New York City Council
Committee on Aging
Jan 28, 2025
·
01:00 PM
2 hr 53 min
Summary
A hearing on older adult centers (OACs) in NYCHA facilities, focusing on their management, maintenance, and impact on senior residents.
Discussions covered:
- The partnership between NYC Aging and NYCHA in operating 106 OACs
- Challenges with aging infrastructure and funding
- Concerns about repair delays and accessibility
- The impact of RAD/PACT conversions
- Plans for service expansion and improvement
- Capital investments
Council members called for better inter-agency coordination, proactive planning for the aging population, and increased investment in OACs.
Features testimony from NYC Department for the Aging, NYC Housing Authority (NYCHA), and the public.
Meeting chapters
Read summaries and watch videos for short segments that matter to you.
Council Member Crystal Hudson's opening remarks on Older Adult Centers in NYCHA facilities
Council Member Crystal Hudson, chair of the committee on aging, delivers opening remarks for a joint oversight hearing on Older Adult Centers (OACs) at New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) …
0:00:44
·
4 min
Council Member Chris Banks addresses concerns about older adult centers in NYCHA facilities
Council Member Chris Banks, chair of the public housing committee, addresses the critical issues facing older adult centers in NYCHA facilities. He highlights the importance of these centers for NYCHA …
0:05:12
·
3 min
Introduction and overview of Older Adult Centers in NYCHA facilities
Ryan Murray, Executive Deputy Commissioner of NYC Aging, provides an overview of Older Adult Centers (OACs) located in New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) facilities. He emphasizes the critical role …
0:09:17
·
92 sec
Partnership between NYC Aging and NYCHA for OAC management
Ryan Murray describes the collaborative relationship between NYC Aging and the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) in managing Older Adult Centers (OACs) located in NYCHA facilities. This partnership is …
0:10:50
·
63 sec
Historical context and transition of OAC management in NYCHA facilities
Ryan Murray provides historical context for Older Adult Centers (OACs) in NYCHA facilities and explains the transition of OAC management from NYCHA to NYC Aging. He also introduces the Cabinet …
0:11:53
·
3 min
Facility management and repair process for OACs in NYCHA buildings
Ryan Murray outlines the process for managing facilities and addressing repairs in Older Adult Centers (OACs) located in NYCHA buildings. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining these facilities and the …
0:15:09
·
3 min
Challenges with kitchen facilities and funding for OAC repairs
Ryan Murray discusses specific challenges faced by Older Adult Centers (OACs) in NYCHA facilities, focusing on issues with kitchen facilities and funding for repairs and upgrades. He highlights the efforts …
0:18:30
·
108 sec
Impact of RAD/PACT conversions on OACs in NYCHA facilities
Ryan Murray explains the impact of NYCHA's Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) and Permanent Affordability Commitment Together (PACT) programs on Older Adult Centers (OACs) located in NYCHA facilities. He outlines how …
0:20:19
·
45 sec
Collaboration with tenant associations and advisory councils
Ryan Murray emphasizes the importance of collaboration between NYC Aging, NYCHA, tenant associations, and advisory councils in managing Older Adult Centers (OACs) in NYCHA facilities. He explains the roles of …
0:21:04
·
68 sec
Intergenerational programming initiatives in NYCHA communities
Ryan Murray discusses the collaboration between NYC Aging and NYCHA on intergenerational programming initiatives in NYCHA communities. He highlights specific programs and emphasizes the importance of these efforts in building …
0:22:13
·
77 sec
Conclusion and future plans for OACs and older adult services
Ryan Murray concludes his testimony by summarizing NYC Aging's efforts in managing Older Adult Centers (OACs) in NYCHA facilities and outlines future plans for serving older New Yorkers. He emphasizes …
0:23:30
·
95 sec
NYCHA's support for older adult residents and collaboration with NYC Aging
Ukah Busgith, Executive Vice President for Resident Services, Partnerships, and Initiatives at NYCHA, presents testimony on NYCHA's efforts to support older adult residents. She highlights the importance of partnerships, particularly …
0:25:06
·
163 sec
Council Member Ossé questions HVAC issues at Maria Lawton older adult center
Council Member Chi A. Ossé raises concerns about ongoing HVAC issues at the Maria Lawton older adult center in Roosevelt Houses, which is in his district. He questions NYCHA and …
0:28:11
·
3 min
HVAC replacement process and timeline in NYCHA facilities
Council Member Hudson initiates a Q&A session, focusing on the HVAC replacement process in NYCHA facilities. Dylan Baker-Rice from NYCHA explains the timeline and challenges associated with HVAC replacements. - …
0:31:25
·
58 sec
Impact of White House budget office pause on federal grants and older adult programs
