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New Rochelle City Manager 

Wilfredo Melendez 

Dear Neighbors,

It is my privilege to write this column as the City Manager of New Rochelle. I’ve seen the strength, resilience, and potential of this City firsthand, and I’m committed to using my experience and passion for New Rochelle to build on our successes, tackle new challenges and guide us toward an exciting future.

In November I presented my 2025 proposed budget to the City Council. The budget meets our fundamental obligation of fiscal responsibility as effective stewards of taxpayer dollars and reinvests in our community- both while staying within the tax cap. After a public hearing and Council input, the final budget will be adopted in December. 

Here are a few updates and reminders:

Drought and Fire Risk conditions: The persistent dry weather has put our area under a Drought Warning as well as a High Risk Level for fire danger.  Residents are urged to voluntarily reduce water use where possible, and to practice fire safety by avoiding outdoor burning, discarding of cigarettes safely, and reporting all brush fires immediately to 9-1-1. The City has implemented an Open Fires Ban in all City Parks. More information and water saving tips are available on the City website.

Hurricane Ida Reimbursement Program: Homeowners impacted by Hurricane Ida in September 2021 may be eligible for CDBG Disaster Recovery grants through the New York State Homeowner Repair and Reimbursement Program. Priority process will be given to households with an income 80% or less than the area median income (AMI). Households above the income requirement will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. 

Free Holiday Parking Downtown: In continuation of a holiday tradition and to encourage holiday shopping in New Rochelle, enjoy free two-hour parking in the City Hall most of our Municipal Lots December 1- 31. Visit newrochelleny.com/parking for more information.

North Avenue Bridge Construction: We have been advised by the New York State Thruway Authority that for the safety of their work crews, the next phase of Bridge work will require the closure of the southbound lane between Lockwood Avenue and Burling Lane. Southbound traffic on North Avenue will be detoured at Lockwood Avenue to Memorial Highway. This work will continue for approximately 12 months. We recognize the inconvenience and appreciate the public’s understanding.

Finally, the City will have a number of special events for the holiday season. Our 4th Annual Holiday Market will take place at the Train Station through December 22, featuring local artisans and artists, food trucks, an outdoor skating rink and live performances. Additional events include Letters to Santa, Drive-Thru Selfie with Santa, Rudolph Rocks New Ro, Chamber of Commerce Holiday Lighting, Santa’s Parks Tours, and New Year’s Eve festivities.

Information on all of the above are on our City website newrochelleny.com and social media channels.

As we close out 2024, I am appreciative of the support and fine work of all of our departments and bureaus, whose members work hard to serve the community all year long. And I want to extend my thanks for the support from all of you in New Rochelle who continue to do your best for our neighborhoods and our City. I wish you all a safe, happy and healthy holiday season.