Your guide to NYC's public proceedings.
New York City Council
Committee on Finance
May 27, 2025
·
10:00 AM
7 hr 13 min
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Summary
A hearing on the FY2026 executive budget for the Department of Corrections (DOC) and Mayor's Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA).
For DOC, discussions focused on the $1.21 billion proposed budget, high overtime spending, capital projects at Rikers Island, delays in new therapeutic bed facilities, and ongoing staffing challenges.
For MOIA, the $29.6 million proposed budget was examined, with emphasis on new immigration legal support centers, funding cuts to existing programs, and the agency's response to increased federal immigration enforcement.
Features testimony from DOC, MOIA, and the public.
Meeting chapters
Read summaries and watch videos for short segments that matter to you.
Council Member Justin Brannan's opening remarks for FY2026 budget hearing on Department of Corrections
Council Member Justin Brannan opens the eleventh day of FY2026 executive budget hearings, focusing on the Department of Corrections (DOC) and Mayor's Office of Immigrant Affairs. He provides an overview …
0:00:27
•
117 sec
Council Member Sandy Nurse outlines focus for Department of Corrections budget hearing
Council Member Sandy Nurse opens the hearing by thanking the DOC leadership and outlining her focus for the session, which includes the plan to close Rikers Island, the transition to …
0:02:29
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95 sec
Introduction and overview of Department of Correction testimony
First Deputy Commissioner Francis Torres introduces the Department of Correction's testimony on the executive budget for fiscal year 2026. She outlines Commissioner Linnell McGinley Liddy's commitment to leading the agency …
0:05:23
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60 sec
Challenges in jail population and staffing levels
The Department of Correction faces significant challenges with an unexpected increase in jail population and a decrease in staff numbers. Despite these difficulties, the department has managed to maintain safety …
0:06:24
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95 sec
Staff recruitment and support initiatives
The Department of Correction is focused on recruiting and supporting staff to address the challenging work in the correctional system. Recent efforts have brought in new recruits and plans are …
0:08:01
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37 sec
Leadership development and promotion of correction officers
The Department of Correction is investing in leadership development and promotion opportunities for its staff. These initiatives aim to create a strong foundation for the future of the agency and …
0:08:39
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59 sec
Staff wellness initiatives and support
The Department of Correction is implementing new initiatives to support staff wellness and well-being. These efforts aim to help staff recharge and perform at their best in their challenging roles. …
0:09:40
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46 sec
New programs and services for people in custody
The Department of Correction is planning to expand programs and services for people in custody in the coming fiscal year. These initiatives are designed to address critical areas and improve …
0:10:27
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37 sec
Technology improvements for legal processes and visitation
The Department of Correction is implementing new technological solutions to improve legal processes and visitation for people in custody. These improvements aim to modernize jail operations and enhance access to …
0:11:05
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72 sec
FY2026 budget overview and allocations
The Department of Correction presents an overview of its fiscal year 2026 executive budget, highlighting key allocations and increases. The budget reflects investments in various programs and initiatives to improve …
0:12:19
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117 sec
Capital commitment plan and borough-based jail program
The Department of Correction outlines its capital commitment plan, with a significant focus on the borough-based jail program. This plan represents a major investment in modernizing the city's correctional facilities. …
0:14:17
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47 sec
Staffing levels and ongoing recruitment efforts
The Department of Correction addresses its current staffing levels and ongoing efforts to recruit both civilian and uniformed staff. Despite challenges, the department is implementing strategies to improve recruitment and …
0:15:06
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53 sec
Closing remarks emphasizing staff dedication and importance
First Deputy Commissioner Francis Torres concludes the testimony with powerful closing remarks that emphasize the dedication and importance of the Department of Correction staff. She highlights their crucial role in …
0:16:00
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81 sec
Council member questions DOC on overtime spending and budget allocation
Council Member Justin Brannan initiates a discussion about the Department of Corrections' (DOC) overtime spending and budget allocation. He questions DOC officials about the discrepancy between budgeted and actual overtime …
0:17:23
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111 sec
DOC projects significant increase in overtime expenditures for FY2025
Council Member Brannan questions DOC officials about projected overtime expenditures for fiscal year 2025, revealing a substantial increase from previous years. - DOC anticipates overtime expenditures of approximately $337 million …
0:19:14
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38 sec
DOC outlines initiatives to reduce overtime spending
DOC officials, including Bureau Chief of Staff Sherrieann Rembert, provide a detailed explanation of the department's efforts to reduce overtime spending while addressing staffing challenges. - DOC acknowledges a staffing …
0:19:52
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4 min
DOC's progress on analyzing uniform positions for potential civilian conversion
Council Member Brannan follows up on a previous request for an analysis of uniform positions that could be safely performed by civilians. DOC officials provide an update on their progress. …
0:24:37
