March 11, 2010 · www.gothamgazette.com |
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Archives: Searchlight on the City Council

Doubts Grow About City's Capital Spending
March 10, 2010—The capital budget has almost doubled during Bloomberg's tenure. Budget experts now wonder whether that was such a smart investment.

Bloomberg Moves to Change the City Charter — But How?
March 8, 2010—In naming a commission to revise the City Charter, the mayor put everything on the table. That means term limits, but what else? Douglas Muzzio looks at charter change past and present.

Council Increases Penalty for Dumping
March 4, 2010—The City Council approved bills to improve New York's environment, including one increasing penalties for dumping in the waterways and another encouraging green technology.

February 19, 2010—In her fifth state of the city, Council Speaker Christine Quinn said she would hone in on one thing in 2010: jobs.

Charter Commissions Since 1989
March 8, 2010—Placeholder

Council Targets Gang Initiations
February 12, 2010—The City Council approved legislation to crack down on gang initiations. But will it target innocent minority youth instead?

Stated Meeting: Council Creates Path to Citizenship
February 4, 2010—The City Council is considering a proposal aimed at helping some immigrant children in foster care remain in the country.

February 1, 2010—The mayor warns that Gov. Paterson's budget would force the city to cut 8,500 teachers, reduce police to 1985 levels, and end street cleaning. Scary stuff, but maybe that's just the point.

February 8, 2010—Former Councilmember Alan Gerson introduced more legislation than any other councilmember in the last session.

Penning Legislation: The Winners and Losers
February 8, 2010—Find out who has sponsored the most bills in the last session at the City Council -- and who has the least.

Stated Meeting: The Council's New Order
January 22, 2010—Kicking off a new term, the City Council finalized its new committees yesterday -- but not without drama. See who is in and who is out.

Bloomberg Delivers Muted State of the City
January 21, 2010—The State of the City was a speech not an extravaganza this time around, but the mayor did offer plans to improve juvenile justice and help New Yorkers weather the recession.

January 15, 2010—Want to know where your councilmember stands on the living wage issue? Check out Gotham Gazette's survey.

The Living Wage After Kingsbridge
January 15, 2010—In the aftermath of the Kingsbridge Armory debate, a more widespread bill on living wages may not come as easily as some expect.

Stated Meeting: 2010 City Council's First Day
January 7, 2010—The new City Council, flush with 13 new members, re-elected Council Speaker Christine Quinn. But the vote was not without emotion and drama.

January 4, 2010—Can the mayor escape the curse of the third term? How will he deal with more combative public officials and a feistier City Council? And what does he plan to do in the next four years anyway?

Stated Meeting: Broadway Triangle Approved by Council
December 22, 2009—The City Council approved a controversial rezoning, which community members cast as a political deal despite its promise of affordable housing.

New York City Council Races Get More Competitive
December 16, 2009—Incumbency remained a huge advantage in the 2009 City Council contests, but it was not quite the ticket to victory it once was. Just ask five defeated council members and several others who managed to eke out only narrow victories.

Stated Meeting: Kingsbridge Armory Defeated by the Council
December 15, 2009—In a rare move against a major project, the City Council rejected a proposal to redevelop the Kingsbridge Armory in the Bronx, putting the debate over paying living wages under a citywide spotlight.

Stated Meeting: Green Building Bills Approved by the Council
December 10, 2009—The City Council passed legislation requiring energy audits for large buildings -- a move that some critics say weakens a key part of the mayor's sustainability plan.

Stated Meeting: Clearing the Way for Open Grills
December 1, 2009—The City Council yesterday banned those opaque sheets of metal used as security gates on businesses around the city, but the measure will not go completely into effect until 2026. Council also approved its final legislative response to the deadly fire at Deutsche Bank in 2007.
Stated Meeting: Easing Parking Rules and Opposing Gas Drilling
November 17, 2009—In its first meeting since the election, City Council took aim at the administration's policies on issuing traffic tickets, passing four bills, including one the mayor has vowed to veto. The council also approved a new police academy and went on record against drilling for natural gas in the city's watershed.

The Fight over Paid Sick Leave
November 16, 2009—Amid worries about H1N1, City Council considers a bill requiring employers to give workers paid sick leave. Is this a needed public health measure or another burden on struggling city businesses?

Bloomberg and Quinn: Chapter 2
November 9, 2009—For four years, the mayor and speaker have played as a team. Now, though, some members want City Council to be more assertive. Can Quinn lead them in this new era?
Stated Meeting: Hines Midtown Tower Approved
October 29, 2009—The City Council approves a 1,000 foot tower in Midtown, which will include additional space for MoMA, a hotel and luxury residences. The council also took aim at mortgage foreclosure consultants.

Stated Meeting: Council Bans Flavored Tobacco
October 15, 2009—Just weeks after the federal government banned flavored cigarettes, the City Council goes a step further.

Unions Flex Their Political Muscles
October 13, 2009—Labor has long wielded influence in heavily unionized New York. But last month's Democratic primary raised hopes -- and fears -- that the city's unions may be more powerful than ever.

Stated Meeting: Graffiti Cleanup and Rezoning Sunset Park
October 1, 2009—The City Council attempts to make graffiti cleanup faster and rezones a large swath of Sunset Park.

Stated Meeting: Sitting in Smog on the Way to School
September 18, 2009—The City Council approved a bill yesterday making a student's ride to school a little cleaner. Check out that and more in this week’s Searchlight on City Hall.

September 14, 2009—The real estate market is reeling but that has not stopped the industry from doling out $2.5 million to candidates for citywide office this year and more to various council contenders.

Stated Meeting: City Council Requires Pharmacies to Translate
August 21, 2009—Handing out its own prescription for language access, the City Council approved legislation Thursday requiring large pharmacy chains to provide translation services in the city's most popular languages.

Stated Meeting: Coney Island Gets a Facelift
July 30, 2009—In an attempt to revitalize an area long known as "America's playground," the City Council approved a
27-acre redevelopment plan to turn Coney Island into a year-round destination, full of retail, hotels and entertainment.
Call it Las Vegas a la Brooklyn.

July 27, 2009—Despite a miniscule budget and little name recognition, Tony Avella thinks he can parlay his maverick reputation into victory in the Democratic primary for mayor. Most experts think that’s laughable.

July 20, 2009—Miguel Martinez pleaded guilty to felony charges, resigned from City Council and faces years in prison. But his closest advisors still get to help pick his successor.

