Mayor Bill de Blasio and DCA Commissioner Julie Menin (photo: DCA, via Twitter)

"Every phone call you make is potentially changing the life of a family," said Mayor Bill de Blasio, addressing the city's first phone-a-thon to raise awareness about significant but overlooked tax refunds aimed at bolstering low-income earners.

Pink posters lined the crowded hall at the Fire Department building in downtown Brooklyn. The posters framed a simple question in Spanish, Chinese, and English: "What would you do with your refund?" Department of Consumer Affairs employees, dressed in maroon shirts with a pink #GotMyRefund decal, zig-zagged the tables that filled the room where at least 150 volunteers made thousands of calls to low- and medium-income New Yorkers to inform them about the Earned Income Tax Credit, or EITC.

Saturday's phone bank, which occurred simultaneously at a site in each of the five boroughs, signaled the start of a tax credit awareness campaign that will continue for the next three months and include outreach to thousands of New Yorkers who can benefit from the credit.

The mayor reiterated his central objective of fighting income inequality and said, "We cannot see so many of our fellow New Yorkers suffering economically. We have to find a way to reach each and every one. This is a very tangible and immediate way to do it."

The campaign, run by the Department of Consumer Affairs under Commissioner Julie Menin, aims to increase the number of people filing for EITC and using the City's tax prep services.

"We know EITC is one of the best ways to fight poverty so we're aggressively tackling it here in New York City," Menin told Gotham Gazette on Saturday afternoon. The phone banks would reach out to 100,000 people Saturday, she said, with an additional 250,000 automated calls going out by Wednesday.

"We need to make sure that for the next couple of months we continue to push this message out to make sure that people file for their tax refunds and also that they avail themselves of the free tax services that exist," she said.

Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams joined de Blasio and other elected officials, Menin, and many volunteers in making phone calls Saturday. Afterward, he issued a statement stressing the need for building awareness of EITC. "As the largest poverty reduction tax program in our country," he said, "and as a boost for our local economy, it is important that government educate every taxpayer about the EITC and make it possible for them to claim their benefits."

One of the volunteers, Bet Lopreste, 23, a writer and dancer, said the people she reached out to were surprised and curious about EITC, but even more so about the City's free-of-cost tax prep centers.

These services and refunds can be a boon for families. Sherwin Garcia, 31, an IT worker at Barclays filed his EITC last year through the City's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program and received nearly $4,000. "Obviously you're not making enough money if you qualify for it. It helps pay off rent, credit card bills, and even creates some savings."

Although the EITC is a federal credit, New York State and even New York City offer their own versions of EITC. So for those who qualify, the benefits can reach up to $8,293 for a family with three children earning under about $52,000 a year and $670 for a single person without children earning under about $20,000. What's more, the EITC does not take away from other benefits such as the SNAP program (food stamps), Medicaid, or public housing assistance.

The phone-a-thon, just one day after Friday's Internal Revenue Service annual EITC Awareness Day, aims to increase filings in New York City by at least 50 percent. The value of refunds, according to official expectations, will be nearly $90 million and will put $135 million into the local economy.

For 27-year-old Jennifer Roman, a concierge at a condominium building, the EITC helped her pay off her student loans. The mayor called Roman up on stage as he spoke to the crowd. She received financial counseling last year at Urban Upbound, a non-profit in Queens and one of the city's financial empowerment centers, which helped her file her EITC, restructure her student debt, and repair her credit. She smiled as she said, "It's extremely great to know that the mayor is supporting us."

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by Samar Khurshid, Gotham Gazette
@samarkhurshid

New York City Hall

What to watch for this week in New York politics:

This week will again be largely dominated by doings in the New York State Assembly. Weather permitting, Assembly Democrats are set to conference, during which they may hear from presumptive next speaker Carl Heastie, of the Bronx. Disgraced long-time Speaker Sheldon Silver has submitted a resignation letter making his twenty-plus year run leading the body over as of 11:59 p.m. Monday night. While Majority Leader Joseph Morelle, of Rocheser, is due to become interim speaker until a Feb. 10 vote, Heastie has all but locked up the speakership on a more permanent basis. Morelle has said he is no longer in the running, as have other one-time "candidates," with only Queens Assembly Member Catherine Nolan remaining in the "race." Heastie has been making promises of reform to the body and its rules, and he has said that we will not make any outside income if elected speaker. There is said to be a push to have the vote before that Feb. 10 date, so stay tuned as things develop.

We're also watching these other top storylines heading into the week:

• Dean Skelos investigation: There was a report by NBC-4 at the end of the week that Senate Leader Dean Skelos, a Republican, is under investigation by U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara (whose work led to Silver's arrest on a variety of federal corruption charges). Skelos' office denied any investigation and nothing further has come of it thus far. Everyone is waiting for the next Albany shoe to drop as Bharara's office continues its investigations into Albany corruption.

• Albany policy and budget: In close connection with all that is swirling and happening around corruption and changes in leadership in Albany is budget season, which began with Gov. Andrew Cuomo's budget presentation and State of the State speech on Jan. 21. Cuomo's agenda and budget have gotten far less attention than they might have if Silver had not been arrested the following day. Still, budget hearings will go on throughout February - including this week. Also look for the appearance of Mayor de Blasio and other city officials in Albany on Feb. 25.
  • The State Senate is also holding hearings on police and public safety, including one set for Wednesday in New York City. Cuomo included several criminal justice reforms in his proposals, there is likely to be quite a bit of negotiation around these issues in the coming months.

• De Blasio's State of the City: The mayor will give his 2015 State of the City speech on Tuesday morning at Baruch College in Manhattan. He'll be touting New York City's hard left turn taken during his first year in office and the list of progressive policies put into place. De Blasio will be coming off a weekend that included another new initiative aimed at improving the lives of low-income New Yorkers: his administration's push to get more of those eligible to claim their Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) - read our report on the push and event, including de Blasio's participation, here.
  • We're watching to see not just what de Blasio brags of, but what new policy he unveils. Many will be carefully listening to how he discusses police-community relations, of course.

• Pantaleo grand jury info: Arguments will be made on Thursday in the push, being led by Public Advocate Letitia James and others, to unseal more information from the grand jury case in which Police Officer Daniel Pantaleo was not indicted in the death of Eric Garner.
  • We're also waiting to see when there might be word on the NYPD's internal investigation of Garner's death and the conduct of the officers involved as well as the federal inquiry into the incident.

• DNC 2016 - NYC?: Could the Democratic National Committee's decision about which city will host the 2016 convention come down this week? It's possible. New York City, with the main site as the Barclays Center, is one of three finalists.

Also, it is Black History Month. Expect many events in celebration as February gets going. Obviously, with so much discussion around race and policing and criminal justice writ large, many discussions will be especially concrete and relevant to current events in New York and elsewhere. And, as always, this week there's a great deal happening at the City Council and all over the city, with many events to be aware of. See below for details.

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The run of the week in detail:

Monday
New York City will be sloshing through some more bad weather on Monday, so be aware that everything listed here is subject to cancellation/posteponement. We've already been getting notice of some. As of Sunday afternoon, schools are open in New York City on Monday, but alternate side parking and garbage collection are suspended.

Monday is Groundhog Day. Mayor de Blasio will attend the annual celebration at the Staten Island Zoo, but this year he won't be handling the groundhog. Here's why. But, expect the mayor to have a big smile on his face - he's a Patriots fan (and they won the Super Bowl Sunday night).

The Groundhog Day event is the only public one on the mayor's public schedule for Monday. The same goes for Public Advocate Letitia James.

Meanwhile, de Blasio's wife, Chirlane McCray also has one Monday event on her public schedule: "First Lady Chirlane McCray will give brief remarks at the New York State Health Foundation's launch of the Healthy Neighborhoods Fund, a new $2-million push that will help low-income neighborhoods become healthier, more active places for residents of all ages."

Comptroller Scott Stringer begins his week with an early, 6:40 a.m. appearance on Morning Joe on MSNBC.

As we mentioned, Sheldon Silver's resignation as Speaker of the New York State Assembly will become official at 11:59 p.m. Monday. He is to remain an Assembly member moving forward, as he faces corruption charges on which he was arrested two weeks ago. Carl Heastie is widely expected to be the next speaker after a brief interim period with Joseph Morelle in the role.

At noon on Monday at the state capitol building, good government groups are set to call for major reforms in Albany: "for ethics and rules changes as Assembly picks new speaker." They argue that "lawmakers should seize opportunity for meaningful reform to restore public's faith in state government." Speakers will include "Denora Getachew, Brennan Center for Justice, Dick Dadey, Citizens Union, Susan Lerner, Common Cause NY, Blair Horner, NYPIRG...Reform advocates will identify specific proposals by which the State Assembly can seize this historic opportunity to fight corruption and create a more transparent, participatory and publicly deliberative process, and be available for comment on the selection process for a new Assembly Speaker."

