**For Immediate Release**
August 6, 2013
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081
Council Member James Comments On Court Decision Regarding Council’s Prevailing Wage Bill
Manhattan Supreme Court Struck Down Bill Citing NYS Minimum Wage Conflict
(New York, NY)— On August 5, 2013, Manhattan Supreme Court Justice Geoffrey Wright struck down prevailing wage legislation passed in the New York City Council was, finding it to contradict New York State minimum wage laws.
The prevailing wage legislation, initially approved by the Council in April 2012, would require recipients of major city subsidies to pay building service workers a prevailing wage, which will be set by the New York City Comptroller.
Currently, prevailing wages are set by the Comptroller for work on public projects, though the wages differ by occupation and are meant to reflect current union rates.
“I renew my support for the prevailing wage legislation, and join my colleagues in the fight for higher union-level wages for workers in buildings where the City is the major leaseholder,” said Council Member Letitia James. “In his decision Justice Wright recognized that—contrary to arguments from the administration— this legislation is beneficial to many of the City’s service workers and good for our local economy.”
On May 15, 2012, the City Council voted to override Mayor Bloomberg’s veto of the prevailing wage legislation.
##
Showing posts with label legislation. Show all posts
Showing posts with label legislation. Show all posts
Tuesday, August 6, 2013
Friday, May 10, 2013
Paid Sick Leave Voted Through City Council
The Paid Sick Leave legislation was introduced into the Council in 2010, and received strong support by the Council's Progressive Caucus and a wide coalition of labor organizations, women's and immigrant groups, business associations, and public health organizations. Yesterday's 45-3 vote constituted over the two-thirds majority ("super-majority") needed to override a veto.
The measure, set to take effect April 1, 2014, will expand its reach to businesses with 15+ employees a year later. It will also require all city employers to provide unpaid sick leave starting in 2014.
Currently, there are 1 million New Yorker residents who don’t receive paid time off for illness and would become eligible for the benefit by 2015.
"I join my colleagues in supporting this common sense measure, and consider this a major win for all New Yorkers. Paid sick leave is good for business, and good for families," said Council Member Letitia James.
Friday, December 21, 2012
CM James Comments on Gun Control In The Wake of Sandy Hook Elementary School Tragedy
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
DECEMBER 20, 2012
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081
Council Member Letitia James Comments on Gun Control In The Wake of Sandy Hook Elementary School Tragedy
(New York, NY)— “In the wake of the tragic school shooting that took place at Connecticut’s Sandy Hook Elementary School, claiming the lives of 27 innocents, the time has come to engage in a serious dialogue on gun control both on a local and national level.
I applaud Mayor Michael Bloomberg and other leaders who have called on President Obama to take bold action on gun control. Mayor Bloomberg, founder of “Mayors Against Illegal Guns” recently called on the President to re-introduce the assault-weapons ban bill, and order the Department of Justice to aggressively pursue those who lie on weapons background check forms.
I echo Mayor Bloomberg, and further urge the New York State Legislature to tighten restrictions on assault weapons, and pass legislation requiring gun manufacturers to use bullet microstamping technology. This technology inscribes a gun’s make and model numbers on the firing pin, imprinting those numbers on the shell casings. This would allow shell casings picked up at crime scenes to be tracked to the gun that fired it. The utilization of this technology would offer the NYPD a new tool in fighting gun crime.
I recognize the work that the NYPD has done to seize and remove illegal guns from the streets of New York. For instance, in October 2012, the NYPD seized 100 illegal guns from weapons trafficking rings, including AK-47 assault rifles. The rings were believed to be selling illegal weapons brought into New York from pawn shops in South Carolina. However, it is equally important that the NYPD re-evaluate the sale of weapon’s materials (such as shell casings) to other states and municipalities with far more lax gun laws.
In 2012, New York City sold more than 28,000 pounds of the NYPD’s spent gun shell casings to a Georgia ammunition store. As per the laws in the state of Georgia, no identification or registration is required to purchase these materials. This is a practice that needs to be re-evaluated if New York is to continue to be seen as one of the most regulated gun-control states in the nation.
I again offer my deepest condolences to the families of those who were affected by this national tragedy.”
Council Member Letitia James introduced Int. 955-2012 into the Council, which would require the administration to report on the disposal of ammunition shell casings.
###
DECEMBER 20, 2012
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081
Council Member Letitia James Comments on Gun Control In The Wake of Sandy Hook Elementary School Tragedy
(New York, NY)— “In the wake of the tragic school shooting that took place at Connecticut’s Sandy Hook Elementary School, claiming the lives of 27 innocents, the time has come to engage in a serious dialogue on gun control both on a local and national level.
I applaud Mayor Michael Bloomberg and other leaders who have called on President Obama to take bold action on gun control. Mayor Bloomberg, founder of “Mayors Against Illegal Guns” recently called on the President to re-introduce the assault-weapons ban bill, and order the Department of Justice to aggressively pursue those who lie on weapons background check forms.
I echo Mayor Bloomberg, and further urge the New York State Legislature to tighten restrictions on assault weapons, and pass legislation requiring gun manufacturers to use bullet microstamping technology. This technology inscribes a gun’s make and model numbers on the firing pin, imprinting those numbers on the shell casings. This would allow shell casings picked up at crime scenes to be tracked to the gun that fired it. The utilization of this technology would offer the NYPD a new tool in fighting gun crime.
I recognize the work that the NYPD has done to seize and remove illegal guns from the streets of New York. For instance, in October 2012, the NYPD seized 100 illegal guns from weapons trafficking rings, including AK-47 assault rifles. The rings were believed to be selling illegal weapons brought into New York from pawn shops in South Carolina. However, it is equally important that the NYPD re-evaluate the sale of weapon’s materials (such as shell casings) to other states and municipalities with far more lax gun laws.
In 2012, New York City sold more than 28,000 pounds of the NYPD’s spent gun shell casings to a Georgia ammunition store. As per the laws in the state of Georgia, no identification or registration is required to purchase these materials. This is a practice that needs to be re-evaluated if New York is to continue to be seen as one of the most regulated gun-control states in the nation.
I again offer my deepest condolences to the families of those who were affected by this national tragedy.”
Council Member Letitia James introduced Int. 955-2012 into the Council, which would require the administration to report on the disposal of ammunition shell casings.
###
Monday, October 22, 2012
BK District Attorney Drops Charges Against Man Beaten By NYPD In Jewish Center
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
OCTOBER 22, 2012
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081
Brooklyn District Attorney Dismisses Charges Against Ehud H. Halevi
Video Shows Homeless Man Was Beaten By Police Officers
(Brooklyn, NY)— On Monday, October 8, 2012, NYPD was contacted about a man who was sleeping in the lounge of the ALIYA Institute, a synagogue and outreach center, on East New York Avenue. The homeless man, Mr. Ehud H. Halevi, had permission to sleep in the center by the Director of ALIYA, Rabbi Moshe Feiglin. Video shows that two officers from the 71st Precinct approached Mr. Halevi and attempted to place him under arrest. In the process, Mr. Halevi appears to have been pepper-sprayed, and was repeatedly punched violently. Other officers later entered the center to subdue Mr. Halevi.
On October 15, 2012, Council Member Letitia James joined other elected officials in denouncing this incident of police brutality. Today, the Office of Kings County District Attorney Charles Hynes announced that charges were dropped against Mr. Halevi.
"I applaud District Attorney Hynes for quickly reviewing the evidence of the case, and dismissing the charges against Mr. Halevi," said Council Member Letitia James.
