Your guide to NYC's public proceedings.
New York City Council
Committee on Environmental Protection, Resiliency and Waterfronts
Mar 18, 2025
·
10:30 AM
4 hr 30 min
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Summary
A hearing on the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)'s fiscal year 2026 preliminary budget, focusing on the agency's $1.6 billion budget allocation and staffing of 6,307 positions.
Discussions covered:
- Water infrastructure projects
- Stormwater management
- Lead service line replacements
- Climate resilience efforts
- Concerns about federal funding risks
Key issues included DEP's 13% staff vacancy rate, the controversial $289 million rental payment from the water board, and implementation of Local Law 97 on building emissions.
Features testimony from DEP Commissioner Rohit Aggarwala and the public.
Meeting chapters
Read summaries and watch videos for short segments that matter to you.
Council Member Restler's opening remarks and dedication
Council Member Lincoln Restler opens the hearing by explaining he is temporarily chairing the committee due to Chair Gennaro's absence. He dedicates the hearing to the memory of Chair Gennaro's …
0:01:05
•
103 sec
Introduction to the FY 2026 preliminary budget hearing
Council Member Restler introduces the fiscal year 2026 preliminary budget hearing for the Committee on Environmental Protection, Resiliency, and Waterfronts. - He thanks those present and those who will be …
0:02:49
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30 sec
Overview of DEP's fiscal year 2026 preliminary budget
Council Member Restler provides an overview of the Department of Environmental Protection's fiscal year 2026 preliminary budget. - The budget totals $1.6 billion with funding for 6,307 positions - It …
0:03:20
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29 sec
Topics to be addressed in the DEP budget hearing
Council Member Restler outlines the key topics that will be discussed during the Department of Environmental Protection's budget hearing. - Review of past oversight hearings on topics like drought and …
0:03:49
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68 sec
Acknowledgments and praise for DEP's work on local projects
Council Member Restler acknowledges and praises the Department of Environmental Protection for their work on important projects in District 33. - Highlights improvements to the Newtown Creek long-term control plan …
0:04:58
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73 sec
Introduction of staff and final remarks before the hearing
Council Member Restler introduces and thanks various staff members involved in the hearing and preparation process. - Acknowledges committee staff, including financial analysts, counsels, and policy analysts - Thanks Chair …
0:06:11
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49 sec
Introduction and overview of DEP's current status
Commissioner Rohit Aggarwala introduces the Department of Environmental Protection's (DEP) current status and the purpose of the hearing. He highlights that New York City's water system is in good shape, …
0:07:37
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96 sec
DEP's budget, staffing levels, and capital plan
Commissioner Aggarwala provides an overview of DEP's expense budget, capital plan, and staffing levels. He highlights the department's financial position and workforce challenges. - DEP's expense budget for FY 2026 …
0:09:14
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117 sec
Water quality and Filtration Avoidance Determination (FAD)
Commissioner Aggarwala discusses DEP's efforts to maintain high water quality and the importance of the Filtration Avoidance Determination (FAD) for the city's water supply system. - DEP conducts extensive water …
0:11:13
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90 sec
DEP Police Department and pension issues
Commissioner Aggarwala discusses the challenges faced by the DEP Police Department, particularly regarding retention and pension benefits. - DEP has its own specialized police force that patrols the watershed and …
0:12:44
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33 sec
Major water infrastructure projects and maintenance
Commissioner Aggarwala outlines several major infrastructure projects underway to maintain and improve New York City's water supply system. - DEP is investing in the resilience of the century-old water supply …
0:13:18
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57 sec
Delaware Aqueduct repair work and drought management
Commissioner Aggarwala discusses the ongoing Delaware Aqueduct repair work, recent drought conditions, and their impact on water management strategies. - The Delaware Aqueduct repair work was paused last year due …
0:14:15
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95 sec
Sewer backups and lead service line replacements
Commissioner Aggarwala discusses efforts to address sewer backups (SBUs) and lead service line replacements in New York City. - DEP has reduced dry weather SBUs by 75% since 2010, but …
0:15:51
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4 min
Climate change challenges and stormwater management
Commissioner Aggarwala outlines DEP's efforts to address climate change impacts and improve stormwater management in New York City. - DEP released the 2024 Stormwater Analysis, identifying 86 locations requiring resilience …
0:20:17
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139 sec
Air, noise, and hazardous materials enforcement
