Happy New Year! State of the District, Scaffolding, Zoning and Campaign Finance Reform

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. INVITATION: State of the District with Free Bags
2. Opening the Second Avenue Subway
3. Campaign Finance Laws Passed
4. Scaffolding Reform
5. Traffic Cones
6. Delivery Bike Safety
7. 180 East 88th Street Construction Permit Challenged
8. Sutton: Citation for Charles Fernandez
9. Join Your Community Board

HOUSING AND ZONING

10. Reforms to Stop BSA Variances from Neighborhood Plans
11. Preventing the Next Rivington: Deed Restriction Reforms Signed into Law
12. Unveiling Henderson Place District Marker
13. Join Me for "Trading the Sky" Panel Discussion
14. Land Use Clinic
15. Mapping the Shadows of New York City
16. Freinds of the Upper East Side Historic Districts 2017 Awards: A Call For Entries

ENVIRONMENT

17. Opening the Queensboro Oval Under the 59th Street Bridge
18. Cleaner Air From City Power Plants
19. Con Edison Steam and Power Plant at East 74th Street

COMMUNITY

20. Apply for Pre-K
21. Help the Homeless by Counting Those in Need
22. LifeSciNYC
23. NYCEDC Works Toward Starting Life Sciences Incubators
24. Proclamation for Sally Minard
25. Tours for Schools
26. Firefighter Raises Money for Upper East Side Fire Victims
27. Night at the Opera
28. Park NYC Roll Out
29. E-Waste Event at the 92nd Street Y
30. The Glass Room with Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito

OFFICE UPDATES

31. Happy Holidays
32. Remembering the Fallen at Pearl Harbor
33. City Council Funding for Local Non-Profits
34. Legislative Corner
35. Free Legal Clinics
36. Here to Help
37. Mobile District Hours
38. Ben in Your Building

EVENTS AND RESOURCES

39. City Council Events
40. Government Meetings
41. Community Boards
42. New York Police Department
43. Neighborhood and Tenant Associations
44. Community Events for Kids
45. Community Events for Adults
46. Resources Funded by My Office

INVITATION: State of the District with Free Bags

You are cordially invited to our annual State of the District
1:00PM, Sunday, January 22
Memorial Sloan Kettering
430 East 67th Street
RSVP to reserve your bag

Please join me for my annual report to you on the State of the District, recognizing all the work my office and members of our community have done together over the past three years and what’s in store for 2017. RSVP by calling 212-860-1950 or BenKallos.com/events

Opening the Second Avenue Subway

As reported by WABC 7, I was pleased to join Governor Cuomo, MTA Chair Prendergast, MTA Capital Consturction President Horodniceanu, Manhattan Borough President Brewer, Assembly Member Seawright and Building Trades President LaBarbera, to cut the ribbon on the 86th Street Second Avenue Subway Station. I also had the privilege of welcoming the New Year with an inaugural rider with Governor Cuomo, Mayor de Blasio, Comptroller Stringer, Public Advocate James, Congress Member Maloney, Borough President Brewer, Assembly Members Seawright and Quart as well as former Mayor Dinkins and so many more. Will you be riding the Second Avenue Subway? How has it improved your commute? Share pictures of your ride with my office using by tweeting @benkallos #myfirstride .

Campaign Finance Laws Passed

New York City’s model campaign finance system was protected and improved by a package of legislation the Council passed into law in December. The legislation is a product of recommendations made by the New York Campaign Finance Board in their 2013 Post-Election Report.

I, along with Council Members Williams, Cabrera, and King, introduced a series of eight bills that will eliminate unnecessary requirements to drop off and pick up conflict forms by hand, discover the individuals behind corporations that do business in New York City, and level the playing field against political committees outside the city giving money to non-participants. Through this set of legislation, we will improve debates, get voter guides online to go green and save money and our environment, give campaigns public funds so that they can communicate with voters, and stop matching contributions with public funds for lobbyists.

This legislation empowers the people’s voice over that of corporate interests through our city’s campaign finance system. Thanks to it, the people’s individual small dollar contributions will have more power and there will be more certainty for them and the candidates they invest in than corporations and hidden money. Learn more about the bills by reading the release.

Scaffolding Reform

The New York Times and NBC 4 reported this month on legislation I introduced aimed at dismantling a portion of the nearly 9,000 scaffolds spanning 190 miles in the city, many of which are up unnecessarily. These structures, which are intended to be temporary, are set up to protect pedestrians from dangerous conditions due to ongoing construction. However, because in many cases it is cheaper to keep them up then complete construction, many have become permanent fixtures, attracting crime and providing a bad alternative to shelter for the city’s homeless. This legislation will give building owners 90 days to fix dangerous conditions with another 90 days of a possible extension. After 180 days, the city will intervene and correct the dangerous condition at the building owner’s expense. In addition, under this legislation, construction could not be halted for more than 7 days without the scaffold being taken down. To learn more about this, read the press release, the legislation, or coverage from  Crain’s New York  Business, Metro, Upper East Side Patch, Habitat, or watch television coverage from ABC 7, NBC 4, NY1, and FOX 5. Do you know of scaffolding that has been up for more than a year without any work getting done?

Traffic Cones

Ever been caught in traffic from road barriers, but when you get to the barriers, no road work is happening? The Daily News and Boss Magazine reported on legislation I introduced in December to address the problem of temporary roadblocks created by construction crews who set up road barriers, like those orange cones, but don’t actually do any work. Under my legislation road barriers would only be allowed one hour before or after road work, with fines issued in response to 311 calls. Do you know of road barriers that is frequently up without any work actually getting done?


Delivery Bike Safety

As covered in Our Town, the East 72^nd Street Neighborhood Association with support from my office and the office of Council Member Dan Garodnick, are grading delivery bikes from restaurants up and down the Upper East Side, with A grades for restaurants that where safety vests and don’t use electronic bikes (eBikes) to F grades for restaurants that use eBikes. Join the East 72^nd Street Neighborhood Association and read the 2016 Delivery Bike Report Card to find out what grade you favorite restaurant got and thank them or ask them to do better.