On Monday at 11 a.m., according to the city Department of Consumer Affairs, "all three levels of government (federal, state and local), including NYC Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) Commissioner Julie Menin and representatives from the Office of U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, Internal Revenue Service (IRS), NYS Department of Taxation and Finance will kick off the tax season at a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) site operated by Food Bank For New York City at Bedford-Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation, which offers numerous support services including financial counseling, debt management and financial literacy workshops, and is one of nearly 200 free tax sites in the City's expanded network. Representatives will encourage eligible New Yorkers to file their taxes for free and claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), as well as raise awareness of other financial empowerment resources available to low and moderate income families and individuals in New York City." Learn more about the EITC and the city's efforts to promote it here.

Monday's City Council schedule will include a meeting of the Subcommittee on Zoning and Franchises to discuss land use applications; a meeting of the Subcommittee on Landmarks, Public Siting and Maritime Uses to review Land Use Applications; and a meeting of the Committee on Education for an oversight hearing regarding "The Indirect Employment System for School Building Maintenance and its Effect on Workers."

The state Senate Standing Committee on Infrastructure and Capital Investment will meet jointly with the Senate Standing Committee on Transportation: "Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) Budget and Finances: To examine the changes necessary to prevent annual operating deficits and stop the continuing cycle of increased fares and decreased services."

Manhatttan Borough President Gale Brewer, members of the New York City Council and New York Public Library President Tony Marx "will host an IDNYC press conference and town hall" at the midtown Public Library "to answer questions about the program, hear from constituents, and encourage New Yorkers across the borough to apply for a New York City Identification Card."

On Monday evening, Pace University will host NYPD Commissioner William Bratton for "A Conversation with the New York City's Top Cop." The Commissioner will address issues of crime, terrorism and other challenges facing "the city that never sleeps...In this candid interview and Q&A, learn how Commissioner Bratton leads America's largest police department, his predictions for the future of New York City, and how he succeeds in the ultimate high–profile job, where he's never off the clock."

Also Monday evening, Manhattan BP Brewer and civil rights attorney Norman Siegel host a forum in northern Manhattan bringing together members of the community, law enforcement, clergy, and nonprofit leaders to develop proposals for improving police-community relations. The event will feature opening remarks by NYPD Chief of Department James P. O'Neill. "This event's small-group discussion format will generate a raft of qualitative data, suggestions, and ideas from members of the community and law enforcement. In collaboration with the Borough President's office, Mr. Siegel will participate in the production of a report with policy recommendations grounded in the findings of these discussion groups."

On Monday evening a coalition of community based organizations, labor unions, tenant associations, legal support and political clubs, "Real Rent Reform," will host an event in Washington Heights: "2015 Year of the Tenant - We Demand Fair Housing Laws and Rent Freeze."

Moral Mondays comes to New York City: "There is an overwhelming amount of injustice in our society, from income inequality to racial disparity to climate inaction. Our elected officials continue to prioritize personal profit over people and planet. On January 21st, Governor Cuomo delivered his State of the State and Executive Budget Proposal in Albany, and it unfortunately does little to address these concerns. On Monday February 2, the people will respond, evaluating the Governor's plans within the framework of morality and the common good. Together, we'll call for equitable education funding, living wages, fair taxation and corporate accountability, and more."

Tuesday
Tuesday at noon, the Bronx Republican Party in collaboration with other organizations, will show support for the NYPD at an "NYPD Respect Rally," on the steps of the Bronx County Courthouse.

Former New York gubernatorial candidate and Associate Professor of Law at Fordham University Zephyr Teachout will headline the City Bar Public Affairs Luncheon on Tuesday afternoon, where she will speak to her recently published book "Corruption in America," as well as address current issues in New York state.

On Tuesday afternoon, Hostos Community College will host a community forum on New York's Medical Marijuana Reform. Co-sponsored by City Council Member Corey Johnson, chair of the Council health committee. "On January 1st, the Department of Health published draft regulations for the sale, production and distribution of medicinal marijuana in New York state as per the Compassionate Care Act. How will the new program work? Who will have access? Will there be a dispensary in my neighborhood? What will it cost? Come get your questions answered and make your voice heard."

Tuesday evening, there will be a tote bag giveaway event in the Bronx with City Council Member Andy King and CEO of Citizens Committee of New York Peter Kostmayer; Co-op City. "The City Council's Committee on Sanitation and Solid Waste Management is reviewing proposed legislation to reduce plastic bag waste in New York City. Under Bill 209-2014, New York City stores would implement a minimum 10 cent charge for every single-use bag (paper or plastic). Store owners retain the charge. Customers who bring their own bags will not be charged. Council Member King, who is a member of the committee, will informally poll commuters' response to the bill during the bag giveaway."

Tuesday evening will see the "February 2015 NY Tech Meetup" in Manhattan - "Join fellow technologists for an evening of live demos from companies developing great technology in New York."

"About 200 people are expected to attend an informational meeting on President Barack Obama's immigration reforms on Tuesday night at PS 20, in Port Richmond," Staten Island, according to the SI Advance. "City agencies, not-for-profits and legal providers will be sponsoring the free, large-scale meeting from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. for those looking to learn about new immigration policies like the Deferred Action for Parental Accountability and the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals. New York City officials will also share information about the new municipal ID. Attendees will also have access to legal assistance and connections to a range of additional immigrant benefits."

Also Tuesday evening: "Local Climate Action in the Age of Big Fossil" is being hosted by Greater NYC for Change and partner organizations in Manhattan. "We're bringing together activists, private sector interests, and representatives of city government to join forces on this challenge. This is a fantastic opportunity for activists to learn how to advance the cause!" Panelists will include "Larry Schimmel, General Counsel for Investment and Operations at the NYC Public Advocate Letitia James' office, who will discuss government's role in divestment, and what municipal, state, and federal governments are discussing around environmental legislation" and "Beth Newcomer Legislative Analyst for NYC Council Member Helen Rosenthal (District 6, Upper West Side), who will discuss the Council Member's leadership on divestment," among others. "Sponsored by Greater NYC for Change with 350NYC, Manhattan Young Democrats, United for Action, and Village Independent Democrats."

Wednesday
"Everything You Need to Know: the Sheldon Silver Case" will be Wednesday, mid-day at Columbia Law School. "[The Center for the Advancement of Public Integrity] Executive Director Jennifer Rodgers will join CLS professors Richard Briffault and Daniel Richman to answer questions about the stunning arrest of long-time New York State Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver. The event will focus on the details of the criminal complaint, and what the charges say about the culture of corruption in Albany."

Wednesday's City Council schedule will include a meeting of the Committee on Higher Education to discuss a new bill relating to "Information and city services to reduce college sexual assault"; a meeting of the Committee on Rules, Privileges and Elections consider the designation of the following persons to the following mayoral nominations: Wellington Chen, as a member of the Landmarks Preservation Commission; Kim Vauss, as a member of the Landmarks Preservation Commission; and Hank Willis Thomas, as the painter member of the New York City Art Commission, known as Public Design Commission; a meeting of the Land Use Committee to "consider all items reported out of the Subcommittees at the meetings held on Monday, February 2, 2015, and conduct such other business as may be necessary."

The state Senate Standing Committee on Crime Victims, Crime and Correction will meet jointly with the Senate Standing Committee on Civil Service and Pensions; the Senate Standing Committee on Investigations and Government Operations; and the Senate Standing Committee on Codes to examine "police safety and public protection in New York City."

On Wednesday evening, there will be an IDNYC town hall/community meeting in Queens.

Wednesday evening, City Council Member Helen Rosenthal will host her monthly Housing Clinic. This month's meeting will focus on "city-wide housing related campaigns" and "as always" will feature an appearance from "staff attorneys from the Urban Justice Center for people seeking specific legal advice."

"Digital.NYC Five-Borough Tour: #LowerManhattan" will be Wednesday evening: "This is Digital.NYC's inaugural Five-Borough Tour event! #DigitalNYC #LowerManhattan...Come hear from NYC's Tech Game Changers about how NYC's tech ecosystem is changing and what's on the horizon." Panelists will include: Colin O'Donell: Founding Partner, Control Group, LinkNYC; Aaron Holiday: Managing Entrepreneurial Officer, Cornell Tech; Lori Anne Wardi: Vice President, .NYC; Kyle Kimball: President, NYCEDC; David S. Rose: Founder & CEO, Digital.NYC, Gust
Sandy Carter: General Manager Cloud Ecosystem Development and Entrepreneurship, IBM; with moderator: Matthew Flamm, Senior Reporter, Crain's NY.

The New Leaders Council (NLC) is having a new year event in Manhattan. Several elected officials including new Bronx Assembly Member Michael Blake are likely to stop by.

Thursday
Parties are scheduled to return to court on Thursday in the push to see more documents in the Eric Garner/Daniel Pantaleo grand jury. From Public Advocate Letitia James' office: "On Wednesday, January 28, 2015, New York City Public Advocate Letitia James was joined at the offices of Legal Services NY by attorneys representing the Public Advocate's office as well as the Legal Aid Society and the New York Civil Liberties Union to discuss legal efforts to unseal the grand jury proceedings related to the death of Eric Garner on July 17, 2014. The Public Advocate has argued that there is no logical reason to maintain grand jury secrecy as the video tape that shows the circumstances of Mr. Garner's death has been made public, and the identities of those involved are not hidden. The Garner family has additionally joined the co-petitioners in asking the court to unseal the grand jury proceedings...Oral arguments for the special proceeding were originally scheduled for January 29th, but have been postponed until Thursday, February 5, 2015 in Staten Island."