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94 sec
DOC addresses vacancy rates and hiring efforts for civilian positions
Council Member Brannan inquires about the current vacancy rates for civilian positions in the Department of Corrections, and DOC officials provide an update on their hiring efforts. - As of …
0:26:11
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68 sec
DOC's recruitment funding allocation and vacancy priorities
Council Member Brannan inquires about the allocation of recruitment funding for correction officers and civilian positions, leading to a discussion on DOC's vacancy priorities. - The preliminary plan included over …
0:27:19
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76 sec
DOC's approach to capital funding and renovations given Rikers Island closure
Council Member Brannan questions DOC officials about their approach to capital funding and renovations, considering the planned closure of Rikers Island and the five-year lifespan requirement for capital projects. - …
0:28:37
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26 sec
Discussion on applying for waivers for DOC capital projects
Council Member Brannan and DOC officials discuss the process of applying for waivers to allow for capital projects despite the planned closure of Rikers Island. - DOC confirms they are …
0:29:05
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78 sec
Council Member Sandy Nurse questions DOC on capital project waivers
Council Member Sandy Nurse engages in a Q&A session with Assistant Commissioner Faisal Zuber from the Department of Corrections regarding capital project waivers. The discussion focuses on the types of …
0:30:25
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77 sec
Council Member Nurse inquires about Department of Correction's involvement in points of agreement updates
Council Member Sandy Nurse questions representatives from the Department of Correction about their involvement in providing updates for the points of agreement related to the borough-based jail program. Assistant Commissioner …
0:31:43
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58 sec
Council Member Sandy Nurse questions DOC officials about programming at Rikers Island
Council Member Sandy Nurse engages in a detailed discussion with Department of Correction officials about programming availability and funding at Rikers Island. The conversation covers the implementation of the mandated …
0:32:43
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4 min
Council Member Sandy Nurse questions DOC officials on training, PACE units, and ICE presence at Rikers Island
Council Member Sandy Nurse conducts a series of questions to Department of Corrections officials about various topics including officer training updates, PACE units at Rikers Island, the formation of a …
0:37:19
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4 min
Council Member Louis questions DOC on staffing, funding, and borough-based jails
Council Member Farah N. Louis poses questions to the Department of Corrections (DOC) officials about the gender breakdown of the uniform DOC workforce, allocation of federal funding for the prison …
0:42:27
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4 min
Council Member Narcisse questions DOC on mental health services and staff recruitment
Council Member Mercedes Narcisse questions Department of Corrections officials about mental health services for incarcerated individuals, staff training, and recruitment/retention of correctional officers. DOC representatives discuss measures taken to address …
0:47:11
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4 min
Delay in opening the Bellevue therapeutic bed facility
Council Member Lincoln Restler questions the Department of Corrections about the delay in opening the 104-bed therapeutic facility at Bellevue. The DOC representative, Alex Maldonado, explains that they are still …
0:52:06
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54 sec
Explanation of SCOC requirements for facility completion
Alex Maldonado from the Department of Corrections provides a detailed explanation of the State Commission of Correction (SCOC) requirements for opening the new therapeutic bed facility. - SCOC requires final …
0:53:00
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52 sec
Delays in opening Woodhall and North Central Bronx therapeutic facilities
Council Member Lincoln Restler questions the Department of Corrections about delays in opening two additional therapeutic bed facilities at Woodhall and North Central Bronx. The discussion reveals ongoing issues with …
0:53:51
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140 sec
Nutritional services complaints and staffing in DOC facilities
Council Member Justin Brannan inquires about complaints regarding nutritional services in DOC facilities and the status of hiring an Assistant Commissioner for Nutritional Services. - DOC received a $4.5 million …
0:56:14
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171 sec
Staffing for escorting individuals to medical appointments
Council Member Justin Brannan inquires about the adequacy of staffing for escorting individuals in custody to medical appointments. Deputy Commissioner James Saunders provides information on the current situation. - DOC …
0:59:06
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62 sec
Detailed discussion on SCOC approval process and construction modifications
Council Member Sandy Nurse inquires about the specifics of working with the State Commission of Correction (SCOC) for approval of the therapeutic unit. Assistant Commissioner Alex Maldonado provides details on …
1:00:10
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151 sec
Staffing plan and timeline for the new therapeutic facility
Council Member Sandy Nurse inquires about the staffing plan and timeline for the new therapeutic facility. Assistant Commissioner Alex Maldonado provides details on the current status and next steps. - …
1:02:41
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178 sec
Council Member Stevens questions DOC officials about jail lockdowns and violence
Council Member Althea V. Stevens engages in a Q&A session with Department of Correction officials regarding lockdowns at Rikers Island, specifically in the GRVC facility. She expresses concern about the …
1:05:43
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6 min
Council Member Sandy Nurse inquires about virtual visitation and discovery sharing platforms in DOC facilities
