My Vision for District 3
Council District 3 is one of the most dynamic and forward-thinking communities anywhere in the country. We stand on the side of progress for civil rights, for the right to an abortion, universal healthcare, and protections for our LGBTQ+ and immigrant communities. As I talk to people across the district, I’m asked about everything from reproductive rights and protections against the Trump administration, to how I’ll work to make sure buildings and the subway are accessible or about access to healthcare and state and federal benefits like SNAP and Medicaid. All of these issues are important.
I am running for office because I believe that the government is a force for good and at its best, helps everyone succeed, no matter their age, ability, or income. And I have seen it firsthand from my work over the last decade at City Hall.
Building a more equitable New York comes down to the kitchen table issues that are part of our everyday lives. The ideas outlined below are grounded in years of experience working directly with residents, small business, tenants and community organizers.
The best thing about living in a city is we’re all in this together. I want to know more about the issues that are important to you, so please take a minute to get to know more about what I plan to focus on as a start and let’s build the list together. Feel free to add your own priorities at the end of this page!
Affordable Housing and Tenant Rights
We all know there is a perpetual shortage of affordable housing. The vacancy rate is extremely low, falling below 1% for apartments priced under $2,400 per month as of 2023 and rents continue to rise across NYC and the district. Regulation alone cannot solve the crisis, especially when there is no rent regulation for market rate apartments.
Public Safety
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.
District 3 moves. And it thrives on smart and efficient transportation that gets residents and all the out-of-town workers and visitors where they need to be quickly and safely. Our streets are safest when there is dedicated space for pedestrians and cyclists, so I will work to get permanent fixtures: concrete, tree pits, and planters to make real change, not just paint and plastic cones.
The New York City Public School System is the largest school district in the US, with over 1,000,000 students, and 1,800+ schools. That’s bigger than most cities in America. Our schools are renowned for specialized high schools, high per-student funding, and immense diversity, offering unparalleled specialized programs across all five boroughs.
New York City has endless appeal to the next generation, but the people who have been here for decades built the communities we are fortunate to call home. They should be able to age in place with stability and access to the full life of the city. That means making sure seniors have affordable housing, accessible transit, and quality healthcare and support services.
Clean, safe, and accessible public spaces are a key part of what makes any district enjoyable and successful. Our district has some of the city’s most verdant parks and busy plazas. Well-maintained parks, vibrant streets, and reliable sanitation services are essential for the health and happiness of all residents while also attracting tourists and business.
Arts and Culture
Historically home to many artists and actors, our district is central to New York City’s endlessly emerging arts scene – from the galleries of Chelsea and the Whitney Museum to the Great White Way - these cultural institutions have defined our city for decades. Unfortunately, many of them are struggling to remain prosperous.
Sustainability and the Environment
We know that climate change is real. Super storms are becoming more and more frequent, and the entirety of District 3’s western boundary is the Hudson River. In fact, the natural shoreline was significantly further east; buildings in West Chelsea now sit on land that was formerly riverbed, which is why it is prone to flooding.
Economic Development and Jobs
New York is a leader in the creative, tech, finance, and construction industry — and we’ve got union power, too. We must ensure the growth of good paying jobs for local residents, because we know we don’t thrive as a city unless we create more jobs.
LGBTQ+ Equality and Pride
New York City should be a place where everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, can live safely, openly, and with dignity.
Accessibility and Disability Rights
New York City must be a place where everyone can fully participate in daily life — no barriers, no exceptions. I will partner with the disability community to build a city that is accessible, inclusive, and designed with people with disabilities at the center.
Donald Trump’s second term is as dangerous and threatening as we knew it would be. He is waging war on our city’s most vulnerable groups while starting reckless wars around the world. From attacks on the LGBTQ+ community, DEI, to ICE’s illegal detention of our neighbors, the administration’s policies have created fear and instability.