Friday and the weekend
Bronx Community Board application deadline is February 6th (those for Brooklyn and Manhattan have passed).

On Friday, The General Contractors Association of New York presents "The Road to Investment: A Conversation on the NYS Department of Transportation Capital Program." The program begins with the "8:30 a.m. Keynote Address from NYS Department of Transportation Commissioner Joan McDonald" followed by a panel including "Mitchell Moss, Professor of Urban Policy and Planning and Director of the Rudin Center for Transportation, New York University, the Honorable Daniel Garodnick, New York Council Member, John Cortlett, Legislative Committee Chairman, AAA New York."

Queens Community Board application deadline is Saturday.

City Council Member Ben Kallos will give his State of the District address in Manhattan on Sunday afternoon. "A new year brings new hope, opportunity for growth, and the optimism that the next year will improve upon the last. Thank you for an incredible past year, and here's to an even better 2015 as we build on the progress already made. Please join me as I report to you on the "State of the District" on February 8, 2015."

On Sunday afternoon, Manhattan Borough President Gale A. Brewer will host a State of the Borough event at Columbia University: "With her first State of the Borough event for the public, Manhattan Borough President Gale A. Brewer is forgoing the traditional address format to instead hold an interactive community conversation on residents' most pressing concerns and the initiatives the MBPO is working on to address them...Borough President Brewer will welcome to the stage four Manhattan thought leaders to talk candidly about affordable housing, education, technology, development in the borough, police-community relations, and other issues topping her constituents' lists of concerns. Audience members will be invited to live-Tweet questions and comments for all to see onstage—feedback that the speakers will explore in their conversation." Read from our series on the borough presidents here.

***
Have events or topics for us to include in an upcoming Week Ahead in New York Politics? E-mail Gotham Gazette executive editor Ben Max any time: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. (please use "For Week Ahead" as email subject).

***
by Rati Mukhuradze and Ben Max
@GothamGazette

Mayor de Blasio makes calls during the EITC phone bank in BK (photo: @amyspitalnick)

BROOKLYN - 'Hi, this is Bill - Bill de Blasio - calling to see if you're planning to claim your Earned Income Tax Credit.'

On Saturday in Brooklyn, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio, a Democrat, jumped into action at one of his administration's sites for its Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) phone bank. De Blasio joined other elected officials, Department of Consumer Affairs Commissioner Julie Menin, and what the City says were 2,000 volunteers across the city in making calls to low-income New Yorkers to make sure they are aware of the EITC, which can provide a significant financial relief to those often struggling to make ends meet.

According to a release from the mayor's office, it is "the largest public education and outreach tax credit campaign in the City's history."

Saturday's "Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Awareness Day of Action" is the city's first, the administration said, putting the work into context as another part of the de Blasio attack on inequality. Not only are volunteers reminding low-income New Yorkers about the EITC, which has been claimed by far fewer than those eligible, but to also make sure people are aware of the free tax filing services that the City provides for those with income under $60,000 per year.

"The City will contact more than 270,000 New Yorkers through phone calls and automated calls," a press release reads. The City says that for the first time it is funding the free tax preparation services, available at about 200 locations, an increase of about 60 from last year. The City is investing $3.1 million for expanded services and also advertising, making a big push "to reach eligible New Yorkers, including the estimated one in five households who are eligible for EITC but don't claim it."

Like with pre-kindergarten, paid sick leave, and municipal identification cards, it is another example of the de Blasio administration's push to both increase support and services that aid low-income New Yorkers, but also ensure through aggressive marketing that those eligible are aware. The advertising component is being backed by $800,000 of city money, with notices being made on a variety of platforms and in a plethora of languages.

"The earned income tax credit is oftentimes the largest lump sum of money low-income New Yorkers will receive in the year, and it's a critical tool we can use to reduce inequality by directly putting back money in people's pockets," said Mayor de Blasio in a statement. "We can't afford to let tens of thousands of New Yorkers who are eligible for these valuable refunds not file."

Menin said that the money families get back can be the difference in being able to pay the bills or not. "We have committed a nearly 20-fold increase in funding to the tax credit campaign because we believe every working New Yorker deserves to get their hard-earned refund," she said.

Although the EITC is a federal credit, New York State and even New York City offer their own versions of EITC. So for those who qualify, the benefits can reach up to $8,293 for a family with three children earning under about $52,000 a year and $670 for a single person without children earning under about $20,000. What's more, the EITC does not take away from other benefits such as the SNAP program (food stamps), Medicaid, or public housing assistance.

The campaign is being promoted on Twitter with #GotMyRefund. There was a phone-banking site in each borough. De Blasio participated in Brooklyn, where Menin was headquartered and other participating elected officials included Borough President Eric Adams and Rep. Nydia Velazquez.

Fitting into the De Blasio Agenda
Promoting awareness about EITC is in line with the mayor's push toward reducing the inequality gap in the city. In the latest Mayor's Management Report (MMR), the bi-annual assessment of individual city agencies, released in September last year, there was a specific requirement for agencies to report their efforts on promoting equity.

One of DCA's stated goals in the report was to empower low-income New Yorkers and promote their financial stability. As part of that effort, DCA reported that its OFE partnered with community organizers, non-profit groups, and private volunteers to directly aid residents through free and discounted tax preparation and filing. According to the MMR, the network of volunteers at Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites helped 96,661 city residents file their tax returns in the 2014 fiscal year.

The City Council has also been attempting to increase EITC participation levels in the city. Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito, advocating for a more affordable city, wrote in the Huffington Post last month, "The Federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is an under-utilized lifeline for many eligible individuals facing financial hardship. The program would enable qualifying New Yorkers to keep more of their income and better contend with the looming cuts to section 8 vouchers."

Council Member Dan Garodnick introduced a resolution on the issue in June of last year that has not been voted on yet. It calls on Congress to pass legislation expanding EITC, and for the state Legislature to allow the City to increase its own EITC from 5% to 10% of the federal credit.

***
by Samark Khurshid, Gotham Gazette
@SamarKhurshid

DCA EITC subway advertising (photo: @carmeneboon)

In life, they say, only two things are certain: death and taxes. Fortunately for low-income New Yorkers, the latter comes with federal refunds. And the de Blasio administration is making a major push to ensure that more of those eligible cash in.

In preparation for tax season, the City's Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) will launch its annual campaign tomorrow to inform taxpayers about credits, including the Earned Income Tax Credit and the NYC Child Care Tax Credit. According to a press release from DCA, more than 2,000 volunteers will staff phone banks across the five boroughs for the first-ever tax credit awareness phone-a-thon organized by the City, reaching out to residents in English, Spanish, and Chinese.

The initiative, being run by de Blasio's DCA Commissioner Julie Menin, is part of the administration's aggressive efforts to help improve quality of life for those on the margins.

Since 2002, the City has organized a Tax Credit Campaign every year, handled by the DCA's Office of Financial Empowerment (OFE), to help residents not miss out on vital benefits in the tax system. In what is a new initiative, though, thousands of calls will be made on Saturday to refund-eligible New Yorkers.

One of the main credits that often goes unavailed is the EITC. For qualifying families, EITC can go a long way. One in five low-income New Yorkers are either unaware of this tax credit or unwilling to go through what they perceive as a tedious process. In effect, they are leaving money on the table, particularly since it is a refundable credit. It can lower taxes, and even be paid out if they owe no taxes, but only if it is filed. Last year, 1.8 million EITC claims were filed in New York State, totaling $4.1 billion in credits. The average credit amount was $2,309 - an amount that can make a major difference for individuals or families struggling to get by, especially in a high cost of living city like New York.

Commissioner Menin will lead the six-hour long phone-a-thon on Saturday at the Downtown Brooklyn location, with Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams, Rep. Nydia Velazquez, State Assembly Member Jo Anne Simon, and City Council Member Rafael Espinal all set to participate. Mayor Bill de Blasio is also expected to visit, and make remarks and a few phone calls.

The phone-a-thon, just one day after Friday's Internal Revenue Service annual EITC Awareness Day, aims to increase filings in New York City by at least 50 percent. The value of refunds, according to official expectations, will be nearly $90 million and will put $135 million into the local economy. Families could receive as much as $10,000. New Yorkers will also be told of 200 tax preparation sites across the city which will help process tax filings free of cost.

In October last year, the IRS announced that the federal credit in 2015 would be adjusted for inflation, increasing the maximum amount by around $100 (to $6,242 from $6,143) for a joint family with three children or more.

Although the EITC is a federal credit, New York State and even New York City offer their own versions of EITC. So for those who qualify, the benefits can reach up to $8,293 for a family with three children earning under about $52,000 a year and $670 for a single person without children earning under about $20,000. What's more, the EITC does not take away from other benefits such as the SNAP program (food stamps), Medicaid, or public housing assistance.