Commissioner Aggarwala discusses DEP's enforcement activities related to air quality, noise, and hazardous materials in New York City. - DEP's hazmat response team addressed over 3,000 events in FY 2024, …
0:22:38
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90 sec
Water billing, collections, and affordability programs
Commissioner Aggarwala outlines DEP's efforts to improve water billing, collections, and affordability programs for New York City residents. - DEP is working to improve customer service and make bill payments …
0:24:10
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175 sec
Efficiency improvements and cost management strategies
Commissioner Aggarwala outlines DEP's efforts to improve efficiency and manage costs across its operations. - DEP is implementing digitally-enabled operations (SCADA systems) at water treatment plants to increase accuracy and …
0:27:05
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65 sec
Federal funding and agency partnerships
Commissioner Aggarwala discusses DEP's reliance on federal funding and partnerships with federal agencies for various projects and operations. - DEP uses federal grants for cloudburst infrastructure, lead service line replacements, …
0:28:11
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69 sec
Future challenges and legislative priorities for DEP
Commissioner Aggarwala summarizes DEP's current status, future challenges, and legislative priorities, emphasizing the need for continued partnership with the City Council. - DEP faces challenges in recruiting, inflation, federal policy …
0:29:21
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60 sec
DEP staffing challenges and vacancy rates
Council Member Restler inquires about DEP's current vacancy rate of 13% and the department's staffing challenges. Commissioner Aggarwala explains that DEP is not subject to the citywide two-for-one hiring rule …
0:30:22
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136 sec
Impact of budget cuts on DEP operations
Council Member Restler and Commissioner Aggarwala discuss the impact of budget cuts on DEP operations, including how staffing shortages affect various divisions and daily operations. - The 15% budget cut …
0:32:37
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4 min
Sewer connection approval timelines
Council Member Restler inquires about the current timelines for DEP approval of sewer connections for new constructions and whether staff vacancies have impacted these timelines. - Current approval timelines have …
0:37:32
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3 min
Hazardous material complaint response times
Council Member Restler raises concerns about the increase in hazardous material complaints and the extended response times, which are linked to staff vacancies in the hazardous materials inspections unit. - …
0:40:44
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105 sec
Water rental payments and rate increases
Council Member Restler expresses strong disapproval of the reinstatement of water rental payments by Mayor Adams and questions DEP officials about the impact on water rates and homeowners. - Mayor …
0:42:31
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4 min
Funding source for successful sump pump giveaway program
Council Member Marmorato inquires about the funding source for the successful sump pump giveaway program in her district. Commissioner Aggarwala explains it was a pilot program, and CFO Moray clarifies …
0:47:24
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78 sec
Metro North rezoning and DEP infrastructure funding allocation
Council Member Marmorato inquires about the $170 million secured for DEP infrastructure through the Metro North rezoning process and how the budget reduction might impact ongoing or planned projects. Commissioner …
0:48:42
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4 min
Impact of budget reduction on infrastructure maintenance and improvements
Council Member Marmorato inquires about the $38 million reduction in city funds for DEP and its potential impact on infrastructure maintenance and capital improvement projects. Commissioner Aggarwala explains that the …
0:53:08
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74 sec
Strategies for addressing storm water drainage issues
Commissioner Aggarwala outlines a comprehensive approach to addressing storm water drainage issues in New York City, considering future climate challenges and the need for resilient infrastructure. - The Unified Storm …
0:54:21
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169 sec
Catch basin cleaning trucks - quantity, cost, and allocation
Council Member Marmorato inquires about the quantity, cost, and allocation of catch basin cleaning trucks. Acting COO Georgelis provides details on the department's needs and current fleet. - DEP needs …
0:57:11
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37 sec
Incentives for homeowners implementing green water solutions
Council Member Marmorato inquires about incentives for homeowners implementing green water solutions. Commissioner Aggarwala explains that while there are no current tax incentives for individual homeowners, there is a partnership …
0:57:52
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84 sec
Council Member Nurse thanks DEP for sewer projects in Bushwick
Council Member Sandy Nurse expresses gratitude to the DEP for completing sewer projects in Bushwick. She acknowledges the department's commitment and thanks them on behalf of the Bushwick community. - …
0:59:41
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25 sec
Discussion on feasibility study for Rikers Island wastewater recovery facility
