NYC NOW Evening Roundup: EPA Cancels Union Contract, Questions Over Plan to Move NYPD Duties to New Agency, the New Harlem Renaissance Cultural District and Cuomo Attacks Mamdani for Living in Rent Stabilized Unit
Aug 11, 2025
The EPA is shaking things up by terminating its union contracts, citing national security. A controversial plan to shift some NYPD duties to a new agency is attracting mixed reactions. Harlem Week is celebrated with fresh laws honoring the neighborhood's rich legacy, amidst ongoing housing policy debates. Meanwhile, Andrew Cuomo stirs the pot with social media attacks on rival Zohran Mamdani, focusing on rent-stabilized housing. It's a whirlwind of policies, tensions, and cultural celebrations in the heart of New York.
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EPA Cancels Union Contract
- Janae Pierre reported the EPA is terminating its union contracts under a March executive order banning collective bargaining.
- She said the move affects over 600 New York–area employees and follows a court upholding of the ban.
New Department To Handle Social Services
- Charles Lane explains Zoran Mamdani would create a Department of Community Safety to manage homelessness, mental health, and violence prevention.
- Critics warn it risks symbolic change if the new agency lacks political power or simply rebrands 'defund' rhetoric.
Harlem Renaissance Cultural District Created
- Janae Pierre reports Governor Hochul signed a law creating the Harlem Renaissance Cultural District from 110th to 155th Streets between Fifth Avenue and the Hudson River.
- The law renames a station and designates the area as sacred ground celebrating Black art, music, and thought.