The campaign is being promoted on Twitter with #GotMyRefund. Many city officials are promoting the event in their feeds and some, like Public Advocate Letitia James, have been sending e-mail blasts to their subscribers.

Fitting into the De Blasio Agenda
Promoting awareness about EITC is in line with the mayor's push toward reducing the inequality gap in the city. In the latest Mayor's Management Report (MMR), the bi-annual assessment of individual city agencies, released in September last year, there was a specific requirement for agencies to report their efforts on promoting equity.

One of DCA's stated goals in the report was to empower low-income New Yorkers and promote their financial stability. As part of that effort, DCA reported that its OFE partnered with community organizers, non-profit groups, and private volunteers to directly aid residents through free and discounted tax preparation and filing. According to the MMR, the network of volunteers at Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites helped 96,661 city residents file their tax returns in the 2014 fiscal year.

The City Council has also been attempting to increase EITC participation levels in the city. Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito, advocating for a more affordable city, wrote in the Huffington Post last month, "The Federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is an under-utilized lifeline for many eligible individuals facing financial hardship. The program would enable qualifying New Yorkers to keep more of their income and better contend with the looming cuts to section 8 vouchers."

Council Member Dan Garodnick introduced a resolution on the issue in June of last year that has not been voted on yet. It calls on Congress to pass legislation expanding EITC, and for the state Legislature to allow the City to increase its own EITC from 5% to 10% of the federal credit.

***
by Samark Khurshid, Gotham Gazette
@SamarKhurshid

Note: this article has been updated.

Heastie, second from left, at a Thursday rally in the Bronx (photo: @RandiMartos)

The race to replace Sheldon Silver as Assembly Speaker appears to be narrowing to two main candidates. One is from New York City and one is from upstate New York. Assembly Member Carl Heastie, who serves as the Bronx County Democratic Committee Chair, has the backing of Mayor Bill de Blasio. Assembly Member Joseph Morelle of Rochester, who serves as Assembly Majority Leader, has the backing of Gov. Andrew Cuomo - and is set to take over as interm speaker on Monday.

Heastie has quickly wrapped up support from former speaker candidates Assembly Members Keith Wright of Manhattan and Joe Lentol of Brooklyn, who have in turn asked their supporters to back Heastie. Assembly Member Catherine Nolan from Queens, also still in the running for speaker, appears to be losing the support of her borough's Democratic establishment.

But even as Democratic Party leaders coalesce behind him, not everyone from the city is sure Heastie is the right choice. Heastie carries baggage from his work as Bronx County Chair, wherein he has backed a number of ethically-challenged candidates. Heastie stayed neutral in the race between now-convicted State Sen. Pedro Espada and the man who replaced him, Sen. Gustavo Rivera.

Heastie is known as a consensus builder and has worked with those who beat his incumbents or preferred candidates. However, many advocates and legislators are worried that Heastie is concerned not with reform, but with consolidating power. Watching the party bosses rally support behind one of their own has many questioning how much of an improvement Heastie would be over Silver in terms of transparency and member empowerment. A number of Bronx legislators claim that Heastie and long-time ally Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. have designs on Heastie becoming speaker and Diaz Jr. running for mayor. Diaz Jr. is a vocal supporter of Heastie for speaker.

Perhaps alarming to many Democrats, especially reform-minded progressives, Heastie has also made public statements seemingly supporting the Supreme Court's Citizens United decision - he has insisted that campaign donations do not influence politicians. Heastie also voted against marriage equality in 2007, but did vote for it subsequently.

The election of a new speaker will have untold impact on city issues this year and beyond as Mayor de Blasio finds himself in a particularly tough spot in Albany. De Blasio needs an ally in the speaker's office, and seems willing to go with Heastie even if he may not perfectly line up ideologically.

2015 was already going to be a tough year in the capital for de Blasio and his agenda. And then his closest ally, Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, was arrested on federal corruption charges.

Now, with Silver on the way out from the position and his replacement unclear, de Blasio's agenda could be in even further jeopardy. With the race in full sprint and a vote set for Feb. 10, a great deal is at stake for the mayor and the city as jockeying intensifies. It may be difficult to overstate how important it is to de Blasio that he has a close ally running the Assembly, which is part of why he appears staunchly behind Heastie, though without saying so publicly.

De Blasio bet big when he decided to openly challenge Republican control of the State Senate during last year's elections. He wanted the city to be able to decide its own minimum wage, take back rent control from the State, and more - all with the impending sunset of both mayoral control of schools and key rent laws.

He bet big and he lost - leaving scorned Senate Republicans more eager than ever to block his proposals and Gov. Andrew Cuomo emboldened, co-opting de Blasio's progressive rhetoric and pairing it with more moderate and conservative proposals.

Silver's demise is trouble for de Blasio and many in New York City as the long-time speaker was set to fight Cuomo's education reform agenda, push for a higher minimum wage, and act as the counterweight to Senate Republicans in negotiations over rent control. Whoever replaces Silver, the popular wisdom goes, will be significantly weaker in budget negotiations with Cuomo and Republican Senate Leader Dean Skelos. Nevertheless, how de Blasio- or New York City-friendly the next speaker is will be immensely important and there are major differences among the candidates for speaker in this regard, and others.

The mayor's office did not respond to request for comment about de Blasio's priorities and the Albany landscape, though de Blasio has told reporters this week that he is not personally in contact with candidates. De Blasio appears invested in Heastie despite some issues in the Assembly member's profile and ways in which the two may not see eye to eye.

Heastie, the 47-year-old Bronx County Democratic Party Chair, has a reputation for being flexible. Under Heastie's leadership the Bronx Party has generally backed its own establishment candidates - even when they face legal trouble or corruption charges - but welcomed newcomers into the fold. Heastie has insisted in interviews on the TV program BronxTalk that he doesn't choose which candidates to back on his own but goes with the consensus of other Bronx politicians.

In a statement declaring his candidacy, Heastie insisted that he is interested in reform and transparency: "Voters deserve an Assembly that will not only fight for all New Yorkers, but will enact the type of lasting reforms that will increase accountability and transparency in our state government."

But Heastie faces skepticism from the Assembly's burgeoning reform caucus, which is calling on speaker candidates to answer some very pointed questions about democratizing the body and improving transparency. "I don't know what Carl believes," one member told Gotham Gazette. Another Bronx member admitted that they aren't "particularly fond" of Heastie or "what he stands for," but said that those sentiments are outweighed by the fact that if Heastie takes the reigns, "guys from the Bronx won't have to beg and scrape to explain what our districts need."

The establishment groundswell around him is also being questioned by The Daily News Editorial Board, among others.

Good government groups are calling for an open, public hearing wherein the speaker candidates are vetted, going on the record on reforms of the body and the role of the speaker.

Heastie is known for being particularly close-lipped with the Albany press corp, relying on his spokesperson to get his message out. On Tuesday he told reporters while leaving the Assembly conference, "You all know my favorite term: No comment."

Gary Axelbank, host of BronxTalk, said that isn't the Heastie he knows. "He has been on the show nine times starting in 2000," Axelbank said. "I've enjoyed a long relationship with him from the start of his public service. He has always been an excellent guest and he has never said 'I don't want to talk about someone who has been indicted or why the county backed an indicted official.' I really see him as a stand-up guy willing to represent what he does."

Heastie has cosponsored legislation on housing, immigration, corrections, education, and discrimination, but his largest focus has been stopping wage theft.

But, Heastie drew outrage when he sponsored legislation that allowed pay-day loan lenders to charge up to 200 percent interest. Advocates said the loans take advantage of Heastie's most vulnerable constituents. The Daily News reported that Heastie's Bronx Committee received a $10,000 donation from the check-cashing industry. Heastie countered in later interviews that the donation was only for the committee dinner.

His campaign finance reports show that he takes in significant cash from the medical industry. City & State reported last year that Heastie's campaign accounts were examined by The Moreland Commission on Public Corruption because he had over $25,000 in unitemized expenses. "I've heard nothing from them. I'm not concerned whatsoever. You're not required to itemize expenses under 50 bucks," Heastie told City & State.

Heastie's take on campaign finance also appears to be at odds with the Democratic Majority in the Assembly (and a good many Democrats everywhere). During a 2013 interview on BronxTalk, Heastie argued that political contributions do not influence elected officials.

Axelbank first asked if it hurts democracy to have some candidates running with the support of outside PACS. Heastie responded, "I guess thats a better question to ask the Supreme Court 'cause they're ones that ruled we can have these independent expenditure. It's difficult to say that people that want to express an opinion in an election should not be heard."

Axelbank went on to ask whether money makes a candidate more likely to support a donor.

"No, that's another one of problems I have. The press seems to do - and people running against elected officials say - they believe that because someone supports you or contributes to your campaign someone owns you or you've taken a bribe. I've received contributions from someone I disagreed with. Gotta start looking at individuals."

An astonished Axelbank replied, "Certainly money to campaigns buys influence. Who could deny it?"

To which Heastie replied "I'm never gonna admit to that."

Axelbank pushed further on Heastie's support of pay-day loan vendors. Heastie responded that the press writes to fit its agenda.