Council Member Letitia James is a co-sponsor of the package of legislative bills known as the Community Safety Act that would address the stop-and-frisk policy, and appoint an independent Inspector General to oversee the NYPD.
###
OCTOBER 22, 2012
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081
Brooklyn District Attorney Dismisses Charges Against Ehud H. Halevi
Video Shows Homeless Man Was Beaten By Police Officers
(Brooklyn, NY)— On Monday, October 8, 2012, NYPD was contacted about a man who was sleeping in the lounge of the ALIYA Institute, a synagogue and outreach center, on East New York Avenue. The homeless man, Mr. Ehud H. Halevi, had permission to sleep in the center by the Director of ALIYA, Rabbi Moshe Feiglin. Video shows that two officers from the 71st Precinct approached Mr. Halevi and attempted to place him under arrest. In the process, Mr. Halevi appears to have been pepper-sprayed, and was repeatedly punched violently. Other officers later entered the center to subdue Mr. Halevi.
On October 15, 2012, Council Member Letitia James joined other elected officials in denouncing this incident of police brutality. Today, the Office of Kings County District Attorney Charles Hynes announced that charges were dropped against Mr. Halevi.
"I applaud District Attorney Hynes for quickly reviewing the evidence of the case, and dismissing the charges against Mr. Halevi," said Council Member Letitia James.
Council Member Letitia James is a co-sponsor of the package of legislative bills known as the Community Safety Act that would address the stop-and-frisk policy, and appoint an independent Inspector General to oversee the NYPD.
###
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
CM JAMES CALLS ON THE NYS LIQUOR AUTHORITY TO REQUIRE CERTAIN LIQUOR LICENSE APPLICATIONS TO INCLUDE SECURITY, COMMUNITY SAFETY PLAN
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
SEPTEMBER 26, 2012
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081
COUNCIL MEMBER LETITIA JAMES CALLS ON THE NYS LIQUOR AUTHORITY TO REQUIRE CERTAIN LIQUOR LICENSE APPLICATIONS TO INCLUDE SECURITY, COMMUNITY SAFETY PLAN
(New York, NY)— On Monday, September 21, 2012, Council Member Letitia James introduced a resolution into the New York City Council. The resolution calls on the New York State Liquor Authority (SLA) to further protect local communities through more thoroughly communicating with residents, community leaders, and local elected officials concerning liquor licensing; and to require liquor license applications for large venues to include thorough security and community safety plans.
Currently, the SLA requires any business entity applying for a liquor license to submit a 30-day notification form to the local community board. The 30-day notification process is meant to afford all those affected an opportunity to voice their position. A Brooklyn Speaks petition signed by nearly 1,400 residents requested that Barclays Center’s license be limited to serving drinks during ticketed arena events only, and must mandate an end to liquor sales after half time at an NBA game, 45 minutes before the end of an event, or at 10:00PM—whichever comes first. Although Barclay’s Center complied with the 30-day notification requirement, and public hearings were held, developer Forest City Ratner and the SLA did not implement an early cutoff for alcohol sales (as had been consistently requested and outlined in the community-centered Barclays Center Neighborhood Protection Plan). Instead, the Board voted to impose a 1:00AM cut off for liquor sales at the arena.
“It is important that the State Liquor Authority understand that even with the most meticulous crowd management imaginable, the opening of an arena that serves alcohol into the morning will affect residential life in the surrounding community,” said Council Member Letitia James. “I would certainly hope that when the next big arena is developed in New York City, the SLA would make more of an effort to address quality-of-life concerns raised by the community.”
Stakeholders also requested that SLA require Forest City Ratner to clarify and make transparent their security and community safety plan prior to granting the license.
Barclay’s Center will soon be holding sporting events and concerts that seat up to 20,000 individuals.
###
SEPTEMBER 26, 2012
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081
COUNCIL MEMBER LETITIA JAMES CALLS ON THE NYS LIQUOR AUTHORITY TO REQUIRE CERTAIN LIQUOR LICENSE APPLICATIONS TO INCLUDE SECURITY, COMMUNITY SAFETY PLAN
(New York, NY)— On Monday, September 21, 2012, Council Member Letitia James introduced a resolution into the New York City Council. The resolution calls on the New York State Liquor Authority (SLA) to further protect local communities through more thoroughly communicating with residents, community leaders, and local elected officials concerning liquor licensing; and to require liquor license applications for large venues to include thorough security and community safety plans.
Currently, the SLA requires any business entity applying for a liquor license to submit a 30-day notification form to the local community board. The 30-day notification process is meant to afford all those affected an opportunity to voice their position. A Brooklyn Speaks petition signed by nearly 1,400 residents requested that Barclays Center’s license be limited to serving drinks during ticketed arena events only, and must mandate an end to liquor sales after half time at an NBA game, 45 minutes before the end of an event, or at 10:00PM—whichever comes first. Although Barclay’s Center complied with the 30-day notification requirement, and public hearings were held, developer Forest City Ratner and the SLA did not implement an early cutoff for alcohol sales (as had been consistently requested and outlined in the community-centered Barclays Center Neighborhood Protection Plan). Instead, the Board voted to impose a 1:00AM cut off for liquor sales at the arena.
“It is important that the State Liquor Authority understand that even with the most meticulous crowd management imaginable, the opening of an arena that serves alcohol into the morning will affect residential life in the surrounding community,” said Council Member Letitia James. “I would certainly hope that when the next big arena is developed in New York City, the SLA would make more of an effort to address quality-of-life concerns raised by the community.”
Stakeholders also requested that SLA require Forest City Ratner to clarify and make transparent their security and community safety plan prior to granting the license.
Barclay’s Center will soon be holding sporting events and concerts that seat up to 20,000 individuals.
###
Friday, September 21, 2012
CMs James, Williams, Gentile Sound Alarm on Recent Voting Problems Ahead of Election Day
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 20, 2012
PRESS RELEASE: COUNCIL MEMBERS WILLIAMS, GENTILE AND JAMES SOUND ALARM ON RECENT VOTING PROBLEMS AHEAD OF ELECTION DAY
On September 20th, 2012, Council Members Jumaane D. Williams (D-Brooklyn), Vincent J. Gentile (D-Brooklyn) and Letitia James (D-Brooklyn) joined their elected colleagues and good government groups, including Common Cause-NY and Citizens Union, in voicing serious concern over widespread voting problems that occurred during last Thursday's primary election. Joined by Council Members Charles Barron (D-Brooklyn), Gale Brewer (D-Manhattan), Leroy Comrie (D-Jamaica) and Brad Lander (D-Brooklyn), they also sounded the alarm on the impact such issues, if unaddressed by the Board of Elections (BOE), could have on New Yorkers' ability to vote in the general election taking place in less than two months.
Difficulties across the city affected a vast number of the primary electorate, notably seniors and immigrant communities. Of particular distress was the amount of voters unaware that their poll site had changed; some individuals were sent to multiple locations by poll workers. Small font size on the ballots also stymied New Yorkers, especially in Manhattan and Brooklyn where the type was only seven point.
"While the BOE may not have intended to disenfranchise New Yorkers, their negligence in addressing key voting issues had that accidental and unfortunate effect," said Council Member Williams. "In my travels on Primary Day, I saw voters leaving poll sites screaming and cursing over the general chaos. Many were redirected and misdirected to the point that they lost the will to cast a ballot, and that cannot be our status quo. The BOE must address these issues, particularly for groups like seniors and immigrants that fall on the other half of the digital divide."
"Voting is a right that should not require a magnifying glass," said Council Member Gentile. "Perhaps I'm living in the Twilight Zone, but I think rule #1 should be to print ballots that people can actually read."