In response to the 2016 Delivery Bike Report Card Council Member Dan Gaordnick is joining with me to expand my third annual Commercial Bike Safety Training to cover the entire Upper East Side offering every single bike delivery person a free vest, light and bell after they complete a 90 minute safety training in English, Spanish or Chinese. Please make sure your favorite restaurant participates with an RSVP at BenKallos.com/Events

Free Safety Equipment: Vests, Lights, Bells 
2:30PM – 5PM, Thursday, January 26, 2017
Robert F. Kennedy, P.S. 169, 110 East 88^th Street
RSVP

180 East 88th Street Zoning Challenge

The Wall Street Journal reported on the most recent zoning challenge Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer, State Senator Liz Krueger, Carnegie Hill Neighbors, local Planner George M. Janes and I have mounted against the construction of a 524-foot skyscraper on 180 East 88th Street. The challenge comes after the New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) approved new “amended” zoning plans. These new zoning plans were necessary after a stop work order had been issued in May as a result of local elected officials including myself pointing out to the DOB that the “L” shaped lot this developer was using to build the building was ploy to skirt zoning laws limiting its height. As of October 27 the DOB had approved the zoning plan for the ENTIRE JOB/WORK. This is despite the property still using an unbuildable lot as its address only increasing it from 4 feet to 10 feet. The developer also continues to refer to the 30-foot yard which it is using as its main entrance as a “rear yard”. Zoning laws were created to protect our residents from overdevelopment and must not be eroded by creating new loopholes. While the DOB looks into the zoning challenge the stop work order is still in effect. To learn more about this case read the release and other coverage from DNAinfo and the original exclusive from The Wall Street Journal. You can support the fight against skyscrapers on the Upper East Side and 180 East 88th Street by joining CarnegieHillNeighbors.org

Sutton: Citation for Charles Fernandez

In November, The Wall Street Journal reported on Charles Fernandez, a tenant fighting for affordable housing in the Sutton Area, whose vigilance and reporting won a stop work order protect residents in his building from construction work that was slated to happen without a legally required tenant protection plan in place. I had the privilege of honoring Charles Fernandez at a meeting of the East River Fifties Alliance with a citation from the City Council for his leadership. Since the stop work order was issued, the property and air rights in question were sold back to the lender in a foreclosure auction. Although no immediate plans have been revealed by the new buyer, the East River Fifties Alliance, Borough President Gale Brewer, State Senator Liz Krueger, and Council Member Dan Garodnick and I remain committed to rezoning this neighborhood to stop superscrapers and have filed a new zoning plan with the City. You can learn more and financially support the effort at ERFA.nyc

Join Your Community Board
 
The Manhattan Borough President's office is currently accepting applications for Community Board memberships. Community Boards represent their neighborhoods on crucial issues including real estate development and land use, historic preservation and even liquor licenses. Serving as a volunteer Community Board member is an incredible opportunity to be on the front lines of our civic landscape. 
 
Since I took office, I have worked on reforms to make the Community Board a productive place for you to get involved on local issues and to make them more reflective of the communities they represent. The New York Times covered a bill I cosponsored to ensure our boards accurately reflect New York City’s diverse neighborhoods even by allowing 16 and 17 year old’s to serve. If your are interested in being a leader and representative of the Upper East Side we encourage you to start attending meetings and apply at manhattanbp.nyc.gov/html/community-boards/community-boards.shtml


 

HOUSING REFORM

Reforms to Stop BSA Variances from Neighborhood Plans

As reported by The Real Deal, City Land, and Our Town, I proposed and held a hearing over a package of bills aimed at reforming the Board of Standards and Appeals (BSA), a small agency best known by developers for granting variances from the City’s zoning laws that control neighborhood planning. The BSA has been accused of being a “rubber stamp” for developers and ignoring objections of residents, community boards and elected officials, created difficulty in appealing determinations without any written decision and short time frame, and ultimately “rezoning by variance” without public review. The BSA granted 97% of variances in 2011, with community boards only supporting 79% of the variances that they acted on, according to Citizen’s Union. The bills that I introduced along with with Majority Leader Van Bramer, Minority Leader Matteo, Zoning Chair Richards, Council Member Koslowitz and Council Member Mendez will reform the BSA by imposing rigorous requirements on developers to prove why the zoning laws should not apply to them and requiring mapping of all variances online, among other reforms. To learn more, watch the hearing, read the press release or coverage by Our Town, City Land, and The Real Deal.

Preventing the Next Rivington: Deed Restriction Reforms Signed into Law

The City Council unanimously passed deed restriction legislation authored by Council Member Margaret Chin and Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer that I co-sponsored and heard in my committee. In late December, Mayor de Blasio signed the legislation into law. Now mayors are required to personally sign-off on any changes or removals of city-imposed deed restrictions to properties. The law also formulates an online database tracking deed restrictions and changes to them so the public can be aware. Back in September, I held a hearing into the Rivington House deed restriction lifting which allowed a protected Manhattan nursing home to be sold to luxury condominium developers for a profit. The new law provides greater transparency and accountability so the Rivington House ordeal never happens again.

Unveiling Henderson Place District Marker

In December, I had the honor of unveiling the Henderson District Marker along with Landmarks Preservation Commission Chair Meenakshi Srinivasan, Christina Davis of the Landmarks Preservation Foundation and Carmen Dell’Orefice President of 8 Henderson Place Foundation helped unveil the marker to the neighborhood. The Marker designates a group of townhouses constructed in the 1880s in the Queen Anne Style. The homes reflect the original charm and architectural character of Yorkville. Thanks to the efforts of conservation groups like Friends of the Upper East Side Historic Districts these few townhouses continue to stand apart from the structures around them and bring us culture by reminding us of what the Upper East Side was like in 1881. You can bring a market for your historic district by supporting the Landmarks Preservation Foundation at nylpf.org

Join Me for "Trading the Sky" Panel Discussion

I am excited to join the Municipal Art Society (MAS) for a panel discussion on the subject of Trading the Sky: Transparency in Trading of Development Rights, part of MAS' A Closer LOOK series. 

Monday, January 23rd, 6:30 - 8:30 P.M.
488 Madison Avenue, 19th floor
mas.org/programs/

Over the last 50 years, the City has pioneered the use of Transferable Development Rights (TDRs), allowing landowners to buy and sell unused development capacity and move it from one parcel to another. The series of complex TDR mechanisms advance a variety of planning and urban design objectives. However, the opaqueness of this process means that such deals can be difficult to track and result in communities caught off guard by out-of-context development. 
 
As the visible impact of TDRs on our skyline increases, so does the imperative to explore ways to enhance transparency. For this edition for A Closer LOOK, we’ll be joined by a panel of experts to discuss how we might demystify the TDR market for property owners, developers, community boards, planners, and urban citizens alike.
 