Council Member Hudson inquires about the potential impact of the White House budget office's pause on federal grants, particularly on older adult nutrition programs and NYCHA operations. Officials discuss the …
0:32:24
·
4 min
Unique aspects and conditions of OACs located on NYCHA property
Council Member Hudson inquires about the unique aspects of OACs located on NYCHA property. Ryan Murray discusses the characteristics that set these centers apart, while Hudson expresses concerns about the …
0:37:19
·
177 sec
Long-term vision for OACs on NYCHA property
Council Member Hudson inquires about the administration's long-term vision for OACs on NYCHA property. Ryan Murray and Ukah Busgith discuss the goals and priorities for supporting older adults in NYCHA …
0:40:16
·
3 min
Process for opening and operating OACs on NYCHA property
Council Member Hudson inquires about the process for opening and operating OACs on NYCHA property. Ryan Murray provides a detailed explanation of the competitive process and considerations involved. - NYC …
0:43:31
·
4 min
Plans for expanding older adult centers within NYCHA facilities
Council Member Hudson inquires about plans for expanding the number of older adult centers within NYCHA facilities. The discussion highlights the need for proactive planning to address the growing older …
0:48:07
·
3 min
Metrics and evaluation processes for OACs in NYCHA housing
Council Member Hudson inquires about metrics and evaluation processes used to assess the impact of OACs on older adults in NYCHA housing. Officials discuss various methods for measuring program effectiveness …
0:51:41
·
5 min
Methods for collecting feedback from older adult residents about OAC programs and facilities
Council Member Hudson inquires about methods used to collect feedback from older adult residents regarding OAC programs and facilities. NYC Department for the Aging representatives discuss various feedback collection strategies. …
0:57:29
·
136 sec
Staffing challenges in OACs located in NYCHA facilities
Council Member Hudson inquires about staffing shortages and challenges in retaining qualified staff at OACs in NYCHA facilities. NYC Department for the Aging representatives discuss the broader issues affecting social …
0:59:46
·
91 sec
Outreach efforts to engage NYCHA older adults about senior centers
Council Member Banks inquires about NYCHA's outreach efforts to engage older adults regarding older adult centers. NYCHA representatives describe various communication methods including newsletters, canvassing, and collaborating with resident leaders …
1:01:18
·
118 sec
Mental health services and support for NYCHA seniors
Council Member Banks inquires about mental health services for NYCHA seniors, particularly in light of increased isolation during the pandemic. Representatives discuss efforts to address mental health needs and challenges …
1:03:15
·
5 min
Impact of RAD/PACT conversions on older adult centers
Council Member Banks inquires about the impact of RAD/PACT conversions on older adult centers. NYCHA representatives discuss the policy for incorporating the same division of responsibility into licensing agreements for …
1:09:15
·
121 sec
Repair issues and management in RAD/PACT converted developments
Council Member Banks questions NYCHA about repair issues and management in RAD/PACT converted developments. NYCHA representatives explain the process for handling repairs and escalations in these properties. - NYCHA does …
1:11:17
·
133 sec
Effects of RAD/PACT conversion on older adult center operations
Council Member Banks inquires about how RAD/PACT conversion affects the status and operation of older adult centers. NYCHA representatives explain the transition process and discuss specific issues at certain developments. …
1:13:29
·
4 min
Community engagement during RAD/PACT conversion process
Council Member Banks questions NYCHA about community engagement and education efforts during the RAD/PACT conversion process, particularly for older residents. NYCHA representatives discuss their outreach and support strategies. - NYCHA …
1:18:23
·
6 min
NYC Aging liaison role in coordinating with NYCHA
Council Member Banks inquires about the NYC Aging liaison position created by Local Law 75 of 2021 to coordinate with NYCHA. Representatives discuss the role and responsibilities of the liaison. …
1:25:04
·
4 min
Capital improvements planned for NYCHA older adult centers
Council Member Banks inquires about planned capital improvements for older adult centers on NYCHA campuses. NYCHA representatives discuss current and future projects, timelines, and funding challenges. - NYCHA completed 4 …
1:29:12
·
4 min
RAD/PACT conversion process and challenges for senior engagement
Council Member Brewer raises concerns about the RAD/PACT conversion process, particularly the use of virtual meetings for seniors who struggle with technology. She emphasizes the need for in-person communication to …
1:33:51
·
84 sec
Quality of food in senior programs: Scratch cooking and plant-based options
Council Member Brewer expresses strong concerns about the quality of food in senior programs, particularly criticizing plant-based options and processed foods. She emphasizes the importance of scratch cooking and fresh …
