1. What is the most important issue in Council District 7 you would address if elected?

My top priority remains the safety and security of the residents of District 7. However, one very significant issue is that of affordable housing. Having a decent home that you can afford makes everything else possible. Over the past 3 years I have supported the conversion of city owned buildings into co-ops so that low and middle income residents can become owners. I will work to ensure that any new development includes permanent affordable housing. I have supported legislation to protect tenants’ rights and I am working to make sure that tenants who have been sued by their landlord in housing court have legal representation so that they do not lose their homes.

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

In addition to continuing the struggle to ensuring that the 14.5 billion dollars I won for our schools is paid to us by the state, I will improve all aspects of our schools so that our children can have the opportunity that they deserve. I will continue to address the unemployment and underemployment problem that faces so many of my constituents. I will work to expand access to health care. I will continue to champion the cause of the many community organizations that provide needed services to our youth and our senior citizens.

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

I am the best candidate for a number of reasons: I am honest and hardworking. In addition to the experience that I brought to the job in 2001, I now have 3 1/2 years of legislative and budget negotiating experience. I have chaired the Contracts Committee since I took office in January 2002 and more recently, I have assumed an additional leadership role as Co-Chair of the Black, Latino, and Asian Caucus. My staff and I have learned how to respond effectively to the needs of our constituents. As I promised when I first ran for office in 2001, I have promoted legislation and policies that have aimed to consistently improve the quality of life for my constituents. I have been a resident and an activist in Northern Manhattan for most of my life; I love this community, respect its residents and I am proud of its wonderful diversity.

(Reprinted as supplied by the candidate.)

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