The grounds of the second largest New York City Housing Authority development, Edenwald in the Bronx, served as the perfect backdrop for a report on the public housing budget crisis, which was broadcast on “News 12 the Bronx,” a 24-hour cable news service, in early November.

The report featured interviews with President Gregory Floyd, who was joined by New York State Assemblyman Carl E. Heastie, New York City Councilman Larry B. Seabrook, Pastor Josie Smith of the Gospel of St. Luke Church in the Bronx, and retired Caretaker J. Antonio Marrero. The group called for federal aid to NYCHA, while drawing attention to individual insights and experiences.

Councilman Larry B. Seabrook makes a point after the “News 12” interview as fellow interviewees listen. They are, from left, state assemblyman Carl E. Heastie; President Gregory Floyd and pastor Josie Smith.

“Morale is down because workers are doing their best and still getting complaints from residents,” said Floyd, explaining that before the budget cuts of the past six years repairs were done in a reasonable amount of time. Now fewer repairs are done, and members often use their own supplies to do the jobs.

“We plan to go to D.C. even if we have to bring all the NYCHA residents,” said Floyd. “We’re not going to go away.”

Councilman Seabrook, a self-proclaimed “product of NYCHA,” called for the federal government to do their job. “City and state have put their share,” he said. “Now it is HUD’s responsibility.” Pastor Smith noted, “It’s ridiculous for a country this rich to treat people this way.” Echoing Smith, Assemblyman Heastie said, “The Federal government should put the money back. It’s an abomination.”

Former Edenwald caretaker Marrero recalled being “happy at work,” but he retired after 30 years, when the grounds crew of seven became two. “We had to clean grounds and travel from building to building doing the compactor,” said Marrero. “We had no gloves or face shields. I cut my hands. It’s a miracle I’m not blind."