Council Member Sandy Nurse questions DOC officials about the implementation of the Cisco virtual visitation platform and the Lightning Law discovery sharing platform in correctional facilities. DOC representatives explain the …
1:12:29
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159 sec
Council Member Sandy Nurse questions DOC on addiction counselor hiring and programming vacancies
Council Member Sandy Nurse inquires about the Department of Correction's plans for hiring addiction counselors and filling programming vacancies. Deputy Commissioner Nell McCarty provides updates on the hiring process for …
1:15:09
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112 sec
Council member inquires about cell door replacement program and costs
Council Member Sandy Nurse questions Department of Corrections officials about the cell door replacement program, including the number of doors replaced, costs, and labor involved. The discussion reveals details about …
1:17:04
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179 sec
Council Member Sandy Nurse questions DOC officials about state prison transfers and parole hearings
Council Member Sandy Nurse initiates a discussion about the closure of state prison facilities and its impact on Rikers Island. DOC officials, including First Deputy Commissioner Francis Torres and Deputy …
1:20:10
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3 min
Council Member Nurse inquires about DUI deadlocking investigation and related memo
Council Member Sandy Nurse questions Deputy Commissioner James Conroy about updates on the DUI deadlocking investigation and a memo that was distributed to staff discouraging the practice of deadlocking. Conroy …
1:23:33
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43 sec
Council member inquires about "medlock" and medical care protocols in DOC facilities
Council Member Sandy Nurse questions DOC officials about the term "medlock" and its implications for inmate medical care, following an incident where an inmate (Charisma Jones) was denied medical attention. …
1:24:19
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161 sec
Initial inquiry about 6-A program releases in 2025
Council Member Sandy Nurse inquires about the number of people released through the 6-A program in 2025. Deputy Commissioner Nell McCarty provides the specific number of releases. - 34 people …
1:27:02
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22 sec
DOC staffing for reviewing 6-A program cases
Council Member Sandy Nurse inquires about the staffing dedicated to reviewing 6-A program cases. Deputy Commissioner Nell McCarty provides details on the current staffing structure and recent improvements. - Three …
1:27:24
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79 sec
Explanation of 6-A program eligibility criteria
First Deputy Commissioner Francis Torres provides a detailed explanation of the eligibility criteria for the 6-A program and the process of reviewing potential candidates. - Only sentenced individuals can be …
1:28:44
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104 sec
Timeline and process for 6-A case reviews
Council Member Sandy Nurse inquires about the timeline and process for reviewing 6-A cases. Deputy Commissioner Nell McCarty provides details on the review process and staffing allocation. - The department …
1:30:28
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90 sec
Comparison of current 6-A releases to March 2020 releases
Council Member Sandy Nurse presents data on the March 2020 6-A releases and suggests expanding the program given the current jail population situation. - In March 2020, about 300 people …
1:32:00
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47 sec
DOC's response to expanding 6-A releases
Deputy Commissioner James Boyd responds to the suggestion of expanding the 6-A program, explaining the differences between the current situation and March 2020, and the department's considerations for potential expansion. …
1:32:47
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68 sec
Council Member Brannan's opening remarks on MOIA budget hearing
Council Member Justin Brannan, chair of the finance committee, opens the executive budget hearing for the Mayor's Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA). He introduces the context of the hearing, mentioning …
2:11:21
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81 sec
Council Member Alexa Avilés' opening remarks on immigrant affairs and budget concerns
Council Member Alexa Avilés, chair of the committee on immigration, delivers opening remarks for the FY2026 executive budget hearing for the Mayor's Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA). She emphasizes the …
2:12:46
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4 min
Commissioner's introduction and message to immigrant communities
Commissioner Manuel Castro begins his testimony by introducing himself and delivering a heartfelt message to New York City's immigrant communities. He acknowledges the fear and uncertainty many immigrants are experiencing …
2:18:10
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4 min
Overview of MOIA's FY2026 budget
Commissioner Castro provides an overview of the Mayor's Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA) budget for fiscal year 2026. He highlights the preservation of MOIA's funding and the office's largest budget …
2:22:11
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75 sec
Immigration legal services and MOIA Immigration Legal Support Centers
Commissioner Castro outlines MOIA's plans for immigration legal services in fiscal year 2026, focusing on the establishment of new MOIA Immigration Legal Support Centers and the extension of existing legal …
2:23:26
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85 sec
English language instruction programs
Commissioner Castro describes MOIA's English language instruction programs, highlighting the MOIA English Learning Program and its comprehensive curriculum. - The program offers English classes at nearly 60 branches and community …
2:24:52
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43 sec
Language access initiatives
Commissioner Castro emphasizes the importance of language access and outlines MOIA's efforts to expand language services across city government. - MOIA has built an in-house team of experts providing translation …
2:25:36
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40 sec
Community engagement efforts