On key issues to Mayor de Blasio and many New York City Democrats and residents, Heastie, Morelle, and Nolan offer a mixed bag:

Housing
Michael McKee, of Tenants PAC, expressed a sentiment that defies conventional wisdom. "I think in a crazy way this is good for us," said McKee of Silver's impending replacement. "What would we expect from Shelly Silver? A half-baked compromise. Frankly we are happy that the focus is now on reform and making the process more Democratic."

Furthermore, McKee isn't sure that a speaker from upstate wouldn't be especially helpful to New York City and its many tenant-friendly Assembly members.

"Even a speaker from upstate will need votes from city members. It's just how the math works. It is ironic in a way that a speaker from upstate would have to deliver more for the city because they can't just say 'Of course I support New York City, I live there.'" McKee declined to voice a preference in candidates.

Conventional wisdom would say that Heastie would be the better ally (over Morelle) of de Blasio when it comes to a push on rent regulations.

McKee is urging tenants to contact their legislators, "to let them know the new leader has to stop the phaseout of the rent laws or there will be no affordable housing left in New York City because the Senate is owned lock and stock by the real estate lobby."

McKee and other tenant advocates are concerned that de Blasio will significantly curtail his demands on the rent laws in Albany in an effort to focus on other areas. Gov. Andrew Cuomo, whose own agenda also hangs in the balance of the speaker turnover and who is also surely looking to influence who takes the Assembly reins, didn't even mention the expiration of the rent laws in his State of the State address this year - which didn't go unnoticed by advocates. Cuomo is said to favor Morelle for speaker.

When asked by Gotham Gazette about Cuomo's omission de Blasio's response was cautious.

"I think [rent regulations have] been one of the things that has preserved what affordability we do have in New York City – and we have an affordability crisis in New York City – it's a lot of what we talked about in the last year – it's a lot of why we have the most expansive affordable housing plan in the history of this country – to build or preserve 200,000 units of housing – because we have a profound affordability crisis in New York City," de Blasio said immediately following Cuomo's speech. "And you can't address income inequality without addressing the affordability of housing, which is the number one expense. So, I'm going to work to protect rent regulation. I'm going to look for ways that we can expand upon it and strengthen it. We've had a huge number of units lost from rent regulation or from other programs that protected affordability, and we have to address that – and I'm hopeful that we can get something done."

Education and Women's Rights
When it comes to education policy, union members and liberal advocacy groups tend to favor Nolan who serves as the Assembly education committee chair. Nolan has criticized Cuomo's plan to revamp the teacher evaluation system and make it easier to fire failing teachers. Nolan has lead Assembly members in challenging Cuomo's cuts to education funding over the past years. Of course, Nolan's chances are looking slimmer by the day, though she has said she's staying in the race.

Morelle and Heastie are thought to be closer to Cuomo on education but not so much that they would accept his reform plan. Even Morelle, who would be much more likely to align with Cuomo and Skelos on education, would have to answer to Assembly members who are largely tied to the teachers unions. There is little doubt, though, that Cuomo could very well get more of what he wants on education with Silver out of the picture - how much more remains to be seen.

Nolan has also asserted that she would be better for the Assembly on women's issues. De Blasio has pushed for the legislature to pass the stalled Women's Equality Act.

Nolan stressed in her announcement of her speaker candidacy that electing her could help alleviate the Assembly's sexual harassment issue. "Lost in the names that have been mentioned as potential candidates for Speaker is that of a woman," Nolan's announcement reads. "A woman has never served as Speaker of the Assembly. The press has written extensively and derisively about the sexual harassment cases that have occurred in the legislature over the last few years. It is past time for that 'culture' to end once and for all. I am committed to doing just that."

Whether Nolan is still being seen as a viable candidate and how much support she has is unclear. Meanwhile, there has been a public outpouring for Heastie.

Economics
As for de Blasio's minimum wage push, the governor has already thrown him a major bone by calling for an advanced scale even beyond the one currently phasing in over time. The governor did not match the mayor's requests in his proposal, but did call for a statewide $10.50 minimum wage and an $11.50 minimum in New York City within a couple of years.

Nolan and Heastie being the remaining city-based candidates are likely to be on board with Cuomo's plan, or even a push beyond if de Blasio even seeks one. It would appear that de Blasio may be wise to drop his call for local control of the minimum wage. Nolan and Heastie have both advocated increasing the wage in the past. Morelle is considered to be more concerned about the business-side of policy, where opposition to minimum wage increases has been prevalent, but he has backed previous wage increases.

Independence
Morelle, of Rochester, may be the most removed from city issues, but according to McKee's logic he might have to deliver in ways city-based legislators wouldn't if he's elected and wants to maintain support. Morelle is scheduled to take over from Silver on an interim basis starting Monday, Feb 2. He is considered business-friendly and moderate compared to his more liberal city-based competitors. He enjoys strong ties to Cuomo, another more moderate Democrat, which concerns many in the city, and many legislators believe it is the Assembly's duty to combat the suburban and upstate-focused Senate. Historically, Assembly speakers have been virtually exclusively from New York City - and today 63 of the 150 members hail from the five boroughs.

A number of reform-minded Assembly members have expressed concern that all three of the remaining candidates are Silver loyalists. None of them called for his resignation in public and they all have been relatively close to him.

With good government groups weighing in that they want a transparent process and the new Assembly reform caucus looking for reforms that allow individual legislators more freedom to bring their bills to the floor and increased input in the budget process, it is possible that reformers will be looking for a strong sign of independence.

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by David King, Albany editor, Gotham Gazette
@DavidHowardKing

Fulton Correctional Facility (photo via the Osborne Association)

Earlier today New York State handed over the keys for the shuttered Fulton Correctional Facility in the Bronx to The Osborne Association - a group tasked with providing services to the formerly incarcerated, easy re-entry, and reduce recidivism.

For many politicians and advocates, from the Bronx and elsewhere, the handover is an example of how New York State is changing course from jailing as many small-time offenders as possible to focusing on how prison time can disrupt and damage communities.

With the shift, Osborne now has to focus on using the State's $6 million grant to convert the facility, and on finding partners to run the ambitious range of services it plans to provide, local businesses that would like to locate in the new facility, and a reliable funding stream to support them.

The seven-story structure has served many purposes over the years: church, synagogue, nursing home, drug rehab facility, YMCA, and work-release facility. The plan now, according to Elizabeth Gaynes, executive director of The Osborne Association, is to provide ex-cons a one-stop shop to help them return to society smoothly.

"While the crime rate has certainly decreased and the prison population has declined in New York State and New York City, there are still a great number of people across the state under correctional supervision," said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. "I believe that transforming this structure into a re-entry facility will provide individuals who are transitioning back into society from prison an amazing resource, one that provides them with the necessary tools and resources to succeed upon release and become proactive members of our community."

Over 60 percent of the state's prison population hails from the five boroughs and city data released in 2013 shows that the South Bronx is one of the top five communities where NYC-based inmates list their home address.

However, the state's prison population in general is in decline - it is currently lower than it has been in two decades. Gov. Andrew Cuomo has closed 13 prisons since taking office and famously declared in his 2011 State of the State address that "an incarceration program is not an employment program."

Many advocates hoped at the time that Cuomo would target upstate prisons because the majority of the state's prison population hails from New York City and housing them upstate separates them from the family and community advocates argue help in rehabilitation. But Cuomo didn't limit the closures to upstate. He closed both Fulton in the Bronx and Arthur Kill Correctional Facility on Staten Island. Advocates were particularly stung by Fulton's closure because it was a work release facility. Converting Fulton Correctional is intended to give ex-cons a one-stop shop for all their needs close to their home communities.

Gaynes says her group plans to use all seven floors of the facility to provide a myriad of services to ex-convicts including temporary housing, job training and health care. It will also provide job opportunities in a full-scale kitchen with catering service and a green businesses incubator. The roof is expected to host beehives. Two of the floors will focus on temporary housing and another floor will be dedicated to more long-term housing for elderly former inmates.

Gaynes had to convince state officials that they would be better off providing these services and reducing recidivism rates rather than selling the property to a developer. Her pitch worked.

The Empire State Development Corporation granted Osborne $6.5 million for the project. Diaz Jr.'s office helped Osborne secure a $650,000 grant from the New York City Department of Citywide Administrative Services; the Bronx Delegation of the City Council allocated $50,000, and Councilmember Vanessa Gibson delivered $10,000 in city funding. The entire renovation is expected to cost $9.5 million, fundraising is ongoing.

"The next step is to hire an architect," said Gaynes. "Unfortunately we can't wait to build until we know exactly what is going to be here, but because it was a church, a synagogue, and YMCA before it was a work release center, we think it will fit our needs. I think we will end up with really something that is beautiful."

State Sen. Gustavo Rivera is particularly proud of the plan as he took it up as one of his first projects after being elected in 2011. He said he was quickly impressed by Oborne's proposal and thought it would be important for his district. "It will be great to be there and know I was involved from the start," Rivera said prior to Thursday's handover.

