This Voter Guide is for a previous election. Visit the 2010 General Election Voter Guide for current information!

2009 NYC Voter Guide: Candidate Profile: Yen S. Chou

20th City Council District

 

CANDIDATES

Yen S. Chou Peter Koo SJ Jung Evergreen C. Chou

Yen S. Chou
[ D ]

Peter Koo
[ R, I, C ]

SJ Jung
[ WF ]

Evergreen C. Chou
[ G ]

Yen S. Chou

Democratic

Party enrolled in: Democratic

Occupation: Director, AIM Academy

Occupational background: Special Assistant to NYC Councilman David Weprin

Educational background: St. John's University, M.S. in Mathematics and Computer Science; Dartmouth University "Tuck Executive Education"

Organizational affiliations: Chinese American Parent-Student Council of NYC

Prior public experience: Elected Community School Board member of District 26

Email: friends@yenchou.com

Website: http://www.yenchou.com

Email & Website links were provided by the candidate.

 

1. What is the most important issue in Council District 20 you would address if elected?

My extensive background in education has resulted in a deep concern in mayoral control on the school system, class size and the raise in CUNY tuition. Transparency in school governance is key; students, parents and educators must know that there is a democratic system where they can suggest and implement changes. Additionally, I believe that smaller class size is vital to high-quality learning environment. I understand that recent cuts have resulted in raises in CUNY tuition; I aim to scrutinize the budget so that funding can be better allocated.

 

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

The increased senior demographic makes better senior services necessary. I would seek to procure funding to improve senior centers and to make their services more widespread. Additionally, I would strive for quality and affordable medical care. It is important that everyone has access to medical treatment and insurance. Promoting growth and expansion for smaller businesses and entrepreneurs is likewise crucial for our community. I would also take a proactive approach in pursuing economic prosperity by using city and state subsidies and abatements to encourage and maintain growth.

 

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

My services and experiences in education, entrepreneurship and the City Council create a solid foundation for my candidacy. Beyond that, as the only female candidate, I take a maternal and family-oriented role in leadership and my platforms. As a mother, I can relate to other parents' concerns for children's futures and am committed to ensuring their quality of education. As an entrepreneur, I am sympathetic to small business owners and the hurdles that they have to overcome. My unique and strategic perspectives on the community's problems separate me from others.

 

(Reprinted as supplied by the candidate.)

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PARTY KEY
C = Conservative
D = Democratic
FJ = Freedom Justice
G = Green
I = Independence
JE = Jobs and Education
L = Liberal
LBT = Libertarian Party
NV = New Voice
P = Populist Party
PSL = Party for Socialism and Liberation
RTH* = Rent is Too High Party
R = Republican
SW = Socialist Workers Party
WF = Working Families

*Rent is Too Damn High was changed by the BOE to Rent is Too High after the printed Voter Guide had gone to press.