Council Member Nurse inquires about the feasibility study for developing a wastewater recovery facility on Rikers Island. Commissioner Aggarwala responds, explaining the potential benefits and challenges of using Rikers Island …
1:00:09
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3 min
Resources and planning for Rikers Island wastewater infrastructure
Council Member Nurse presses for information on DEP's resources and planning for the potential Rikers Island wastewater facility. Commissioner Aggarwala explains the current status and timeline of the project. - …
1:03:31
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78 sec
Discussion on bioswale maintenance, cleaning, and resource allocation
Council Member Nurse inquires about DEP's bioswale maintenance practices, including budget, personnel, and cleaning frequency. DEP officials respond with information on current practices and challenges. - DEP has over 10,000 …
1:04:50
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3 min
Update on Newtown Creek Wastewater Recovery Facility operations
Council Member Nurse inquires about the current status of the Newtown Creek Wastewater Recovery Facility, focusing on methane capture, gas-to-grid system performance, and organic waste processing. Commissioner Aggarwala provides detailed …
1:08:32
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3 min
Council Member Restler commends indirect source rule legislation
Council Member Lincoln Restler briefly commends Council Member Aviles for her leadership on the indirect source rule legislation. Restler describes the legislation as some of the most exciting to come …
1:11:38
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10 sec
Potential recruitment opportunities for DEP amid federal agency layoffs
Council Member Avilés suggests that DEP could benefit from recruiting scientists and workers being laid off from federal agencies that are being gutted. She emphasizes that New York City believes …
1:12:02
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29 sec
Discussion on indirect source rule implementation and resource allocation
Council Member Avilés and Commissioner Aggarwala discuss the implementation of the indirect source rule, including budget allocations, staffing needs, and potential future resource requirements. - DEP has committed $800,049 for …
1:12:31
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5 min
DEP's impact and investments in environmental justice communities
Council Member Avilés inquires about DEP's project spending and impact on environmental justice communities. Commissioner Aggarwala discusses the agency's presence and efforts in these areas. - 13 out of 14 …
1:17:58
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102 sec
Request for DEP's preliminary racial equity plan
Council Member Avilés inquires about DEP's preliminary equity plan as part of the racial equity initiative. Commissioner Aggarwala indicates DEP's participation in the administration's overall effort. - DEP has participated …
1:19:42
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45 sec
Discussion on borough commissioners' structure and budgets
Council Member Salamanca inquires about the structure and budgets of DEP borough commissioners, referring to legislation he passed in 2021. Commissioner Aggarwala explains that borough commissioners' offices do not have …
1:20:47
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46 sec
Staffing and structure of borough commissioners' offices
Council Member Salamanca raises questions about the salaries and staffing of borough commissioners' offices. The discussion reveals disparities in staffing across boroughs and the DEP's approach to resource allocation. - …
1:21:34
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5 min
Updates on the Hunts Point waste transfer station construction
Council Member Salamanca inquires about the status of the new waste transfer station being built in Hunts Point. Commissioner Aggarwala discusses the project's importance, innovative construction techniques, and potential benefits …
1:26:55
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3 min
Council Member Salamanca discusses wastewater treatment facility upgrades with Deputy Commissioner DeLillo
Council Member Rafael Salamanca engages in a Q&A session with Deputy Commissioner Angela DeLillo about upgrades to a wastewater treatment facility. DeLillo provides details on the liquid and solid treatment …
1:30:34
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106 sec
Council Member Restler's personal remarks
Council Member Lincoln Restler opens his remarks by welcoming special guests, including his niece, nephew, and parents to the hearing. He then informs the commissioner that he will be asking …
1:32:20
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45 sec
Funding for stormwater resiliency mapping and Local Law 24 implementation
Council Member Restler inquires about the funding allocated for stormwater resiliency mapping in relation to Local Law 24 of 2024. Commissioner Aggarwala provides an update on the process and funding …
1:33:05
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56 sec
Increase in DEP's capital projects spending on sustainability initiatives
Council Member Restler seeks clarification on the reported increase in DEP's capital projects spending on sustainability initiatives. Commissioner Aggarwala provides context on the total capital plan and ongoing discussions with …
1:34:02
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55 sec
Filtration Avoidance Determination renewal and land acquisition efforts