Commissioner Castro highlights MOIA's community engagement initiatives, emphasizing the office's deep connection with immigrant communities. - MOIA's external affairs and outreach team made over 10,000 direct touchpoints with immigrant New …
2:26:16
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39 sec
Communications strategies for immigrant communities
Commissioner Castro outlines MOIA's communications efforts to provide accurate and multilingual information to immigrant New Yorkers. - MOIA partners with other city departments to host multilingual media roundtables and press …
2:26:55
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50 sec
Conclusion and acknowledgments
Commissioner Castro concludes his testimony with acknowledgments and a reaffirmation of MOIA's commitment to serving immigrant communities. - He thanks public servants across city agencies and the MOIA team for …
2:27:46
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31 sec
Progress and distribution of Know Your Rights workshops
Council Member Justin Brannan inquires about the progress of Know Your Rights workshops organized by the Immigrant Rights Collaborative. Deputy Commissioner Lorena Lucero provides an update on the number of …
2:28:18
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112 sec
Funding status for the Immigrant Rights Collaborative
Council Member Justin Brannan questions the funding status for the Immigrant Rights Collaborative in FY26. Deputy Commissioner Jasniya Sanchez explains that while there's no additional funding, the program will continue …
2:30:11
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65 sec
MOIA intranet development progress for city agencies
Council Member Justin Brannan follows up on the development of an intranet for city agencies to access MOIA's resources. Commissioner Manuel Castro provides an update on the project's status and …
2:31:18
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48 sec
MOIA's utilization of ethnic media for community outreach
Council Member Justin Brannan inquires about MOIA's use of ethnic media to keep New Yorkers, particularly immigrants, informed. Commissioner Manuel Castro details their approach to engaging with ethnic and immigrant …
2:32:10
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49 sec
WeSpeakNYC program budget reduction and impact
Council Member Justin Brannan questions the significant budget reduction for the WeSpeakNYC program in FY26. Deputy Commissioner Jasniya Sanchez explains the current funding situation and ongoing efforts to secure additional …
2:33:00
•
106 sec
WeSpeak NYC class participation numbers and trends
Council Member Justin Brannan inquires about the number of participants in WeSpeak NYC classes. Deputy Commissioner Lorena Lucero provides attendance figures for different time periods. - In 2024, about 5,152 …
2:34:46
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48 sec
Contingency plans for WeSpeak NYC participants from closed migrant shelters
Council Member Justin Brannan asks about contingency plans for WeSpeak NYC participants from closed migrant shelters. MOIA officials explain the program structure and alternatives available to affected participants. - Classes …
2:35:36
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97 sec
Collaboration between MOIA and the state's Office of New Americans
Council Member Justin Brannan inquires about MOIA's collaboration with the state's Office of New Americans. Commissioner Manuel Castro describes the ongoing communication and cooperation between the two offices. - MOIA …
2:37:16
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55 sec
Upcoming immigrant and ethnic media roundtable on worker rights
Commissioner Manuel Castro provides additional information about MOIA's work with immigrant and ethnic media, focusing on an upcoming roundtable event. - MOIA held eight roundtables in the last fiscal year …
2:38:11
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36 sec
Council member Avilés questions MOIA on legal services budget and contract allocations
Council Member Alexa Avilés engages in a detailed discussion with representatives from the Mayor's Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA) about the budget allocations for legal services, particularly focusing on the …
2:38:49
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9 min
Changes to MOIA's legal services funding and program structure
Council Member Avilés inquires about the consolidation of MOIA's legal services programs, including the Asylum Seeker Legal Assistance Network and resource navigation center. MOIA officials explain that the consolidation aims …
2:47:58
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126 sec
Implementation of the new legal support center/Action NYC model
Council Member Avilés questions MOIA officials about the implementation of the new legal support center/Action NYC model, focusing on coordination, efficiency, and the transition process. - MOIA works collaboratively with …
2:50:24
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150 sec
Contract renewals and extensions for legal service providers
Council Member Avilés inquires about the status of contract renewals and extensions for legal service providers under MOIA's new model. MOIA officials provide information on the process and outcomes. - …
2:52:56
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3 min
Reasons for implementing the new contract model
MOIA officials explain the primary reasons for changing to the new contract model for legal services. The new model aims to improve accessibility and effectiveness of services for immigrant communities. …
2:56:29
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3 min
Challenges and concerns in current legal service provision
Council Member Avilés highlights significant challenges and concerns in the current legal service provision for immigrants, emphasizing the increased complexity and resource constraints. - Existing cases have become more complex …
3:00:25
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55 sec
Council Member Avilés questions MOIA on new immigrant services model
Council Member Alexa Avilés questions MOIA officials about the new model for immigrant services, focusing on the number of people to be served, demographics, changes in service delivery, and staffing …
3:01:20
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6 min
Council Member Avilés questions MOIA on policy team staffing and legal support center
Council Member Alexa Avilés engages in a Q&A session with MOIA officials, focusing on the agency's policy work team, staffing for the new RFP model, and plans for expanding MOIA's …
