New York City Council Member

ERIC DINOWITZ

Proudly serving the neighborhoods of Bedford Park, Kingsbridge, Riverdale, Norwood, Van Cortlandt Village, Spuyten Duyvil, Wakefield, and Woodlawn.

11th Council District, Bronx · 277 West 231st, Bronx, NY 10463 ·

 Tel: (718) 549 - 7300

This Edition: Street Co-Naming for the late Sandra Pabon, Celebrating Accessibility at Queens College, Joint Letters to Demand Action, Upcoming Events, and more!

Dear Neighbor,

While summer months bring camp, the beach, and vacation for many of my constituents, my office is working harder than ever to serve you. That is because we have more walk-ins at our District Office in Kingsbridge, more outdoor events that draw crowds, and we have more people in need because of the heat. I’m excited to tell you about how we built community over the past week and keep you up-to-date on my work. 

In Norwood, we honored a cherished community figure, Sandra Pabon, with a street co-naming ceremony. In Van Cortlandt Park, we held a free and open to the public concert. In Riverdale, we held library office hours. And so much more!

Community is always at the top of my mind, and once again, this Mayoral administration is taking steps to remove power from the people when it comes to land use decisions. The Charter Revision Commission’s recent proposed changes to land use and zoning are unacceptable and I will do everything in my power to fight them. Removing power from the City Council and ceding it to the Mayor only weakens the voices of those who want to see their communities thrive, not bulldozed. I elaborate more on this topic further down. 

Read on to learn more about what I’ve been working on - and what’s coming up - in this edition of the Dinowitz Dispatch!



Council Member Eric Dinowitz

Street Co-Naming in Norwood - Honoring the Late Sandra Pabon

On Saturday, July 19, I led a street co-naming ceremony to honor the late Sandra Pabon - a tireless advocate, community leader, and beloved Bronxite, whose legacy continues to inspire us all. The intersection at East 204th Street and Hull Avenue in Norwood will now be known as Sandra Pabon Way, recognizing her decades of service to Norwood and the Bronx.

Sandra Pabon served in countless roles throughout her life, including Chaplain of the 49th Precinct, Democratic District Leader for the 80th Assembly District, Democratic State Committee Member for the 80th Assembly District, first responder, substance use counselor, union delegate, and community organizer. 

She also supported disaster relief efforts following Hurricane Maria in 2017, organized food and coat drives, delivered PPE during the pandemic, and founded Soup for Souls to provide meals to those in need. In every role, she was a servant of the people. Through her work with New York Cares, she helped collect and donate thousands of winter coats.

Among those in attendance were Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson, U.S. Congressman Ritchie Torres, State Senators Jamaal Bailey and Nathalia Fernandez, Assembly Members Jeffrey Dinowitz and John Zaccaro Jr., former State Committeeman Kenny Agosto, Bronx Community Board 7 District Manager Karla Cabrera Carrera, members of Bronx Community Board 8, Bronx District Attorney Darcel D. Clark, Sandra Pabon’s daughter Alexandria Arriaga, other members of Sandra’s family, and other community leaders and local residents.

Sandra’s compassion, strength, and unwavering dedication to uplifting our community left a lasting mark on everyone who knew her, including me. We lost Sandra far too soon, but her spirit lives on in the community she loved and served so selflessly.

Celebrating the 35th Anniversary of the ADA at Queens College

On Wednesday, July 24, I joined students, advocates, and leaders from across the city at Queens College to mark the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), landmark civil rights legislation that transformed the lives of millions by prohibiting discrimination based on disability.

Before serving in the City Council, I was a special education teacher in the Bronx, working directly with students with disabilities and their families. That experience continues to shape my commitment to advancing accessibility, inclusion, and opportunity for all New Yorkers - both in the classroom and in City Hall.

The ADA was a historic step forward, but the work isn’t done. I’m proud to stand with the disability community and with CUNY students to keep pushing for dignity, access, and equity in every space across our city.

Highlighting the Impact of Family Enrichment Centers

On Wednesday, July 24, I also visited the Bronx County Court House where I joined Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson, Council Member Althea Stevens, and advocates from the Family Enrichment Centers (FECs) to learn more about the vital work being done by the NYC Administration for Children’s Services (ACS) through these innovative community spaces.

