Board approves multiple ordinances, grants and contracts; conference trip withdrawn

The Board of Estimate and Contract of the City of Mount Vernon voted on multiple ordinances, resolutions and agreements at its April 15, 2025 meeting. Most items were approved by roll call; one travel authorization was withdrawn and a settlement item was described as time‑sensitive and involved an announced abstention by a member of the body.

Key approvals and notes

- Resolution (Item 1): The board authorized the mayor to retain Joel R. Dieter of Dieter Law LLC as special counsel to represent participating Westchester municipalities in Con Edison’s electric and gas rate case before the New York Public Service Commission. Board discussion noted total counsel fees of $100,000 to be split among participating municipalities; speakers discussed per‑municipality cost estimates (example figures ranged between $26.76 and $27.50 per community based on current participation). The motion passed by roll call (Comptroller Morton — Aye; Council President Brown — Aye; Mayor Patterson Howard — Aye).

- Ordinance (Item 2): The board authorized an extension of a contract with the National Civic League to assist the 2024 Mount Vernon Charter Review Commission. Budget and line‑item questions were raised; the item passed by roll call (Comptroller Morton — Aye; Council President Brown — Aye; Mayor Patterson Howard — Aye).

- Travel (Item 3): An ordinance authorizing the mayor to attend the…