44th City Council District

1. What is the most important issue in Council District 44 you would address if elected?

Creating affordable housing is my top priority. As soon as I took office this year, I asked the City Planning Department to help me rezone underused manufacturing areas in our community for affordable residential use. I've fought hard to preserve the residential character of our neighborhoods. I'll continue to do so, while also exploring innovative ways to bring desperately-needed affordable housing to our neighborhoods.

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

Making New York more affordable was the centerpiece of my campaign this year. That's why, as your City Councilman, I've kept affordability at the heart of my work. I voted for a budget that did not raise our taxes. I successfully fought frivolous parking tickets, like those issued at former bus stops. I introduced legislation to eliminate senseless double parking tickets. I was successful in obtaining a restoration of funding for Priority 7 vouchers, which provide childcare for many of our community's neediest families. I called on the MTA to reevaluate its own management before shifting operational costs to riders. I helped pass a resolution calling for a Social Security cost of living increase for our seniors. I brought over a half-million dollars back to our community to fund over 40 outstanding organizations providing critical services in these tough economic times. You can expect the same commitment to making New York more affordable for as long as I'm your Councilman.

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

I was born and raised in our community, and my wife and I are proud to continue living and raising our young children here. I understand the challenges you face, because I face them too — from renting an apartment to paying parking tickets to the high-cost of education. Because I live these challenges every day, I work harder than anyone to solve these problems for all of us.

(Reprinted as supplied by the candidate.)

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