Council Member Restler inquires about the progress of land acquisition in the Kensico Basin for the Filtration Avoidance Determination (FAD) renewal. Commissioner Aggarwala and Deputy Commissioner Rush provide updates on …
1:34:57
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8 min
Impact of EPA's Clean Water Act rollbacks on DEP operations
Council Member Restler inquires about the potential impact of EPA's announced rollbacks of certain Clean Water Act protections on DEP's efforts to maintain clean water and avoid filtration. Commissioner Aggarwala …
1:43:21
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4 min
DEP's dependencies on federal agencies and potential impacts of changes
Commissioner Aggarwala discusses DEP's reliance on various federal agencies and the potential impacts of changes at the federal level on DEP operations. - DEP relies on the National Weather Service …
1:47:24
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114 sec
Concerns about CHPE and wind power for New York City's renewable energy goals
Council Member Restler inquires about the risks to renewable energy sources, particularly CHPE (Champlain Hudson Power Express) and wind power, in achieving New York City's climate goals. Commissioner Aggarwala discusses …
1:49:19
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4 min
Challenges in federal policies affecting offshore wind development
Commissioner Aggarwala discusses the uncertainties surrounding federal policies and their impact on offshore wind development. He highlights the challenges faced by the industry and potential alternatives. - Federal policy changes …
1:53:41
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98 sec
Alternative energy sources and transmission challenges for New York City
Council Member Restler and Commissioner Aggarwala discuss potential alternative energy sources and the challenges of transmitting power to New York City. They explore options like geothermal, nuclear, and the importance …
1:55:19
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3 min
Assessment of Local Law 97 implementation progress
Commissioner Aggarwala provides a detailed assessment of the progress in implementing Local Law 97, highlighting both achievements and challenges. He discusses the complexities of the law and its impact on …
1:58:41
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5 min
Staffing and regulatory decisions for Local Law 97 implementation
Council Member Restler inquires about the adequacy of staffing and the quality of regulatory decisions made for Local Law 97 implementation. Commissioner Aggarwala strongly affirms the administration's commitment to proper …
2:04:07
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105 sec
Financial challenges and support for Local Law 97 compliance
Council Member Restler and Commissioner Aggarwala discuss the need for financial support and the enforcement approach for Local Law 97 compliance. They explore potential sources of funding and how to …
2:05:53
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4 min
City of Yes commitments and infrastructure investments for growing communities
Council Member Restler inquires about the mechanism for tracking and sharing information on infrastructure investments connected to City of Yes commitments. He emphasizes the importance of addressing infrastructure issues in …
2:10:31
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134 sec
Impact of development on stormwater management and sewer capacity
Commissioner Aggarwala explains the relationship between development, population growth, and their impacts on stormwater management and sewer capacity in New York City. He addresses common misconceptions and provides technical details …
2:12:45
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96 sec
Tracking mechanism for City of Yes infrastructure commitments
Council Member Restler inquires about the existence of a tracking mechanism for infrastructure investments related to City of Yes commitments. Commissioner Aggarwala and CFO Moray respond to this request. - …
2:14:24
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148 sec
Discussion on DEP reports and reduction in sewer backup complaints
Council Member Restler commends DEP on their reports and discusses the significant reduction in sewer backup complaints. He inquires about the department's approach to addressing high-risk areas for sewer backups …
2:16:52
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115 sec
Integration of sewer capacity improvements with stormwater resilience efforts
Commissioner Aggarwala explains how DEP integrates sewer capacity improvements with broader stormwater resilience efforts. He emphasizes the connection between constrained sewer capacity, wet weather sewer backups, and street flooding. - …
2:18:49
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72 sec
Capital planning process for addressing high-risk areas of sewer backups
Council Member Restler discusses the challenges of addressing sewer backups, emphasizing the need for better understanding of the capital planning process and timeline for improvements in high-risk areas. - Acknowledgment …
2:20:01
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165 sec
Factors affecting water quality and contamination risks
Commissioner Aggarwala explains the factors affecting water quality and contamination risks, focusing on the impact of weather conditions and climate change. - Drought conditions contributed to improved water quality metrics …
2:22:47
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60 sec
Water quality testing procedures and frequency