Land Use Clinic

On the second Thursday of every month, from 5:00pm-6:00pm, I am sponsoring and hosting a free land use clinic by the Historic Districts Council in my district office. The clinic will cover creating landmarks and historic districts, working with the Landmarks Commission and Department of Buildings, as well as common zoning and land use issues. If you are interested, please reserve an appointment by calling my district office at (212) 860-1950 or emailing at bkallos@benkallos.com.

Mapping the Shadows of New York City

My fight to preserve New York City’s light and air for everyday residents not just the wealthy is one that continues to gain support. The New York Times featured a story titled, "The Struggle for Light and Air in America’s Largest City," where they mapped how our City’s skyscraper dense landscape poses unique challenges to many neighborhoods in Manhattan. Research from NYU found that on average most Manhattan neighborhoods are covered in shadows for at least half of all daylight hours. Pictured to the right is East 79th Street and Second Avenue which spends 80% to 100% of each season in shadow.I am committed to the fight against skyscrapers in residential neighborhoods that cast miles long shadows.  Whether it Sutton area’s 950ft tower or the Upper East Side’s 180 East 88th Street proposed buildings should reflect the character of the neighborhoods they will be in. I have fought shadow casting skyscrapers in neighborhoods that do not want them since I was elected. Sign the petition  at benkallos.com/petition/stopsuperscrapers

Friends of the Upper East Side Historic Districts 2017 Awards: A Call for Entries

The deadline for entries to Friends of the Upper East Side Historic Districts’ 34th Annual Meeting and Awards Ceremony is January 6th. The awards celebrate outstanding achievement in preservation architecture and advocacy. Categories vary each year but previous winners have demonstrated excellence in Restoration, Rehabilitation, Design, and Stewardship.

The eligibility Requirements are:

• Projects must be located between 59th and 110th Streets, and between 5th Avenue and the East River, including Central Park.
• Projects must have been substantially completed between December 1, 2015 and December 1, 2016.
• Only the exteriors of architectural projects and/or historically significant interiors will be considered.
• Preservation projects should be for restoration, rehabilitation, or adaptive reuse of historic buildings (including Post World War II architecture). The buildings may be located either in or out of the historic districts.
• New construction is also eligible.
• Individuals or advocacy groups must have contributed to the preservation of the Upper East Side's built environment.

For more information contact efagan@friends-ues.org.

ENVIRONMENT

Opening the Queensboro Oval Under the 59th Street Bridge

Community Board 8 will be having its Parks Committee meeting on January 12 where the New York City Parks Department will be presenting three options on what to do with the Queensboro Oval and the 1-acre plot of land it sits on. The meeting is open to the public and will be held at 62 East 92nd Street at the Brick Presbyterian Church beginning at 6:30pm. I have been proud to support Community Board 8 Manhattan Park Committee Co-Chairs Susan Evans and Margaret Price in leading this effort with Assembly Member Dan Quart and the support of Congress Member Maloney, Borough President Brewer, Council Member Garodnick, Senator Krueger, and Assembly Members Seawright.
Please come to the Parks meeting on January 12. If you haven't already, please express your support by signing the petition at BenKallos.com/petition/oval
 

Cleaner Air from City Power Plants

Power and steam plants in New York City that still burn number 4 and 6 oils that heavily pollute our air, were the subject of a hearing by the Committee on Environmental Protection Chaired by Council Member Costa Constantinides. The Fifth Council District that I represent includes the East 74th Street Con-Edison steam and power plant, the plant under the 59th Street bridge and is across the water from the Ravenswood plant. At the hearing, Chair Constantinides revealed disparities between reports of how much number 4 and 6 heating oil was burned and how much was reported to the State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which we are working to get to the bottom of.

Con Edison Steam and Power Plant at East 74th Street

In December, I toured the Con Edison steam and power plant on the Upper East Side at East 74^th Street which has been in operation since 1955. During the tour I learned about operations there and the precautions Con Edison takes to keep the surrounding population safe at all times. This power plant isn’t just open to elected officials. If you are a principal, teacher, or parent and you’d like to schedule a tour for your class, fifth grade and up, email scheduler@benkallos.com.

COMMUNITY

Apply for Free Pre-K

The application period for Pre-K starts January 17. All NYC families with a child born in 2013, including students with disabilities, can apply until February 24. All families who submit an application by the deadline will get an offer letter in late April 2017 and will need to accept it by early May. For help finding a Pre-K near you visit maps.nyc.gov/upk/. For general questions about Pre-K call 718 935-2009 or email ESEnrollment@schools.nyc.gov.

Since taking office in 2013  with the help of community organizers and parents my office has successfully doubled the number of Pre-K seats at P.S./I.S. 217 on Roosevelt Island. As of 2016 the number of seats in the Upper East Side and on Roosevelt Island has more than quintupled from 123, as was originally reported by WNYC in 2014, to 646 as of the today. If you are interested in working with our office to identify new locations in public or private schools or even retail space please email UPK@Benkallos.com.

Help the Homeless by Counting Those in Need

On Monday January 23rd, the Department of Homeless Services (DHS) will hold its annual Homeless Outreach Population Estimate (HOPE) count. This count is an effort to engage and help New York City’s street homeless. HOPE helps the City know where to allocate resources in its efforts to get individuals off the streets. Volunteers will canvass parks, subways and streets to get an estimate of the homeless population in specific areas. The count will take place from 10pm to 4am and will require 3,000 volunteers. Contact DHS with any questions at hope@dhs.nyc.gov. I hope you will consider helping with this very important initiative. Please register at NYC.gov/HOPE

Through the holiday season the Eastside Taskforce for Homeless Outreach and Services (ETHOS) which consist of local houses of worship, Council Member Dan Garodnick office, State Senator Liz Krueger office, New York City Department of Homeless Services, and the Neighborhood Coalition for Shelter as well as my office continues to do its work of providing support, breakfast, lunch and dinner meals, food pantries, street outreach, legal services, substance abuse, medical, supportive housing and shelter services for homeless individuals. By connecting our dedicated nonprofits and religious institutions with city services, ETHOS is hoping to make a difference. Learn more about the coalition and our members on BenKallos.com.

