in New York City
Tamia Blackman Santana emphasizes the importance of sustaining arts and cultural programming in New York City, particularly for organizations representing Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities. - She …
5:04:09
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3 min
Skye Kowaleski, Executive Director of JACK Arts, on the Struggles and Hope for the Organization Amidst Budget Cuts
Skye Kowaleski, Executive Director of JACK Arts, a performance and civic space in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn, testifies about the challenges faced by the organization due to budget cuts. - JACK …
5:07:24
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130 sec
Jirina Ribbens, Executive Director of Ice Theatre of New York (ITNY), on the cultural and educational impact of ice dance performances and outreach programs
Ribbens advocates for increased funding to sustain the Ice Theatre of New York (ITNY)'s cultural offerings and educational outreach. The organization creates ice dance performances as an art form, serving …
5:10:38
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117 sec
Andrea Gordillo, Development Director of The Clemente Soto Velez Cultural & Educational Center, on the Crucial Role of Cultural Funding for Community Arts Programs and Organizations
Andrea Gordillo, the Development Director for The Clemente Soto Velez Cultural & Educational Center, emphasizes the vital importance of restoring and increasing cultural funding to sustain community arts programs and …
5:12:39
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179 sec
Gina Tribotti, Development Manager at the International Studio And Curatorial Program, on the Transformative Impact of ISCP's Diverse Artist Residencies and Programs
Gina Tribotti testifies on the significant role of the International Studio And Curatorial Program (ISCP) in promoting cultural understanding and providing opportunities for artists. - ISCP is the largest visual …
5:15:39
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129 sec
Beth Allen, Executive Director of the Downtown Brooklyn Arts Alliance, on the Economic and Cultural Impact of the Arts in Downtown Brooklyn
Beth Allen advocates for restoring previous fiscal year budget cuts and increasing investment in the upcoming fiscal year for arts and cultural organizations. - She leads the Downtown Brooklyn Arts …
5:17:58
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171 sec
Colby Herschel, Artistic Director and Co-founder of Scantic River Productions, on the organization's contributions to diverse theater and arts programming in NYC
Herschel testifies about Scantic River Productions, a 501(c)(3) theater and production company founded during the pandemic in January 2021 and based in Alphabet City. The company: - Brings original Mexican-written …
5:20:53
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119 sec
Dian Dong, Associate Director of Chen Dance Center, on the Role of Dance in Education and Community Engagement
Dian Dong gives testimony on the vital role of dance in education and community engagement, especially in Chinatown and the Lower East Side. Chen Dance Center uses DCA funding for …
5:23:00
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111 sec
David Johnston, Development Director at the Jazz Gallery, on the Essential Role of the Jazz Gallery in Preserving and Promoting Jazz Music in New York City
David Johnston testified about the vital contributions of the Jazz Gallery in presenting over 350 jazz concerts annually to over 12,000 in-person audiences since 1995, making the art form accessible …
5:24:58
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129 sec
Christopher Leon Johnson, Member of the Public, on Allegations Against Vicki Paladino's Chief of Staff Being Married to a Racist Proud Boy
Christopher Leon Johnson alleges that Alie Ziraschi, the Chief of Staff to Council Member Vicki Paladino, is married to a racist who is affiliated with the Proud Boys organization. - …
5:27:32
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128 sec
Maeve Montalvo, Director of Education at the Museum of the City of New York, on the Museum's Educational Programs and Impact of Budget Cuts
Montalvo explains the importance of reversing budget cuts to the Museum of the City of New York to maintain its educational and cultural programs. - She requests the City Council …
5:30:10
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148 sec