FECs are family-led, neighborhood-based hubs where children and caregivers can build meaningful relationships, access essential resources, and participate in programs that reflect their community’s needs. From parent support groups to wellness workshops, volunteer opportunities, and resource navigation, these centers are designed to meet families where they are—fostering trust, connection, and long-term stability.

As a former educator and now as a Council Member, I’ve seen the importance of spaces that empower families and help them thrive. FECs are doing transformative work by putting community voices at the center and making sure support is accessible, welcoming, and grounded in care. I continue to champion services and investments that uplift children, support caregivers, and strengthen neighborhoods across our bourgh and NYC.

Meeting with AJC CEO Ted Deutch

Celebrating and supporting the work of our Jewish and Israel advocacy organizations is essential in the fight to combat antisemitism and uplift our Jewish community. As Chair of the NYC Council’s Jewish Caucus, I recently met with  American Jewish Committee (AJC) CEO Ted Deutch for a meaningful and important conversation.

AJC is a leading global advocacy organization that works to enhance the well-being of the Jewish people and Israel, while advancing democratic values and human rights. The conversation focused on how the Council and AJC can work together to combat antisemitism through education, programming, and social media.

I remain deeply committed to ensuring Jewish New Yorkers are safe, supported, and heard - both in City Hall and across New York City.

Visiting with Older Adults at the Riverdale Y Adult Center

On Wednesday, July 23, I had the chance to visit the Riverdale Y where I spent some time with wonderful older adults in our community. I first stopped in to say hello to a lively group of mahjong players, then made my way to the chat with some friends during lunch. On my way out, I stopped by their weekly karaoke session, which was in full swing.

As part of the fun, I sat down at the piano to play and sing with them. The room was filled with music, laughter, and community spirit. It was a heartwarming reminder of the joy and connection that spaces like the Riverdale Y bring to so many in our district.

Summer Music at the Van Cortlandt House Museum Front Lawn!

On Saturday, July 19, as part of their annual Summer Music series, the Bronx Arts Ensemble performed on the front lawn of the Van Cortlandt House Museum, bringing beautiful live music to the community. The concert featured a woods & woodwinds ensemble, with a mix of classical and contemporary pieces in heart of Van Cortlandt Park.

Sponsoring events like these is about investing in the beauty and culture that make our borough the best in NYC. It’s also about creating accessible spaces for connection, and making the arts a part of everyday life. 



The Summer Music series continues every Saturday through August 2. Bring your friends, family, and join us for another beautiful afternoon of music in the park next Saturday, July 26 from 3-5pm! Scroll to the upcoming events & announcements section of the newsletter for this Saturday's flyer and more information!

Stopping by to Visit the Beacon For Democracy Group in Riverdale!

I recently stopped by West 235th Street and Johnson Avenue to visit with the Beacon for Democracy group, a local grassroots effort that brings together people of all faiths and secular backgrounds who feel called to stand with those facing injustice. Through WhatsApp groups, the Beacon mobilizes its diverse community members to take action. 

The importance of showing up has never been greater, and I’m grateful to the Beacon for Democracy members for their commitment to standing up for our shared values and the people who make our neighborhoods strong.

You can learn more about the Beacon's 'Thursdays at 7' Shine the Light project here.

Team Dinowitz Representing on a Leadership Panel with Bronx District Attorney Darcel D. Clark!

I'm incredibly grateful to have an outstanding staff who support the wide-ranging needs of our constituents and keep our office running smoothly. That work wouldn’t be possible without the leadership of my Chief of Staff, Jenna.

Recently, Jenna was invited by Bronx District Attorney Darcel D. Clark’s team to speak on a panel alongside other City Council and City government staff, where they shared their experiences working in government and discussed career paths in politics and local government.

The panel was hosted for interns from BRAVE Communities, (Build Relationships Awareness Voices and Engagement) a youth empowerment organization that equips young people ages 14 to 24 with leadership, communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

I'm proud to have a team that seeks to mentor the next generation of public servants!

Library Office Hours!

My office hosts weekly office hours at libraries across the district as well to bring our constituent services directly to you. On Tuesday, July 8, we were at the Van Cortlandt Public Library and on Wednesday, July 16, we were at the Riverdale Public Library, staying on site to help residents with city services, answer questions, and connect our community with vital resources. 

These sessions are especially vital for those who can’t easily get to my district office in Kingsbridge, and each of the libraries in our district serve as designated cooling centers, offering a safe, air-conditioned space during the summer heat.