3:08:19
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153 sec
Council member Avilés questions MOIA's response to ICE activities in courthouses
Council Member Alexa Avilés questions Commissioner Manuel Castro about MOIA's response to recent ICE activities in courthouses, particularly in The Bronx. The discussion focuses on MOIA's strategies to protect immigrant …
3:10:53
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131 sec
Council Member Avilés questions MOIA about Rapid Response Legal Collaborative funding and services
Council Member Alexa Avilés inquires about the Rapid Response Legal Collaborative program, which offers legal support to individuals at risk of detention and deportation. MOIA officials provide information on the …
3:13:05
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3 min
Council Member Avilés questions MOIA on support for unaccompanied minors
Council Member Alexa Avilés engages in a Q&A session with MOIA officials, focusing on the city's support for unaccompanied minors. She expresses concern about the lack of clear investment and …
3:16:56
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5 min
Closure of OASC and redeployment of staff
Council Member Alexa Avilés inquires about the closure of the Office of Asylum Seeker Operations (OASC) and the fate of its 27 staff positions. Commissioner Manuel Castro explains that some …
3:22:26
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59 sec
Handling of OASC casework after closure
Council Member Avilés questions how the casework started by OASC will be handled after its closure. Commissioner Castro explains that legal services were provided on a pro se basis and …
3:23:26
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133 sec
End of case management services for migrants
Council Member Avilés raises concerns about New York City's plan to end case management services that help new arrivals exit migrant shelters. She inquires about the impact on the approximately …
3:25:48
•
34 sec
Impact of state funding cuts on immigrant services
Commissioner Castro explains that the discontinuation of certain services, including the application help center and case management, is due to the lack of state funding allocation for the next fiscal …
3:26:26
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64 sec
Council Member Louis questions MOIA on funding distribution and support for immigrant communities
Council Member Farah N. Louis questions Commissioner Manuel Castro and Deputy Commissioner Jasniya Sanchez about MOIA's funding distribution, particularly for Haitian and West African immigrants. The discussion covers the Haitian …
3:27:42
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5 min
Council member inquires about ICE activity and immigrant fear
Council Member Crystal Hudson raises concerns about increased ICE activity in New York City and its impact on immigrant communities. Commissioner Manuel Castro emphasizes the importance of clear communication with …
3:33:30
•
54 sec
Discussion on services for detained and non-detained immigrants
Council Member Hudson inquires about the administration's plan to deliver services to detained and non-detained immigrants facing deportation. Commissioner Castro confirms the continuation of services through nonprofit contractors. - Services …
3:34:25
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36 sec
Assessing the need for additional immigration legal services
Council Member Hudson inquires about the need for additional resources and expansion of immigration legal services. Commissioner Castro acknowledges that demand exceeds current capacity and provides estimates of the scale …
3:35:01
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72 sec
Support for migrants at Hall Street complex and future plans
Council Member Hudson describes her office's efforts to support migrants at the Hall Street complex in her district and asks about MOIA's plans for future support. Commissioner Castro acknowledges the …
3:36:12
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111 sec
Discussion on dedicated funding for migrant and refugee resettlement
Council Member Hudson presses for a clear answer on whether there should be dedicated funding and resources for migrant and refugee resettlement. Commissioner Castro responds cautiously, emphasizing the federal government's …
3:38:04
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51 sec
Council Member Brewer questions MOIA on immigrant services and communication
Council Member Gale A. Brewer engages in a Q&A session with MOIA officials, focusing on various aspects of immigrant services and communication. She inquires about workshops in restaurants, healthcare access …
3:38:54
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4 min
Support for detained NYC student and unaccompanied minors
Council Member Rita C. Joseph inquires about the support provided by MOIA for a detained NYC student and unaccompanied minors in court. Commissioner Manuel Castro explains that due to case …
3:43:55
•
66 sec
Availability of immigration service provider information
Council Member Rita C. Joseph inquires about the availability and distribution of information on immigration service providers. Commissioner Manuel Castro explains that MOIA maintains and distributes lists of providers to …
3:45:01
•
48 sec
We Speak NYC program budget and participation
Council Member Rita C. Joseph inquires about the We Speak NYC program, its budget, and participation numbers. MOIA officials explain the program's funding, participation statistics, and class distribution across boroughs. …
3:45:49
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3 min
We Speak NYC program metrics and success measurement
Council Member Rita C. Joseph inquires about the metrics used to measure the success of the We Speak NYC program. MOIA officials explain their approach to evaluating the program's effectiveness …
3:49:33
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93 sec
Council Member Salaam questions MOIA on immigration legal services funding and mental health support
Council Member Yusef Salaam questions MOIA Commissioner Manuel Castro and Deputy Commissioner Jasniya Sanchez about the funding shortfall for immigration legal services, contingency plans for impacted staff and cases, and …
3:51:10
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4 min
Discussion on new investments in mental health and healthcare services for immigrants