"The primary election showed us that the Board of Elections needs to make some technological, language, and functional upgrades to make voting as simple as possible for New Yorkers," said Council Member James. "It is imperative that these issues are rectified before the November elections."
In addition to recounting individual and citywide obstacles, Council Members Williams, Gentile and James proposed several reforms, some of which have also been suggested by the good government community, to hopefully be enacted in advance of the general election.
This included changes such as, but not limited to:
• Utilizing standout print and/or ink color in all BOE informational communications.
• Sending an additional mailing to voters making clear their poll site may have changed.
• Increasing the font size on all ballots.
• Training poll workers on all resources, including new online tools.
• Having the BOE be more proactive in checking poll sites during Election Day.
• Quickly and publicly releasing detailed compilations of voter complaints.
• Expanding a voter education campaign to subways and bus shelters.
• Increasing BOE collaboration with elected officials, senior centers, civic associations and related stakeholders.
"It's clear that due to redistricting there was widespread confusion about polling locations which suppressed turnout and dissuaded eager voters from executing their constitutional right," said Susan Lerner, executive director of Common Cause-NY. "Any obstacle to a safe and legal election is unacceptable. This is now the second election in which our elections administration failed to serve the voters. There are constructive things which can be done to prevent problems in November. If the City and the Board of Elections fail to act now, there will be no excuse if November turns out to be strike three for our election administration."
"We put a man on the moon in less time than it's taken to modernize voting in New York City," said Public Advocate Bill de Blasio (D-New York). "This isn't rocket science: voters should be sent to the correct poll site, be able to understand the ballot, and have confidence that their vote counted. The window to fix these problems gets narrower every day. There is no excuse for a repeat of Primary Day's chaos come November."
"The primary election on September 13th was beset by numerous problems, despite the low turnout," said Council Member Gale Brewer (D-Manhattan), chair of the Committee on Governmental Operations. "In preparation for a hearing on October 15th, I conducted an informal survey of voters' experiences at the polls. The most common problems reported to my office were confusion about poll site and election district (ED) changes due to redistricting, misinformation from poll workers including directing voters to the wrong poll site or ED table, issues with the size of the font on the ballot, and problems with the ballot scanner including a lack of privacy when poll workers had to assist voters. However, it should be noted that the Board made several positive steps to increase voter awareness, including the launch of a newly designed website and a smartphone app, both complete with a poll site locator and sample ballot tool. I urge the Board to focus on correcting these problems before November, and I ask all stakeholders to take advantage of the voter outreach tools that the Board has made available."
"The act of voting is the gateway to political participation in our city and country; it is an inviolable right that is made manifest by the assurance that every vote is counted," said Council Member Rosie Mendez (D-Manhattan). "However, during the past two elections we have received numerous accounts of potentially disenfranchising outcomes, including unreadable ballots, machine errors, closed polling places, incorrect information regarding polling places, confusion with respect to redistricting changes and under-informed poll workers. Such outcomes are unacceptable because the social cost of disenfranchisement is absolute. That is why I am proud to join with my colleagues today to sound the alarm for November and redouble our efforts to provide proactive solutions that will empower voters and encourage meaningful participation this fall."
These complications will be raised during a scheduled hearing of the Committee on Governmental Operations on Monday, October 15th, as well as legislation that is aimed at improving the electoral process.
# # #
September 20, 2012
PRESS RELEASE: COUNCIL MEMBERS WILLIAMS, GENTILE AND JAMES SOUND ALARM ON RECENT VOTING PROBLEMS AHEAD OF ELECTION DAY
On September 20th, 2012, Council Members Jumaane D. Williams (D-Brooklyn), Vincent J. Gentile (D-Brooklyn) and Letitia James (D-Brooklyn) joined their elected colleagues and good government groups, including Common Cause-NY and Citizens Union, in voicing serious concern over widespread voting problems that occurred during last Thursday's primary election. Joined by Council Members Charles Barron (D-Brooklyn), Gale Brewer (D-Manhattan), Leroy Comrie (D-Jamaica) and Brad Lander (D-Brooklyn), they also sounded the alarm on the impact such issues, if unaddressed by the Board of Elections (BOE), could have on New Yorkers' ability to vote in the general election taking place in less than two months.
Difficulties across the city affected a vast number of the primary electorate, notably seniors and immigrant communities. Of particular distress was the amount of voters unaware that their poll site had changed; some individuals were sent to multiple locations by poll workers. Small font size on the ballots also stymied New Yorkers, especially in Manhattan and Brooklyn where the type was only seven point.
"While the BOE may not have intended to disenfranchise New Yorkers, their negligence in addressing key voting issues had that accidental and unfortunate effect," said Council Member Williams. "In my travels on Primary Day, I saw voters leaving poll sites screaming and cursing over the general chaos. Many were redirected and misdirected to the point that they lost the will to cast a ballot, and that cannot be our status quo. The BOE must address these issues, particularly for groups like seniors and immigrants that fall on the other half of the digital divide."
"Voting is a right that should not require a magnifying glass," said Council Member Gentile. "Perhaps I'm living in the Twilight Zone, but I think rule #1 should be to print ballots that people can actually read."
"The primary election showed us that the Board of Elections needs to make some technological, language, and functional upgrades to make voting as simple as possible for New Yorkers," said Council Member James. "It is imperative that these issues are rectified before the November elections."
In addition to recounting individual and citywide obstacles, Council Members Williams, Gentile and James proposed several reforms, some of which have also been suggested by the good government community, to hopefully be enacted in advance of the general election.
This included changes such as, but not limited to:
• Utilizing standout print and/or ink color in all BOE informational communications.
• Sending an additional mailing to voters making clear their poll site may have changed.
• Increasing the font size on all ballots.
• Training poll workers on all resources, including new online tools.
• Having the BOE be more proactive in checking poll sites during Election Day.
• Quickly and publicly releasing detailed compilations of voter complaints.
• Expanding a voter education campaign to subways and bus shelters.
• Increasing BOE collaboration with elected officials, senior centers, civic associations and related stakeholders.
"It's clear that due to redistricting there was widespread confusion about polling locations which suppressed turnout and dissuaded eager voters from executing their constitutional right," said Susan Lerner, executive director of Common Cause-NY. "Any obstacle to a safe and legal election is unacceptable. This is now the second election in which our elections administration failed to serve the voters. There are constructive things which can be done to prevent problems in November. If the City and the Board of Elections fail to act now, there will be no excuse if November turns out to be strike three for our election administration."
"We put a man on the moon in less time than it's taken to modernize voting in New York City," said Public Advocate Bill de Blasio (D-New York). "This isn't rocket science: voters should be sent to the correct poll site, be able to understand the ballot, and have confidence that their vote counted. The window to fix these problems gets narrower every day. There is no excuse for a repeat of Primary Day's chaos come November."
"The primary election on September 13th was beset by numerous problems, despite the low turnout," said Council Member Gale Brewer (D-Manhattan), chair of the Committee on Governmental Operations. "In preparation for a hearing on October 15th, I conducted an informal survey of voters' experiences at the polls. The most common problems reported to my office were confusion about poll site and election district (ED) changes due to redistricting, misinformation from poll workers including directing voters to the wrong poll site or ED table, issues with the size of the font on the ballot, and problems with the ballot scanner including a lack of privacy when poll workers had to assist voters. However, it should be noted that the Board made several positive steps to increase voter awareness, including the launch of a newly designed website and a smartphone app, both complete with a poll site locator and sample ballot tool. I urge the Board to focus on correcting these problems before November, and I ask all stakeholders to take advantage of the voter outreach tools that the Board has made available."