Our next mobile office hours will be at the Wakefield Public Library on Thursday, July 31. Come by and cool off, ask a question, or just say hi. We’re here for you!

Norwood News Article Spotlighting Funding for District 11 Schools in FY25!

As an educator, I know how essential it is for schools to have the critical resources they need for students to be able to thrive in our fast-paced, technology-driven world. That’s why in the FY25 budget, I made it a priority to secure millions of dollars in discretionary and capital funding for schools across the district, from critical PA system upgrades to academic technology improvements (new tablets and computers), and more!

Every student deserves the best learning environment possible to be equipped with all the learning resources and tools they need to thrive. This funding helps close resource gaps, address long-standing infrastructure needs, and expand opportunities for every student here in the Bronx.

Read more about some of the schools and projects I secured for District 11 schools this year in the recent Norwood News article here!

Bronx Times Article on Bronx Chamber of Commerce's Annual Legislative Breakfast Event

An article was recently published in the Bronx Times spotlighting the Bronx Delegation's participation at the Bronx Chamber of Commerce's Annual Legislative Breakfast on Thursday, July 10. At this event, I discussed legislative priorities and the importance of listening closely to the concerns of our community's storefront owners, nonprofit institutions, and neighborhood operators who help power our local economy.

Check out the article here!

Simon Wiesenthal Summer Internship Program

On Tuesday, July 22, I spoke with college students who are taking part in the Simon Wiesenthal Center’s Summer Internship program, where I spoke about the importance of public service, civic engagement, and staying rooted in community values while working in government. These students are working in offices across the local, state, and federal government where they are gaining important, hands-on experience in civic engagement and politics.

The Simon Wiesenthal Center plays a vital role in combating antisemitism, Holocaust education, and building a more informed world on identifying what hate looks like using research, reporting, media, and other education programming. In today’s climate, this mission is more important than ever, and it was an honor to speak with students and Simon Wisenthal Center leadership who are stepping up to be a part of this work.

The City Council Votes on Bally’s Casino Proposal and Seeks Historic Investment in The Bronx

At the most recent City Council Stated Meeting, the Council’s Land Use Committee passed a resolution to disapprove the Bally’s Casino bid proposed for The Bronx. When it came to the floor for a vote of the full body, I and all but one of the members of The Bronx Delegation voted against that resolution, supporting the potential investment it would bring to our borough.

This vote was not a vote of final approval for the casino, but rather it was a land use action. It would have allowed the Bally's application to move forward to the next stage of the application process, allowing it to compete for a casino license. Manhattan, Queens, and Brooklyn have all had their land use items approved. 

The $4 billion proposal would represent the largest economic development initiative in Bronx history, with an expected $625 million in community benefits, thousands of jobs, and significant infrastructure improvements. The plan also includes long-term support for local nonprofits, workforce development, and public amenities.

The mayor still has an opportunity to veto the council's vote. This could allow for the application to move to the next phase. 

In the next phase, a Community Advisory Council would still need two thirds of its members to approve the proposal. Only with the Community Advisory Council's approval can Bally's apply for a limited number of casino licenses. 

While the State ultimately determines who receives a casino license, the Council's disapproval complicates the project’s path forward. In order for the project to move forward, the Mayor must veto the Council's resolution. If he does that, it may return to the Council for a potential override vote - which would effectively end the bid. If the Mayor vetoes the resolution and the Council does not override the veto, the application can move to the next phase.

Very often, historical and systemic issues outside our control impact our well-being here in The Bronx. This land use decision is a choice - a choice to stay in the running for thousands of jobs and millions of dollars in investment, or give up before the Community Advisory Council even has an opportunity to support or reject the application. 

I remain committed to advocating for bold, forward-thinking economic development that centers Bronx families and ensures our borough gets the investment and respect it deserves. 

Statement on Ballot Proposals Advanced by Mayor Adams’ Charter Revision Commission

The Mayor is proposing charter revisions, which will appear on the ballot in this November's General Election. These proposals would take power out of the hands of local communities and their representatives and into the hands of the Mayor and unelected boards.

Click here to read the joint statement made by the City Council's leadership on this development.

Click here to read my statement, which I put out on all my social media pages.