However, Rivera notes that there is still a lot of work ahead. He attended one of the community meetings hosted by Osborne and got a taste of just how involved the group wants Bronx residents to be. "We discussed the needs of the community. Housing. OK. Well what kind of housing? Classes? Well, what kind?" he recounted.

Perhaps most impressive, Rivera said, was that Osborne provided layouts of the building with movable labels to indicate where services could be provided.

Gaynes said she is a little concerned that she might not be able to meet all of the community expectations which have grown to include a pool. Swimming facilities or not, it is an ambitious project to be sure.

Even with the handover accomplished and plans for the facility underway Osborne hopes to find partners to actually run the supportive housing and other services.

Rivera said he hopes the State will continue to stay involved and support the project. "We will need to get the message out, work on funding for all these programs they want to offer. We aren't walking away from this now."

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by David King, Albany editor, Gotham Gazette
@DavidHowardKing

Mayor de Blasio and MOVA Commissioner Sutton (photo: Mayor's Office)

A little over a month after Mayor Bill de Blasio appointed retired Army Brigadier General Loree Sutton as the new Commissioner of the Mayor's Office of Veterans Affairs (MOVA), she was called before the City Council to testify. In late September of last year, the committee was hearing a much-anticipated bill, Intro. 314, that would turn MOVA into its own department instead of a poorly-funded office under the mayor.

It is a plan advocates had been pushing for a while and they were eager to hear what the new commissioner would say regarding the legislation. But they didn't get much from Sutton that day - in her short testimony, she declined to take a position on the bill.

"Introduction 314 deserves all due consideration as we dedicate ourselves to the historic journey that lies ahead," Sutton said during her testimony on Sept. 29, 2014. "After completing my assessment and sharing my findings with Mayor de Blasio, I look forward to following up with the New York City Council Committee on Veterans to discuss this important proposal in further detail."

Sutton set out on a 90-day review of her department and several pieces of relevant legislation introduced by the Council, including Intro. 314; while also learning about the veterans community in New York City. Following the 90 days, which expired on Dec. 1, Sutton was to submit a report to de Blasio with recommendations. When asked by Gotham Gazette earlier this week, de Blasio said the report had been submitted, but he had not yet reviewed it.

Sutton's report has not been made public, so it is unclear if the commissioner recommended to back the bill. De Blasio said he thinks the intention behind the legislation is a good one, but still appears cool to the idea.

"I have never been convinced that turning an office into a department in any subject matter is really the way to get things done best," de Blasio said during a briefing with reporters on Tuesday. "I am certainly going to look at it. But my central question, which I will wait for more guidance from General Sutton on, is what is the best way to serve veterans?"

De Blasio may be lukewarm on the legislation, but nearly 30 council members feel Intro. 314 is the best way to serve veterans. It would allow the Council to hold preliminary and executive budget hearings on veterans issues and services, a move many feel could lead to more funding, as well as contracts being awarded to veteran service providers directly instead of through other city agencies unfamiliar with veterans groups.

"This bill will fundamentally change the city's capacity to meet the demand of a growing and diverse veterans' community," Council Member Eric Ulrich, chair of the Council's Veterans Committee said by email Wednesday. "Aside from the symbolic significance, it will allow for more funding to support VSOs and direct providers who serve veterans and their families."

The bill has been quietly gaining steam in the last several weeks and as of Tuesday Intro. 314 had 27 sponsors. That's enough to get it passed by the City Council and close to the magic number of 34 votes needed for a veto-proof majority of the Council's 51 members.

Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito, who actively supports veterans and veterans issues, has not added her name to the bill yet, but she is considering it.

"Anything we can do to really bolster that office to do its function and serve on behalf of our veterans is something I would seriously consider," Mark-Viverito said at a recent press conference. "We want to continue to help that agency, that division, to help function as strongly as it can. We will look at it aggressively and see if we can move forward."

The time for consideration, however, is becoming thin. The mayor must submit a preliminary budget by February 24 and a final Fiscal Year 2016 city budget must be passed by June 30. Funding for the new department would need to be included in the budget to avoid delays in setting up the department until the following budget cycle.

The Veterans Committee will next meet on February 10 to hear legislation that will reform the Veterans Advisory Board. While all five members of the committee are sponsors on Intro. 314, there is no scheduled vote for the bill.

With the backing of the majority of his fellow council members, Ulrich will continue to push for Intro. 314.

"It is something that should have been done years ago and it will be a game changer in how we help local vets and transitioning service members," Ulrich said.

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by Kristen Meriwether, Gotham Gazette
@MeriwetherK

Sheldon Silver (photo: Spencer Platt/Getty Images)

On Monday, Feb. 2, New York State Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver's 20-year reign as leader of the Assembly's Democratic majority is scheduled to come to an end. Albany, as many have come to define it, will be changed drastically without Silver's domineering grasp around the chamber's throat.

Silver has come to represent many things to many different people. He was vilified upstate as some sort golem of greed and corruption manifested to represent New York City; for others Silver was a champion of progressive causes who listened to the people. For still others Silver served as a symbol of all the corruption and detachment of the state capital, a hypocrite who stifled democratic conversation, smashed any inkling of opposition, and unceremoniously turned on members whose scandals were causing him too much trouble.

Now, he faces several federal corruption charges of bribery and kickbacks, which have finally led to his seemingly imminent ouster.

Rochester Assembly Member Joseph Morelle, who currently serves as majority leader, is scheduled to become interim speaker until a vote on Feb. 10, Democratic Assembly members determined on Tuesday. Good government groups have called for a "transparent" selection of a new leader. Some members insist they want to use the next two weeks to vet speaker candidates. The Assembly is already discussing a change to its rules so that the speaker serves at the leisure of the members, not a two-year term.

Silver told reporters on Tuesday that he will not resign his Assembly seat. "I will be a member of this house," Silver said. "I was elected by my constituents and I do not intend to resign my seat in this house. I believe very deeply in the institution. I hope they can have somebody here who can carry on the good work that has taken place." He also added, though, that he would not hinder a replacement process. In fact, he may very well vote on his replacement as an ordinary member of the Assembly.

Almost a full week into session the only "good work" the Assembly has officially done this year is to vote Silver in as speaker. That is something Assembly Republicans don't want anyone to forget. They paced back and forth on Monday waiting to see if session would happen. Republican Assembly Member Jim Tedisco carried around his "research" on how to remove a speaker. "This could really hurt budget negotiations," he said of the distraction and power shake-up.

Exactly who will succeed Silver in the long term is not clear, but jockeying for the position is intense with New York City-based Keith Wright of Manhattan, Carl Heastie of the Bronx, Cathy Nolan of Queens, and Joe Lentol from Brooklyn all appearing to be actively campaigning for the position. They, or whichever emerge as frontrunners before Feb. 10, will have to overcome Morelle.

Wright faces opposition from members who are annoyed by his ties to Gov. Andrew Cuomo - the governor named Wright a co-chair of the state Democratic Party in 2012. Carl Heastie is thought to be the leader at the moment and has hired two veteran aides to help his effort, though he is thought to carry baggage from his duty as Bronx County Democratic Chair and issues related to his campaign spending.

Other members have begun to focus on reforming the speakership with term limits and other changes that will allow individual members more control over what bills come to the floor. Under Silver, the Assembly has become notoriously autocratic.

Labor unions, lobbyists and elected officials from across the state are all weighing in on the process. New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio appears to be backing Heastie despite comments he made to the press on Tuesday.

"I'm not talking to Assembly members at all," de Blasio said. "We're trying to keep abreast of what's happening because we have a lot of things that really matter to us, like the budget and a lot of other things. We're trying to stay close to what's happening so that we are able to act on the substance of the situation."

De Blasio made it clear, though, that he sees it as essential that the next speaker is also from New York City. "I think it is crucially important to New York City to have leadership in the Assembly that wants to be fair to New York City - and let's be clear, we often don't get our fair share from state government," de Blasio said.

On Monday Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. issued a statement insisting just that. Many city legislators from both houses agree with Diaz being that the Senate is controlled by Republicans who mostly hail from the suburbs and upstate and "Cuomo is Cuomo," as one legislator put it.

But Diaz has a specific city-based speaker in mind. He has long allied with Heastie who is also the Bronx County party chair. A number of lawmakers close to the pair say they have shared a dream of Heastie becoming speaker and Diaz becoming mayor.

Silver's colleagues met in closed door meetings on Monday and Tuesday rather than holding scheduled legislative session and debated what to do about their embattled speaker. Last week, when Silver was first arrested some members jumped to his defense claiming he faced "flimsy charges." Some went as far as to suggest there was a conspiracy against Silver.

Members emerged from their first conference last week having decided to back Silver - without having read the charges against him and with his chief of staff in the room. The unity began to crumble over the weekend as editorial pages slammed Silver and the members who were so willing to defend him. The only Assembly Democrat to call for his resignation was Charles Barron, who has long been outspoken had had no help from Silver in his election.

On Monday legislators met for five hours behind closed doors with Assembly staffers pushing reporters further and further back from the meeting. Members debated Silver's proposal that he temporarily cede power to five colleagues until he was cleared of his charges. Eventually that proposal was disregarded and members appeared to announce that they had agreed that Silver should step down as speaker.