1:35:16
·
66 sec
NORCs: Current status and potential expansion in senior programs
Council Member Brewer inquires about the number of Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities (NORCs) in senior programs and advocates for their expansion. The Department for the Aging provides current numbers and …
1:36:23
·
141 sec
Tracking and prioritizing repairs in NYCHA senior buildings
Council Member Brewer raises concerns about tracking and prioritizing repairs in NYCHA senior buildings, focusing on issues like heat, elevators, and grab bar installations. NYCHA representatives explain their processes for …
1:38:44
·
115 sec
NYCHA's tracking of older adult population
Council Member Avilés inquires about NYCHA's tracking of the older adult population across its developments. NYCHA's Executive Vice President for Resident Services confirms that they maintain data on their older …
1:40:59
·
12 sec
Older adult population served by NYCHA centers
Council Member Avilés inquires about the number of older adults served by NYCHA centers and the total older adult population in NYCHA developments. Representatives from NYCHA and the Department for …
1:41:11
·
88 sec
Outreach efforts for older adults in NYCHA developments
Council Member Avilés expresses concern about the limited reach of older adult centers and inquires about NYCHA's outreach efforts to engage more seniors. NYCHA's representative discusses their current data collection …
1:42:39
·
141 sec
Resolution of Red Hook older adult center issues
Council Member Avilés raises concerns about specific issues at the Red Hook older adult center, including the removal of gates and confusion over agency responsibilities. NYCHA's representative provides an update …
1:45:00
·
51 sec
Questions about Rain Bailey OAC closure and issues with flooding, mold, and asbestos
Council Member Crystal Hudson inquires about actions taken since the closure of Rain Bailey OAC in 2019 to address flooding, mold, and asbestos issues. NYCHA representatives initially confuse the site …
1:45:57
·
66 sec
Process for OACs during RAD/PACT conversions
Council Member Hudson inquires about the process for OACs in NYCHA sites undergoing RAD/PACT conversions. NYCHA representatives explain that OACs remain open with the same provider during conversions, unless infrastructure …
1:47:03
·
82 sec
Concerns about timelines for OAC renovations during RAD/PACT conversions
Council Member Chris Banks expresses concerns about the lack of clear timelines for OAC renovations during RAD/PACT conversions, especially given the impact on older adults. NYCHA representatives acknowledge they don't …
1:48:29
·
102 sec
Criteria for OACs in upcoming RFP and concerns about closed centers meeting criteria
Council Member Hudson inquires about the criteria for OACs in upcoming RFPs, particularly concerning centers that have been closed, like Rain Bailey. NYC Aging representatives explain the RFP process and …
1:50:12
·
152 sec
Steps taken to ensure access to alternative resources when OACs are closed
Council Member Hudson inquires about steps taken to ensure older adults have access to alternative resources or temporary accommodations when OACs are closed, particularly regarding food services. NYC Aging representatives …
1:52:44
·
129 sec
Possibility of NYC Aging investing in NYCHA properties for OAC improvements
Council Member Hudson explores the possibility of NYC Aging investing in NYCHA properties for OAC improvements, particularly if it could expedite the process. NYC Aging and NYCHA representatives discuss the …
1:54:53
·
161 sec
ADA compliance and accessibility of OACs in NYCHA facilities
Council Member Hudson inquires about the ADA compliance and accessibility of OACs on NYCHA campuses. NYCHA representatives discuss the current status and efforts to improve accessibility. - Not all OACs …
1:57:35
·
148 sec
Process for OAC staff to report facility or maintenance issues in NYCHA facilities
Council Member Hudson inquires about the process OAC staff must follow to report facility or maintenance issues in NYCHA facilities. NYCHA representatives explain the procedure and escalation process. - OAC …
2:00:03
·
81 sec
Clarity of instructions for OAC staff on which agency handles different types of repairs
Council Member Hudson inquires about the clarity of instructions provided to OAC staff regarding which agency is responsible for handling different types of facility issues. NYC Aging representatives discuss the …
2:01:26
·
123 sec
Mechanisms for accountability and oversight of OAC operations
Council Member Hudson inquires about mechanisms in place to ensure accountability and regular oversight of OAC operations. NYC Aging representatives explain their assessment and oversight processes. - NYC Aging conducts …
2:03:29
·
39 sec
Coordination between agencies for emergency support for vulnerable older residents
Council Member Hudson inquires about the coordination between NYC Aging and NYCHA for providing emergency support to vulnerable older residents, particularly those with medical conditions impacted by apartment repairs. NYC …