"The act of voting is the gateway to political participation in our city and country; it is an inviolable right that is made manifest by the assurance that every vote is counted," said Council Member Rosie Mendez (D-Manhattan). "However, during the past two elections we have received numerous accounts of potentially disenfranchising outcomes, including unreadable ballots, machine errors, closed polling places, incorrect information regarding polling places, confusion with respect to redistricting changes and under-informed poll workers. Such outcomes are unacceptable because the social cost of disenfranchisement is absolute. That is why I am proud to join with my colleagues today to sound the alarm for November and redouble our efforts to provide proactive solutions that will empower voters and encourage meaningful participation this fall."
These complications will be raised during a scheduled hearing of the Committee on Governmental Operations on Monday, October 15th, as well as legislation that is aimed at improving the electoral process.
# # #
Thursday, August 23, 2012
CM JAMES INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO RE-IMPLEMENT CITYWIDE ANTI-GRAFFITI TASK FORCE
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
August 21, 2012
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081
COUNCIL MEMBER LETITIA JAMES INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO RE-IMPLEMENT CITYWIDE ANTI-GRAFFITI TASK FORCE
Task Force Would Report Data to Mayor and City Council
(New York, NY)— At tomorrow’s Council Stated, Council Member Letitia James will introduce legislation to re-implement the Citywide Anti-Graffiti Task Force in order to assess the scope of illegal graffiti throughout New York City— specifically bias-related graffiti and gang tags. The task force would additionally examine the effectiveness of existing provisions meant to curb illegal graffiti.
The legislation would require the New York Police Department Commissioner to serve as Chairperson of the task force. Annual reports would be sent to the Mayor and City Council.
In June 2012, the Brooklyn Bridge was defaced for the first time since 1998. That same month, synagogues in Brooklyn neighborhoods such as Borough Park, Kensington, and Williamsburg were plastered with swastikas. And recently, a Holocaust Memorial in Sheepshead Bay was defaced with profanity over victim’s names. Throughout many communities, gang graffiti aimed at intimidating others and marking territory remains prevalent.
“An anti-graffiti task force will help create safer neighborhoods by recommending long-term solutions through collaborative work, and assessment of anti-graffiti programs Citywide,” said Council Member Letitia James. “The task force would additionally review the progress of other jurisdictions.”
The Anti-Graffiti Task Force was first implemented in New York City by Mayor Rudy Giuliani in 1995.
###
August 21, 2012
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081
COUNCIL MEMBER LETITIA JAMES INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO RE-IMPLEMENT CITYWIDE ANTI-GRAFFITI TASK FORCE
Task Force Would Report Data to Mayor and City Council
(New York, NY)— At tomorrow’s Council Stated, Council Member Letitia James will introduce legislation to re-implement the Citywide Anti-Graffiti Task Force in order to assess the scope of illegal graffiti throughout New York City— specifically bias-related graffiti and gang tags. The task force would additionally examine the effectiveness of existing provisions meant to curb illegal graffiti.
The legislation would require the New York Police Department Commissioner to serve as Chairperson of the task force. Annual reports would be sent to the Mayor and City Council.
In June 2012, the Brooklyn Bridge was defaced for the first time since 1998. That same month, synagogues in Brooklyn neighborhoods such as Borough Park, Kensington, and Williamsburg were plastered with swastikas. And recently, a Holocaust Memorial in Sheepshead Bay was defaced with profanity over victim’s names. Throughout many communities, gang graffiti aimed at intimidating others and marking territory remains prevalent.
“An anti-graffiti task force will help create safer neighborhoods by recommending long-term solutions through collaborative work, and assessment of anti-graffiti programs Citywide,” said Council Member Letitia James. “The task force would additionally review the progress of other jurisdictions.”
The Anti-Graffiti Task Force was first implemented in New York City by Mayor Rudy Giuliani in 1995.
###
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
ATTENTION: NYC Council Overrides Mayoral Veto of Prevailing Wage Legislation
At yesterday's Stated Council hearing, the New York City Council voted to override a mayoral veto on legislation that will require recipients of city subsidies pay building service workers a prevailing wage, which will be set by the New York City Comptroller. The prevailing and living wage legislation has been heavily-supported by the Council's Progressive Caucus. Living wage was initially approved by the Council on April 30, 2012.
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
ATTENTION: NYC Council Approves Living Wage Legislation
The New York City Council approved the living wage legislation on Monday's (April 30th) Stated hearing. The legislation would mandate minimum pay of $11.50 per hour— or $10 without benefits— for employers receiving public funding with gross revenues over $5 million dollars a year. Mayor Bloomberg has been highly critical of the legislation.
Council Member James has been an active voice— along with much of the Progressive Caucus— on achieving living wage in New York City.
“With a growing number of New Yorkers unemployed or underemployed, I have difficulty interpreting the opposition to living wage as anything more than a divisive scare tactic,” said Council Member Letitia James. “New York City’s unemployment rate is at 9.6%, and we have seen the issue of income inequality become a nationwide discussion. It’s long past time we take this step towards fairer wages for employees.”
Council Member James has been an active voice— along with much of the Progressive Caucus— on achieving living wage in New York City.
“With a growing number of New Yorkers unemployed or underemployed, I have difficulty interpreting the opposition to living wage as anything more than a divisive scare tactic,” said Council Member Letitia James. “New York City’s unemployment rate is at 9.6%, and we have seen the issue of income inequality become a nationwide discussion. It’s long past time we take this step towards fairer wages for employees.”
Friday, March 30, 2012
ATTENTION: CM James To Speak at "Lunch With Legislators" by Women's City Club NYC; 4/23; 12:30PM
On April 23, 2012, Council Member Letitia James will participate in “Lunch with Legislators”, hosted by the Women’s City Club of New York.
The Council Member will be speaking on her accomplishments and future goals; and following her presentation, she will answer questions concerning health, education, and social welfare issues. The event is free: however, seating is limited.
Reserve your seat today!
WHEN: April 23, 2012
12:30PM
WHERE: Women’s City Club of New York
307 Seventh Avenue, Suite 1403
New York, NY 10001
Friday, March 16, 2012
A Message from CM James: LGBT Legislative Updates
I would like to make you aware of my recent work on behalf of New York City’s LGBTQ community—
City Council Resolution Calling on the Medical Professionals to Treat and Provide Appropriate Healthcare to Transgender Persons
I have recently introduced a resolution into the New York City Council calling on medical and health professional to treat, and provide appropriate healthcare, to transgender individuals. This resolution follows a statement recently released by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).
While the LGBTQ community as a whole experiences greater disparities in relation to access to health insurance and healthcare, there is a specific need for transgender individuals to have access to health plans and services for transgender-related care, as well as for healthcare professionals to receive appropriate training on how to treat transgender patients. ACOG noted a concern for the gynecological health of transgender men, who may still require female (breast and cervical) cancer screenings as well as other forms of care. According the the National LGBT Cancer Network, “Trans men are less likely to get regular medical/gynecological care than heterosexual women or lesbians.” Some trans men have noted feeling healthcare professionals are not aware of available treatment options for transgender persons, not sensitive to their individual preferred pronouns, and/or presumptive concerning their sexual activities. All of these real or perceived issues may prevent transgender individuals from seeking appropriate healthcare.
Furthermore, there is a need to ensure medical and health care providers do not engage in gender identity discrimination, and where necessary refer patients to healthcare professionals that are best able to treat them. The Gay and Lesbian Medical Association (GLMA) has issued clinical guidelines for medical professionals when providing care to LGBT persons. The resolution I introduced into the New York City Council recently, Resolution 1244-2012, urges that medical and health professionals adhere to similar guidelines to provide appropriate healthcare to transgender persons.