Forgiving Penalties, Observing Muslim Holidays
July 1, 2009—
Holidays were the topic of conversation at the City Council yesterday, with the body approving a three-month penalty forgiveness period for environmental fines as well as a resolution that urges the city schools to give students two Muslim holidays off.
The King of Discretionary Dollars
June 25, 2009—Who's the king (or queen) of pork this year? It’s time for our annual look at which City Council members got the most funding for their district, borough or favorite cause.

June 19, 2009—Who is slated to hand out the most member items this year? Find out before the City Council approves the new $59.4 billion budget today.
June 19, 2009—
Council and Mayor Reach Budget Deal
June 16, 2009—
The City Council and the Bloomberg administration reached a budget deal last night, which will preserve the city's six-day library service but also raise the sales tax.
Though the agreement, which was solidified with the quintessential handshake, was announced two weeks before the city's budget deadline of July 1, it comes with a cloud of uncertainty since all of the city's proposed tax increases, worth a total of $887 million in revenue, need approval from the State Legislature. Though city officials say the state Assembly is ready to move the legislation forward, the State Senate is mired with political infighting over which party is in control, and it is in the process of settling the dispute in a courtroom.

City Left on the Sidelines as Senators Feud
June 22, 2009—With the State Senate mired in tragedy, soap opera and farce, reforms, budgets and more hang in the balance. We report from Albany and City Hall on the policies at stake.
Stated Meeting: Dumbo's Dock Street Project Approved
June 11, 2009—In a rare move, the City Council approved a development project despite the vocal opposition of the local council member. Councilmember David Yassky opposes the project, known as Dock Street Dumbo because, he says, it will permanently taint the view of the Brooklyn Bridge.
June 8, 2009—Those 59 local groups face funding and staff cuts, but some fear the worst is yet to come. Will Mayor Michael Bloomberg try to restructure or even eliminate the boards?

Council and Mayor Reach Revenue Deal
June 2, 2009—
The City Council and the Bloomberg administration have reached an agreement on a tax revenue package, which will increase the city's sales tax by .5 percent and tax clothing purchases over $110.
The move represents the first step towards a budget agreement at City Hall, which must be approved by the City Council by July 1. The administration and the council have not yet agreed on a spending plan , which could reduce the city's workforce by 13,541 positions and slash spending at all city agencies, from the Police Department to the Fire Department.

Public Hospitals in Critical Condition
May 28, 2009—Four clinics are set to shut, four mental health programs in New York City public schools won't be around next year, and three satellite pharmacies are about to fill their last prescriptions.
Stated Meeting: Keeping Eyes on the Tenant Watch List
May 21, 2009—Patrick and Tari Kelly had no idea they were blacklisted.
They were Midtown subletters for two years, until their temporary landlord decided to renovate the building. They moved to Queens and six years later tried to relocate again to Washington Heights.

Bill Thompson Hopes for an Upset
May 11, 2009—Can an affable but quiet career politician topple a popular mayor with billions of dollars at his disposal? Bill Thompson thinks he can. But how?

Stated Meeting: Scratching Out Etching Acid
May 7, 2009—Carving out another obstacle for graffiti "vandals," the City Council approved legislation Wednesday requiring that merchants selling etching acid keep purchasers' personal information for a year.

May 4, 2009—The mayor's new budget sounds some familiar themes and gives a starring role to the sales tax. Will election year critics give it a thumps up or a thumbs down?
Role Reversal: Contributions from Candidates
April 30, 2009—
Just two candidates currently running for public advocate or city comptroller contributed to the Working Families Party last year, according to the Campaign Finance Board. Coincidentally, they were the same two candidates who received the party’s endorsement.
Council members John Liu, a comptroller candidate, and Bill de Blasio, who is running for public advocate, each doled out $10,000 to the third party last October, both saying it to went to fight against the extension of term limits.
About six months later, though, their contributions may have been rewarded with an influential endorsement from the group, opponents allege. A Working Families Party spokesman said the donations did not curry any favor at the endorsement table. The group based its decision on merit, said spokesperson Dan Levitan, calling Liu and de Blasio brave for standing up against the term limit extension.
City Gears Up for Green Buildings
April 23, 2009—
Perfectly timed for Earth Day, the Bloomberg administration and the City Council introduced a package of legislation yesterday that seeks to improve energy efficiency in large commercial buildings and could require about 20,000 buildings to improve their use of electricity.
The plan hopes to reduce the city's carbon footprint by 5 percent -- roughly comparable to the carbon emissions generated by Oakland, Calif.
A combination of updating the energy code and creating efficiency and lighting benchmarks, the energy plan already has racked up criticism from a wide array of interest groups, including the real estate industry and tenants rights advocates. Many are concerned over the financial impact of the legislation.

April 13, 2009—
The call of "Don't forget to vote on April 21st" practically overpowers the latest Hot 97 hits pulsing from an audio store on the corner of Fordham Road and Jerome Avenue in the west Bronx.
Evening rush-hour riders depart from the screeching number 4 train, slide down two flights of stairs to the street to get a flyer, a handshake and a wide, mustached smile.
"I am running for Bronx borough president in two weeks," Assemblymember Ruben Diaz Jr. says, stretching out his hand.
Running might be an overstatement. For Diaz, who practically has a set of keys to borough hall already, walking would be a better characterization.
Tracking Stimulus and Unattended Idlers
April 10, 2009—
Fiscal crises don't stop the legislative process, which can be fueled at a faster rate in an election year.
Here is a sample of bills introduced at the City Council lately, some of which are destined to drift about in legislative purgatory The council is ready to consider bills that include requiring food inspector grades be posted to mandating a super majority for tax hikes.
Stated Meeting: Council Moves to Protect Access to Clinics
April 3, 2009—In an attempt to clear a path for patients at reproductive clinics, the City Council approved legislation strengthening the city's clinic access law, allowing police to arrest protesters that harass those seeking medical care.
Council Extends Rent Stabilization
March 25, 2009—
Rent stabilized tenants can rest assured their apartments will remain on regulated rolls for another three years.
The City Council approved a three-year extension of rent stabilization by a vote of 48 to 2 on Tuesday -- action that has been pro forma since the 1960s. Council members Jimmy Oddo and Vincent Ignizio, both Republicans from Staten Island, voted against the extension.
Priced Out: Council Looks to Keep Apartments Affordable
March 18, 2009—
The signs of eviction -- abandoned furniture dotting the hallways, renovation crews climbing stories with paint cans in tow -- characterize the latter years of Terry Bocanelli's stint on the West Side of Manhattan.
A resident there for more than 15 years, Bocanelli's 31st Street apartment building has become a revolving door: rent stabilized tenants leave and higher income residents swoop in. The newer transplants bring more than their belongings. They bring with them higher rents.
Council Takes a Bite Out of Bed Bugs
March 12, 2009—
The City Council tried to bite bed bugs back Wednesday when it unanimously approved legislation spurring the city to investigate the epidemic.
The bill requires the city form a task force to make recommendations on how to stop infestations currently ravaging apartments citywide.
The council also approved legislation requiring the registration of debt collectors, the reinstatement of a waterfront advisory board and an increase in fees for waste transfer station operators.

