NYC NOW

City Council members are raising alarms over a controversial proposal allowing federal immigration officers at Rikers Island, fearing for detainee safety. In a bid to strengthen environmental protections, new legislation is being pushed to close loopholes in NYC's climate laws. Plus, there's a last call for residents eager to join local community boards. The transit segment also shares a remarkable story of a baby born on the subway, alongside concerns over the new OMNY student cards and their potential for fraud.

Interim U.S. Attorney Danielle Sassoon is leaving her post days after the White House ordered her office to withdraw corruption charges against Mayor Eric Adams. Plus, a man is facing a murder charge after he allegedly killed his roommate and put his body in a suitcase in the East River. Also, WNYC’s Sean Carlson talks with Councilmember Joann Ariola about her new role as minority leader. And finally, WNYC’s David Brand hits the ice with a hockey fanatic in Queens who turned his tiny backyard into a hockey rink.

A developer suing Millburn Township over an affordable housing project says the town council missed a key court-imposed deadline, further delaying the project. Meanwhile, the New York Jets say they are officially moving on from quarterback Aaron Rodgers. In other sports news, Tim Ryder of the Simply Amazin’ New York Mets podcast previews the upcoming baseball season. Plus, applications to join local community boards in Brooklyn and the Bronx close Friday. WNYC’s Michael Hill speaks with Community Board 6 District Manager Mike Racioppo about what the role entails.

The Trump administration is suing New York state over its Green Light Law, which allows undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses. Meanwhile, officials in Millburn, New Jersey, are facing renewed pressure to comply with a court order allowing a 75-unit affordable housing development to move forward. Plus, attorneys with the New York City Bar Association are urging city officials to relocate the Bronx Zoo’s last two elephants, Happy and Patty, to a sanctuary over concerns about their welfare.

A crucial meeting is on the horizon between the U.S. Border Czar and Mayor Adams, focusing on deportation policies impacting New York. The conversation shifts to the complexities of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives, navigating challenges amidst a counter-movement. As the baseball season approaches, excitement builds with insights from the new voice of Yankees Radio, discussing roster changes and competitive dynamics with the Mets. Get ready for a thrilling season ahead!

Mayor Eric Adams and his attorneys deny they made a deal with the Justice Department after federal officials directed prosecutors in Manhattan to drop his corruption case. Meanwhile, New York State is investing $150 million to connect the Ronkonkoma train station to MacArthur Airport, a move Governor Kathy Hochul says will boost local jobs. Plus, Paul McCartney surprises fans with a second, last-minute show at the Bowery Ballroom after Tuesday’s sold-out performance. Finally, despite a directive from the Justice Department to drop corruption charges against Mayor Adams, the mayor remains on uncertain legal and political footing. WNYC’s Samantha Max breaks down what’s next in the case.

Get up and get informed! Here's all the local news you need to start your day: Mayor Eric Adams is highlighting his accomplishments after the Justice Department directed federal prosecutors to drop corruption charges against him. While prosecutors accused Adams of accepting bribes, he insists he remained focused on the city’s priorities. Meanwhile, immigrants gathered in Albany to push for policy changes, with Adams’ administration playing a key role in the discussions. Plus, Mets and Yankees pitchers and catchers report to Spring Training in Florida.

The Justice Department has directed federal prosecutors to drop corruption charges against Mayor Eric Adams, citing political concerns and federal immigration enforcement. But the Southern District of New York has yet to act on the case. WNYC’s Maia Hibbett breaks down what this means for Adams and his political future. Meanwhile, a push to loosen New York City’s strict short-term rental laws is losing momentum after a key provision was removed from proposed legislation. WNYC’s David Brand reports

Queens State Senator and Democratic mayoral candidate Jessica Ramos warns the Department of Justice’s call to dismiss the case against Mayor Eric Adams could undermine public trust in government. Meanwhile, Governor Kathy Hochul is urging lawmakers to delay a bill that would extend the timeline for calling special elections. Plus, towns across New Jersey are requesting a reduction of over 11,000 affordable housing units from their state-mandated requirements. WNYC’s Mike Hayes reports.

Get up and get informed! Here's all the local news you need to start your day: Federal prosecutors have been ordered to drop charges against Mayor Eric Adams and halt their investigation, following speculation that President Trump would intervene. Meanwhile, New York and 21 other states are suing the federal government to stop funding cuts to scientific research, arguing it will harm essential studies. Also, the Adams administration is updating its guidance for city workers on handling federal immigration enforcement visits. Plus, more winter weather is on the way, with two rounds of snow in the forecast.