Resolution 1244 : http://tiny.cc/bm47aw
City Council Resolution Calling on the NYC Health Department to Repeal Requirement that Transgender Persons Undergo Surgery to alter gender marker of Birth Certificates
As you well know, in New York City many transgender individuals are unable to change the ‘gender marker’ listed on their birth certificate due to New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (‘Health Department’, under the New York City Office of Vital Records) rules that are inappropriate, presumptive, intrusive, and unclear in their intentions. The Health Department’s requirements are also out-of-step with the requirements of the federal government (as outlined in the Department of State’s gender marker passport updates), which seek to make it simpler for transgender individuals to update their passport.
[On June 9, 2010, the United States Department of State updated their passport policy. A passport applicant must only provide certification from an attending medical physician stating that the applicant has undergone appropriate clinical treatment for gender transition, for the passport to reflect the desired gender. It is also possible to obtain a limited-validity passport if the physician’s statement shows the applicant is in the process of gender transition. No additional medical records will be required. Sexual reassignment surgery is no longer a prerequisite for passport issuance.]
The Health Department currently requires individuals to undergo genital surgery (also commonly referred to as “bottom surgery”) before changing the gender or sex-identifier on their birth certificates. The agency is unspecific about the nature of the genital reassignment surgery, as there are multiple types of bottom surgery available for both male-to-female (MTF) and female-to-male (FTM) transgender persons. This ambiguity creates confusion for those seeking to update their birth certificate to their identified gender, as these kinds of surgeries can be very costly. Furthermore, it is difficult to find information about the process on the department’s website.
Many transgender individuals can't afford bottom surgery for financial reasons; a high number of these individuals may be receiving hormone therapy through their medical care provider to address masculinization or feminization of physical features. Finally, not all transgender individuals— even those identifying in their current gender in all areas of life, as well as those on hormone therapy— are interested in genital reassignment surgery. It is highly inappropriate for the Health Department to make decisions that imply generalizations about transgender individuals and their personal, medical choices.
As one moves from locality or state, a person may be required to present their birth certificate to prove identity; this becomes an issue when the gender marker or sex-identifier on the birth certificate is different from that on the state identification. New York State has a specific process for amending the gender or sex-identifier on a state ID or driver’s license, but individuals moving from New York State to another state may encounter difficulty if their birth certificate is also required to receive a state ID there. Additionally, many employers require access to an individual’s birth certificate to apply for health insurance, and transgender individuals may not want their employer to know about their biological sex or medical/surgical history.
Numerous transgender-rights advocacy agencies, as well as the National Association of Social Workers, have encouraged City and State agencies to abandon surgical requirements for changing identity documents. For instance, in 2009 the state of Illinois agreed to develop new standards for how much surgery is required before a person is eligible to switch the gender or sex-identifier on a birth certificate. City and State agencies are recognizing that any regulations in regards to updating gender identification on documents must be based on the standards set by the physicians actually treating these individuals. The World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) is the major health association that sets the standards for medical treatment of transgender individuals. WPATH has stated “No person should have to undergo surgery or accept sterilization as a condition of identity recognition. Genital reconstruction is not required for social gender recognition, and such surgery should not be a prerequisite for document or record changes.”
In 2006, the Health Department considered dropping their requirement for gender reassignment surgery before switching a birth certificate's gender or sex-identifier, but did not do so citing identity fraud concerns.
The resolution I introduced into the New York City Council last year, Res. 1099-2011, urges the Health Department to abandon these confusing and intrusive requirements.
Resolution 1099 : http://tiny.cc/yc47aw
It is imperative that we treat LGBTQ persons with dignity and respect in all areas of society. We need to ensure that our laws and public agencies do not isolate anyone from fair access to basic rights like housing, healthcare, and employment. I consider myself a strong advocate for the LGBTQ community, and I will continue to work on the issues that affect the gay community in New York City.
Sincerely,
Letitia James
Member of the City Council
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
NYC Council To Vote TODAY on CM James’ Legislation To Require City Agencies To Report Cost Overruns On Large Private Contracts
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
March 13, 2012
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis at (212) 788-7081
New York City Council To Vote on Council Member Letitia James’ Legislation To Require City Agencies To Report Cost Overruns On Large Private Contracts
Bill Is In Response To Administration’s Previous Lack Of Oversight, Ongoing Review Of Contracts
New York, NY— Last fall, Council Member Letitia James introduced legislation that would require City agencies to report to the New York City Council cost overruns on large contracts. The current legislation, Int. 707A-2011, would address construction and service contracts for capital projects with a minimum expenditure of $10 million. The bill would require additional oversight when such projects exceed the original cost by twenty percent or more.
Specifically, the Mayor would be required to notify the Council at two points in time— first, the Council would be notified of the initial request for a cost increase; and additionally, once the project extension or modification has taken place, the Council would be notified of any additional contract extensions or modifications that result in a 10% cost increase above the revised contract value.
During Council Member James’ tenure as Chair of the Contracts Committee, the committee held hearings on the outsourcing of public services to the private sector; as well as two oversight hearings on the Office of Payroll Administration’s City Time contract, which she criticized at the time as costly and poorly-managed. Since 2010, she has requested that the Council’s Contracts Committee investigate the Emergency Communications Transformation Program (ECTP) project and what was at the time a $286M contract request from the City of New York; the administrative layoffs of the New York City Deputy Sheriffs’ and the contracting out of their collection duties; the rising costs of the NYCAPS program; and more recently a $1.95M NYC Health and Hospitals Corporation contract with Navigat, a private consulting company.
“In the last five years, contract costs have increased at nearly twice the rate of overall budget spending, reaching over ten billion in spent public funds,” said Council Member Letitia James. “The vast majority of these expenditures go towards personnel and professional service contracts, and there has been considerable evidence that some of these contracts are poorly-managed and lack needed oversight. I hope this legislation strengthens the Council’s commitment to contracts review, and the overall goal of cutting costs and identifying savings.”
On October 31, 2011, the Contracts and Technology Committees discussed Int. 707 in a hearing entitled, “Managing NYC Government IT Contracts”. Additionally, in the last year Council Member Letitia James’ has introduced legislation that would create a New York City Chief Procurement Officer who would publish and submit to the Mayor, City Council, and City Comptroller an annual report detailing information on City contracts. She has also introduced legislation that would establish a task force on best practices in City procurement and disposal.
The New York City Council will vote on Int. 707A-2011 at the Stated Meeting on Wednesday, March 14, 2012, following a Contracts Committee vote earlier in the day.
###
March 13, 2012
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis at (212) 788-7081
New York City Council To Vote on Council Member Letitia James’ Legislation To Require City Agencies To Report Cost Overruns On Large Private Contracts
Bill Is In Response To Administration’s Previous Lack Of Oversight, Ongoing Review Of Contracts
New York, NY— Last fall, Council Member Letitia James introduced legislation that would require City agencies to report to the New York City Council cost overruns on large contracts. The current legislation, Int. 707A-2011, would address construction and service contracts for capital projects with a minimum expenditure of $10 million. The bill would require additional oversight when such projects exceed the original cost by twenty percent or more.
Specifically, the Mayor would be required to notify the Council at two points in time— first, the Council would be notified of the initial request for a cost increase; and additionally, once the project extension or modification has taken place, the Council would be notified of any additional contract extensions or modifications that result in a 10% cost increase above the revised contract value.