Social Media Reminder: If you're not already following me on my social media pages, you can follow me on Instagram and X at @EricDinowitzNYC, and on Facebook at @EricDinowitzNYCity!

Along with Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz and 23 other Bronx elected officials, we are demanding that NY1 service be restored to residents who have been impacted by the ongoing negotiations between Charter Communications and Altice USA.

Bronx residents have had NY1 as part of their cable TV package for years, and rely on NY1’s award-winning political and news coverage, especially during an election season. We implore Charter and Altice to restore Spectrum News NY1 to those who’ve lost service.

See the joint letter addressed to President & CEO of Charter Communications and the Chairman & CEO of Altice USA below:

Residents at 3660 Oxford Avenue have been living through completely unacceptable conditions. The building’s elevators have repeatedly broken down, leaving older adults and tenants with mobility impairments stranded. These failures are not just inconvenient. They are dangerous.

Our office has heard directly from residents and taken immediate action. We sent formal letters to the Commissioners of the Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) and the Department of Buildings (DOB), urging them to step in and compel the building’s management to restore full elevator service and address the longstanding pattern of neglect. You can read this letter below.

This building has accumulated dozens of violations, many of them tied to elevator safety and functionality. We are pushing for a real, permanent fix and for accountability from the property owner. Everyone deserves to live in a safe and functional home. We will not stop until that is true at 3660 Oxford Avenue.

If you or someone you know lives in the building and needs assistance, please reach out to our office.

Water Restored at 5235 Post Road

Last week, residents at 5235 Post Road reached out to my office after experiencing a water outage that began on Thursday, July 17. One resident had already filed two 311 complaints, which was promptly flagged with the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). Thanks to the quick action of my Constituent Advocate Moises, DEP responded to the issue and restored water service. We followed up directly with the residents to confirm that service had resumed - and we're happy to report the problem was resolved within a few hours.

This is what we do - showing up, following up, and making sure our neighbors get the services, and water, they need.

Please Note: On the last Friday of every month, my office will not be taking any walk-in appointments. Therefore, if you would like to visit my office on Friday, July 25, you must have a pre-scheduled appointment.

If you would like to schedule an appointment with one of my constituent advocates, you can call my office at 718-549-7300. Thank you!

Please read all the terms and conditions of your leases to ensure you have full knowledge of what you are signing onto. 



In addition, your leases MUST be signed by the respective landlord in order to be recognized as a legal document of the State of New York. If you are having difficulty with any of the above, our office is happy to assist. 

The Major Capital Improvements (MCI) rent increases are rent increases applied for by landlords to sustain building-wide improvements. Please be advised that the Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR) MUST approve them, and tenants are able to fight these increases. If you require assistance regarding MCI rent increases, our office will be happy to help you.

Join the Bronx Arts Ensemble on Saturday, July 26, at 3:00pm at the Van Cortlandt House Museum Lawn, as they bring live music to the community with their first concert in their SummerMusic Series.

Enjoy a beautiful afternoon of live music in the park with neighbors and friends. This free outdoor concert is perfect for the whole family - don’t miss it!

The BAE’s Summer Time Concert Series will run every Saturday through August 2. Check out the flyer below for Saturday’s upcoming event!

Held annually across the country, National Night Out is a celebration of community, safety, and partnership. It’s a chance to connect with NYPD officers in a positive and welcoming setting, enjoy family-friendly activities, and stand together in support of safe, vibrant neighborhoods.

Come out for an afternoon of music, games, giveaways, and community spirit - let’s show what makes the Bronx strong!

Free Virtual Bike Classes for All Ages and Skill Levels – Now Through November!

NYC Department of Youth & Community Development - Community Needs Assessment Survey

The NYC Department of Youth & Community Development (DYCD) wants to hear from you! Take a few minutes to complete their Community Needs Assessment Survey and help shape the future of youth and community programs across the city. Your input ensures that services reflect the real needs of our neighborhoods.

Take part in the survey by clicking here or scan the QR code in the flyer below:

Advanced Learn to Swim for Children, Learn to Swim for Children, and Learn to Swim for Tots at Pools across NYC!

Also: Senior Splash and Lap Swimming at Van Cortlandt Park is open July 7-August 29.

See flyers with dates, sessions, times, and contact information below:

Sincerely,

Council Member Eric Dinowitz

Chair, Higher Education

Chair, Jewish Caucus

District 11

dinowitz@council.nyc.gov

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