Happy New Year Mount Vernon. We had an amazing 2025 year packed with legislation that will benefit Mount Vernon for years to come. As President of City Council for 2026, I look forward to keeping our community engaged and informed.

We welcomed Councilpersons Cathlin Gleason back for her re-election and Andre Wallace and Cynthia Turnquest-Jones to the team. Along with Jaevon Boxhill and myself, the five of us are committed to producing an effective enthusiastic approach to better our City. We are not perfect, but we are productive and with the help of our residents we will continue to push forward in making our City whole.

We are interested in speaking with residents and hearing their needs and concerns. Many forums, townhalls and educational platforms will be in place throughout the year. Please stay engaged and share information with your family, friends and neighbors as it's presented.

Thank you in advance for your continued support. Remember our City Council meetings are the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of every month except July and August where there is only one meeting.

Have a great start to your year and see you soon.

Mount Vernon Proud

City Council President

Derrick Thompson

Discover the key legislation passed that shaped our community! Click the button below to explore the impactful policies and decisions made.

The Mount Vernon City Council meetings are streamed live on Facebook, YouTube, and the main page of cmvny.com. If you can't catch the meetings live, go to YouTube, where you will find a playlist of all the council meetings.  You can also click the button below to visit YouTube to view previous council meetings.

Doles Recreation Center – Mount Vernon 250 South 6th Ave

(914)665-2447 Food distribution – Mon – Fri 11a – 1p Fresh Market (Call for days & time) Seniors Every other Wednesdays 10a – 12noon First come first serve

New Life Fellowship Church Food Pantry - Food Distribution Center 16 South 3rd Ave (914) 319-4690 3rd Saturday from 930a – 12noon

Hudson Valley Community Services (HVCS) 40 Saw Milll River Road Hawthorne, NY (No services in Mt. Vernon) For HIV Clients – Call for intake (914)785-8271

First United Methodist Church - Food Distribution Center 228 East Lincoln Ave (914) 668-3334 Grocery pickup: Tues – Thurs 9a to 2pm

Family Restoration Project One 60 Claremont Place (914) 224-4512 Saturdays 10:00a – 1230p

Community Service Associates 38 East 1st Street (914) 668-1428 Grab and Go: Tues thru Friday 5p – 5:45p

Saints John, Paul & Clement Episcopal Church Food Pantry - Food Distribution Center 126 S 9th Ave (914) 668-0551 Fridays 930a – 12n

Mount Olive Church Food Pantry - Food Distribution Center 60 Martin Luther King Blvd (914) 664-0839 Grocery pickup · No meal service 2nd Wednesdays 10a – 1230p

Grace Baptist Church - Food Distribution Center 52 South 6th Ave

(914) 664-2676 Grocery pickup · No meal service 1st and 3rd Wednesday 930a – 1230p

First Reformed Church - Food Distribution Center 135 South 6th Ave

(914) 664-3846 Mondays 4:15p – 6:45p

Church of the Ascension - Food Distribution Center 104 Park Ave

(914) 668-4851 Grocery pickup · No meal service November 8th 900a – 12noon

If you know a Mount Vernon resident, business, or organization who deserves to be spotlighted in the next City Council Connections newsletter, please email Antoinette Anderson at aanderson@mountvernonny.gov with that person’s name, address, phone number, email address, and the reason why they deserve to be spotlighted. 

Important Dates: The 2025-2026 Emergency HEAP benefit opened January 2, 2026.These dates change annually.

The Emergency HEAP benefit can help you cover the cost of heating your home if you are in a heat or heat-related emergency.

You may be eligible for Emergency HEAP if:

• Your electricity is necessary for your heating system to work and is either shut-off or scheduled to be shut off, or
• Your natural gas heat is off or scheduled to be shut-off, or
• You are out of, or in danger of, running out of fuel (oil, propane, wood, or coal), or
• The essential heating equipment you own is inoperable

Detailed information about Emergency HEAP eligibility and benefits is available online from the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance.

To apply call DSS at (914) 995-3333 or visit one of their District Offices. 

Current HEAP Income Eligibility Guidelines

Dear Neighbors,

As I begin this new term, I want to share how truly grateful and energized I feel to continue serving the residents of Mount Vernon. Stepping into this term, I am more inspired than ever and deeply focused on ensuring that quality-of-life issues in our community are addressed thoughtfully, effectively, and in a timely manner.

From clean and safe neighborhoods to responsive city services, my commitment is to listen, advocate, and work collaboratively to make everyday life better for our residents. City Council exists to be your voice in government, and I take that responsibility seriously. Your concerns, ideas, and experiences help guide the work we do.

I encourage you to reach out whenever you have an issue or concern that City Council may be able to assist with. Please feel free to contact my legislative assistant, Antoinette Anderson, at aanderson@mountvernonny.gov. Our office is here to help and to connect you with the appropriate resources.