A City Council Scorecard: Who's Engaged and Who's Not?
March 9, 2009—Which City Council member skips a third of all meetings, and who never misses one? Who is the chamber's top naysayer? And which committee chair held just six meetings in three years?
Stated Meeting: Clerk Battle and Food Allergies
February 27, 2009—In a borough against borough battle over a well-paid political patronage position at City Hall Thursday, Queens won when the City Council approved the appointment of a Woodside resident to the post of city clerk.
February 17, 2009—
Council Speaker Christine Quinn, quite out of character, opposed the Bloomberg administration on two issues last week.
First, she led the council in overriding a mayoral veto of residency requirements for the city's largest municipal workers union. A day after, Quinn announced a plan to solve the city's fiscal woes: increase income taxes for the richest New Yorkers.
The proposal puts the speaker at odds with her governing partner, Mayor Michael Bloomberg, who suggested in his preliminary budget that the city increase and broaden the city sales tax to close a $4 billion deficit.
So far, it seems Quinn has a more crowded corner.
For the past three budget cycles, the mayor and the speaker have had relatively mild-mannered -- even affable -- budget negotiations. With about five months to go in the negotiation process, they are already at odds.
Stated Meeting: Residency Redux and Inspecting Water Tanks
February 12, 2009—In a rare disagreement with the Bloomberg administration, the City Council Wednesday overrode a mayoral veto of a bill that would allow certain municipal employees to live outside of the city after working for two years.

Meet the Independent Budget Office
February 10, 2009—Have any questions about the administration’s new preliminary budget? Ronnie Lowenstein of the Independent Budget Office will join Gotham Gazette City Hall reporter Courtney Gross to answer your questions live. Check back here at 2 p.m. to participate.

February 9, 2009—Play Balance, Gotham Gazette's new game and see if you can fill New York's $4 billion budget gap. Cut, tax or spend -- as long as you make it balance.

February 2, 2009—The mayor calls for job cuts, a higher sales tax, hundreds of teacher layoffs and all-around slashing. How will such a gloomy plan play out in an election year?
Stated Meeting: Shutting Engines At Schools
January 29, 2009—If you're idling you car engine near a school, City Council wants you to shut it off. That's the message the council sent Wednesday when it passed two bills bolstering the city's ability to issue tickets for engine idling citywide and reducing the time a driver can idle near school grounds. The council also passed legislation that enables the city to track construction contractors' safety records and requires safety managers at sites with problem contractors.
January 23, 2009—
More than 230 pieces of legislation were introduced in 2008, most of which won't ever become law.
We waded through some of those bills to give you a roundup of those that were proposed more recently. Council members have proposed legislation spanning the policy spectrum, from banning the sale of dust remover to minors to regulating parking permits for teachers.
A Recovery Package From Bloomberg
January 16, 2009—
Trumpeting, both literally and metaphorically, New Yorkers' ability to get through tough times, Mayor Michael Bloomberg revealed a nine-part "recovery package" during his annual State of the City address Thursday, confirming to many attendees that the 2009 campaign season has started.
Meticulously orchestrated and equipped with its own theme ("New Yorkers. Together."), the mayor's address was accompanied by came with a small marching band brandishing the Brooklyn Dodgers label, a chorus from a Brooklyn elementary school and a documentary short courtesy of Ric Burns, which retold stories of triumph against tragedy in New York City.
The address, which the mayor usually uses to lay out his policy agenda for the coming year, focused primary on getting the city through the current recession, including a j proposal to bring in 400,000 positions. The mayor also focused on quality of life crimes, in an attempt to keep the city from reverting back to the 1970s, when core city services were cut amid an economic downturn.
Stated Meeting: Council Approves Firearm Reporting
January 8, 2009—If police officers pull their triggers the City Council will now be put on notice under legislation passed unanimously by the council on Wednesday.
The 2009 Race: How Term Limits Changed the Political Landscape
January 5, 2009—The extension of term limits uprooted the 2009 political landscape. Or did it? Many incumbents may now face challengers who hope anger over the extra term will work to their advantage.
The Council Passes Budget Cuts
December 18, 2008—
After six weeks of debate, the City Council approved a 7 percent property tax hike and approximately $500 million in spending cuts on Thursday to address a budget deficit that continues to widen as an economic recession grips the nation.
The property tax hike was approved by a vote of 33 to 18 with critics arguing a tax increase would further fray the empty pockets of New Yorkers.
Stated Meeting: Tax Bills on the Floor
December 9, 2008—The City Council has its own solution to New York's fiscal crisis: Don't tax New Yorkers. Tax tourists.
The Public Speaks on Budget Cuts
November 25, 2008—
For David De Porte, the Department for the Aging's intergenerational program doesn't just provide him with companionship. It gives him a set of eyes.
De Porte, a blind lifelong resident of the West Village, meets with teenage volunteers who help him shop for groceries, fill out paperwork and check prescriptions at the drug store.
Stated Meeting: Trendy, Endangered Neighborhood Rezoned
November 19, 2008—New York City's most "endangered neighborhood" was rezoned by the City Council today in an attempt to stave off gentrification and boost affordable housing.
Queens Development Plans Approved
November 17, 2008—After much debate and opposition, the City Council Thursday approved a plan to develop Willets Point, a polluted industrial area of Queens. To win support, the administration agreed to provide more affordable housing on the site and to protections for local businesses.
The Conflicts at the Conflicts of Interest Board
November 10, 2008—As the steward of City Hall integrity, the Conflicts of Interest Board was thrust into the limelight during the term-limits debate. A look at how it balances government ethics and private interests.
Term Limits Extension Gets Final Signature
November 3, 2008—
Scores of New York City residents filed into the mayor's side of City Hall -- a rare space for such a public spectacle -- for the city's final hearing on term limits Monday morning.
Despite the relentless opposition and at times piercing criticism, Mayor Michael Bloomberg, as expected, signed a term limits extension into law just before 2 p.m., effectively allowing dozens of term-limited officials, including himself, to seek another four years in office.
City Council Approves Term Limits Extension
October 24, 2008—In its most divisive vote in recent memory, the City Council approved an extension of term limits clearing the way for nearly two thirds of its members, several borough presidents, the comptroller, public advocate and Mayor Michael Bloomberg to run for a third term.
Thursday afternoon’s vote reverses two referenda approved in the 1990s and drastically changes the circumstances for next year's city elections.
Stated Meeting: Waterfronts and East Harlem
October 14, 2008—All of the city's attention may be turned to term limits, but at its stated meeting on Tuesday -- in addition to introducing legislation that would extend the limit from two to three terms -- City Council unanimously approved a bill to develop a master plan for the city's waterfronts.
Stated Meeting: Tax Breaks for Industry
September 29, 2008—Looking to save millions –albeit years from now – the City Council approved legislation on Wednesday that revises the city’s industrial and commercial development incentive program to further limit what type of projects can receive a tax break.
Disclosure Bill's Uncertain Future
September 22, 2008—Mayor Michael Bloomberg's disclosure bill went pretty much unnoticed when it was introduced in June.
September 15, 2008—

