I was elected to the City Council two years ago. When I entered the Council, having been a Democratic District Leader for over 25 years, I was no stranger to dealing with city agencies or the State and Federal governments. My experience helped me tremendously as I strived to make a difference for the 25th Councilmanic District and New York City as a whole.

Our City has faced an ongoing budget crisis of dramatic proportions. We face large budget deficits, and by law, along with the Mayor, it is the City Council’s responsibility to balance the budget. This means making difficult and unpopular decisions like cutting services.

As Queens Budget Negotiator, it is my responsibility to see that our borough gets its fair share of funding and doesn’t suffer disproportionate cuts. It is my responsibility to ensure essential programs can continue to function productively.

I have worked hard to keep senior centers open, provide school funding for updated books and computers, maintain after-school programs, make sure our garbage is collected twice a week, keep libraries open and maintain adequate staffing in our police force to keep our streets safe. Additionally, my staff has helped hundreds of constituents with various problems.

In an effort to make our City a better and safer place to live. I have authored or sponsored numerous pieces of legislation in my first term and I have initiated several programs to improve the quality of life in the 25th Councilmanic District. I am proud of the work I have done so far but there is much more to be done and I look forward to taking on the challenges that lie ahead.




(Statement reprinted as supplied by the candidate.)

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