LifeSciNYC

I was proud to join Mayor de Blasio to launch Life Sci NYC, an initiative that seeks to expand the life sciences industry in our city by funding research and innovation with $500 million to create 9,000 new jobs in the sector and 7,400 new jobs in construction, along with 1,000 paid internships. These new jobs, which will have average salaries of $75,000 a year, will attract $6.5 billion in private investment, increase economic output by $2.5 billion a year, and over ten years will generate $1 billion in tax revenue. The investment will particularly benefit our community by attracting more jobs and increasing the talent pool for the Upper East Side’s hospital corridor. To learn more about the Life Sci NYC initiative visit LifeSci.nyc

NYCEDC Works Toward Starting Life Sciences Incubators

In response to the Mayor’s $500 million Life Sci Project the New York City Economic Development Corporation  has taken the first steps toward launching a network of Life Sciences incubators here in the City. In an effort to have the first incubator/wet laboratory open and running by the end of 2017, NYDEC is seeking proposals from potential designers and operators.Potential sites must have at least 5,000 square feet in rentable wet-lab space, and capacity for a minimum of five tenant companies per graduation term.The Incubator will be home to early-stage life sciences companies conducting R&D in New York City. These incubators will provide affordable space for the next generation of life sciences businesses here in New York City. Incubators will be located near existing research centers to better support innovators and connect skilled workers with jobs.  For more information contact Anthony Hogrebe at publicaffairs@edc.nyc

Proclamation for Sally Minard

In December, I had the honor of awarding Sally Minard, founding President and CEO of the Four Freedoms Park Conservancy on Roosevelt Island with a Proclamation for serving 10 years at the post. Under Ms. Minard’s leadership, the Four Freedoms Park Conservancy has been successful in protecting the first memorial to President Franklin D. Roosevelt in his home state. I was delighted to present a Proclamation to someone truly dedicated in preserving our City’s history.

Tours for Schools

In 2017 I will continue school tours with in District 5. My visits are part of a general effort to understand what issues our community’s children and educators are dealing with and making sure my office and I are doing everything we can to help. Whether you are a principal a teacher or member of a PTA please contact my office and schedule a visit before the school year is out. You can make plans by emailing my office at scheduler@benkallos.com

Firefighter Raises Money for Upper East Side Fire Victims

Jim Lee, the hero firefighter who rappelled down the face of a 5-story building to save the life of an 81-year-old man on October 27 during a fire is not done making a difference yet. As the Daily News reports now the FDNY member and his wife Erin Lee have started a Go Fund Me page to try and help pay some of the expenses victims of the fire have to deal with. One of the buildings was a complete loss and several people were left with nowhere to live. If you would like to learn more about the effort please visit gofundme.com/east-93rd-street-fire-victims-fund.

Night at the Opera

I have always loved the arts and New York City as a cultural capital of the world home of the Metropolitan Opera as well as Opera Amore. Throughout this Winter I have had the privilege of taking my wife to La bohème, Don Giovanni, and Aida at the Met. The new "Fridays Under 40" program offers Orchestra and Grand Tier tickets for only $60 to $100. This compliments existing discount tickets for full-time undergraduate and graduate students and rush tickets for $25 on the day of the show. I am also proud to welcome the Amore Opera to the Upper East Side performing at the Theatre at St. Jean's on 184 East 76th Street. I joined them for their New Year's Eve gale and performance of Die Fledermaus. For great opera on the Upper East Side please visit AmoreOpera.org.

ParkNYC Roll Out

I am a co-primary sponsor of legislation introduced by Transportation Chair Ydanis Rodriguez, heard in January of 2016, that has been implemented by the City as the ParkNYC mobile app in December. This technology allows users to conveniently pay-by-cell for metered parking with a smartphone application via the web or by phone. The system will eventually be phased in citywide, coming to all 85,000 parking spots served by DOT Muni-Meters by Summer 2017. The system will be easy to use. All you now have to do is:

1. Download  -- the ParkNYC app or go to www.parknyc.org to register an account.
2. Enter Personal Info -- including phone number and email; create a password.
3. Provide a License Plate Number – for the account, and set alert/notification preferences.
4. Load Your Wallet -- A ParkNYC wallet works like an EZPass, and can be reloaded in increments as low as $25.  Once registered, drivers may use the mobile app    , internet, or a toll-free number to pay for parking.
5. Park -- After parking, enter the unique zone number for block and length of time. After confirmation, the driver is set!
6. Extend – If time is running out and maximum time has not already been reached, parking time can be extended without returning to the car.

If you are a driver, watch the video to learn how to register and get started at ParkNYC.org.

E-Waste Event at the 92nd Street Y

Start off the new year by clearing up space in your apartment. Sunday January 22nd from 10am to 4pm at 1395 Lexington Avenue, the Lower East Side Ecology Center will host an electronics recycling event. The event is meant to collect old electronics like TVs and radios that sometimes have been sitting around the house for years once we replace them. All electronics are welcome, working and non-working including:

• Computers, monitors, printers, scanners, keyboards, mice, cables,
• TVs (all sizes),
• VCR & DVD players,
• Phones, audio/visual equipment,
• Video games,
• Cell phones

The Glass Room with Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito

I had the opportunity to join Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito at an exhibition titled “The Glass Room.” The exhibition covered 54 artworks, and was a visualization and exploration of what our personal data looks like. Data is collected on us everyday about every topic. This exhibition was an attempt at mapping that data and showing what it looks like and could look like. The pop-up shop in Soho mimicked other hi-tech stores and immersed consumers in the online experience. Learn more about the exhibition and the artwork. Watch the video.

OFFICE UPDATES

Happy Holidays

Thank you to all who showed up to the holiday party at my district office. It was great seeing all the residents and community leaders who we have worked with throughout the year. Looking forward to doing it again next year! See the rest of the photos from the party.

Remembering the Fallen at Pearl Harbor

Right after President Obama and Japanese Prime Minister Abe affirmed the alliance between the United States of America and Japan at 75^th Anniversary lying of wreathes at the U.S.S. Arizona Memorial, I was proud to visit and remember those who gave their lives for our nation. In 2017, I continue my prayer for peace on our planet, among nations, among peoples and in our homes.
 

