By Robert Press

On Tuesday, February 10, 2026, close to 50 residents gathered for the February meeting of the Pelham Parkway Neighborhood Association (PPNA), where public safety and local development took center stage.

The meeting was expected to feature a presentation from Kyle Jeremiah of the Bowery Residents’ Committee (BRC), the organization that recently acquired the former Apple Bank building at 626 Pelham Parkway South. However, PPNA President Steven Glosser informed attendees that the BRC representative would not be present. Glosser apologized to residents and directed them to review BRC’s presentation from the January Community Board 11 Housing Committee meeting, where the organization outlined its plans and responded to questions from board members and members of the public. Residents seeking additional information were encouraged to contact Jeremiah directly via email.

With BRC absent, 49th Precinct Captain Julieann Stapleton addressed the gathering as a last-minute guest speaker. Captain Stapleton, who assumed command of the precinct in September, provided an overview of recent crime trends in the area. She noted that in 2025, five of the seven major crime categories saw increases compared to the previous year. However, she added that early 2026 data shows a downward trend in overall crime when measured against the same period last year.

Auto-related theft remains a persistent concern, according to the captain, with vehicles, rims, and catalytic converters among the most frequently targeted items. Her remarks prompted a robust question-and-answer session, as residents raised concerns ranging from illegal cannabis sales to package theft and parking violations.

One resident questioned why illegal cannabis vendors operating from vans along Lydig Avenue near White Plains Road had not been shut down. Captain Stapleton explained that enforcement efforts often involve specialized units tasked with building cases before taking action. “It’s not always immediate,” she said, noting that investigations must meet specific legal thresholds before arrests or seizures can occur.

Additional concerns included mail and package theft, vehicles blocking hydrants or double parking, and graffiti. Officers from the precinct’s Q-Team were present throughout the meeting, collecting complaints and distributing contact information to residents seeking follow-up assistance.

Representatives from Congressman Ritchie Torres, State Senator Gustavo Rivera, and Assemblyman John Zaccaro also attended, sharing information about upcoming community events and addressing constituent inquiries.

In closing, President Glosser noted that PPNA officers recently met with newly elected Councilwoman Shirley Aldebol to discuss the association’s priorities and its ongoing efforts in the community. He expressed optimism about working collaboratively with the new council member to advance neighborhood initiatives.

The meeting underscored the continued engagement of Pelham Parkway residents on issues ranging from public safety to development transparency, as community leaders and elected officials pledged ongoing dialogue and accountability.