Dear Neighbor:

It has been my privilege to serve the Upper East Side and Roosevelt Island for the last eight years in the City Council.

As you may know, I won unanimous election to the post of City Council Speaker in January 2002. As Speaker, I am responsible for the day-to-day functions of the Council, overseeing legislation that affects the lives of New Yorkers and passing the city’s $42 billion budget.

Upon my election as Speaker, I immediately worked with my colleagues to revolutionize the legislative process, making it more transparent and easier for voters to access and understand.

I have consistently made education a priority for the Council and led the fight to increase education dollars for city schools with the Council’s 2002 Education First campaign. After months of hard work, the Council won a major victory when Albany lawmakers and the Mayor agreed to restore funding for education.

As Speaker, I have continued to be one of the Council’s most prolific lawmakers. Under my stewardship, the Council has passed legislation severely limiting the practice of predatory lending, protecting the rights of domestic partners, and providing tax-credits to build more energy efficient buildings and improve air quality.

In the context of the current budget crisis, I have worked diligently to ensure that any budget the Council enacts reflects the values and priorities of all New Yorkers.

I hope to have the opportunity to continue these efforts and, with your support, continue to represent you in the City Council.


(Statement reprinted as supplied by the candidate.)

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