City Council Funding for Local Non-Profits

Each year private non-profit corporations that serve thousands of residents of Council District 5 can apply for grants of $5,000 to $20,000 from my City Council office to supplemental essential services in the neighborhood. You can review past budget results, resources funded through this process and learn more about the application at BenKallos.com/budget

Learn more by contacting our Budget Director Sushant Harite at 212-860-1950 or Sharite@benkallos.com  or visit BenKallos.com/budget
 

Legislative Corner

This month I co-sponsored two bills that became law:

The first, Local Law 164 of 2016, by Council Member Torres, requires the center for economic opportunity to review the jobs-plus program. Jobs-plus is a national program designed to increase the earnings and levels of employment of public housing residents. By requiring periodic review of the program complete with recommendations for improvement, we are ensuring it effectively achieves it stated purpose.

The second, Local Law 161 of 2016, by Council Member Barron, establishes a temporary task force to examine ways to increase affordability and admissions to the City University of New York (CUNY), including the feasibility of eliminating tuition. The CUNY system has served millions of New Yorkers from all ages and backgrounds since its creation in 1961, which merged several schools, the oldest being City College which has existed since 1847, into a single system. In the beginning, most students earned their degrees without having to pay tuition. As the cost of higher education rose and the City’s finances struggled, CUNY began charging tuition. Education is a great equalizer and the more residents have access to education and training, the better off our City will be as a whole.

Free Legal Clinics

Need a lawyer? Every month I sponsor legal clinics where you can get free legal advice in my District Office at 244 East 93rd Street from 3pm-6pm:

Family Law and Domestic Violence, 1st Tuesday
Housing Clinics, 2nd and 4th Monday
Life Planning Clinic, 3rd Wednesday
Land Use and Land marking Clinic, 2nd Thursday (5pm-6pm)

Please call my office at 212-860-1950 in advance to schedule your appointment.

Here to Help

We are here to help. My social work team can help you find out what services you are eligible for and assist you in your application. Some examples include:

• Seniors: Medicare savings, Meals-on-Wheels, Access-A-Ride
• Housing: searching for affordable units, free legal housing clinic at my office
• Jobs: training resources and assistance, unemployment benefits
• Families: Universal Pre-K, Head Start, After-School programs
• Finances: cash assistance, tax credits, home energy assistance
• Nutrition: WIC, free meals for all ages

Please also call us at 212-860-1950 or email at bkallos@benkallos.com with any unresolved 311 complaints.

Mobile District Hours

Get assistance wherever in the district you are when we bring our office to you. Please join us at monthly mobile district hours from 11am-2pm:

• Stanley Isaacs Neighborhood Center, 415 East 93rd Street, 2nd Tuesday RSVP
• Carter Burden Center for the Aging, 351 East 74th Street, 3rd Wednesday RSVP
• Roosevelt Island Senior Center, 546 Main Street, 4th Wednesday RSVP

Ben in Your Building

The "Ben in Your Building Program" is a chance to discuss issues of importance to you and your neighbors in person, in your home. If you gather 10 or more friends, I will come to you. Over the past year, I have visited several buildings to discuss matters of importance in the neighborhood, including efforts to fight the Marine Transfer Station, sanitation and condo owner issues. Please schedule a "Ben in Your Building" today by calling 212-860-1950 or email Scheduler@BenKallos.com

EVENTS AND RESOURCES

City Council Events

1/6: First Friday
8:00am-10:00am, District Office, 244 East 93rd Street
Meet Ben in person and meet with your neighbors to discuss what's important to you. Feel free to drop in or leave at any time during First Friday. Learn about what is happening in your community and how to get involved in working together to make our neighborhood a better place to live.
RSVP

1/22: State of the District
1:00pm, Memorial Sloan Kettering 430 East 67th Street 
Council Member Kallos will address the crowd and talk about some of victories his office has had this year. He will highlight community partners who have been instrumental in achieving such goals.
RSVP

1/10: Brainstorm with Ben
6:00pm, District Office, 244 East 93rd Street
Brainstorm with Ben is a chance for residents who have a policy idea they want to pitch and help implement; the goal is to empower residents who are looking to do the research, community organizing, and advocacy needed to turn ideas into real solutions.
RSVP

1/2: Office Closed for Federal Holiday Day  
District Office, 244 East 93rd Street

1/16: Office Closed for Federal Holiday Day
District Office, 244 East 93rd Street

Government Meetings
These meetings are subject to change after the publication of the newsletter. Please check updated websites and notices for confirmation.

Community Boards

1/4: Community Board 8 (59 to 96th Streets) Transportation Committee
6:30pm, 310 East 67th New York Blood Center

1/11: Community Board 8 Land Use Meeting
6:30pm,62 East 92nd Street, Carnegie Church  

1/12: Community Board 8 Parks & Recreation Committee 
6:30pm, 310 East 67th New York Blood Center 
Reviewing plans for the Queens Boro Oval

1/18: Community Board 8 Full Board Meeting
6:30pm, 125 East 85th Heyman Auditorium

1/20: Community Board 8 Health, Seniors and Social Services
6:30pm ,331 East 70th Street, Lenox Hill Neighborhood House

1/03: Community Board 11 (96th to 145th Streets) Housing Committee 
6:00pm, 7 East 116 Street

1/03: Community Board 11 (96th to 145th Streets) Public Safety & Transportation  
7:00pm, 7 East 116 Street

1/09: Community Board 11 (96th to 145th Streets) Health, Human Services & Seniors 
6pm,7 East 116 Street

1/11: Community Board 11 (96th to 145th Streets) Land Use, Landmarks & Planning 
6pm,7 East 116 Street

1/17: Community Board 11 (96th to 145th Streets) Full Board Meeting
6:30-830pm,, 1249 5th Avenue, Terrence Cardinal Cooke Medical Center

1/9: Community Board 6 (14th to 59th Streets)Transportation Committee
7:00pm, 433 First Avenue

1/10: Community Board 6 (14th to 59th Streets) Housing Homeless, & Human Rights Committee
6:30pm, 433 First Avenue

1/11: Community Board 6 (14th to 59th Streets) Full Board Meeting
7:00pm, 550 First Avenue

New York Police Department

First Monday: 19th Precinct Community Council
7:00pm, 153 East 67th Street

Third Thursday: 23rd Precinct Community Council
6:00pm, 162 East 102th Street

Fourth Tuesday: 17th Precinct Community Council
6:00pm, 225 East 51st Street

Neighborhood and Tenant Associations

1/4: Roosevelt Island Residents Association
8:00pm-10:00pm, Good Shepherd, 543 Main Street, Roosevelt Island

First Wednesday: Lexington Houses Tenant Association
6:00pm, 1536 Lexington Avenue

Second Tuesday: Stanley Isaacs Tenant Association
7:00pm, Stanley Isaacs Neighborhood Center, 415 East 93rd Street

Third Tuesday: Holmes Towers Tenant Association
7:00pm, Stanley Isaacs Neighborhood Center, 415 East 93rd Street

Third Thursday: East 79th Street Neighborhood Association
6:00pm-8:00pm, Upper East Side Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, 211 East 79th Street

Community Events for Kids

1/8: Teddy Bear Tea
1:00pm, 421 East 61st Street
Banish post-holiday boredom with a special event for ages 3 to 6. Bring your favorite teddy (or doll) to meet Mrs. Woodhull, the proprietor’s wife, and role-play the daily activities at the Mount Vernon Hotel in 1830. You’ll have an opportunity to try out William’s toys and help Sarah with the laundry. Afterwards, enjoy fruit tea and cookies.