Stated Meeting: Crane Safety Beefed Up
September 8, 2008—After a fatal accident the same day, the City Council passed several bills to increase safety at construction sites that operate cranes.
Stated Meeting: Cooling City Streets
August 18, 2008—The burst of cool air aimed at luring impulse buyers off of city streets will now come with a cost.
Prayer or Violation? The City Council's Invocation
August 11, 2008—
From Saving Energy to Preventing Choking
August 4, 2008—
Stated Meeting: Construction Legislation Moves Forward
July 28, 2008—The City Council approved three additional construction safety items last week in an effort to improve conditions at works sites across the city.
Measuring Constituent Complaints: Round One
July 14, 2008—
Street Vending to School Parking
June 23, 2008—
Stated Meeting: First Steps for Building Revisions
June 16, 2008—Moving on the first pieces of legislation since a package of proposals was introduced last week, the City Council unanimously approved a bill requiring the city publish construction fatalities on its web site and notify the state of disciplinary action against industry professionals.
Safety on Site -- or In Sight?
June 9, 2008—
Stated Meeting: A New Fire Code and Surplus
June 2, 2008—After a three-year review, the City Council unanimously approved a revised fire code on Wednesday. The code was last revised in 1913. In response to changing times, the update requires more informative evacuation plans and includes construction sites into fire safety management.
A Better Budget Outlook… To Some
May 27, 2008—
Stated Meeting: The Next Round on E-Waste
May 19, 2008—With the City Council in the thick of budget hearings, there were not many bills to vote on at the May 15 stated meeting. The measures the council did pass, though, dealt with three persistent city problems: solid waste, traffic and construction safety.
Once Again, Quinn Tries to End the Funding Furor
May 12, 2008—Faced with rebellious members and continuing reports about alleged abuses in the way City Council uses its discretionary funds, the speaker last week came up with a new plan. Will it end the furor?
Stated Meeting: Harlem Rezoning Approved
May 5, 2008—Harlem's low-story buildings and epic institutions will now get a so-called facelift -- at least in the view of city officials and some developers -- as the City Council approved a rezoning plan for the neighborhood's busiest boulevard last week.
April 28, 2008—
April 21, 2008—
Bogus Groups in the City Budget
April 7, 2008—
Stated Meeting: An End to E-Waste
March 31, 2008—In a rare sign of confrontation with the Bloomberg administration, the City Council at its Stated Meeting Wednesday overrode a mayoral veto prohibiting income discrimination in housing and approved electronic waste legislation the mayor is known to oppose.
The Council and Congestion Pricing: Part II
March 24, 2008—
Stated Meeting: Budget Cuts and E-Waste
March 17, 2008—Following the Bloomberg administration's lead, the City Council approved a 4.3 percent cut in its operating budget for fiscal year 2009 in response to a looming budget deficit and trying fiscal times.
March 10, 2008—
Stated Meeting: Green Carts Come to Town
March 4, 2008—Though it scaled back a bill to create green carts, the City Council approved legislation Wednesday creating this new class of street vendor.
A Permanent Address: Regulating Residency Requirements at the City Council
February 25, 2008—
Stated Meeting: Wasting Electronics
February 19, 2008—After two years and tons of computers strewn to the curb, the City Council overwhelmingly approved legislation that requires manufacturers to recycle certain types of electronic waste.
Ringing in the New Year With Legislation
February 11, 2008—
Stated Meeting: Housing Discrimination
February 4, 2008—A simple search on Craigslist reveals that many apartments across the five boroughs will not accept applicants if they pay their rent with government assistance. "No programs," reads a listing for a one-bedroom apartment in an elevator building near Prospect Park.
January 28, 2008—After years of budget surpluses, the mayor released a spending plan last week that calls for chopping expenses. The question on everyone's lips: How bad will it get?
January 22, 2008—Maybe his thoughts are elsewhere but in his speech Mayor Michael Bloomberg offered many familiar proposals but few major new ideas for New York City.
January 11, 2008—
Green Carts to Horse Carriages
January 4, 2008—
How City Council Expresses Its Opinions
December 31, 2007—Council members make resolutions all year-round. But the council's resolutions often have no more impact than the promises the rest of us make for the New Year.
Stated Meeting: Columbia Gets Approval
December 26, 2007—In what some called a rush to approval, the City Council lifted the final obstacle for Columbia University to expand its campus into Manhattanville in West Harlem at its stated meeting on Wednesday, Dec. 19.
Stated Meeting: Savoring the Brooklyn Sugar Plant
December 13, 2007—The sign is iconic, rising above the East River reminding passersby that 3 million pounds of sugar were once produced there on a single day.
Getting Paid: Debating the Council's Outside Income and Salaries
December 10, 2007—
Committee Assignments and Stipends
December 7, 2007—
Stated Meeting: Capping Carbon
December 3, 2007—Watch out exhaust-spilling sports utility vehicles. Move over inefficient light bulbs. The New York City Council wants to replace you with more energy efficient technology.
Stated Meeting: Restricting Council Ads
November 19, 2007—Members of the City Council can say goodbye to their "Merry Christmas" or "Happy Hanukkah" holiday greetings in local media. Under new rules approved by the City Council at its stated meeting on Thursday, members will no longer be able to give well wishes in the local media at the taxpayer's expense, which some groups contend only boosts a member's visibility and serves no public purpose.
November 13, 2007—
November 5, 2007—
November 6, 2007 General Election Results
November 6, 2007—
Stated Meeting: Preserving Neighborhoods
October 30, 2007—Residents of two very different neighborhoods can look to the City Council this week with either appreciation or dismay after it approved a landmark designation for the private courts and row houses of Sunnyside Gardens and a rezoning for the brownstones of Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn.
Stated Meeting with a State Agenda
October 29, 2007—Council Speaker Christine Quinn called an unannounced City Council meeting Tuesday morning, rushing council members into the chamber to give the state Legislature the go-ahead to approve a tax credit for small business owners.
Stated Meeting: Con Edison Rates and Reporting on Pesticides
October 23, 2007—In its latest evidence of displeasure with Con Edison, the City Council approved a resolution endorsing Council Speaker Christine Quinn's efforts to become an active party in the debate over the utility's proposed rate hike. At its stated meeting on October 17, the council also approved stricter reporting standards on the city's use of pesticides, closed a tax exemption loophole for a housing program and approved several modifications to the budget.
