1. What is the most important issue in Council District 25 you would address if elected?

Quality of Life issues unify the diverse communities in my district; concerns like continued school improvement, continuing to maintaining safe streets locally and citywide; supporting small businessmen and women, who are the cornerstones of our communities and creating opportunities for easier access to healthcare are issues affecting us all. In addition, the great diversity of my district offers exciting opportunities for multi-cultural collaborations and community building projects. Developing these opportunities further is an important focus for my next term.

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

Managing the city budget is a critical part of the Council’s responsibility, and this has a profound impact on our City’s future. As Queens Budget Negotiator, it is my job to ensure that my borough gets its fair share. I have secured monies for the proposed new Cancer Wing at Elmhurst Hospital, and brought nearly $5 Million for capital improvements to schools in the 25th District. I also provide funds to maintain organizations and programs vital to the community, such as senior centers, youth programs, English as a second language, and numerous civic, social, and cultural organizations which reflect the great diversity in the 25th District. I will continue to identify and work with those groups committed to improving the lives and opportunities for the people they serve.

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

My record in the City Council and my experience and proven ability to get things done are a matter of public record. I have spent my career fighting to open and maintain senior centers, build new schools, and modernize existing ones. I helped to lead the fight to make our communities safer through the establishment of the 115th Police Precinct in Jackson Heights. Last month we held a Town Hall meeting in Lefrak City, Corona, where NYPD Commissioner Ray Kelly attended and heard directly from the community about their concerns. My main mission in office has been to bring City Government directly to the people so that it stays available and responsive to the constituents I serve. That’s why I’ve been endorsed by The Uniformed Firefighters Assoc., The United Federation of Teachers, The New York Central Labor Council, The Uniformed Sanitationmens Assoc., SEIU Local 1199, UFCW Local 1500, RWDSU Local 338 and many others.

(Reprinted as supplied by the candidate.)

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