Council Member Alexa Avilés inquires about new specific investments in mental health and healthcare services for fiscal year 2026. Commissioner Manuel Castro responds that he would need to defer to …
3:55:56
•
42 sec
Impact of federal reconciliation bill on healthcare for undocumented immigrants
Council Member Alexa Avilés raises concerns about provisions in the federal reconciliation bill that could penalize states providing healthcare to undocumented immigrants. Commissioner Manuel Castro discusses potential impacts and the …
3:56:44
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92 sec
MOIA's advocacy plans against policies harming immigrant healthcare access
Council Member Alexa Avilés inquires about MOIA's plans to advocate at the state and federal levels against policies that could harm immigrant access to healthcare. Commissioner Manuel Castro discusses the …
3:58:19
•
69 sec
Communication with immigrant communities about healthcare access
Council Member Alexa Avilés seeks clarification about MOIA's communication efforts with immigrant communities regarding healthcare access. Commissioner Manuel Castro explains the agency's approach to reassuring immigrants about continued access to …
3:59:30
•
55 sec
MOIA's partnerships with ethnic media for immigrant outreach
Council Member Alexa Avilés inquires about MOIA's partnerships with ethnic media to ensure critical messages reach immigrant New Yorkers in their native languages. Commissioner Manuel Castro discusses the agency's approach …
4:00:27
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35 sec
Council Member Avilés questions MOIA on immigrant health care, language access, and ICE engagement
Council Member Alexa Avilés engages in a series of questions with Commissioner Manuel Castro and other representatives from the Mayor's Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA) regarding various issues affecting immigrant …
4:01:08
•
4 min
Council Member Avilés questions MOIA on budget, staffing, and hiring processes
Council Member Alexa Avilés engages in a detailed Q&A session with officials from the Mayor's Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA) regarding their budget allocation, staffing structure, and hiring challenges. The …
4:06:22
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5 min
Testimony by Monique Francis, Interim Executive Director of CUNY Citizenship Now
Monique Francis, Interim Executive Director of CUNY Citizenship Now, testified about the organization's crucial role in supporting immigrants in New York City. She highlighted their efforts in providing legal assistance, …
4:28:36
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5 min
Testimony by Carmen de Leon, President of Local 768, on Correctional Health Safety Concerns
Carmen de Leon, President of Local 768, testifies about safety concerns for healthcare employees working at Rikers Island, particularly focusing on underreported workplace violence and assaults on staff. She urges …
4:34:08
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152 sec
Testimony by Karla Ostalaza, Managing Director of the Immigration Practice at The Bronx Defenders
Karla Ostalaza from The Bronx Defenders testified about the New York Immigrant Family Unity Project (NYIFUP) and requested increased funding to combat the rise in immigrant detentions and deportations. She …
4:40:00
•
120 sec
Testimony by Catherine Gonzalez, Supervising Attorney and Policy Counsel at Brooklyn Defender Services
Catherine Gonzalez from Brooklyn Defender Services testifies about the critical importance of the New York Immigrant Family Unity Project (NYFUP) in the face of recent federal immigration policies. She highlights …
4:42:04
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124 sec
Testimony by Deborah Lee, Attorney in Charge of the Immigration Law Unit at Legal Aid Society
Deborah Lee from Legal Aid Society testifies about the urgent need for increased funding and flexibility in immigration legal services contracts in response to aggressive federal deportation efforts. She emphasizes …
4:44:10
•
145 sec
Testimony by Jodi Ziesemer, Director of New York Legal Assistance Group, on Immigration Legal Services Funding
Jodi Ziesemer from the New York Legal Assistance Group (NYLAG) testified about the need for increased funding for immigrant legal services in New York City. She emphasized the importance of …
4:46:38
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126 sec
Testimony by Luis Mancheno, Supervising Attorney of New York Immigrant Family Unity Project at The Legal Aid Society
Luis Mancheno, representing The Legal Aid Society, testifies about the dire situation facing immigrant communities in New York City and the urgent need for increased funding for legal services. He …
4:48:50
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134 sec
Testimony by Ernie Collette, Supervising Attorney of the Immigration Law Project at Mobilization for Justice
Ernie Collette, Supervising Attorney at Mobilization for Justice, testified about the urgent need for increased funding for immigrant legal services in New York City. He highlighted the large number of …
4:51:05
•
135 sec
Testimony by Sophie Dalsimer, Co-Director of Health Justice at New York Lawyers for the Public Interest
Sophie Dalsimer testifies on behalf of New York Lawyers for the Public Interest, requesting continued and enhanced support for the city council's immigrant health initiative. She highlights the critical need …
4:53:25
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140 sec
Testimony by Keriann Pauls, Interim Executive Director of Take Root Justice
Keriann Pauls, Interim Executive Director of Take Root Justice, testified on behalf of the Legal Services for the Working Poor (LSWP) Coalition, requesting increased funding for legal services to support …
4:59:24
•
131 sec
Testimony by Sierra Kraft, Executive Director of I Care Coalition
Sierra Kraft, Executive Director of I Care Coalition, testifies about the urgent crisis facing unaccompanied immigrant children in New York City. She highlights the challenges these children face in accessing …
5:01:39
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173 sec
Testimony by Sarah Nolan, Managing Director of Kids in Need of Defense (KIND)
Sarah Nolan from Kids in Need of Defense (KIND) testified about the urgent need for increased funding for legal representation for unaccompanied immigrant children. She highlighted recent policy changes and …
5:04:37
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3 min