"I and other members of the conference expressed the idea that the speaker can no longer serve as the speaker and he must resign," said Assembly Member Brian Kavanagh, who met with a breakaway faction of young legislators during the day and had been set to make an announcement that was nixed by Silver's arrival.

Silver left the capitol seemingly defiant, declaring "I am the speaker."

Members met again for hours behind closed doors on Tuesday without Silver. They finally emerged appearing to have Silver's agreement to resign the speakership - though his comments indicated otherwise. The Assembly members indicated that if he did not resign by Monday they would move to formally remove him.

Despite being known for protecting his members, in recent years Silver was forced to become more reactive to protect his own image. It was only May of 2013 when Silver led an effort to boot entrenched Bronx Assembly Member Vito Lopez from his seat. Lopez faced a number of sexual harassment charges from interns - some of the cases were settled in secret with state money at the behest of Silver. It wasn't until new victims came forward that the old cases were revealed and Silver began to feel the political blowback. Silver faced calls to resign from editorial boards, women's groups, and politicians, but he survived partly by focusing on punishing Lopez.

Silver stripped Lopez of his committee chair and staff and launched ethics probes. Lopez announced in May that year that he would resign from the Assembly at the end of the session and run for City Council (a race which he lost). Advocates were outraged - feeling the pressure, Silver drafted a resolution to vote Lopez out of the chamber and Lopez resigned before the vote. Silver went on to pressure Assembly members Micah Kellner and Dennis Gabryszak to resign after they faced sexual harassment accusations.

The Assembly has lagged behind most government organizations in transparency for years. The Senate, which has been notoriously opaque in its legislative practices, have a website that allows users to search for detailed legislative information and watch session live. The Assembly website has only recently come close to catching up. 

A number of legislators said privately that they maintained public support for Silver because of the issues he represents and his negotiating power. He was expected to be the Democratic counterweight to Cuomo's education reform plans, push for a higher minimum wage, and ally himself closely with de Blasio's agenda. Silver, however, hasn't always delivered for the city. In 2008, without much explanation, he killed a push to enact congestion pricing in New York City.

In 2009, after Senate Democrats took control of that chamber after four decades in the minority the absurdly decadent infrastructure implemented by long-ruling Sen. Joseph Bruno was revealed. From a fully-staffed printing plant to a TV station used exclusively by Republican candidates to record campaign ads, the GMC van outfitted with captain's chairs and a meeting table known as the "Brunomobile," it was clear to everyone that it had been good to be the king. Sources indicate that Assembly Democrats are eager to keep their demons in the closet. Silver is reportedly negotiating to protect the jobs of his long-term staffers.

However, Assembly Democrats won't be able to control how much damage Silver's fall does to their reputations. Some insiders theorize that with Silver removed from power he might be more inclined to share the Assembly's dark secrets with the U.S. Attorney prosecuting him (U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara, whose office is also performing ongoing investigations of other Albany-related matters that are yet to be made clear).

On Monday as legislators began to gather to discuss Silver's future, Assembly Members Wright, Deborah Glick, and Barron waited for one of the Capitol's ornate elevator cars to arrive. A sign on one door read "Out of service." As the wait grew longer someone in the legislators' entourages joked, "Shelly's out and the elevators aren't working already."

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by David King, Albany editor, Gotham Gazette
@DavidHowardKing

SI BP Oddo (left, foreground) with constituents (photo: BP's office)

STATEN ISLAND - Borough President James Oddo is on a mission to make local government more relevant to Staten Islanders. Rather than give a speech about his first 13 months on the job and the year ahead, Oddo opened up his office to residents on Sunday afternoon for handshakes, hugs, and information on what borough hall can do for them.

"There's a certain level of apathy that Staten Island has been known for. People just don't want to interact [with government] and we want to change that. We try to change it every day," said Oddo.

So, instead of giving a State of the Borough address, Oddo, a Republican, did something far more interactive: yesterday, he hosted "DIrect Connect Sunday" at Staten Island Borough Hall. It is one indication of Oddo's attempt to focus his borough presidency, now in its second year, on constituent services.

Many of the nearly 350 people who attended had never been past the 109-year-old building's lobby. On Sunday they explored the restored marble halls, looked at New Deal-era murals depicting the island's history, and learned more about the topography department's vault of more than 4,000 maps dating back to the 1700s. The key to the event, though, was the more current information Oddo and his staff were providing: display boards and personnel were on hand to showcase the island's current challenges and how the borough president plans to fix them. Oddo and his delegates were also there to listen.

"This is a big deal, because he doesn't have to do this," said John Healey, an accountant from Oakwood.

Visitors included the island's official NASA ambassador, an American Baptist minister, representatives of the 9/11 Flag Football League, a young boy from the Little Dolphin School, and many more.

Those who knew Oddo as minority leader in the City Council, or member of a local community board before that, said this type of accessibility is normal. The borough president is active on social media and his secretary said he responds to people with handwritten letters.

"He's such a good guy. Nothing he wouldn't do for you," said Mario Rapaglia, owner of Bario's Caterers. Rapaglia recently lost 50 pounds and Oddo excitedly complimented him on his trim jawline.

As borough president, Oddo has been using his gregarious nature to get more people engaged and make them rethink stagnant perceptions about their community. Turning around old feelings of neglect may be difficult, but he claims to be up to the task. A bust of Superman tearing open his dress shirt to go save the day sits on Oddo's wooden conference table and may serve as encouragement.

"We love to wallow in 'the forgotten borough' and we too often highlight the shortcomings that we have," Oddo said of Staten Islanders. "I am more keenly aware of our challenges than anyone, and we have them just like any other community, but we also have lots of great things."

One of Staten Island's biggest challenges is the health of its residents. In addition to some of the city's highest rates of obesity, smoking, cancer, mortality, and heart disease, the island is in the midst of a prescription drug and heroin abuse epidemic. According to Rose Kerr, Oddo's director of education, there are only 12 substance abuse counselors serving the island's 70 schools. Oddo has started many health initiatives, but the problems are too large to be fixed quickly. Kerr said the work needs to start at home.

"The families really need to know that this is a serious issue, whether it's in their backyard or somebody else's," she said.

Despite these issues, Oddo said Staten Islanders have a lot to be proud of. Once completed, Freshkills Park will be three times the size of Central Park and is expected to attract people from far beyond the city. Tech companies have begun scoping out the island for development and the North Shore will soon feature the world's largest ferris wheel, along with a new outlet mall.

Of course, any future waterfront development will be tinged with the bad memories and ongoing recovery from Superstorm Sandy. While Oddo said he's cautiously optimistic about Mayor Bill de Blasio's plans, the rebuilding process is taking far too long. He blames much of this on poor decisions made immediately after the storm and an overly complicated bureaucracy created by the Bloomberg administration.

"The results don't reflect the amount of energy we've all put into it, and until the results do none of us should be thankful or satisfied with anything that's happened," he said.

Though he's one of the few Republicans in local government, Oddo is open to ideas from all sides. He fondly recalls a strong working relationship with former City Council Speaker Christine Quinn, a Democrat, and the books on display in his office include authors ranging from David Plouffe to Rudy Giuliani.

Oddo said he also has strong ties to all of his fellow borough presidents. Inspired by a recent wall ball challenge between Eric Adams and Ruben Diaz Jr., Oddo may soon reignite a sports rivalry of his own. Former Borough Presidents Marty Markowitz, of Brooklyn, and James Molinaro, of Staten Island, used to compete over which of their local baseball teams won more games. The victor got to keep the Borough Cup, a trophy shaped like the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge, for a year. The competition was forgotten, but Oddo may look to start it up again this summer.

[Related: our look at Queens BP Melinda Katz's State of the Borough speech]

Until then, he has more serious matters to handle. Without a congressman, and potentially soon without an Assembly speaker that can bring as much money into the city, Staten Islanders will need more of a voice than ever.

Oddo has remained mostly neutral in recent political dramas. Mayor de Blasio, on the other hand, has come out strongly against former Rep. Michael Grimm while backing Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver.

"Individual elected officials should say or not say what they feel, but if they do say, they should be consistent every time they say. I don't engage in that. I didn't engage in it with Republican Grimm, I'm not gonna engage in it with Democrat Silver," said Oddo.

While Oddo wouldn't get any more specific than that, he made it clear that his long term priorities haven't changed.

"Eventually there will be a new speaker and we as Staten Island electeds will have the same mission we had in the previous iterations, and that is to get the rest of government to treat us fairly."

[This article is part of our ongoing 'State Of's series in which we're reporting on early 2015 assessments and initiatives by a variety of elected officials, from the President to the Governor, Mayor, and Borough Presidents]

***
by Cole Rosengren, Gotham Gazette
@ColeRosengrenNY

New York City Hall

What to watch for this week in New York politics:

As this week begins, we're watching the following storylines, with others sure to emerge (oh, and if you haven't heard, there's some snow coming - please keep in mind that any events listed below are subject to cancellation!):

• The latest in the Sheldon Silver saga, which will cast a cloud over this year's Albany legislative session. Silver announced on Sunday evening that he is (temporarily) ceding power to a quintet of Democratic Assembly members. The Assembly is back in session on Monday (Silver is expected to be there) and joint budget hearings begin this week (and last about a month) as lawmakers analyze Gov. Andrew Cuomo's FY2016 proposals, which he outlined this past Wednesday.

