Res. No. 132
Resolution calling on the New York State Legislature and Governor to amend the New York State Public Authorities Law by granting residents of Roosevelt Island the power to vote for members of the board of the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation.
By Council Member Menin
Whereas, Roosevelt Island is located along New York City’s East River, within the borough of Manhattan, and spans nearly 2 miles in length; and
Whereas, Roosevelt Island is home to approximately 12,000 residents as well as the campus for Cornell Tech; and
Whereas, In an effort to help manage the island’s residential community and businesses, in 1984, New York State established the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (“RIOC”) as a public benefit corporation; and
Whereas, The RIOC is charged with planning, designing, developing, operating and maintaining Roosevelt Island; and
Whereas, The RIOC is also responsible for managing Roosevelt Island’s roads, parks, buildings and public transportation; and
Whereas, Additionally, the RIOC operates the island’s Public Safety Department, ensuring that residents and visitors are provided a secure environment; and
Whereas, The RIOC is an instrumental component in the daily operation and safety of Roosevelt Island; and
Whereas, Title 35 of the New York State Public Authorities Law establishes the RIOC, its powers and the organization of its board of directors; and
Whereas, The RIOC board of directors is comprised of nine members who are appointed by the governor with advice and consent of the New York State Senate; and
Whereas, The RIOC is the governing body of the daily operations of Roosevelt Island and the board of directors should be elected by the island’s residents; and
Whereas, Roosevelt Island should have the autonomy to elect its representatives and be free from gubernatorial appointment; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, That the Council of the City of New York calls on the New York State Legislature and Governor to amend the New York State Public Authorities Law by granting residents of Roosevelt Island the power to vote for member of the board of the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation.
Session 13
LS #10577
01/18/2024
Session 12
WJH
LS 10577
1/13/22