Tuesday, July 28, 2026
Dear Lincoln Square BID Members and Friends:
As many of you already know, after almost 30 years, I have decided to step down as President of the Lincoln Square Business Improvement District (BID), the organization I founded in 1996. After much reflection, I know the time is right. I am delighted to announce that, following an exhaustive search, Ralph Memoli, our Executive Vice President who has worked alongside me for the past 25 years, has been selected to succeed me as President, effective August 1, 2026. I will remain involved during the transition and continue to assist with special projects as needed.
When I began at the Lincoln Square BID, I had little more than a typewriter, a borrowed desk, and a visionary Board of Directors who believed in creating something special for this neighborhood. Together, we built an organization that has helped transform Lincoln Square into one of New York City’s most vibrant and desirable communities. Those of you who remember the neighborhood in 1995 know just how much it has changed. Lincoln Center was already a cultural anchor, but Lincoln Square looked very different from the neighborhood we know today. Together, we invested millions of dollars to make it cleaner, safer, more beautiful, and more welcoming while supporting business and residential growth.
Over the years, we celebrated many successes and navigated more than a few challenges. We moved into a modern office, recovered from a devastating flood that temporarily displaced us, adapted through the pandemic, witnessed the evolution of our commercial district, transformed our public spaces, and watched our residential community continue to grow. Through it all, the Lincoln Square BID has remained focused on serving this neighborhood. I am especially proud of what we have accomplished together. Our streets are spotless and inviting thanks to our outstanding Clean Team and the Goddard Riverside Green Keepers. Our neighborhood feels safe thanks to our dedicated Public Safety team and our partners at the 20th Precinct. Through our programs and events, we’ve worked hard to make Lincoln Square not only a wonderful place to live and work, but also a fun and unique destination. None of this would have been possible without our exceptional Board of Directors, whose commitment to investing in this neighborhood has never wavered, or our talented and hardworking staff. We have built strong partnerships that have benefited this community, and I have personally enjoyed working with dedicated colleagues throughout city government during my tenure.
I have complete confidence in Ralph Memoli as he assumes the presidency. Ralph has been an indispensable partner for the past 25 years, and he certainly doesn’t need training wheels. With your continued support, I know he will lead the Lincoln Square BID to even greater success. I leave knowing the organization is in excellent hands. Please join me in welcoming Ralph to this new role.
As I reflect on this decision, I realize how fortunate I have been to spend my entire career in public service. Before founding the Lincoln Square BID, I worked in the nonprofit sector, served as a congressional aide, was elected to my local school board, worked at the Department of Investigation, earned my law degree while attending night school, and later served in City Hall as an Assistant to the Mayor and in senior leadership positions at several city agencies. My final position before joining the BID was Executive Director of the Mayor’s Advisory Committee on Appointments. I had the privilege of serving under six New York City mayors and working alongside many extraordinary public servants. In 1981, I even married one of them. Looking back, I can honestly say I loved every minute of my career in public service.
Most importantly, I want to thank all of you. It has been a privilege to work with so many remarkable people and dedicated community organizations over the years, and I am deeply grateful for your friendship, partnership, and unwavering support. Together, we built far more than an organization—we helped shape a neighborhood and a community, and we had a great deal of fun along the way. I look forward to spending more time with my family, swimming every day, and finally enjoying some well-earned time off.
Thank you for allowing me the privilege of serving this extraordinary community. It has truly been the honor of a lifetime.
Sincerely,
Monica Blum, President
Lincoln Square Business Improvement District
Photo Credit: Carlos Alayo