Testimony by Grace Day, Staff Attorney at The Door
Grace Day, a staff attorney at The Door, testified about the importance of legal representation for unaccompanied immigrant children in New York City. She emphasized the critical role of the …
5:07:53
•
146 sec
Testimony by Michelle Sencion, Government Grants and Compliance Manager from Safe Passage Project
Michelle Sencion from Safe Passage Project testified about the urgent need for increased funding to support legal representation for unaccompanied immigrant children facing deportation. She highlighted the challenges faced by …
5:10:23
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3 min
Testimony by Lauren Migliaccio, Training and Legal Technical Assistance Director of Immigrant Justice Corps
Lauren Migliaccio from Immigrant Justice Corps testifies about the impact of federal funding cuts on legal services for unaccompanied immigrant children in New York City. She urges the city council …
5:14:26
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113 sec
Testimony by Margaret Martin, Co-Director of Immigrant and Refugee Services at Catholic Charities Community Services in New York
Margaret Martin testifies on behalf of Catholic Charities Community Services, advocating for sustainable funding for non-profits providing immigrant legal services. She highlights the challenges faced due to increased immigration enforcement …
5:16:26
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4 min
Testimony by Herold Dasque, Representative of Haitian American United for Progress (HAUP)
Herold Dasque, representing Haitian American United for Progress (HAUP), testified about the importance of language access services for immigrants and refugees in New York City. He urged the City Council …
5:22:55
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3 min
Testimony by Robert Agyemang, Vice President of Advocacy at New York Immigration Coalition
Robert Agyemang, Vice President of Advocacy for the New York Immigration Coalition, testified about the need for continued funding and support for language access initiatives in New York City. He …
5:26:17
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164 sec
Testimony by Aracelis Lucero, Executive Director of MASA, on Language Justice and Immigrant Support
Aracelis Lucero, Executive Director of MASA, testified on the importance of language justice and support for immigrant communities. She emphasized the need for continued funding for interpreter training, especially for …
5:29:04
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6 min
Testimony by Riva Shang, Economic Empowerment Community Organizer at Asian American Federation
Riva Shang from the Asian American Federation testified about the importance of improving language access for Asian New Yorkers and other immigrant communities. She highlighted the RISE initiative and the …
5:35:16
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173 sec
Testimony by Madeleine Bravo, Legal Services Coordinator at La Colmena
Madeleine Bravo, Legal Services Coordinator at La Colmena, testifies about the importance of supporting immigrant communities in Staten Island and requests continued funding for their organization. She highlights La Colmena's …
5:38:12
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124 sec
Testimony by Jose Quebrado, Immigrant Worker
Jose Quebrado, a Mexican immigrant living in the United States for over 34 years, testifies about his experiences of labor exploitation and health issues related to the 9/11 attacks. He …
5:42:58
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4 min
Testimony by Mamadou Balde, Delivery Worker
Mamadou Balde, a delivery worker in New York, testifies about the challenges faced by delivery workers, particularly immigrants, who are receiving criminal summons for riding e-bikes. He argues for support …
5:52:12
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156 sec
Testimony by Alejandro Grajales, Organizer at Workers Justice Project
Alejandro Grajales, an organizer with the Workers Justice Project, testified about the importance of supporting immigrant workers and funding essential programs. He shared examples of workers who have received help …
5:55:28
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3 min
Testimony by Armary Perez, Program Director of Workers Justice Project
Armary Perez, Program Director of Workers Justice Project, testified about the challenges faced by immigrant workers in New York City and requested funding for various programs to support these workers. …
5:59:26
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3 min
Testimony by Nilbia Coyote, Executive Director of NICE (New Immigrant Community Empowerment)
Nilbia Coyote, Executive Director of NICE, testified about the importance of their pre-apprenticeship program and other services for immigrant communities in New York City. She urged the city to continue …
6:03:35
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3 min
Testimony by Natalia Aristizabal, Deputy Director of Make The Road New York
Natalia Aristizabal, Deputy Director of Make The Road New York, testifies on behalf of the organization's 28,000+ members, highlighting concerns about immigration enforcement practices and advocating for increased funding for …
6:08:44
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169 sec
Testimony by Paulina Cohen, Staff Attorney at New York City Anti Violence Project
Paulina Cohen, a staff attorney at the New York City Anti Violence Project (AVP), testified about the critical need for sustained and increased funding for immigration legal services, particularly for …
6:11:35
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3 min
Testimony by Julian Colón, Literacy Program Coordinator at Center for Family Life in Sunset Park
Julian Colón, representing the Center for Family Life in Sunset Park, appeals to the NYC Council Committee to maintain full funding for adult literacy initiatives. He emphasizes the importance of …
6:14:49
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143 sec
Testimony by Tim Sheehan, Chair of the Board of Center for Family Life in Sunset Park, on Adult Literacy Funding
Tim Sheehan, Chair of the Board of Center for Family Life in Sunset Park, urges the city council to maintain $16.5 million in discretionary funding for adult literacy initiatives. He …
6:17:18
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3 min
Testimony by Jimin Wu Li, Youth Advocate from Chinese American Planning Council