Commissioner Aggarwala details DEP's extensive water quality testing procedures and frequency, emphasizing the robustness of their monitoring system. - Nearly 47,000 discrete water samples taken annually, more than 100 per …
2:23:51
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139 sec
Lead service line replacement program and its focus on environmental justice communities
Council Member Restler and Commissioner Aggarwala discuss the lead service line replacement program, its focus on environmental justice communities, and plans for expansion. - Program has reached moderate income homeowners …
2:26:14
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123 sec
Potential mechanisms for funding lead service line replacements
Council Member Restler and Commissioner Aggarwala discuss potential mechanisms for funding lead service line replacements, focusing on innovative approaches and opportunities for implementation. - Suggestion of a lien-based system similar …
2:28:17
•
126 sec
Coordination of infrastructure work to minimize street disruptions
Council Member Restler and Acting COO Georgelis discuss efforts to coordinate infrastructure work and minimize street disruptions, including collaboration with other agencies and utility companies. - Coordination with DOT's paving …
2:30:23
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3 min
Future challenges and funding needs for lead pipe replacement program
Council Member Restler concludes the discussion by addressing future challenges and funding needs for the lead pipe replacement program. - Estimated total cost of $2 billion to replace lead and …
2:34:02
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57 sec
Inquiry about sewer line installation in South Jamaica
Council Member Restler inquires about DEP's commitment to funding a specific sewer line installation project in South Jamaica. The discussion reveals a lack of immediate familiarity with the project among …
2:35:00
•
59 sec
Overview of Southeast Queens infrastructure program funding and timeline
DEP officials provide an update on the Southeast Queens infrastructure program, revealing a significant increase in funding and commitment over time. - Program started at $1.5 billion under the de …
2:35:59
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49 sec
Potential uses for Rikers Island after its closure
Commissioner Aggarwala outlines potential uses for Rikers Island after its closure, focusing on industrial and environmental applications. - Possibilities include wastewater treatment functions and battery storage - The site's unique …
2:36:48
•
146 sec
Urgency for specific planning of Rikers Island redevelopment
Council Member Restler emphasizes the need for immediate and specific planning for Rikers Island redevelopment, highlighting it as a generational opportunity. - Calls for crafting a specific plan as quickly …
2:39:14
•
119 sec
Newtown Creek long term control plan and green infrastructure opportunities
Council Member Restler commends DEP's efforts on the Newtown Creek long term control plan and discusses opportunities for green infrastructure in the district. - Appreciation for DEP's work in reducing …
2:41:13
•
4 min
Comprehensive stormwater resilience efforts and timeline
Commissioner Aggarwala outlines the city's comprehensive approach to stormwater resilience, highlighting the scale of the challenge and ongoing efforts. - 86 locations around the city identified as needing investment for …
2:46:02
•
126 sec
Catch basin modernization program and flood mitigation strategies
Anastasios Georgelis details DEP's efforts to modernize and improve the city's catch basin system to mitigate flooding issues. - 150,000 catch basins maintained across the city - Implementation of slotted …
2:48:11
•
112 sec
Flood sensor deployment and flood monitoring technologies
Commissioner Aggarwala provides an update on the city's flood sensor deployment and monitoring technologies, highlighting progress and new initiatives. - Flood Net system with optical sensors on track to reach …
2:50:04
•
139 sec
DEP's control and funding of East Side Coastal Resiliency project
Council Member Lincoln Restler inquires about the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) taking control of the East Side Coastal Resiliency project. Commissioner Rohit Aggarwala discusses the current funding, timeline for …
2:52:29
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118 sec
Staffing resources for managing new coastal resilience projects
Council Member Lincoln Restler inquires about DEP's staffing resources to manage the new coastal resilience projects. Commissioner Rohit Aggarwala explains the challenges and strategies for staffing these projects. - DEP …
2:54:29
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27 sec
Importance of maintaining East Side Coastal Resiliency infrastructure
Council Member Lincoln Restler emphasizes the critical nature of maintaining the East Side Coastal Resiliency infrastructure, given the massive investment made in the project. - The East Side Coastal Resiliency …
2:54:56
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44 sec
Noise complaints and noise camera installation progress
Council Member Lincoln Restler inquires about the increase in noise complaints and the progress of noise camera installations in the city. Commissioner Rohit Aggarwala provides updates on the current status …
2:55:39
•
119 sec
Challenges with citizen air complaint program and its impact on DEP resources
Commissioner Rohit Aggarwala explains the challenges faced by DEP due to the citizen air complaint program and its impact on the department's resources and other enforcement activities. - The volume …
