District 10 Update: January 23, 2025

While recuperating from a health issue over the holidays, I've had a little extra time for TV. Over the MLK weekend, I watched The Point with Marsha Kramer, which included an informative interview with Congressman George Latimer about the current state of Washington. The episode ended with a simple question posed to New Yorkers on the street: "Should we teach respect in schools?" As a parent and former school board trustee, my answer is no, not as a standalone class. Respect is not a subject. It is a standard that must be modeled every day – by teachers, leaders, and institutions alike, in schools, at work, in government, and even in political discourse. Respect and accountability also matter when decisions directly affect people's daily lives. That is why I have been actively advocating against the Con Edison rate increases. I was deeply disappointed by the Public Service Commission's decision to approve them yesterday, especially the gas hikes scheduled for 2027 and 2028. At a time when families are already struggling with affordability, locking in these increases places the burden on ratepayers who have the least ability to absorb it. My focus remains on standing up for residents and pushing for decisions that reflect fairness, accountability, and common sense, while maintaining respectful dialogue, even in disagreement. Please check out my weekly update below, which includes information on the following: District 10 Updates New York State Enhanced Energy Affordability Program Now Open Help Your Community at Tax Time—VITA Volunteers Needed Lifeguards Wanted! Apply to Be a Park Ranger for Summer 2026 What's Happening in Our Parks Thank you for taking the time to read my newsletter! Sincerely, Judah Holstein Majority Leader, 10th District Legislator ​​ District 10 Updates   NEW ROCHELLE: NO HEAT? KNOW YOUR RIGHTS  Landlords must provide heat at a minimum of 68°F from September 15 through May 31 in multiple dwellings. If heat is not restored promptly, contact your landlord first, then report the issue to the New Rochelle Building Inspector at 914-654-4809.  JANUARY 24: FREE U.S. CITIZENSHIP CIVICS CLASSES AT THE NEW ROCHELLE PUBLIC LIBRARY Prepare for the U.S. citizenship exam and interview with free civic classes covering government, current events, and interview skills. Registration is required - sign up online or call (914) 813-3733. Register Here FEBRUARY 5- BLACK HISTORY MONTH RECOGNITION  Join the City of New Rochelle at City Hall in celebrating the contributions of African Americans locally and nationally. RSVP Here New York State Enhanced Energy Affordability Program Now Open New York State's Enhanced Energy Affordability Program (EEAP) is now accepting applications. The program offers eligible moderate-income households monthly discounts on their utility bills. Learn more and apply here.     Help Your Community at Tax Time—VITA Volunteers Needed Tax professionals, bilingual translators, call-center operators, and friendly site greeters are needed to staff the upcoming 2026 Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. This service provides critical support to low- and moderate-income County residents in preparing and filing their taxes. The Westchester-Putnam Workforce Development Board (WPWDB) and Westchester County Department of Social Services (DSS) provide information on signing up to help here.  Lifeguards Wanted! Dreaming of summer? The 2026 Westchester County Parks lifeguard application and registration for training courses are now open. Pre-test training sessions begin Saturday, January 31 in White Plains. Learn more here. Apply to Be a Park Ranger for Summer 2026 The Westchester County Department of Public Safety is now hiring seasonal park rangers for Summer 2026 to maintain safety and assist visitors in County parks. Pay starts at $17/hour. Paid peace officer training provided. Applicants must be at least 18, a U.S. citizen, a high school graduate, and hold a valid NYS driver's license. Apply here by February 22, 2026. What's Happening in Our Parks Westchester County Parks has a full calendar of winter activities, programs, and events for residents of all ages. Find opportunities to get outside, stay active, and enjoy our parks this season. Learn More