Mount Vernon Development News
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City Council Legislative Session | June 24, 2026
Published: Jun 24, 2026
Resident Criticizes City's Handling of Street Repairs and Contractor Accountability
Samuel Rivers addressed the council concerning the condition of streets in his neighborhood, Kingbridge Gardens. He stated that Kettison ripped up streets in December and applied concrete, but the neighborhood remains torn up. He noted that two months after reporting this to DPW, nothing has happened. Rivers contrasted this with Pelham, where streets are paved immediately after work. He questioned the deals Kettison might have with elected officials. He also raised concerns about the quality of asphalt being used for street paving, describing it as uneven and deteriorating quickly. He urged the council to hold Kettison accountable or stop issuing street opening permits until obligations are met. Rivers believes racism may be a factor, as similar issues are not seen in neighboring communities. He expects the council to hold contractors accountable.
City Council Approves Real Property Tax Refund for One Park Avenue Property
During the Finance and Planning session, an ordinance was presented authorizing the refund of real property taxes for the property located at One Park Avenue, New York. This action is pursuant to real property tax law section 556, concerning block 1140, lot 5. The ordinance was moved, seconded, and passed unanimously via roll call vote.
Resident Questions Value Proposition for Taxpayers and Proposes Youth Program Integration
Evelyn Torres, a Mount Vernon homeowner, taxpayer, and mom, raised concerns about the return residents receive for the burdens they absorb. She highlighted high property taxes, damaged roads, litter, traffic, and neighborhood disruptions from events and film productions. Torres questioned how city revenue from businesses and events translates into improved daily lives. She specifically addressed quality of life issues near Brush Park, concerning noise, traffic, and parking problems. She also raised concerns about taxes and business development, questioning the contributions of large commercial properties versus their impact on city services and infrastructure. Torres inquired about unpaid property taxes and how the gap is covered, urging responsible taxpayers not to bear the brunt. She also proposed integrating city-funded youth programs into schools to improve accessibility for children and working parents.
Resident Reports Ongoing Parking and Towing Issues on Franklin Avenue
Tahna Jesse Elkins, a lifelong resident of Mount Vernon, reported ongoing issues with a mechanic shop next door at 209 Franklin Avenue. New owners are parking on the sidewalk, blocking her entrance, and towing disabled vehicles to the location. This is exacerbated by Fulton Avenue being blocked off, causing limited parking. Elkins has videos and pictures of the ongoing problem. She works 9-5 and has to park several blocks away due to the lack of parking. Residents in her building are looking to her to address the issue. The owners are described as rude and disrespectful, and the Mount Vernon Police Department stated they cannot help. An ambulance was also reportedly blocked by a towed vehicle. Elkins urges the council to help resolve the issue.
City Council Honors Graduating Youth and Highlights Youth Bureau's Impact
The city council meeting included a segment honoring graduating youth from middle school to high school and high school to college or trade school. The Youth Bureau has been actively fundraising for youth education through its 'Planting the Seed' gala, which has donated $20,000 to 20 youth. A second biannual gala is scheduled for July 23rd. Several young individuals were recognized for their achievements, including Nina Simone Scott and Morgan Brown for their academic progress and artistic endeavors, Marlon Dela Bank for his pursuit of a nursing career, Leah Lblat for her leadership, Cassandra Dorset for her progression in youth employment services, and Elliot Alexander Rodriguez for his volunteer work and future plans at Cornell College. Council members expressed pride in the youth and emphasized the importance of supporting their educational and personal development. The Youth Bureau's role in providing opportunities and guidance was highlighted throughout the segment.
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The Mount Vernon News archive
Board of Ethics Meeting | June 25, 2026
Board of Ethics Meeting | June 25, 2026
Architectural Review Board Meeting
Real estate committee meeting | June 25, 2026
City Council Work Session | June 22, 2026
Let's Talk With Shawyn | June 18, 2026
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