1/9, 1/23, 1/30: Stories and Craft
4:00pm, 96th Street Library
Messy art projects for children ages 2 to 5.

1/11: Open-Ended Art
3:30pm-4:30pm, Yorkville Library
Let your imagination run wild! Join us for an hour of uninterrupted, creative fun. Pick and choose from our craft supplies to make a masterpiece to take home.

1/12: Birds of Prey
4:00pm, Yorkville Library
Encounter hawks, owls, falcons or other species up close as we explore the adaptations of these winged wonders! Touch raptor artifacts. A lucky volunteer may get to help with some of the demonstration.  Presented by New Canaan Nature Center. For ages 13 to 18 years old.

1/26: Wildlife Superheroes
3:30pm, 67th Street Library
Spiderman, Batman, and Aquaman all share traits with their particular animal namesake whether it be great strength, great stealth, or the ability to live underwater. A visit by a New Canaan Nature Center naturalist will give participants an up close look at several creatures with an array of “super” qualities that makes each a “wildlife superhero” in its own right. Come discover the story behind an assortment of animal ambassadors such as an owl or hawk, chinchilla, White’s Tree Frog, King Snake, lizard, or even a hedgehog. For ages 13 to 18 years old.

1/27: January Craft Time
3:00pm, Yorkville Library
It's Craft Time at Yorkville! Drop in for a quick craft. Bring your creativity and make something special to take home. Ages 3 and up.

1/30: Preschool STEAM: Patterns
4:00pm, Yorkville Library
Join us for Preschool STEAM: Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, & Math! In this series, we will explore different areas of STEAM through read-alouds, group demonstrations, and hands-on activities. This month's theme is patterns! For children ages 3-6 and their caregivers. Registration required; limited to 12 children.

Every Tuesday: Baby Lap Sit for Pre-Walkers
10:15am & 12:00pm, Yorkville Library
Babies from birth to 18 months old (Pre-Walkers) and their parents/caregivers can enjoy great books, lively songs, and rhymes, and meet other babies in the neighborhood.

Every Tuesday: Toddler Story Time
10:45am, Yorkville Library
Toddlers from 18-36 months old (Walkers) and their parents/caregivers can enjoy great books, lively songs, and rhymes, and meet other toddlers in the neighborhood.

Every Tuesday: Reading Aloud
4:00pm, Webster Library
A librarian will share favorite picture books, providing children with the wonder of books, and the joy of reading.

Every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday: Teen Tech
3:00pm, 67th Street Library
Come to our third floor computer lab and use the computers for homework or for fun! Teens Only! Ages 12-18

Every Wednesday: Preschool Stories and Films
10:30am, 96th Street Library
Read aloud and short films for preschoolers.

Every Wednesday: Toddler Time
11:00am, 11:30am, 11:45am, Webster Library
Toddlers from birth to 3 years and their parents/caregivers can enjoy interactive stories, action songs, fingerplays, and spend time with other toddlers in the neighborhood.

Every Wednesday: Read to Chucky, our New York Therapy Dog!
4:00pm, Yorkville Library
Come read to our therapy dog Chucky! These licensed therapy dogs and their owners can't wait for you to come read them a story. Enjoy one-on-one, no-pressure reading time with a furry friend! Pre-registration is required for each 15-minute slot and opens 1 week in advance.

Every Thursday: Picture Book Story Time
4:00pm, Yorkville Library
Come meet your friends at the library and listen to some of your favorite picture books. It's a great way to end a busy day. Ages 3 and older.

Every Friday: Puzzle Fun for Kids
3:00pm-4:00pm, Yorkville Library
Come to the library for some puzzles and fun! This program is great for all ages.

Every Saturday: Kids’ Coloring Club
10:00am-12:00pm, Yorkville Library
Join us every Saturday morning from 10am-12pm for our Kids' Coloring Club -- children of all ages are invited to color coloring sheets featuring their favorite characters, seasonal designs, and more. Feel free to bring your favorite coloring book!

Every Saturday: Read to Fritz, our New York Therapy Dog!
11:00am, Yorkville Library
Come read to our therapy dog Fritz! These licensed therapy dogs and their owners can't wait for you to come read them a story. Enjoy one-on-one, no-pressure reading time with a furry friend! Pre-registration is required for each 15-minute slot and opens 1 week in advance.

Community Events for Adults

Every Monday: Exercise Classes, Arthritis
Health Advocates for Older People
10:30am -11:30am. Madison Avenue Presbyterian Church, 921 Madison Ave.
For More info call Tel: 212-980-1700 or visit hafop.org Email: info@hafop.org
Health Advocates for Older People promotes safe and healthy aging through programs designed to facilitate independent living, physical well-being and greater social interaction.

Every Tuesday: Chair Exercise for Arthritis
Health Advocates for Older People
2:00pm -3:00pm. Abyssinian Towers, 50 West 131st Street at Malcolm X Blvd.
For More info call Tel: 212-980-1700 or visit hafop.org Email: info@hafop.org
Health Advocates for Older People promotes safe and healthy aging through programs designed to facilitate independent living, physical well-being and greater social interaction.

Every Wednesday: Exercise Classes, Arthritis
Health Advocates for Older People
Wednesdays  1:30pm-2:30pm, Park Avenue United Methodist Church, 106 East 86th Street.
For More info call Tel: 212-980-1700 or visit hafop.org Email: info@hafop.org
Health Advocates for Older People promotes safe and healthy aging through programs designed to facilitate independent living, physical well-being and greater social interaction.

