The average person does not have enough say-so about what goes on in New York City. Too many important decisions are made behind closed doors without the consent of the people who live here, and often even without their knowledge. Big money has far too much power, and the average citizen has too little. That has got to change.

I want to get the people’s input. If elected, I would hold regular public meetings around Astoria to hear the residents’ complaints and ideas. And I am not talking about a town hall meeting once every couple of years--but rather at least monthly meetings where anyone who lives in the district can attend and take part. If we had such meetings, members of City Council would have to make their case directly to the people and tell us why we have to put up with more tax hikes, rent hikes, and fare hikes.

My opponent, Peter Vallone Jr., received many large contributions from big real estate interests in his 2001 campaign. No wonder that he, along with other Council members, stood by and let the State government push through a 10.5% increase for rent-controlled tenants. No wonder he voted for the 18.5% property tax hike, which everyone knows will be passed on to tenants. Vallone Jr. did not attend the MTA hearings in Queens prior to the fare hike, and did nothing to oppose it. If he had to face his constituents 12 times a year and explain his positions to them, he probably wouldn’t have taken such positions in the first place. And the people would have been better off.

We need a more fair and democratic way of doing things in Astoria, and all over New York City. If we work together, we can do better. A lot better.


(Statement reprinted as supplied by the candidate.)

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