Adding Up: How Much Members Spend on Ads?
October 15, 2007—City Council members spend tens of thousands of taxpayer dollars on advertising, according to a new report. A look at who buys the most ads and why.
October 9, 2007—
Stated Meeting: Replacing Street Signs to Taking Recyclables
October 1, 2007—At its stated meeting on September 25, the City Council cracked down on the lax replacement of missing and damaged street signs as well as the unauthorized removal of curbside recycling.
Next Round in the Cell Phone Fight
September 24, 2007—
September 18, 2007 Primary Election Results
September 19, 2007—The following Primary Election results are based on the unofficial vote tally as reported by the New York City Board of Elections. The results below are subject to change as the official count is made public.
September 17, 2007—
Stated Meeting: Rezoning Jamaica
September 11, 2007—With the exception of three Queens council members, the City Council overwhelmingly approved a rezoning plan for Jamaica, Queens on Monday. Councilmember Thomas White, who represents part of Jamaica, did not attend the meeting. A staffer said White is out of town, and their office was unaware the vote was coming up.
September 11, 2007—
Paralyzing Peeping and Blasting Explosive Regulations
September 4, 2007—
Stated Meeting: Making Room in Litter Baskets
August 27, 2007—New Yorkers will have to keep their residential trash out of public litter baskets or face a fine of up to $400 under legislation unanimously approved by the City Council.
August 20, 2007—
Searchlight: Land Use and an Indicted Council Member
August 13, 2007—
A Divided Council Confronts Congestion Pricing
August 6, 2007—The 51 members will eventually have to weigh in on any plan to reduce New York’s traffic. We report on who stands where in a sharply divided council.
Stated Meeting: Cell Phones, Yes, Markers, No
July 30, 2007—In muted gesture of defiance of the Bloomberg administration, the City Council last week approved legislation guaranteeing a student's right to take a cell phone to and from school, despite a Department of Education ban on the devices inside school property.
July 23, 2007—In 19 months as speaker, Christine Quinn has opened up the council and forged a partnership with the mayor. But her most difficult tasks could lie ahead.
July 9, 2007—
‘Imperfect’ Campaign Finance Bill Wins Approval
July 2, 2007—
Dividing the Wealth: Who Gets the Council’s Discretionary Funds?
June 25, 2007—Our analysis of City Council figures reveals which members did best in capturing funds for projects in their districts – and who did not fare as well.
June 25, 2007—
Sealed with a Kiss: The 2008 Budget
June 18, 2007—Basking in the hefty surplus, the mayor and City Council smoothly reached agreement on taxes and spending. But as with any budget, some groups were left out.
What the Campaign Finance Bill Would Do – and Not Do
June 11, 2007—The latest efforts to restrict campaign contributions have been widely hailed – but would the new law even be in effect in time for the 2009 elections?
Stated Meeting – Street Names Sparks Heated Debate
June 4, 2007—Despite a demonstration on the steps of City Hall and apparent racial division among its members, the City Council excluded the revered and rebuked Sonny Carson from a street-naming bill at its stated meeting on May 30, turning a normally routine procedure into a controversy. The council also – and much less contentiously – adopted a bill to strengthen the repair process for the city's most dilapidated buildings and a measure requiring building owners to submit up-to-date floor numbering lists to the fire department.
Rights in Restaurants, Banning Markers
May 21, 2007—
Stated Meeting: Protecting Fire Fighters
May 14, 2007—At the city council’s stated meeting on May 9, the council members unanimously approved a bill requiring that the fire department be notified of any substantial changes in existing buildings. During the meeting, which also featured the long-delayed swearing in of new City Councilmember Mathieu Eugene and continued debate over whether to rename a street for black activist Sonny Carson, the council passed a resolution in favor of a federal program that would provide money to help those who responded to and worked or lived near the World Trade Center collapse on September 11, 2001. A number of new bills were announced as well.
Stated Meeting City Council April 23, new bills
May 7, 2007—At each of the City Council's stated meetings, council members introduce bills, most of which will never become laws (for the process by which bills become laws, click here). As a regular feature, Gotham Gazette discusses some of the legislation proposed at each meeting.
Stated Meeting - Bicycle Taxis, Baseball Bats, and Budget Boom
April 30, 2007—On April 23, the New York City Council overrode two mayoral vetoes and so instituted new restrictions on pedicabs and banned metal baseball bats from high school sports leagues. In addition to these somewhat contentious votes, the council had the pleasure of doing what some say it does best: spend money. The members voted unanimously to approve an additional $1.8 billion in spending in this year’s budget. They also passed resolutions on the 9/11 cleanup, school funding and the Virginia Tech massacre.
Housing Repairs and a Street Fight
April 23, 2007—
April 16, 2007—The City Council last week passed a bill that would protect "educational whistleblowers", setting up another conflict with Mayor Michael Bloomberg just two weeks after he rejected its plan to regulate pedicabs.
April 9, 2007—
Stated Meeting -- Maintaining Mitchell- Lama
April 2, 2007—The City Council passed bills intended to keep affordable housing available, and to protect the safety of construction workers at its most recent stated meeting on March 28, 2007. It also approved its budget for the upcoming fiscal year.
New Bills -- Government on the Web, Parking, and Illegal Hotels
March 26, 2007—
Metal Bat Ban, Benefits for Domestic Patners, and Chocolate Milk
March 19, 2007—
Nightlife, Pedicabs, and the N-word
March 5, 2007—
Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz 2007 State of the Borough Address
February 19, 2007—
Queens Borough President Helen M. Marshall 2007 State of the Borough Address
February 19, 2007—
Manhattan Borough President Scott M. Stringer 2007 State of the Borough Address
February 19, 2007—
Staten Island Borough President James P. Molinaro 2007 State of the Borough Address
February 19, 2007—
Bronx Borough President 2007 State of the Borough Address
February 19, 2007—
Speaker Christine C. Quinn: State of the City Address: February 15, 2007
February 15, 2007—
New Bills -- Domestic Partnerships, Wetlands, and Skinny Models
February 12, 2007—
Do-It-Yourself Regulation: Stated Meeting 2/1/2007
February 5, 2007—New construction is often regulated only by the companies doing the building. The City Council is trying to cut down on abuses.
New Bills -- Bike Safety, Public Housing, Subsidized Transportation
January 22, 2007—At each of the City Council's stated meetings, council members introduce bills, most of which will never become laws. As a regular feature, Gotham Gazette discusses some of the legislation proposed at each meeting.