2:57:39
•
110 sec
Discussion on enforcing noise regulations and specific noise issues
Council Member Lincoln Restler discusses various challenges in enforcing noise regulations and addresses specific noise issues in his district. He emphasizes the need for more effective tools and potential legislative …
2:59:29
•
167 sec
Acknowledgment of DEP staff and their contributions
Council Member Lincoln Restler concludes by acknowledging and thanking various DEP staff members for their hard work and contributions. He highlights specific individuals and their roles in serving the community. …
3:02:19
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132 sec
IBO testimony on NYC water rates and rental payments
Brian Cain from the New York City Independent Budget Office (IBO) testifies about their research on how the city sets water rates and bills property owners. He explains the history …
3:12:13
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3 min
Council Member Restler questions additional tax on water bills
Council Member Lincoln Restler engages in a discussion with representatives from the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the Independent Budget Office regarding an additional tax imposed on water bills. …
3:15:50
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118 sec
Testimony by Eric Goldstein, New York City Environment Director at Natural Resources Defense Council
Eric Goldstein, representing the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), supports DEP's overall budget request for FY 2026 and capital funding for FY 2026-2029. He emphasizes the importance of DEP's work …
3:19:21
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4 min
Testimony by Cecilia Ellis, Environmental Protection Organizer from New York Public Interest Research Group (NYPIRG)
Cecilia Ellis from NYPIRG testifies in support of Local Law 97 and Intro 1180, emphasizing the importance of building decarbonization and environmental protection efforts in New York City. She urges …
3:23:34
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154 sec
Testimony by Tyler Taba, Director of Resilience at Waterfront Alliance
Tyler Taba from Waterfront Alliance testified in favor of dedicated funding and long-term planning for climate resilience in New York City. He emphasized the urgent need for local spending on …
3:26:15
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135 sec
Testimony by Emily Ruby, Advocacy and Policy Coordinator at Riverkeeper
Emily Ruby from Riverkeeper testifies on the urgent need for increased funding and staffing for the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to address climate change challenges and infrastructure needs in …
3:28:33
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142 sec
Testimony by Michael Higgins, Jr., Land Use Planner at New York City Environmental Justice Alliance
Michael Higgins, Jr. from the New York City Environmental Justice Alliance (NYEJA) testifies in support of funding for a master plan study for Renewable Rikers in the FY 2026 budget. …
3:32:00
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128 sec
Testimony by Anais Reyes, Curator at the Climate Museum
Anais Reyes, curator at the Climate Museum, testified to request support for the museum's mission and development. She highlighted the museum's role in educating the public about climate change and …
3:34:13
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134 sec
Testimony by Faiza Azam, Climate and Labor Organizer at ALIGN - The Alliance for a Greater New York
Faiza Azam, representing ALIGN and the Climate Works for All coalition, advocated for prioritizing green, healthy schools in New York City's budget. She emphasized the need for investments in clean …
3:36:33
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104 sec
Testimony by Hayden Brockett, Founding Member of New York Clean Air Collective on Air Quality and Citizens Air Complaint Program
Hayden Brockett, a founding member of the New York Clean Air Collective, testified in support of higher wages for DEP workers and increased staffing for air quality complaint reviewers and …
3:38:20
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3 min
Testimony by Andrea Scarborough, Board Member of Southeast Queens Residence Environmental Justice Coalition on Groundwater Flooding Issues
Andrea Scarborough, representing the Southeast Queens Residence Environmental Justice Coalition (Squirage), testified about ongoing groundwater flooding issues in Southeast Queens and the lack of transparency from the Department of Environmental …
3:42:47
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3 min
Testimony by Niki Cross, Staff Attorney at New York Lawyers for the Public Interest, on Sewer Backups and Flooding in Queens
Niki Cross, representing New York Lawyers for the Public Interest, testified about the disproportionate impact of sewer backups and flooding on historically underinvested communities in Queens. She highlighted the need …
3:46:45
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168 sec
Testimony by Linda Dada, Owner of Capital Brilliance Alliance, on Sewage Infrastructure Issues in South Jamaica
Linda Dada, a resident of South Jamaica, testifies about the persistent sewage backup issues that her community has been facing for over 20 years. She demands immediate action from the …
3:49:39
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174 sec
Council Member Restler responds to testimony on sewage issues in South Queens