Every Friday: Chair Exercise for Arthritis
Health Advocates for Older People
Fridays 10:45am-11:45am, Church of the Holy Trinity, 316 East 88th Street.
For More info call Tel: 212-980-1700 or visit hafop.org Email: info@hafop.org
Health Advocates for Older People promotes safe and healthy aging through programs designed to facilitate independent living, physical well-being and greater social interaction.

Every Tuesday: Tai-Chi
Health Advocates for Older People
Tuesdays 3:00pm -4:00pm, Church of the Holy Trinity, 316 East 88th Street.Ancient movements and balance to strengthen legs, ankles, knees, and hips.
For More info call Tel: 212-980-1700 or visit hafop.org Email: info@hafop.org
Health Advocates for Older People promotes safe and healthy aging through programs designed to facilitate independent living, physical well-being and greater social interaction.

Every Monday: Cell Phone Classes 
Health Advocates for Older People
3:15pm -4:00pm. Church of the Holy Trinity, 341 East 87th St. RSVP sign-up required.One-on-one help to learn how to master your cellphone or smart phone.
For More info call Tel: 212-980-1700 or visit hafop.org Email: info@hafop.org
Health Advocates for Older People promotes safe and healthy aging through programs designed to facilitate independent living, physical well-being and greater social interaction.

Every Monday: Dancing Classes 
Health Advocates for Older People
4:00pm -5:00pm. Church of the Holy Trinity, 341 East 87th Street. Bring a friend!
Bring a friend!Join Alex our excellent instructor for an hour of dance.
For More info call Tel: 212-980-1700 or visit hafop.org Email: info@hafop.org
Health Advocates for Older People promotes safe and healthy aging through programs designed to facilitate independent living, physical well-being and greater social interaction.

1/3: MS Excel 2010 for Beginners
12:00pm-2:00pm, 67th Street Library
Learn the basics of working with spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel 2010. Topics include entering data and formulas, moving and copying data, formatting & print previewing worksheets.

1/3: Science Fiction Book Discussion
6:30pm-8:00pm, Roosevelt Island Library
The Mysterious Island by Jules Verne

1/5: MS Excel 2010 for Beginners
3:00pm, Yorkville Library
Learn the basics of working with spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel 2010. Topics include entering data and formulas, moving and copying data, formatting & print previewing worksheets.

1/5: Women’s Writing Group
4:30pm, 67th Street Library
Hannelore Hahn, who directed the International Women's Writing Guild for 37 years, hosts a monthly informal women’s writing & discussion group. Everyone welcome for discussion too!

1/6, 1/13, 1/20, 1/27: Computers for Seniors
10:30am-11:30am, Roosevelt Island Library
Have computer trouble? We can help.

1/7: Computer Tutoring Sessions (Afternoon)
2:00pm, 67th Street Library
Join us for an one-on-one tutoring sessions! Our computer tutors can help you with everything from learning how to use a mouse, formatting a resume, setting up an email address, posting photos on the internet, starting a blog, using Microsoft Office, and more.

1/7: Make 2017 Your Best Year Ever: Goal Setting
2:00pm-3:30pm, Yorkville Library
Research suggests that setting and making progress on goals that are important to you is a key determinant of sustainable happiness.  Speaker, trainer, and certified professional coach, Barbara Phillips, will help you create a core set of meaningful, realistic goals for the New Year.

1/7, 1/8: MULCHFEST, a two day recycling event.
10:00am - 2:00pm, Carl Schurz Park, East 86th Street
The Carl Schurz Park presents a recycling event that allows residents to recycle their used Christmas trees into mulch for gardening.

1/9, 1/23, 1/30: COMPUTER BASICS, a once-a-week, 4 day, 8 hour course
11:30am, 96th Street Library
The 96th Street Branch and New York Cares are presenting a FREE Computer Course for anyone who wants to learn how to use computers, the Internet, Microsoft Word, email and more! No computer experience is necessary.

1/10: Intermediate MS Excel 2010
12:00pm-2:00pm, 67th Street Library
Explore more advanced features of Microsoft Excel 2010. Topics include using formulas and functions, data sorting and conditional formatting.

1/10: Restore and Relax
12:30pm-1:00pm & 1:00pm-1:30pm, 525 East 68th Street
Learn simple and effective self-care tools for daily wellbeing such as gentle movements and stretches that can alleviate tension and stress.

1/11: Midday Yoga
12:30pm-1:30pm, 525 East 68th Street
This class combines simple movements, yoga poses, breathing techniques and practical grounding exercises that will leave you feeling refreshed, aligned and balanced.

1/11: Author Talk: Barbara Bracht Donsky
5:30pm, Yorkville Library
Join us as Barbara Bracht Donsky discusses and signs copies of her book, Veronica's Grave: A Daughter's Memoir.  

1/12: Getting the Most Out of the NYPL Catalog
11:00am-12:00pm, Yorkville Library
Explore our redesigned catalog. Search for books and other materials, learn how to place holds, rate an item, add items to your shelves, look at reviews and create lists.

1/13: Pedestrian Safety for Seniors
3:00pm, 67th Street Library
Older pedestrians as a group make up 35% of pedestrian fatalities annually in New York City, although they represent only 13% of the City’s population. New York is working hard to reduce pedestrian fatalities among seniors through several initiatives to improve street safety. You can do your part, too, by learning to be a savvy walker in the City. This workshop will educate seniors about risks at the intersection, safety tips and understanding the DOT safety tools. Open discussion at the end of the workshop for comments and ideas from the seniors.

1/14: Animal Care Centers of New York Dog Adoption Event at
11:00am -3:00pm, Biscuits and Bath Sutton Place, 1064 1^st Avenue, New York, NY 
Meet several great dogs up for adoption from ACC at Biscuits & Bath, Sutton Place!
Animal Care Centers of NYC (ACC) adoptions include vaccinations, spay/neuter, a pre-registered microchip, an identification tag, a collar and a certificate for a free initial exam at a participating veterinarian.Anyone who adopts a dog from ACC (all locations) will receive a complimentary Biscuits and Bath Adoption Package, valued at $1,300!

1/14: Music - Humperdinck's HÄNSEL UND GRETEL recital by New York Opera Forum
1:00pm-2:30pm, 2:45pm-4:30pm, 96th Street Library
New York Opera Forum performs  the complete opera of HÄNSEL UND GRETEL by Engelbert Humperdinck A live musical recital performed in concert with piano accompaniment.