MAYOR BLOOMBERG'S 2007 STATE OF THE CITY ADDRESS
January 17, 2007—
Council's First Meetings of 2007: Environmental Issues and City-Owned Buildings
January 15, 2007—
Tax Breaks For Affordable Housing
December 21, 2006—Developers in many parts of Manhattan and the Brooklyn would get a property tax exemption only if one fifth of the apartments in a new project are affordable, according to a bill passed by the City Council this month and awaiting the mayor's signature, and approval by the state legislature. The law would also create a fund to finance affordable housing.
Long Term Planning in New York City -- Challenges and Goals
December 12, 2006—Mayor Michael Bloomberg outlined the major challenges facing New York City as it tries to develop a 25-year sustainability plan, and its goals in forming such a plan, in a speech at the Queens Museum of Art on December 12, 2006.
New Bills -- Fake IDs, Commuter Vans, Rescue Workers
December 11, 2006—
Stated Meeting – Cleaner, Accessible Taxis; Faster Lobbying Reform
December 11, 2006—The City Council passed four bills designed to make taxis accessible to disabled riders and less harmful to the environment at its stated meeting on December 6, 2006. Council members who spoke in favor of the bills said their long-term goal is for every single taxi in the city to be environmentally friendly and accessible to the disabled. Today, less than one percent of all the city's taxis are so-called clean air vehicles – either hybrid-electric models, or vehicle that use efficient compressed natural gas as fuel. Only 81 of the more than 13,000 taxis in New York are wheelchair-accesible.
Stated Meeting: Electrical Code, Property Taxes
December 4, 2006—The City Council passed a bill making various changes to the electrical code at its most recent stated meeting on November 29, 2006. Under the bill, balconies, decks and porches would be required to have outlets, a safety measure intended to cut down on the dangerous practice of stringing extension cords from indoor outlets. The expiration of electricians' licenses would be staggered to avoid the annual backlog that starts December 31, when every single license in the city expires. Several other changes would also be made regarding the processing of applications and other documents, and the operation of emergency generators.
New Bills -- Nightlife Legislation, Tighter Agency Oversight, and Disclosure on Slavery
November 27, 2006—
The City Council Votes Itself A Raise
November 20, 2006—The City Council voted to give elected officials raises last week, over the objections of those who argue that reforms should have been part of the deal.
New Bills -- Pay Raises, Veterans and the Police Department, Bicycle Lanes
November 6, 2006—At each of the City Council's stated meetings, council members introduce bills, most of which will never become laws (for the process by which bills become laws, click here). As a regular feature, Gotham Gazette discusses some of the legislation proposed at each meeting.
November 8, 2006—
Economic Incentives, for Council Members and Businesses; City Council Stated Meeting, Oct. 25, 2006
October 30, 2006—
New Bills – Saving Middle-Income Housing and Improving Nightlife Safety
October 18, 2006—
Stated Meeting – Helping Low-Income Homeowners – 10/11/2006
October 16, 2006—The council unanimously expanded an existing law that reduces property taxes exemption for low-income senior citizens and disabled New Yorkers who own their homes. Currently, seniors and disabled people must have incomes must have incomes of less that$32,400 to be exempt from paying part of their property tax. Council now has raised that limit to $34,400 for this year and will gradually increase that to $37,400 in 2009. To receive the maximum benefit, the homeowners have to have income of $24,000 or less now. That will go up to $29,000 in 2009.
New Council Bills -- Nightlife Safety and Property Tax Breaks
October 4, 2006— At each of the City Council's stated meetings, council members introduce bills, most of which will never become laws (for the process by which bills become laws, click here). As a regular feature, Gotham Gazette discusses some of the legislation proposed at each meeting.
New York City Council Stated Meeting -- September 27, 2006
September 27, 2006—
New City Council Bills -- Commuting, Smoking, and Drinking
September 20, 2006—
New York City Council Stated Meeting -- September 13, 2006
September 13, 2006—
September 13, 2006—
September 13, 2006—
New City Council Bills -- Conserving Energy, Limiting Noise
August 24, 2006—
New York City Council Stated Meeting -- August 16, 2006
August 17, 2006—Every two weeks the New York City Council meets for its Stated Meeting to introduce and pass legislation. As a regular feature, Gotham Gazette covers these meetings and posts a summary of the bills passed.
July 26, 2006—
New York City Council Stated Meeting – July 19, 2006
July 20, 2006—
New York City Council Stated Meeting – June 29, 2006
June 29, 2006—
New City Council Bills - June 13, 2006
June 21, 2006—The New York City Council introduced 20 new bills, including efforts to rid the city of illegal guns, clean-up graffiti, lower gasoline taxes, and protect the city’s drinking water.
City Council Stated Meeting - June 13, 2006
June 13, 2006—
Non-City Income for New York City Council Members
June 12, 2006—
June 12, 2006—
May 31, 2006—
City Council Stated Meeting - May 24, 2006
May 24, 2006—
May 17, 2006—At its most recent meeting, City Council members proposed 27 new bills, including measures to create handicap accessible taxis, give out more food vendor licenses, require the mayor to share data from 311-call line with the public, and to ban politicians from using taxpayer money to buy ads in local newspapers.
City Council Stated Meeting - May 10, 2006
May 10, 2006—
May 4, 2006—The City Council introduced 57 new bills, including measures to prevent gas stations from changing prices several times a day, create a more ethnically diverse Fire Department, and ban the sale of violent video games to minors.
City Council Stated Meeting - April 26, 2006
April 26, 2006—
April 13, 2006—
New York City Council Budget Response
April 6, 2006—
City Council Stated Meeting - April 5, 2006
April 5, 2006—The New York City Council approved construction of a new Yankee Stadium in the Bronx.
March 30, 2006—
City Council Stated Meeting - March 22, 2006
March 22, 2006—The City Council proposed a $50.7 million operating budget to cover the body's salaries and expenses. It also remembered former Councilmember Robert Dryfoos.
City Commission for Economic Opportunity
March 8, 2006—Mayor Michael Bloomberg announced the appointment of 32 civic leaders to the New York City Commission for Economic Opportunity, a public-private initiative charged with devising strategies to increase economic opportunity and reduce poverty in the city.
City Council Stated Meeting - March 1, 2006
March 1, 2006—The City Council overrode its first mayoral veto under the leadership of Speaker Christine Quinn.
February 23, 2006—Speaker Christine Quinn fired 61 members of the New York City Council staff - and hired a new team.