During Council Member James’ tenure as Chair of the Contracts Committee, the committee held hearings on the outsourcing of public services to the private sector; as well as two oversight hearings on the Office of Payroll Administration’s City Time contract, which she criticized at the time as costly and poorly-managed. Since 2010, she has requested that the Council’s Contracts Committee investigate the Emergency Communications Transformation Program (ECTP) project and what was at the time a $286M contract request from the City of New York; the administrative layoffs of the New York City Deputy Sheriffs’ and the contracting out of their collection duties; the rising costs of the NYCAPS program; and more recently a $1.95M NYC Health and Hospitals Corporation contract with Navigat, a private consulting company.
“In the last five years, contract costs have increased at nearly twice the rate of overall budget spending, reaching over ten billion in spent public funds,” said Council Member Letitia James. “The vast majority of these expenditures go towards personnel and professional service contracts, and there has been considerable evidence that some of these contracts are poorly-managed and lack needed oversight. I hope this legislation strengthens the Council’s commitment to contracts review, and the overall goal of cutting costs and identifying savings.”
On October 31, 2011, the Contracts and Technology Committees discussed Int. 707 in a hearing entitled, “Managing NYC Government IT Contracts”. Additionally, in the last year Council Member Letitia James’ has introduced legislation that would create a New York City Chief Procurement Officer who would publish and submit to the Mayor, City Council, and City Comptroller an annual report detailing information on City contracts. She has also introduced legislation that would establish a task force on best practices in City procurement and disposal.
The New York City Council will vote on Int. 707A-2011 at the Stated Meeting on Wednesday, March 14, 2012, following a Contracts Committee vote earlier in the day.
###
Sunday, January 15, 2012
New York City Council Supports Living Wage Bill
**For Immediate Release**
January 13, 2012
Contact: Amyre Loomis (718) 260-9191
Statement by Council Member Letitia James About New York City Council's Support of Living Wage Bill
(Brooklyn, NY) “As we prepare to celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., I applaud Speaker Quinn for supporting The Fair Wages for New Yorkers Act, also known as the Living Wage Bill, which would standardize a living wage for employees in jobs created through tax dollar-subsidized development projects.
The bill requires future development projects that receive $1 million or more in discretionary funding from the City, to pay $10 an hour plus benefits for full-time workers, and $11.50 an hour without benefits for at least 10 years. Millions of dollars a year in taxpayer-financed subsidies are provided to private developers by the City of New York, and these employers should pay decent wages.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. stood with sanitation workers demanding a living wage when he was killed. The City Council now stands with the working poor of New York City in support of The Fair Wages for New Yorkers Act, as well as in honor of the moral mandate and living spirit of Dr. King.
The Living Wage Bill will go a long way to help lift families out of poverty; I thank my colleagues in the Progressive Caucus for pushing to restore progressive politics back to its core.”
###
January 13, 2012
Contact: Amyre Loomis (718) 260-9191
Statement by Council Member Letitia James About New York City Council's Support of Living Wage Bill
(Brooklyn, NY) “As we prepare to celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., I applaud Speaker Quinn for supporting The Fair Wages for New Yorkers Act, also known as the Living Wage Bill, which would standardize a living wage for employees in jobs created through tax dollar-subsidized development projects.
The bill requires future development projects that receive $1 million or more in discretionary funding from the City, to pay $10 an hour plus benefits for full-time workers, and $11.50 an hour without benefits for at least 10 years. Millions of dollars a year in taxpayer-financed subsidies are provided to private developers by the City of New York, and these employers should pay decent wages.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. stood with sanitation workers demanding a living wage when he was killed. The City Council now stands with the working poor of New York City in support of The Fair Wages for New Yorkers Act, as well as in honor of the moral mandate and living spirit of Dr. King.
The Living Wage Bill will go a long way to help lift families out of poverty; I thank my colleagues in the Progressive Caucus for pushing to restore progressive politics back to its core.”
###
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
CM James Scores A+ On Urban Justice Center- Human Rights Report Card
Council Member Letitia James has scored as A+ on the 2011 Urban Justice Center- Human Rights Report Card. The report card examines Council Members' compliance with universal human rights standards- especially in regards to employment, housing, health, food, education and other economic and social rights.Council Member Letitia James is a supporter of the Council's living wage legislation, and has spoken against Walmart coming to New York City. She was recently part of the leadership that removed a racist anti-abortion billboard in SOHO; and joined with women's advocacy organizations to hold a press conference in support of a fair trial for Nafissatou Diallo, the Guinean housekeeper who accused former IMF head Dominique Strauss-Kahn of sexual assault.
Council Member James sponsored a law that addressed the Department of Corrections reporting to the Council violent incidents involving adolescents in 2009. She has been a strong advocate for restoring childcare vouchers, and fought to avoid the closure of childcare centers Citywide. She sponsored a 35th District Food Conference last term, and continues to work towards increasing green jobs throughout the City.
Council Member James is the sponsor of legislation that would address inequality in City housing, and paid family leave. She can be seen in the Atlantic Yards documentary Battle for Brooklyn, and was a contributer to the documentary The Untold Story of Emmett Louis Till, following her introduction of a City Council resolution to reopen Till's murder case.
Council Member James has scored consistently high scores on the report card (see 2008, 2009, and 2010).
Those interested in reading the report may do so here.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
CM James Introduces Legislation To Require City Agencies To Report Cost Overruns On Large Private Contracts
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE** November 2, 2011
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis at (212) 788-7081
Council Member Letitia James Introduces Legislation To Require City Agencies To Report Cost Overruns On Large Private Contracts
Bill Is In Response To Administration's Lack Of Oversight, Ongoing Review Of Contracts
New York, NY- On November 3, 2011, Council Member Letitia James will introduce legislation that would require City agencies to report to the Council cost overruns on large contracts. Specifically, agencies would be required to notify the Council within seven business days when it authorizes a payment to modify or extend an original contract worth more than $1M, for an additional cost of $500,000 and/or more than 10% over the original contract price.
During Council Member James’ tenure as Chair of the Contracts Committee, the committee held hearings on the outsourcing of public services to the private sector (as it affected both municipal workers throughout the City of New York, and public costs for potentially unnecessary private labor); as well as two oversight hearings on the Office of Payroll Administration’s City Time contract, a payroll system that she’d criticized as being overly costly and difficult to manage.
In September 2010, after Council Member James’ chairmanship ended, she stood with Local 375 (DC 37) to halt any further rolling-out of the Citytime project. She later commended Comptroller John Liu for ending expansion of the project due to ballooning costs and unmet deadlines, as well as his imposing hard deadlines on incomplete work. She joined numerous elected officials in speaking out against the $80M embezzlement of public funds by City Time consultants in December 2010, and praised Mayor Bloomberg for rightfully demanding $600 million from Science Applications International Corporation (contractor of Citytime) for what had become a public disaster for the administration.
In March 2011, former Deputy Mayor Stephen Goldsmith wrote an op-ed in the New York Daily News on the outsourcing of technology positions to private contractors. In the article, Mr. Goldsmith asserted that the issue was not the outsourcing itself, but rather the administration’s need to place more attention towards employing City workers to perform these IT duties. He also announced administrative efforts to increase positions for municipal workers. Council Member James commended the administration for taking these initial steps.
"It is obvious that a lack of administrative oversight of contracted companies leaves the City vulnerable," said Council Member James. "Although I support the administration developing technology that simplifies and updates necessary functions, I do not support the administration handing over blank checks to private companies for IT projects."
The Citytime contract increased from a projected $68 million at its onset to more than $738 million, the Emergency Communications Transformation Program went from an initial $380 million to $666 million, and NYCAPS has ballooned from $66 million in 2002 to $363 million as of 2011.