1/17: Advanced Excel: Charts, Tables, and Pivots
12:00pm-2:00pm, 67th Street Library
This class is a deep dive into Excel's Charts and Tables as well as an overview of Pivot Tables and Pivot Charts.

1/17: The NEW Retirement: Finding Purpose in Your "Third Act"
3:00pm-4:30pm, Yorkville Library
Are you retired? About to retire? Thinking about retiring? Welcome to LOVE the “NEW” Retirement! Baby boomers are healthier and living longer than previous generations. We are pioneers in the search for a meaningful and purposeful “third act”. Come join speaker, trainer, and certified professional coach, Barbara Phillips, to clarify (or re-clarify) what is most important to you at this stage of life AND learn from other retirees.

1/17, 1/24, 1/31: Therapeutic Yoga
12:30pm-1:30pm, Hospital for Special Surgery
Join us for therapeutic yoga. Register online.

1/17, 1/24, 1/31: Fit to the Core
4:00pm-5:00pm, Hospital for Special Surgery
Join us for a fitness class. Register online.

1/17, 1/31: Foster Orientations
7:00pm- 9:00pm, 11 Park Place
Animal Centers of NYC is looking for foster parents! The ACC never turns away an animal in need. These animals would need some extra TLC, outside a Care Center to get healthy and ready for adoption. Enter the foster program, which places them temporarily in the homes of caring individuals who would help prepare them for a forever home.

1/19: Don’t be Fooled by Fake News
1:00pm-2:00pm, Yorkville Library
Come learn about the thing everyone is talking about-Fake News! In this class, you will learn what fake news is, how to analyze news sources for credibility, and practice looking over sample articles to determine their validity.

1/19: Book Discussion Group
6:30pm-8:30pm, Roosevelt Island Library
The Group will discuss POSITIVITY by Barbara Fredrickson.

1/22: Mount Vernon Hotel & Museum Garden
2:00pm 421 East 61 Street, NY
HISTORIC CRAFT WORKSHOP (Making your own Jewelry with Transfer Prints)
Use 19th-century patterns and techniques to make your own ceramic pendants and ornaments
$15 Adults; $10 Members Students and Children under 12

1/23, 1/30: Dance for Fitness and Fun
10:30am-11:30am, Hospital for Special Surgery
Join us for a fun dance class to stay fit. Register online.

1/24: Western Book Discussion
6:30pm-8:00pm, Roosevelt Island Library
The Long High Noon by Loren D. Estelman

1/25: Bereavement Support Group
5:30pm-7:00pm, 400 East 67th Street
This monthly support group led by an oncology social worker is open to family members and friends who have lost someone to cancer at Memorial Sloan Kettering.

1/26: Breast Cancer and Your Arm: A Seminar to Promote Health and Strength
4:00pm, 300 East 66th Street
Learn about reducing the risk of lymphedema, exercise recommendations, resuming prior activities after surgery, and guidelines for air travel.

1/26: Movie Night
6:00pm-8:00pm, Roosevelt Island Library
ARACHNOPHOBIA (1990) (PG-13). Starring Jeff Daniels, and John Goodman

1/28: Job Search 101
11:00am-12:30pm, Yorkville Library
Speaker, trainer, and certified professional coach, Barbara Phillips, will help participants get greater clarity on key elements of the job search process and explain key tools for finding a “best fit” job.

1/28: Fantasy Book Discussion
3:00pm-4:00pm, 67th Street Library
The Immortals by Jordanna Max Brodsky

1/28: Diller-Quaile String Quartet Performance
3:30pm, Yorkville Library
Please join us for a performance by the Diller-Quaile String Quartet as they perform selections from Mozart and Shostakovich. All ages are welcome.

1/31: EVICTION INTERVENTION SERVICES 
Health Advocates for Older People
1:30pm, Church of the Holy Trinity, 341 East 87th Street. Tannen, Executive
Director of Eviction Intervention Services will discuss How To Protect Yourself From Aggressive
Landlords.For More info call Tel: 212-980-1700 or visit hafop.org Email: info@hafop.org
Health Advocates for Older People promotes safe and healthy aging through programs designed to facilitate independent living, physical well-being and greater social interaction.

Every Tuesday: Adult One-on-One Computer Help Workshop
11:00am, Yorkville Library
Work one-on-one with a volunteer tutor. Improve Internet skills, create, and use e-mail, Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).

Every Tuesday: Adult Coloring
12:00pm-2:00pm, Roosevelt Island Library
Join us for adult coloring.

Every Tuesday: Fresh Food Boxes from GrowNYC
3:30pm-6:00pm, Lenox Hill Neighborhood House
Purchase high quality, farm fresh produce at below retail prices. For only $12, receive $25 worth of fresh greens & fruit every week! To sign up, go to www.grownyc.org/foodbox and contact your site coordinator, Abby Lee, at alee@grownyc.org.

Every Thursday: Knitting and Crocheting
11:30am-12:30am, Roosevelt Island Library
Join us for an hour of knitting and crocheting.

Every Thursday: Restorative Yoga
6:30pm-7:30pm, 525 East 68th Street
Learn gentle relaxing yoga to help you feel more re-balanced and energized.

Every Thursday: Computer Tutoring Sessions (Evening)
5:30pm, 67th Street Library
Join us for an  one-on-one tutoring sessions! Our computer tutors can help you with everything from learning how to use a mouse, formatting a resume, setting up an email address, posting photos on the internet, starting a blog, using Microsoft Office, and more.

Every Saturday: English Conversation Group
11:00am, 67th Street Library
Talk with native speakers and other language learners about current events, New York City, family life, holidays, and much more. For adults 16 years old or older.

Every Saturday: Computer Tutoring Sessions (Noon)
12:00pm, 67th Street Library
Join us for an one-on-one tutoring sessions! Our computer tutors can help you with everything from learning how to use a mouse, formatting a resume, setting up an email address, posting photos on the internet, starting a blog, using Microsoft Office, and more.

Resources Funded in Part by My Office

Each year my office provides discretionary funding to non-profit 501(c)(3) organizations that serve residents of Council District 5. We have curated a list of resources funded in part by my office so that you can take advantage of them for free.

• Health
• Hunger
• Neighborhood
• Schools
• Seniors
• Tenants
• Youth

Add your non-prfofit's resources to this list by emailing budget@benkallos.com.