2:04:09
·
79 sec
Number of OACs located on NYCHA property and breakdown by borough
Council Member Hudson inquires about the number of OACs located on NYCHA property and their distribution across boroughs. NYC Aging representatives provide detailed information on the current status of OACs. …
2:05:28
·
136 sec
Number of older adults served by OACs on NYCHA property and services utilized
Council Member Hudson inquires about the number of older adults served by OACs located on NYCHA property and their utilization of services. NYC Aging representatives provide some information and commit …
2:07:45
·
47 sec
Staff to OAC member ratio at NYCHA-based OACs
Council Member Hudson inquires about the current ratio of staff to OAC members at OACs located on NYCHA campuses. NYC Aging representatives explain the staffing structure and variations among different …
2:08:31
·
63 sec
Number of facility-related complaints filed by OACs in NYCHA buildings
Council Member Hudson inquires about the number of facility-related complaints filed by OACs in NYCHA buildings over the past year and how many were resolved by NYC Aging versus NYCHA. …
2:09:37
·
87 sec
Available funding for non-capital eligible improvements at OACs
Council Member Hudson inquires about the $4 million in expense funds available for non-capitally eligible improvements divided between Cornerstones at DYCD and OACs. NYC Aging representatives confirm the allocation and …
2:11:05
·
54 sec
Progress on creating intergenerational teams at NYCHA facilities
Council Member Hudson inquires about the progress made towards creating intergenerational teams at NYCHA facilities, as mentioned by NYC Aging Commissioner Cortez Vasquez in a previous hearing. NYC Aging representatives …
2:11:59
·
132 sec
Prioritization of light replacements and other maintenance issues at OACs
Council Member Hudson questions the prioritization of light replacements and other maintenance issues at OACs, particularly in relation to safety concerns for older adults. NYC Aging representatives clarify their approach …
2:14:12
·
98 sec
Funding allocation for older adult centers in NYCHA facilities
Council Member Chris Banks inquires about funding for older adult centers (OACs) in NYCHA facilities. NYCHA representatives confirm that their asset and capital management division includes projects for community centers …
2:15:50
·
63 sec
Addressing concerns of seniors refusing to sign Section 8 leases in RAD/PACT conversions
Council Member Chris Banks raises concerns about seniors refusing to sign Section 8 leases in RAD/PACT conversions and the impact on their participation in OAC programs. Representatives from NYCHA and …
2:16:53
·
4 min
Inspections and relocations of OACs during RAD/PACT conversions
Council Member Chris Banks inquires about the inspection and relocation process for OACs during RAD/PACT conversions, focusing on the adequacy of temporary locations. The Department for the Aging explains their …
2:21:26
·
3 min
Testimony by Renee Keitt, Resident Association President of Elliott-Chelsea Houses, on Senior Concerns in NYCHA Developments
Renee Keitt, Resident Association President of Elliott-Chelsea Houses, expresses deep concerns about the impact of potential demolition and relocation on seniors in NYCHA developments, particularly at Elliott-Chelsea Houses. She highlights …
2:35:05
·
139 sec
Testimony by Charles Madray, VP of Health Services and Community Based Programs at Samaritan Daytop Village
Charles Madray from Samaritan Daytop Village testified about the challenges faced by their Woodside Older Adult Center, emphasizing the need for capital funding and improved coordination with NYCHA for repairs …
2:37:31
·
115 sec
Testimony by Metin Sarci, Public Housing Specialist
Metin Sarci, a public housing specialist with over 10 years of experience, testified about the importance of NYCHA's community centers and the challenges they face due to lack of funding …
2:39:32
·
3 min
Testimony by Jasmine McFarland, Deputy Chief Program Officer of Lenox Hill Neighborhood House
Jasmine McFarland from Lenox Hill Neighborhood House testified about their older adult center located in a NYCHA building, highlighting the importance of these centers for low-income seniors and the challenges …
2:43:43
·
164 sec
Testimony by Terry Campuzano, Member of the Public
Terry Campuzano testifies about issues with the University Street Settlement's management of older adult centers (OACs) at NYCHA facilities, particularly at Meltzer. She expresses dissatisfaction with the lack of activities …
2:48:10
·
124 sec
Council Member Hudson addresses concerns about senior center management
Council Member Crystal Hudson engages with Terry Campuzano about issues at the Meltzer senior center. Campuzano expresses dissatisfaction with the current management and requests assistance in finding a new organization …
2:50:16
·
20 sec
Council Member Hudson concludes the hearing
Council Member Crystal Hudson wraps up the joint oversight hearing on older adult centers in NYCHA facilities. She calls for any remaining witnesses and, finding none, adjourns the meeting. - …
2:50:37
·
168 sec