City Council Stated Meeting - February 15, 2006
February 15, 2006—
City Council Stated Meeting -- February 1, 2006
February 1, 2006—
Mayor Michael Bloomberg's 2006 State of the City Address
January 26, 2006—
City Council Stated Meeting - January 18, 2006
January 18, 2006—A complete list of appointments of New York City Council Standing committees.
City Council Committee Assignments
January 18, 2006—
District 5: Garbage Stations, Water Tunnel Shaft, and Affordable Housing
January 9, 2006—
District 13: Improving Education and Reforming the Department of Buildings
January 9, 2006—
District 2: Planning for a Better - And Quieter - Community
January 9, 2006—
District 4: Creating Open Space and Solving Transportation Woes on the East Side
January 9, 2006—
City Council Stated Meeting – January 4, 2006
January 5, 2006—
Speaker Christine Quinn's Address to the City Council
January 4, 2006—
Public Advocate Betsy Gotbaum's 2006 Inaugural Address
January 3, 2006—
Comptroller William Thompson Jr. 2006 Inaugural Address
January 1, 2006—
Mayor Bloomberg’s 2006 Inaugural Address
January 1, 2006—
City Council Stated Meeting - December 21, 2005
December 21, 2005—In its final meeting of 2005, the City Council passed more than a dozen new bills including a new noise code.
City Council Stated Meeting - December 8, 2005
December 8, 2005—The City Council overrode three vetoes from Mayor Bloomberg; the council rejected a landmark in Brooklyn, instituted parking regulations on a Hindu holiday, and gave public administrators $32,000 raises.
City Council Stated Meeting - November 30, 2005
November 30, 2005—The City Council rejected the Landmark Preservation Commission's decision to designate a Brooklyn warehouse as an official city landmark.
City Council Stated Meeting - November 16, 2005
November 16, 2005—The City Council amended the Campaign Finance law to allow more donations from labor unions. It also adjusted the property tax rates to give relief to homeowners.
City Council Stated Meeting - October 27, 2005
October 27, 2005—The City Council approved $1.3 billion in spending over the next 40 years to help develop the West Side of Manhattan. It also voted $31,000 for public administrators, court appointed city workers.
City Council Stated Meeting - October 11, 2005
October 11, 2005—The City Council voted to override to vetoes from Mayor Michael Bloomberg - enacting legislation to provide health care to grocery workers and to eliminate parking meter regulations on Sundays.
City Council Stated Meeting - September 28, 2005
September 28, 2005—The City Council passed legislation aimed at creating job centers for immigrant day laborers. It also added the Hindu festival of Diwali to the long list of parking holidays.
City Council Stated Meeting - September 15, 2005
September 15, 2005—The City Council passed legislation on "green buildings," human rights, and workplace safety.
City Council Races -- Selective Newspaper Endorsements
September 13, 2005—
City Council Stated Meeting - August 17, 2005
August 17, 2005—The council passed a bill that requires grocery stores to give their employees health care. It also overrode vetos from Mayor Michael Bloomberg on food stamps and affordable housing.
Mayor's Testimony Before the Financial Control Board On The City's Health
July 28, 2005—
City Council Stated Meeting - July 27, 2005
July 27, 2005—The council passed a measure to permit free parking on Sundays. It also approved tax exemptions for landlords who remove lead-paint from buildings and passed rent assistance for senior citizens and the disabled.
City Council Stated Meeting - June 30, 2005
June 30, 2005—The City Council approved a $50.2 billion budget, the largest in city history. It also passed bills on hybrid taxis, fireworks, and the Jamaica Bay.
City Council Stated Meeting - June 23, 2005
June 23, 2005—The City Council abandoned a vote on the proposed waste management plan, but it passed bills that give tenants the right to buy their buildings, expand food stamp programs, and protect dogs in kennels.
City Council Salaries and Stipends - 2005
June 20, 2005—
City Council Stated Meeting - June 8, 2005
June 8, 2005—The City Council blocked a key aspect of Mayor Michael Bloomberg's proposed waste management plan, which would ship the city's garbage out of the city by rail or barge.
City Council Stated Meeting - May 25, 2005
May 24, 2005—
City Council Stated Meeting - May 11, 2005
May 11, 2005—
City Council Stated Meeting - April 20, 2005
April 20, 2005—
City Council Stated Meeting - April 12, 2005
April 12, 2005—
April 4, 2005—Mayor Michael Bloomberg's address at the conference "Urban Conversations: U.S. Mayors and Innovative Leadership." March 30, 2005
City Council Stated Meeting - March 23, 2005
March 23, 2005—
City Council Stated Meeting - March 9, 2005
March 9, 2005—
New York City Council Speaker Gifford Miller State of the City
February 24, 2005—Speaker Miller's 2005 State of the City address. The speech outlines the Speaker's priorities and his belief in New York City's future. The Speaker also discussed his new proposal for rezoning the West Side of Manhattan. The remarks were delivered to a live audience at Council Chambers, City Hall at approx. 12:00 PM.
City Council Stated Meeting - February 16, 2005
February 16, 2005—
City Council Stated Meeting - February 2, 2005
February 3, 2005—
City Council Committees - 2005
January 27, 2005—
Mayor Michael Bloomberg Testifies About Governor George Pataki's Proposed Budget
January 24, 2005—
January 24, 2005—
City Council Stated Meeting Report: January 19, 2004
January 20, 2005—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - FEBRUARY 12, 2003
February 12, 2003—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - FEBRUARY 26, 2003
February 26, 2003—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - MARCH 12, 2003
March 12, 2003—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - MARCH 26, 2003
March 26, 2003—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - APRIL 9, 2003
April 9, 2003—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - APRIL 30, 2003
April 30, 2003—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - May 5, 2003
May 5, 2003—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - May 14, 2003
May 14, 2003—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - May 28, 2003
May 28, 2003—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - June 05, 2003
June 5, 2003—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - June 12, 2003
June 12, 2003—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - June 25, 2003
June 25, 2003—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - July 23, 2003
July 23, 2003—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - August 19, 2003
August 19, 2003—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - September 17, 2003
September 17, 2003—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - September 30, 2003
September 30, 2003—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - October 15, 2003
October 15, 2003—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - October 24, 2003
October 24, 2003—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - November 6, 2003
