Dozens of people protested in front of City Hall in New Rochelle Wednesday night, saying the city's Industrial Development Agency, or IDA, is giving tax breaks to developers but leaving local residents behind.

They say construction across the city is made up overwhelmingly of non-union workers, with not as many jobs left for local residents.

They added that it leaves a small window of opportunity for local businesses within their own city.

Many community-based organizations, including the Next Step Forward Initiative, were at City Hall to press local leaders to give more opportunities to residents at a time when they need it most.

Chuck Strome, the New Rochelle city manager and chair of the IDA, says that both the city and the IDA have spoken with community members and construction partners to encourage economic development and job growth.

He says that to date, the city has served more than 1,000 residents and has opened upward of 700 job placements, adding that they will continue to talk with the developers to encourage more local workers and businesses.