Jimin Wu Li, a high school student and youth advocate from the Chinese American Planning Council, shared her personal experience as an immigrant from Venezuela and the support she received …
6:21:17
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110 sec
Testimony by Zachary Katznelson, Executive Director of Independent Rikers Commission
Zachary Katznelson, Executive Director of the Independent Rikers Commission, testified on the NYC Department of Corrections budget, emphasizing the need for investments in mental health, recidivism prevention, and reentry programs. …
6:25:03
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126 sec
Testimony by Sarita Daftary, Co-Director of Freedom Agenda
Sarita Daftary, Co-Director of Freedom Agenda, testified on the NYC Department of Corrections budget and the campaign to close Rikers Island. She emphasized the need to reallocate funds from hiring …
6:27:15
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162 sec
Testimony by Jennifer Parish, Director of Criminal Justice Advocacy at Urban Justice Center Mental Health Project
Jennifer Parish testified in opposition to the Department of Corrections' large budget and urged the council to reallocate funds to benefit the community and reduce incarceration. She highlighted the department's …
6:30:01
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133 sec
Testimony by Roberto Ponce, Community Engagement Associate at Hot Bread Kitchen
Roberto Ponce, representing Hot Bread Kitchen, testified about the organization's workforce training programs for immigrants and asylum seekers in New York City. He highlighted their success in enrolling over 2,000 …
6:32:18
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177 sec
Testimony by Megan French-Marcelin, Senior Director of New York State Policy at Legal Action Center, on Alternatives to Incarceration
Megan French-Marcelin, representing the New York City Alternatives to Incarceration and Reentry Coalition, testified on the effectiveness and cost-efficiency of alternative-to-incarceration (ATI) programs compared to incarceration at Rikers Island. She …
6:35:21
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148 sec
Testimony by Scarlett Thompson, Senior Prevention Coordinator at New York City Alliance Against Sexual Assault
Scarlett Thompson from the New York City Alliance Against Sexual Assault testified about the importance of sexual violence prevention in New York City nightlife. She requested $300,000 in funding for …
6:38:38
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138 sec
Testimony by Jasmine Joseph, Administrative Associate and DJ from Outsmart
Jasmine Joseph, an Administrative Associate at Outsmart and professional DJ in New York City Nightlife, testified about the importance of Outsmart's work in addressing sexual violence in the nightlife community. …
6:41:02
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139 sec
Testimony by Andrea Rodriguez, Health Equity Liaison at Outsmart NYC, on Nightlife and Health Equity
Andrea Rodriguez, Health Equity Liaison at Outsmart NYC, testified about the importance of nightlife for diverse communities and the organization's efforts to promote health and safety in nightlife spaces. She …
6:43:23
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146 sec
Testimony by Kayt Tiskus, Principal of Collective Public Affairs, on Workforce Development and Support Programs
Kayt Tiskus testifies about various workforce development and support programs funded by the City Council, emphasizing their importance for justice-impacted individuals and immigrants. She highlights the success of these programs …
6:46:51
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141 sec
Testimony by Yanki Tshering, Executive Director of Accompany Capital
Yanki Tshering, Executive Director of Accompany Capital, testified about their organization's work in providing financial services and support to immigrant and refugee entrepreneurs. She highlighted the impact of their work …
6:49:16
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171 sec
Testimony by Unknown Member of the Public on Personal Experiences and Concerns
The testimony focuses on the speaker's personal experiences with violence and concerns about the criminal justice system. The speaker recounts a recent attack, discusses past employment, and expresses worries about …
6:52:18
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4 min
Testimony by Raul Rivera, Member of the Public
Raul Rivera testified at the NYC City Council hearing, expressing distrust in NGOs and non-profits handling immigrant funding. He criticized the allocation of $6.9 billion for immigrant support and raised …
6:56:49
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142 sec
Testimony by Airenakhue B. Omoragbon, New York Policy Manager at African Communities Together
Airenakhue B. Omoragbon, representing African Communities Together, testified to request $7,800,000 in funding for language access grants to support immigrant communities in New York City. She emphasized the importance of …
6:59:28
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161 sec
Testimony by Daniele Gerard, Senior Staff Attorney at Children's Rights
Daniele Gerard, representing Children's Rights and the NYC Jails Action Coalition, advocated for closing Rikers Island and prioritizing social services over increasing the Department of Corrections budget. She emphasized the …
7:02:21
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106 sec
Testimony by Donna Hylton, Founder and President of A Little Piece of Light
Donna Hylton, founder of A Little Piece of Light, testified about the need for more support for marginalized communities, particularly women, trans people, and veterans. She criticized the allocation of …
7:04:20
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123 sec
Testimony by Sophia Gurulé, Trustee and Constitutional Officer of United Auto Workers Local 2325, on NYIFUP Funding
Sophia Gurulé, representing UAW Local 2325, testified in support of doubling funding for the New York Immigrant Family Unity Project (NYIFUP) from $5.5 million to $11.06 million per organization. She …
7:06:51
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3 min
Testimony by Christopher Leon Johnson on Wolf of Justice Project Funding and E-bike Delivery Issues
Christopher Leon Johnson testifies in support of the Wolf of Justice project's funding request for FY '26 and addresses concerns about the criminalization of e-bike deliveries. He urges the City …
7:10:46
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152 sec