Public safety is a cornerstone of a thriving District 3. Safety isn’t just about policing; our neighborhoods are safest when neighbors have access to city services and community resources that help every resident feel secure and supported, be it a responsive 311 agent, an attentive crossing guard, or MTA employee. 

We need to make it easier for businesses to open, with more support for small businesses and a process that has less red tape and is less cumbersome because open businesses make a street safer. 

I support Mayor Mamdani’s initiative to create the Department of Community Safety, so that the police can fight crime and not be forced to be responsible for situations that should be handled by a social service professional. We also must increase investment in mental health support and developing more pathways to supportive housing. 

District 3 has been a leader on these issues, and we must continue to do so. 

A critical component of long-term community safety includes investing in youth programs to ensure our youngest residents learn, grow, and thrive. Just look at the extraordinary success stories from Hudson Guild and Fulton Youth of the Future. Developing pathways to success starts early, and it can happen with targeted investment in our communities. 

I pledge to continue to work closely with the NYPD, as I have for years with every precinct within the district, to maintain a trusting and accountable relationship that ensures law enforcement is a responsive and fair part of our community. My team and I will continue to attend Community Precinct Council meetings to help foster communication between police and residents.