13th City Council District

1. What is the most important issue in Council District 13 you would address if elected?

Amid the worst economic downturn in decades, my priority is preserving quality of life in the Northeast Bronx by fighting unfair tax hikes and preserving funding for police, fire, schools, libraries, and senior services. Our middle-class, outer-borough communities are the bedrock of this city, and they should not shoulder an unfair share of the burden just because times are tough.

2. What other important issues would you address if elected?

I was raised to believe if you work hard and play by the rules, you'll be rewarded. But too often in this city we find irresponsible builders issued permits as a matter of right, while honest motorists and merchants get slapped with tickets for minor offenses. Homeowners are soaked with rising water bills while vital services are cut. With this in mind, last year I helped sink a city plan to close over 70 senior centers; this year I'm fighting to save 16 fire companies, including Ladder 53 on City Island. I am pushing bills that would force builders to pay what they owe before starting work and require ticket agents and sanitation officers to photograph offenses so you don't have to lose a day's pay to fight a bogus ticket.

3. What makes you the best candidate for this office?

Serving the community where I was born, raised, and chose to raise my daughter has been my life's mission. After 30 years in public service, I still wake up every morning thinking about how to clean up a stalled construction site or help a senior who's having trouble making ends meet. I've been at this a long time, but I feel as energetic, independent, and motivated as ever. I was born to advocate for this community. I hope you will give me the chance to do so for four more years.

(Reprinted as supplied by the candidate.)

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