###
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis at (212) 788-7081
Council Member Letitia James Introduces Legislation To Require City Agencies To Report Cost Overruns On Large Private Contracts
Bill Is In Response To Administration's Lack Of Oversight, Ongoing Review Of Contracts
New York, NY- On November 3, 2011, Council Member Letitia James will introduce legislation that would require City agencies to report to the Council cost overruns on large contracts. Specifically, agencies would be required to notify the Council within seven business days when it authorizes a payment to modify or extend an original contract worth more than $1M, for an additional cost of $500,000 and/or more than 10% over the original contract price.
During Council Member James’ tenure as Chair of the Contracts Committee, the committee held hearings on the outsourcing of public services to the private sector (as it affected both municipal workers throughout the City of New York, and public costs for potentially unnecessary private labor); as well as two oversight hearings on the Office of Payroll Administration’s City Time contract, a payroll system that she’d criticized as being overly costly and difficult to manage.
In September 2010, after Council Member James’ chairmanship ended, she stood with Local 375 (DC 37) to halt any further rolling-out of the Citytime project. She later commended Comptroller John Liu for ending expansion of the project due to ballooning costs and unmet deadlines, as well as his imposing hard deadlines on incomplete work. She joined numerous elected officials in speaking out against the $80M embezzlement of public funds by City Time consultants in December 2010, and praised Mayor Bloomberg for rightfully demanding $600 million from Science Applications International Corporation (contractor of Citytime) for what had become a public disaster for the administration.
In March 2011, former Deputy Mayor Stephen Goldsmith wrote an op-ed in the New York Daily News on the outsourcing of technology positions to private contractors. In the article, Mr. Goldsmith asserted that the issue was not the outsourcing itself, but rather the administration’s need to place more attention towards employing City workers to perform these IT duties. He also announced administrative efforts to increase positions for municipal workers. Council Member James commended the administration for taking these initial steps.
"It is obvious that a lack of administrative oversight of contracted companies leaves the City vulnerable," said Council Member James. "Although I support the administration developing technology that simplifies and updates necessary functions, I do not support the administration handing over blank checks to private companies for IT projects."
The Citytime contract increased from a projected $68 million at its onset to more than $738 million, the Emergency Communications Transformation Program went from an initial $380 million to $666 million, and NYCAPS has ballooned from $66 million in 2002 to $363 million as of 2011.
###
Please Sign BK Speaks Petition In Support of RPPs
As Council Member James joins her colleagues in speaking in support of residential parking permits today, we want to bring your attention to a petition created by Brooklyn Speaks (civic associations, community-based organizations, and advocacy groups concerned about the future of development at the Atlantic Yards site) in support of a residential permit parking program for New York City in conjunction with local communities and their representatives.An informal poll by Brownstoner also put the number of residents in support of an RPP near Barclay's at 83.6%.
Petition- http://www.petitiononline.com/petitions/rpp4nyc/signatures
Poll- http://www.brownstoner.com/blog/2011/10/a-push-for-residential-permit-parking-near-the-arena/#more-73139
Monday, October 31, 2011
CM James And BK Speaks Urge Community To SPEAK UP For RPPs In Downtown, Central BK
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE** October 31, 2011
Contact Amyre Loomis at (718) 260-9191
COUNCIL MEMBER LETITIA JAMES AND BROOKLYN SPEAKS URGE THE COMMUNITY TO SPEAK UP FOR RESIDENTIAL PERMIT PARKING IN CENTRAL BROOKLYN!
State legislation required to limit consequences of Barclays Center traffic
WHAT: Hearing of the New York City Council Committee on State and Federal Legislation
WHEN: Wednesday, 11/2 at 10:30AM
WHERE: 250 Broadway, 14th Floor
According to the Empire State Development Corporation, when the Barclays Center opens in September 2012, an expected 35% of arena patrons, or as many as 5,600 cars will travel to the site for each of the projected 220 events held each year. If nothing is done before to mitigate this volume of traffic, there will be an increased risk of vehicular, pedestrian and bicycle accidents that already make Atlantic Avenue Brooklyn's most dangerous road. This barrage of traffic is also expected to cause significant delays at more than half of the intersections within a half mile of the arena. And it will result in almost 3,000 arena patrons taking curbside parking spots in Park Slope, Boerum Hill, Fort Greene, and Prospect Heights.
Among all of the impacts to neighborhood character and quality of life that will come from locating Atlantic Yards' arena within residential communities, none are of greater consequence to more residents than the traffic generated from arena events. But, there is a way to reduce the demand for our local streets. It's called "residential permit parking," or RPP, and it's been effective in other cities, like Boston and Chicago, where sports facilities are located in densely-populated areas. By limiting on-street parking during arena events to local residents, RPP will create a disincentive for arena patrons to drive, reducing congestion and making streets safer.
New York City requires authorization from the State legislature before it can implement RPP. On Wednesday, 11/2 at 10:30AM, the City Council will hear testimony on legislation authorizing the City to enact residential permit parking programs in the five boroughs.
The BrooklynSpeaks sponsors and Council Member James implore you to participate in this critical hearing and make your voice heard.
Please email us with your plans to attend and interest in speaking!
###
Contact Amyre Loomis at (718) 260-9191
COUNCIL MEMBER LETITIA JAMES AND BROOKLYN SPEAKS URGE THE COMMUNITY TO SPEAK UP FOR RESIDENTIAL PERMIT PARKING IN CENTRAL BROOKLYN!
State legislation required to limit consequences of Barclays Center traffic
WHAT: Hearing of the New York City Council Committee on State and Federal Legislation
WHEN: Wednesday, 11/2 at 10:30AM
WHERE: 250 Broadway, 14th Floor
According to the Empire State Development Corporation, when the Barclays Center opens in September 2012, an expected 35% of arena patrons, or as many as 5,600 cars will travel to the site for each of the projected 220 events held each year. If nothing is done before to mitigate this volume of traffic, there will be an increased risk of vehicular, pedestrian and bicycle accidents that already make Atlantic Avenue Brooklyn's most dangerous road. This barrage of traffic is also expected to cause significant delays at more than half of the intersections within a half mile of the arena. And it will result in almost 3,000 arena patrons taking curbside parking spots in Park Slope, Boerum Hill, Fort Greene, and Prospect Heights.
Among all of the impacts to neighborhood character and quality of life that will come from locating Atlantic Yards' arena within residential communities, none are of greater consequence to more residents than the traffic generated from arena events. But, there is a way to reduce the demand for our local streets. It's called "residential permit parking," or RPP, and it's been effective in other cities, like Boston and Chicago, where sports facilities are located in densely-populated areas. By limiting on-street parking during arena events to local residents, RPP will create a disincentive for arena patrons to drive, reducing congestion and making streets safer.
New York City requires authorization from the State legislature before it can implement RPP. On Wednesday, 11/2 at 10:30AM, the City Council will hear testimony on legislation authorizing the City to enact residential permit parking programs in the five boroughs.
The BrooklynSpeaks sponsors and Council Member James implore you to participate in this critical hearing and make your voice heard.
Please email us with your plans to attend and interest in speaking!
###
Friday, August 5, 2011
CM James’ Statement Regarding Resignation of Deputy Mayor Stephen Goldsmith
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
August 4, 2011
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis at (212) 788-7081
Council Member Letitia James’ Statement Regarding Resignation of Deputy Mayor Stephen Goldsmith
(New York, NY)— After serving fourteen months with the administration of Mayor Michael Bloomberg, Deputy Mayor for Operations Stephen Goldsmith today publicly announced his resignation from this position.
