File Source: Google

Tempers flared in the Bronx after the New York City Council’s Subcommittee on Landmarks, Public Siting, and Dispositions voted 6–0 (with one absence) on September 25, 2025, to approve Land Use Application LU 0363-2025, tied to the controversial Bainbridge Avenue supportive housing project.

Despite weeks of neighborhood opposition, the application advanced, with Bronx representatives in the full Council later voting overwhelmingly in favor—36 yes, 9 no, 3 abstentions. Critics noted that “all the Bronx Democratic Delegation idiots voted yes,” fueling outrage among residents who felt betrayed.

Councilwoman Kristy Marmorato, who attended the subcommittee hearing, defended her position, stressing that she has consistently raised concerns about the disproportionate burden of supportive and addiction-related housing in the Bronx.

“Our district has done more than its fair share when it comes to supportive housing,” Marmorato said. “This isn’t about being against supportive housing, it’s about equity. Communities like ours should not continue to carry a disproportionate load while others avoid it.”

Meanwhile, Sheikh Musa Drammeh, Chairman of Stemdup Institute, issued a blistering statement condemning the Council’s decision on the Just Home project at Jacobi Hospital, 1900 Pelham Parkway South.

He accused city lawmakers of ignoring the united opposition of stakeholders, the mayor’s directive to find a new location, and the council member’s own reservations.

“Although we’re very disappointed with their imprudent decision to disregard all of the aforementioned parties’ opposition to the Just Home proposal at Jacobi Hospital, their careless act has only strengthened our uncompromising opposition,” Drammeh declared.

“We are not opposing Just Home—we are rather against having it at 1900 Pelham Parkway South. In the coming days and weeks, we, the stakeholders, shall mount the most formidable display of our resolve to help the mayor and our city council member find a new location. Stay tuned!”

Following the votes, Bronx residents flooded social media with blistering criticism. Many accused elected officials of dishonesty and political opportunism.

“Amazing how Rafael Salamanca came to our association and said on video he would not vote for the project and would stand with Kristy! Guess he was just being a politician and trying to get votes!” wrote Patti Marinello, warning neighbors to “remember this for his next run.”

Another resident, Franchie Muñiz Méndez, echoed the frustration, quoting late-night host Jimmy Kimmel: “The idiots that represent the Bronx should take a little note from Kimmel. Let’s stop letting these politicians tell us what they want and tell them what we want.”

Community activist Diana Finch reminded locals that even Councilmember Oswald had once argued against Bainbridge Avenue because of CD15’s saturation with supportive housing. Still, she added, such an argument does not apply to other districts like Council District 13, where the Just Home project is sited.