Council Member Lincoln Restler acknowledges Linda Dada's powerful testimony about sewage issues in South Queens and expresses sympathy for the long-standing problem. He mentions DEP's allocation of $2.7 billion to …
3:52:32
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52 sec
Discussion on district representation and council member support
Council Member Restler engages in a Q&A session with Linda Dada about her district representation and the support she has received from council members. They discuss the current council member, …
3:53:25
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45 sec
Testimony by Nabil Jamaleddine, Resident of East Elmhurst on Flood Resiliency
Nabil Jamaleddine, a resident of East Elmhurst, testified about the severe flooding issues in his neighborhood and called for more action from the DEP to address these problems. He supported …
3:54:21
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102 sec
Testimony by Dara Ilowski, New York Staff Attorney at Save the Sound, on Rikers Island Redevelopment
Dara Ilowski, representing Save the Sound, urges the committee to allocate $3 million in the DEP budget for master planning to redevelop Rikers Island for sustainability and resilience. She emphasizes …
3:56:57
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150 sec
Testimony by Theodora Makris, Senior Program Manager at Center for New York City Neighborhoods
Theodora Makris from the Center for New York City Neighborhoods testified on critical investments needed to protect homeowners from storm risks and ensure housing stability. She highlighted three main areas: …
3:59:33
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138 sec
Testimony by Lisa Alpert, Senior Vice President of Development and Programming at Green-Wood Cemetery
Lisa Alpert from Green-Wood Cemetery advocates for a $20,000 budget request to support climate resilience, environmental education, and women in green careers. The cemetery's 478 acres provide significant environmental benefits …
4:01:55
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122 sec
Testimony by Tonya Ores, Chief Executive Officer of Neighborhood Housing Services of New York City
Tonya Ores, the new CEO of Neighborhood Housing Services of New York City, testifies about the organization's work in providing home repair assistance and advocating for increased funding to support …
4:04:06
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3 min
Testimony by Chris Hartman, Public Health Professor and Citizen Participant in the Citizens Air Complaint Program
Chris Hartman, a New York City citizen, father, and public health professor, testified in support of the Citizens Air Complaint Program (CACP) and called for increased staffing and compensation for …
4:08:02
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121 sec
Testimony by Zulai Velasquez from Jacob Riis Houses on Environmental and Health Concerns
Zulai Velasquez, a resident of Jacob Riis houses, testified about serious environmental and health concerns affecting her community due to ongoing construction projects and inadequate cleanup efforts. She highlighted issues …
4:10:09
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154 sec
Testimony by Sharon Brown on Infrastructure and Environmental Issues
Sharon Brown testifies about the need for improved infrastructure to address flooding issues in New York City, emphasizing the dangers of standing water and the importance of better drainage systems. …
4:12:57
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144 sec
Testimony by Hunter Severini, Citizen Reporter of Air Code Violations
Hunter Severini, a citizen reporter of air code violations, testified about his experiences with the citizen air complaint program and his concerns about the DEP's handling of self-prosecution requests. He …
4:15:32
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129 sec
Testimony by Michelle Luebke, Program Manager of SWIM Coalition
Michelle Luebke, representing the SWIM Coalition, addressed the NYC Council Committee on Environmental Protection, Resiliency, and Waterfronts. She emphasized the importance of sustainable stormwater management and the need for increased …
4:18:33
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129 sec
Testimony by Eric Eisenberg, Member of the Public, on Air Pollution Complaints and DEP Staffing
Eric Eisenberg criticizes the commissioner's complaints about receiving too many air pollution complaints, arguing that the real problem is air pollution itself. He emphasizes the need for better funding and …
4:20:51
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129 sec
Testimony by Michael Streeter, Participant in the Citizen Air Complaint Program
Michael Streeter, a participant in the citizen air complaint program, testified about the program's impact on his neighborhood and advocated for better compensation for DEP air inspectors. He criticized the …
4:23:07
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113 sec
Testimony by Christopher Leon Johnson on Nonprofit Funding and Parking Issues
Christopher Leon Johnson testified about the importance of preserving funding for two nonprofits involved with propane and lithium-ion batteries, and called for changes to parking regulations. He emphasized the valuable …
4:25:58
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66 sec
Testimony by Michael McFadden on DEP Air and Noise Inspectors
Michael McFadden, a former NYPD detective, testified in support of increasing pay and numbers of air and noise inspectors at the DEP. He criticized the DEP's treatment of citizens who …
4:27:12
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141 sec