In this position, Deputy Mayor Goldsmith was integral to the development of “NYC Simplicity”, a comprehensive online system created to make City services more focused, innovative, and efficient. He was also involved with the updates to PlaNYC, the mayor’s comprehensive sustainability plan; as well as increased efficiency to the Department of Building’s construction approval process.
Deputy Mayor Goldsmith oversaw operational management during the Snow Blizzard of 2010, during which the administration failed to adequately respond to unplowed streets and overflowing garbage in many communities. At the time Council Member Letitia James, chair of the Council’s Sanitation Committee, joined many of her colleagues in chastising the administration for its poor response to the blizzard, as well as being out-of-touch with the conditions in outer boroughs. In April 2011, the City Council passed a legislative package with the intent of increasing intergovernmental communications and transparency during snow emergencies. Deputy Mayor Goldsmith was also heavily involved in the City’s contracting agreement, which has seen a number of high-profile errors related to poor management and insufficient oversight— the most visible being the CityTime disaster.
“I have always believed Deputy Mayor Goldsmith to be both hard-working and responsive,” said Council Member Letitia James. “I do not believe one man is responsible for the administration’s numerous blunders, and I sincerely hope he is not being punished for poor polling numbers. I look forward to working with Commissioner Holloway in his new capacity.”
Mayor Bloomberg has appointed Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Caswell F. Holloway to the Deputy Mayor for Operations position.
##
August 4, 2011
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis at (212) 788-7081
Council Member Letitia James’ Statement Regarding Resignation of Deputy Mayor Stephen Goldsmith
(New York, NY)— After serving fourteen months with the administration of Mayor Michael Bloomberg, Deputy Mayor for Operations Stephen Goldsmith today publicly announced his resignation from this position.
In this position, Deputy Mayor Goldsmith was integral to the development of “NYC Simplicity”, a comprehensive online system created to make City services more focused, innovative, and efficient. He was also involved with the updates to PlaNYC, the mayor’s comprehensive sustainability plan; as well as increased efficiency to the Department of Building’s construction approval process.
Deputy Mayor Goldsmith oversaw operational management during the Snow Blizzard of 2010, during which the administration failed to adequately respond to unplowed streets and overflowing garbage in many communities. At the time Council Member Letitia James, chair of the Council’s Sanitation Committee, joined many of her colleagues in chastising the administration for its poor response to the blizzard, as well as being out-of-touch with the conditions in outer boroughs. In April 2011, the City Council passed a legislative package with the intent of increasing intergovernmental communications and transparency during snow emergencies. Deputy Mayor Goldsmith was also heavily involved in the City’s contracting agreement, which has seen a number of high-profile errors related to poor management and insufficient oversight— the most visible being the CityTime disaster.
“I have always believed Deputy Mayor Goldsmith to be both hard-working and responsive,” said Council Member Letitia James. “I do not believe one man is responsible for the administration’s numerous blunders, and I sincerely hope he is not being punished for poor polling numbers. I look forward to working with Commissioner Holloway in his new capacity.”
Mayor Bloomberg has appointed Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Caswell F. Holloway to the Deputy Mayor for Operations position.
##
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
ATTENTION: NYC RGB Rent Increases
At its meeting on May 3, 2011, the NYC Rent Guidelines Board (RGB) adopted and proposed a range of renewal lease guidelines that will greatly impact many of New Yorkers.
The preliminary rent hike, approved on Tuesday, May 3rd, 2011 by the RGB is slated to be voted on next month. The board proposed changes to both one-year and two-year lease agreements. Increases for one-year leases will potentially fall between 3 and 5.75 percent, while two-year leases would go up between 6 and 9 percent.
Council Member James recently joined her colleagues on a trip to Albany to lobby State officials to strengthen and extend rent laws legislatively. The alternative would effectively allow low and middle-income New Yorkers to continue to flee this City and State due to progressively ballooning rental costs.
The RGB has scheduled two upcoming public hearings during which the public will be able to testify and weigh in on the adopted and proposed renewal lease guidelines. Details on the Brooklyn-based hearing is below—
Thursday, June 16, 2011
4:30PM
Kiltgord Auditorium
285 Jay Street in Downtown Brooklyn
Council Member James encourages you to attend and share your thoughts on a proposed rent hike.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
CM James, Sanitation Committee Chair, Supports Legislation To Ease ASP Burden
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
April 28, 2011
Contact Amyre Loomis at (718) 260-9191
Council Member James, Chair of the Council’s Committee on Sanitation and Solid Waste Supports Legislation to Ease Alternate Side Parking Burden on Brooklyn Residents
New law reduces alt-side requirements for areas that meet cleanliness standards
(Brooklyn, NY) A proposed law, (Int 287-A) addresses the Mayor’s Office of Operation’s Scorecard Cleanliness Report, which determines street cleanliness. In March 2010, my office sent a letter to the department requesting to be included in any updates on the scorecard methodology, specifically any streets chosen to be “representative” streets for the purposes of the report.
This bill, sponsored by Council Member Brad Lander empowers community boards with an average cleanliness rating of 90%, over 2 consecutive years, to submit a request to the department to receive reduced street cleaning by one day (for a qualifying district). All community boards located within the 35th CD: 2, 3, 8, and 9 are eligible for this reduction. The department would have the option to resume the original street cleaning schedule if the sanitation district receives an average score of less than 90% under the Mayor's office of operations scorecard program for any period of three consecutive months, or if the average score of the sanitation district falls below 90% over a period of two consecutive fiscal years.
“After working with the Mayor’s Office of Operations regarding their scorecard cleanliness methodology, I am pleased with the legislation being put forth. The quality of life will be better for everyone in New York City when parking becomes easier and more available,” said Council Member James. “This is good news and should decrease the amount of expensive tickets given to drivers, as well as the hassle of moving cars. Also, I believe that through giving community boards with high cleanliness ratings the option to reduce street cleaning, we are empowering communities to make independent decisions in the best interest of local residents.”
###
April 28, 2011
Contact Amyre Loomis at (718) 260-9191
Council Member James, Chair of the Council’s Committee on Sanitation and Solid Waste Supports Legislation to Ease Alternate Side Parking Burden on Brooklyn Residents
New law reduces alt-side requirements for areas that meet cleanliness standards
(Brooklyn, NY) A proposed law, (Int 287-A) addresses the Mayor’s Office of Operation’s Scorecard Cleanliness Report, which determines street cleanliness. In March 2010, my office sent a letter to the department requesting to be included in any updates on the scorecard methodology, specifically any streets chosen to be “representative” streets for the purposes of the report.
This bill, sponsored by Council Member Brad Lander empowers community boards with an average cleanliness rating of 90%, over 2 consecutive years, to submit a request to the department to receive reduced street cleaning by one day (for a qualifying district). All community boards located within the 35th CD: 2, 3, 8, and 9 are eligible for this reduction. The department would have the option to resume the original street cleaning schedule if the sanitation district receives an average score of less than 90% under the Mayor's office of operations scorecard program for any period of three consecutive months, or if the average score of the sanitation district falls below 90% over a period of two consecutive fiscal years.
“After working with the Mayor’s Office of Operations regarding their scorecard cleanliness methodology, I am pleased with the legislation being put forth. The quality of life will be better for everyone in New York City when parking becomes easier and more available,” said Council Member James. “This is good news and should decrease the amount of expensive tickets given to drivers, as well as the hassle of moving cars. Also, I believe that through giving community boards with high cleanliness ratings the option to reduce street cleaning, we are empowering communities to make independent decisions in the best interest of local residents.”
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