• Mayor Bill de Blasio is expected to head to Albany to testify and outline what he is looking for from the State in the coming fiscal year. De Blasio told reporters after Cuomo's State of the State/budget presentation that he would be back in Albany this coming week.
  • We'll also be anticipating de Blasio's 2015 State of the City speech, set for Tuesday, Feb. 3. We can already tell you definitely that the mayor will be boasting of several first-year accomplishments, including those related to the rollout of his pre-kindergarten program, drops in crime, and reductions in pedestrian fatalities. [See our landing page for all of our 'State Of's coverage, from the President's State of the Union to the Governor's State of the State, the Mayor's State of the City, and the Borough Presidents' State of the Boroughs]

• De Blasio starts his week dealing with the impending snow storm - expect updates from the mayor (and from Governor Cuomo throughout the first couple of days of the week - and also expect plenty of scrutiny of how the de Blasio administration handles the storm).

• Comptroller Scott Stringer begins his week with an appearance at ABNY in the morning (details below) and then on NY1's Inside City Hall and Al Jazeera's "Real Money with Ali Veshi." 

• In the meantime, we're also watching to see if there's movement in the relationship between de Blasio and the police unions - things seem to be thawing a bit in this cold war. And, will there be further criminal justice reform protest?

• Who will the Democrats field in the race to replace Michael Grimm as the rep from New York's 11th Congressional District? Will Gov. Cuomo set a date for a special election? The Republicans have already chosen to field Staten Island District Attorney Dan Donovan as their candidate. Arguments in the case pursuing more info from the Pantaleo grand jury will begin in court on Thursday of this week.

 More to be aware of:

• Deadlines for applying to community boards are looming in the next week or two - consult your borough president's office for details.

• The City Council application process for discretionary funding from council members in the next fiscal year is ongoing. Consult the City Council or your local council member for more info.

As always, there's a great deal happening at the City Council and all over the city, with many events to be aware of. The week ahead in more detail below...

***Do you have events or topics for us to include in an upcoming Week Ahead in New York Politics?
E-mail Gotham Gazette editor Ben Max: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.***

Monday - please note that Monday evening and Tuesday events are very much subject to cancellation due to the snowstorm
Monday morning, the Association for a Better New York (ABNY) will host New York City Comptroller Scott Stringer for a breakfast discussion of his "first year in office," and his "vision for building a city of shared prosperity and economic growth." [Read our report on Stringer's first year as Comptroller, including an interview with Stringer and other experts, such as former Comptroller John Liu]

As we mentioned, the Assembly is back in session on Monday (and Tuesday). So is the State Senate.

Monday's City Council schedule consists of the Committee on Courts and Legal Services meeting jointly with the Committee on Public Safety for an oversight hearing to examine "how the City Evaluates the Effectiveness of the Provision of Indigent Defense."

Monday afternoon, Council Member Ben Kallos, in association with the City's Department of Health, will host "Safer Sex Seminar for Seniors" at the Stanley Isaacs Neighborhood Center.

*There have already been a variety of Monday evening events cancelled - be on the watch for Tuesday cancellations as well!

(Side note: Monday's a week from Groundhog Day, so watch out for lots of talk about the passing of the groundhog Mayor de Blasio mishandled last year)

Tuesday - be aware it is likely that all Tuesday events below are cancelled/postponed due to the weather!

On Tuesday, the City Council's schedule *was* set to include a meeting of the Committee on Education for an oversight hearing regarding "overcrowding in NYC Public Schools"; a meeting of the Committee on Recovery and Resiliency jointly with the Committee on Fire and Criminal Justice Services for oversight "Examining the City's Enhanced Emergency Response Plans post Superstorm Sandy"; a meeting of the Committee on Higher Education regarding a bill relating to "Information and city services to reduce college sexual assault"; and a meeting of the Committee on Economic Development for an oversight hearing regarding "economic development in Sunset Park." [Read our preview of this hearing and its controversial backstory]

Joint Legislative Budget hearings commence on Tuesday, Jan 27 in Albany. Tuesday's hearing will concern "Local Government Officials/General Government."

Tuesday morning, the Assembly Standing Committee on Tourism, Parks, Arts and Sports Development, will convene for an oversight hearing in Albany "to review the implementation of the State Budget and its impact on the programs under the purview of the Committee on Tourism, Parks, Arts and Sports Development."

The New School's Milano School of International Affairs, Management, and Urban Policy, will host an all-day conference, "Disaster Recovery & Resilience: The Tips, Techniques and Best Practices for Public and Private Organizations" - "a full-day program drawing upon the lessons learned from the World Trade Center, Hurricane Sandy and other occurrences."

NYCEDC Nonprofit Capacity Building Workshop: "This will be a full-day training made up of four modules, each approximately one hour."

On Tuesday evening, Brooklyn Independent Media will present a live broadcast of their next community town hall event: "Brooklyn for Sale: The Price of Gentrification." Comptroller Stringer is set to deliver opening remarks and the event will feature Council Member Robert Cornegy, among other panelists moderated by BRIC's Brian Vines; 7:00 p.m. BRIC House Ballroom.

Wednesday
Wednesday's City Council schedule will include a meeting of the Committee on Sanitation and Solid Waste Management regarding a bill aimed at "Reducing permitted capacity at putrescible and non-putrescible solid waste transfer stations in overburdened districts"; the Committee on Transportation will meet jointly with the Committee on Aging and the Committee on Mental Health, Developmental Disability, Alcoholism, Substance Abuse and Disability Services, for an oversight hearing on "How Access-A-Ride Serves the City's Seniors and People with Disabilities"; a meeting of the Committee on Consumer Affairs to oversee "Education and Outreach on Financial Literacy for Young Adults," and to discuss a bill aimed at targeting "young adults with outreach and education regarding consumer protection issues."

State Senate public safety hearings commence: The Senate Standing Committee on Crime Victims, Crime and Correction will meet jointly with the Senate Standing Committee on Civil Service and Pensions, the Senate Standing Committee on Investigations and Government Operations, and the Senate Standing Committee on Codes; to examine "police safety and public protection in New York City."

There will be a Wednesday Joint Legislative Budget Hearing in Albany on Environmental Conservation.

On Wednesday, Manhattan BP Gale Brewer will attend the groundbreaking ceremony for the first academic building of phase 1 of the Cornell Tech Roosevelt Island Campus.

"Prospects for Election Reform in the Digital Age: One Year after the Presidential Commission on Election Administration," Wednesday evening at New York Law School: "Robert Bauer, Partner, Perkins Coie LLP, former Co-Chair of the Presidential Commission on Election Administration and former White House Counsel, Michael Ryan '95, Executive Director, New York City Board of Elections, and David Becker, Director, Election Initiatives, The Pew Charitable Trusts discuss the impact of technology on the voting process. Anthony W. Crowell, Dean and President of New York Law School, moderates the discussion."

Wednesday evening is also the "Riders Alliance Citywide Membership Meeting" - "We'll meet together with other Riders Alliance members and friends, eat dumplings, and strategize for a year of progress toward better public transit for all New Yorkers."

Thursday
Thursday's City Council schedule will include a meeting of the Committee on Housing and Buildings for an oversight hearing on "A Review of the 421-a Tax Benefit Program"; a meeting of the Committee on Parks and Recreation to review "the Annual report on non-governmental funding for NYC parks"; and a meeting of the Committee on Cultural Affairs, Libraries, and International Intergroup Relations regarding a bill in relation to "cultural liaisons."

Thursday's Joint Legislative Hearing in Albany will focus on transportation.

Thursday evening will see a "Public Meeting of the Contracts Committee of the Panel for Educational Policy" at Tweed.

City Council Member Costa Constantinides will give his State of the District address on Thursday evening in Woodside, Queens: "All are invited to join me as I give my State of the District address and discuss our upcoming priorities. I'll examine the successes of our neighborhood and my vision for our community."

According to Public Advocate Letitia James, "New York State Supreme Court Justice William Garnett will hear oral arguments in the Garner case on January 29th. The Public Advocate will continue to work to bring police and communities together and increase transparency and accountability in our justice system."

Friday and the weekend
Friday's City Council schedule is a meeting of the Committee on Juvenile Justice for an oversight hearing, "overview of the Division of Youth and Family Justice's services and programs for remanded youth."

Manhattan Community Board application deadline is January 30th (Friday); Brooklyn's is the 31st (Saturday).

The City's Department of Consumer Affairs is organizing "Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Awareness Day Phonathon" for Saturday, with several events throughout the city.

***
Have events or topics for us to include in an upcoming Week Ahead in New York Politics? E-mail Gotham Gazette executive editor Ben Max any time: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. (please use "For Week Ahead" as email subject).

***
by Rati Mukhuradze and Ben Max
@GothamGazette