Thank you, Mount Vernon, for your trust and for allowing me the honor of representing you. I look forward to continuing this work together and building an even stronger community for all.

With gratitude,

Councilwoman Cathlin Gleason

Greetings Mt. Vernon, 

Mount Vernon is ready for the new year of the horse. The year of the horse signifies energy, freedom, speed, and bold action, representing a time for rapid progress, new opportunities, and breaking free from limitations. 

Our Recreational Department continues to distribute fresh fruits and vegetables at the Doles Center, breaking Mt. Vernon's limitations on these items and starting the year off with volunteers eager to offer them. I was able to pick some of my favorite items: asparagus, raspberries, blackberries, bell peppers, and cauliflower. I steamed the asparagus and added a dash of sea salt, olive oil, and a squeeze of lemon. I used my raspberries and blackberries with Greek yogurt, honey, and granola. These meals lend to energy and rapid progress in one's health. Eating a healthy diet rich in plants reduces food waste. With our Grab & Go at the Doles Center, Mt. Vernon residents can shift to a "climatarian" diet, reducing food waste and eating local. Visit the Doles Center located on 250 South 6th Avenue for the “Grab and Go” Fresh Market. 

Hope to see you there so we can exchange recipes. Bring your reusable bag!

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. held a deep understanding of strategy and an expert execution of his vision. From the Montgomery bus boycott that humbled a city to the way he leveraged morality and unity in his speeches. We’ve experienced marches and speeches, but this year it was a Literary Tea, where history came alive through robust dialogue and reflection. The Westchester County (NY) Chapter of The Links Incorporated hosted The Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Literary Tea.

The Lifetime Champion of Humanity and the Arts was awarded to our Mt. Vernon resident, Dawna Michelle Fields.

The Literary Tea was a collective effort! Literary dialogue moderated by Barbara Edwards, Esq. with authors: Bryan Collier, C.J. Farley, and Cheryl McKissack Daniels. Featured Conversation moderated by Lisa Lowry Lomas, Ph. D. with author Abby Phillip of “A Dream Deferred”. Thank you for the Westchester (NY) Chapter's steadfast dedication to the community by making transformative programming accessible to all. 

We should continue to strive to learn from Dr. King's legacy and all those who stood with him.

I joined nurses on the picket line as they stood up not only for themselves, but for their patients, their profession, and the future of healthcare in our communities. At a time when political promises are too often forgotten once campaigns end, showing up matters. Solidarity matters. Being present matters.

Right now, negotiations remain at a standstill as nearly 15,000 nurses are on strike across three private hospital systems: Mount Sinai, Montefiore, and New York-Presbyterian. These nurses are fighting for safe staffing levels, fair working conditions, and the ability to provide the quality of care patients deserve. This is not just a labor dispute. It is a public health issue.

I am standing tall with our residents of Mt. Vernon, who are either patients or nurses in New York City. United We Stand With the New York State Nurses Association. 

With Mt. Vernon Love, 

Council Member Cynthia Turnquest-Jones 

Happy New Year. As we begin the new year, I extend my sincere wishes for good health, peace, and prosperity to the residents of the City of Mount Vernon. As President Pro Tempore and Finance Chair, I take seriously the responsibility of guiding our City through a period of tight budgetary constraints with discipline, transparency, and sound financial judgment.

The financial challenges we face require careful planning and difficult decisions. In collaboration with my fellow members of the City Council, the Mayor, and the Comptroller, my focus remains on protecting essential services, maintaining fiscal accountability, and ensuring that taxpayer dollars are spent efficiently and responsibly.

Through continued cooperation and open dialogue, we are working together to strengthen Mount Vernon’s financial foundation, prioritize public safety and infrastructure, and pursue long-term strategies that support economic growth and fiscal stability. While restraint is necessary, our shared commitment is to make thoughtful, informed decisions that serve the best interests of our residents.

Transparency, accountability, and collaboration will remain central to our work as we navigate the year ahead. Thank you for your continued trust, engagement, and patience as we work collectively to move our community forward.

I would also like to offer a special and heartfelt note of appreciation to DPW Commissioner Bush and the entire Department of Public Works team for their extended hours and tireless efforts during the recent snowstorm. Their dedication to snow removal helped keep our streets safe and accessible. I also extend my sincere thanks to our Public Safety personnel, the Office of Emergency Management, and the Fire Department for their professionalism, coordination, and unwavering commitment to protecting our residents.

It is an honor to serve the City of Mount Vernon, and I wish you and your families a safe, productive, and successful New Year.

Sincerely,

Councilman Jaevon S. Boxhill

Dear People of Mt. Vernon,

This holiday season, our city came together with joy, generosity, and love.