November 6, 2003—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - November 19, 2003
November 19, 2003—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - December 3, 2003
December 3, 2003—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - December 15, 2003
December 15, 2003—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - February 4, 2004
February 4, 2004—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - March 10, 2004
March 10, 2004—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - March 24, 2004
March 24, 2004—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - April 21, 2004
April 21, 2004—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - May 5, 2004
May 5, 2004—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - May 19, 2004
May 19, 2004—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - June 7, 2004
June 7, 2004—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - June 28, 2004
June 28, 2004—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - July 21, 2004
July 21, 2004—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - August 12, 2004
August 12, 2004—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - September 9, 2004
September 9, 2004—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - October 27, 2004
October 27, 2004—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - September 28, 2004
September 28, 2004—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - October 13, 2004
October 13, 2004—
New York City Council Stated Meeting - November 10, 2004
November 10, 2004—
New York City Council STATED MEETING - November 10, 2004
November 10, 2004—
Governor George Pataki's Remarks: 2005 Budget Address
January 18, 2005—Governor's Remarks: 2005 Budget Address
Speaker Gifford Miller's Response to Mayor’s State of the City Address
January 12, 2005—Speaker Gifford Miller's Response to Mayor’s January 11, 2005 State of the City Address
2005 State of the City Address -
January 11, 2005—The following is the text of Mayor Bloomberg’s State of the City Address as delivered at Hostos Community College in the Bronx
State of the State, Governor George Pataki
January 6, 2005—Pataki's January 5, 2005 State of the State speech.
City Council Stated Meeting - January 5, 2005
January 6, 2005—
City Council Stated Meeting - December 15, 2004
December 16, 2004—
City Council Stated Meeting - December 7, 2004
December 8, 2004—
Who Is Term Limited Out of Office in 2005?
December 2, 2004—
City Council Stated Meeting Report - Nov. 23 2004
November 23, 2004—
2004 NYC General Election State Legislature Candidates
October 14, 2004—
2004 NYC General Election Judicial Races
October 14, 2004—
November 2, 2004—
NYC Primary Day 2004 - State Legislative Races
September 15, 2004—
September 9, 2004—
September 14, 2004—
State Senate District 34 - Bronx/Westchester
October 11, 2004—The New York State Legislature has been called the most dysfunctional legislative body in the country. A look at why the system is broken, how it hurts New York, and why it won't be fixed anytime soon.
November 20, 2003—
February 4, 2003—In a speech entitled "A Fare Share for New York," City Council Speaker Gifford Miller called on Albany and Washington to help the city solve its fiscal crisis. Miller wants the State Legislature to approve a tax on commuters and absentee landlords and to restore proposed cuts to education, Medicaid, and transportation. He is asking the federal government to release $3 billion in disaster aid for the September 11 attacks and enact an $80 billion revenue sharing program for local governments. Miller also launched a new web site to help New Yorkers lobby politicians. Read the text of Miller's speech and an op-ed in response to President George W. Bush's economic plan.
New York City Council Stated Meeting Report
January 30, 2003—On January 29, 2003, the New York City Council passed five bills that it called "good government legislation" and a bill to require the schools chancellor to submit quarterly reports on spending. Also the council postponed a vote on a measure that would expand education opportunities for welfare recipients, but promised to override the mayor's veto on a bill that would ban cell phones in theaters and concert halls. "Ringing cell phones and loud, one-sided conversations offer only headaches," said Councilmember Phil Reed. Read the details.
Mayor Michael Bloomberg's 2003 State Of The City Address
January 23, 2003—In his annual address, Mayor Michael Bloomberg outlined his vision for making government more accountable, fighting crime, and stimulating the economy. He also called on New Yorkers to make sacrifices for a better future. "Taxes and frugality," the mayor said, "are far better than crime, filth and abandonment." Read the full text of his speech.
The Bloomberg Budget - In His Own Words
November 14, 2002—When Mayor Michael Bloomberg presented his recent budget plan, he said that he knew of no major company leaving the city, that closing 32 senior citizen centers was an "inconvenience," and that his plan to tax people who do not live in the city "is not a commuter tax." An edited transcript of the mayor's remarks.
Budget Modification Signed Into Law
November 14, 2002—Mayor Bloomberg has signed a budget agreement to close a $1.1 billion budget gap. Last week, the City Council approved a property tax increase of 18.5 percent by a vote of 41 to 6. Click here, for budget details and how each council member voted.
Vision For 21st Century Lower Manhattan
December 12, 2002—Remarks by Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg given at the Regent Wall Street Hotel, December 12, 2002.
Mayor Bloomberg's Education Reform
January 15, 2003—In an address on January 15, Mayor Michael Bloomberg unveiled the details of his new education plan. The mayor said students will be taught a uniform curriculum of reading, writing, and math in smaller classrooms. He will also end the separate administration of high schools and lower grades and replace the 32 community school boards with parental advisory boards, whose members must have a child in a school in that district.
New York City Council Redistricting
January 13, 2003—An official plan to redraw the 51 City Council districts is now on the table and hearings will resume in February. Links to proposed City Council district maps and an updated schedule of public hearings.
March 25, 2002—
Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg Announces Housing Plan For New York City's 21st Century Neighborhoods
December 10, 2002—Mayor Michael Bloomberg announced a $3 billion plan to create and preserve more than 65,000 homes and apartments in neighborhoods over the next five years. Approximately 25,000 new housing units would be built and an additional 38,000 would be preserved in existing buildings. The mayor also called for new ways to streamline the city's zoning and construction regulations to encourage housing construction. Read a transcript of the mayor's speech and see the details of the mayor's plan, entitled "New Marketplace: Creating Housing for the Next Generation" (in PDF format) from the city's web site.
December 11, 2002—
December 16, 2002—
December 16, 2002—Gerard
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