Over 400 Mt. Vernon residents attended our Gingerbread House Decorating Party, transforming an ordinary day into a community celebration filled with laughter, creativity, and connection. There was icing, candy, and cupcakes galore. Children smiling ear to ear, parents greeting one another at the door, and tables filled with gingerbread houses built with imagination and care.

We shared more than treats. We shared moments. Each child received a toy, twenty brand-new bicycles found new homes, and a raffle brought excitement and surprise to families throughout the day. These gifts were not just items. They were symbols of love, safety, and belonging.

As a Council Member, I know that Love is warm.

When children feel safe, they become more curious, more open to learning, and more confident in expressing themselves. They engage more freely with the world around them because they trust that their community will support them. That is what Mt. Vernon showed that day. A place where children can explore, grow, and smile, knowing they are surrounded by care.

This was truly a Community of Smiles.

It was an honor to embrace Mt. Vernon with Love. Neighbors helping neighbors, families celebrating together, and our city reminding us all that giving is an act of unity. Gift-giving, at its core, is community love made visible.

Thank you to every resident who attended, volunteered, donated, and shared in this experience. Events like this remind us that Mt. Vernon is more than a city. Events like this remind us that Mt. Vernon is a family.

With gratitude and holiday cheer,

Andre Wallace Council Member, Mt. Vernon

At the 2026 City Council Annual Statutory Meeting, we proudly celebrated the reaffirmation of our entire City Council and the announcement of their new standing committee assignments. We also gathered to witness the elevation and swearing-in of our new City Council President, Derrick Thompson, Councilwoman Cynthia Turnquest-Jones, Councilman Andre Wallace, Re-elected Councilwoman Cathlin Gleason, City Clerk Nicole Bonilla and Deputy City Clerk Jordan Riullano. The City of Mount Vernon extends its congratulations and sincere appreciation for their willingness to step forward in service and leadership. Mount Vernon, please join us in wishing them continued success.

The Mount Vernon City Council proudly congratulates the Honorable Danielle R. Browne on her swearing-in as Mount Vernon City Court Judge.

Public service is nothing new to Judge Browne. Over the past four years, she has faithfully served the residents of Mount Vernon as a City Councilwoman, rising to the role of City Council President and becoming the youngest person in the City’s history to hold that position.

Judge Browne makes history once again as the youngest individual to ever sit on the bench for the City of Mount Vernon. Her deep dedication to our community, tireless work ethic, and unwavering commitment to justice exemplify the values of public service.

The City Council is confident that Judge Browne will continue to serve with integrity, fairness, and excellence in this new role, and we extend our best wishes as she embarks on this next chapter of service to our City.

Congratulations to Reverend Dr. Darren M. Morton

The Mount Vernon City Council extends its sincere congratulations to Reverend Dr. Darren M. Morton on his second swearing-in as Comptroller for the City of Mount Vernon.



Your leadership continues to exemplify competence, professionalism, and accountability. We thank you for once again stepping forward to serve our City with integrity, dedication, and a deep love for the Mount Vernon community.

The City Council wishes you continued success as you carry out your responsibilities, confident that your stewardship will further strengthen and uplift the City of Mount Vernon.

The Mount Vernon City Council proudly stands in support of nurses represented by the New York State Nurses Association (NYSNA). Nurses are essential to the health, safety, and wellbeing of our community, providing critical care and advocacy for patients every day. The Council recognizes their dedication and supports efforts to ensure safe working conditions, fair treatment, and high-quality healthcare for all residents.

The Westchester County (NY) Chapter of The Links Incorporated hosted The Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Literary Tea. The Lifetime Champion of Humanity and the Arts was awarded to our Mt. Vernon resident, Dawna Michelle Fields.

Visit the Doles Center located on 250 South 6th Avenue for the “Grab and Go” Fresh Market.

The City of Mount Vernon was proud to host the January 2026 meeting of the Westchester Municipal Officials Association (WMOA) on January 8 at the Wartburg. Since 1937, WMOA has brought together leaders from 45 cities, villages, and towns across Westchester County fostering collaboration, strengthening partnerships, and advancing effective local governance countywide.

WMOAs guest speaker was Brian M. Coffin Legislative Director for the New York Conference of Mayors and Municipal Officials. Mr. Coffin oversees the formulation and implementation of NYCOM’s legislative agenda and advocacy strategy, as well as the development and drafting of legislative proposals. Also responsible for municipal finance inquires.

Civic Responsibility is comprised of actions and attitudes associated with democratic governance and social participation. Civic responsibility can include participation in government, church, volunteering with organizations and memberships of voluntary associations. The importance of civic responsibility is paramount to the success of democracy and philanthropy. By engaging in civic responsibility, citizens ensure and uphold certain democratic values written in our country’s founding documents.

Click the button below for more information on our various boards and commission services.

* All Council meetings will be livestreamed via Facebook live on the City of Mount Vernon's page.