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November 20, 2008
New York, U.S. Feud Over Surveillance
The U.S. Justice Department is resisting the New York City Police Department's efforts to get broader permission to eavesdrop on some possible terrorism suspects. The Justice Department reportedly denied requests from the city for warrants to conduct surveillance of the suspects. In an exchange of letters with Attorney General MIchael Mukasey, Police Commissioner Ray Kelly said any delay in the wiretapping would stymie progress on two key cases. For its part, the Justice Department reportedly thinks the police have not provided adequate justification for its requests. A final determination on the matter might well fall to the Obama administration, which many believe will be less likely to approve wiretaps than the current administration. For more, see Crime Links in the News.
Mayor Balks at Rebate Checks
Mayor Michael Bloomberg said yesterday that he has no plans to send out the $400 property-tax rebate checks that many city homeowners expected to receive in October. By his administration's own admission, Bloomberg does not have the power to cancel the rebate without City Council's consent -- something he is unlikely to get. But yesterday Bloomberg said he would not issue the checks because the city can no longer afford the rebate. Several City Council members have already filed suit to force Bloomberg to release the checks. For more, see City Hall News.
MTA's Biggest Headache: Its 5-Year Capital Plan (NY Times)
MTA to Eliminate M8 Crosstown Bus (Daily News)
Brooklyn and Queens Buses Slashed (NY Post)
Levy, Skelos: City Should Not Reimpose Commuter Tax (Newsday)
New York Tech Community Reorganizes (NY Observer)
Education Council Votes To Redraw District Lines (NY 1)
Trendy, Endangered Neighborhood Rezoned (Gotham Gazette)
Administration for Children's Services Struggles With Cuts (City Limits)
Study Finds Cyclists Often Ignore Safety Laws (Metro)
Metro Area Price Index Plunges on Lower Energy (Crain's)
Quality-of-Life Crimes a Harbinger of Things to Come? (AM New York)
November 19, 2008
Budget Negotiations Fall Apart
After an emergency session in Albany in response to the state's fiscal crisis, state leaders left without a solution to a $1.5 billion budget gap. The negotiations revolved around Gov. David Paterson's proposed cuts, which decreased funding for schools and increased tuition at state universities. The negotiations, which were tense, will be put on hold until the governor releases a fiscal plan sometime next month. Paterson criticized Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos for not proposing any of his own cuts. The negotiations turned political – a possible result of the State Senate's flip from a Republican to Democratic majority. For more, see Finance Links in the News.
MTA Fare Hike
In addition to the elimination of two subway lines, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority plans to increase fare and toll revenues by 23 percent. A base subway and bus fare could increase to $2.50, officials said. The authority will make a budget presentation today detailing additional service cuts in order to address a $1.2 bullion budget gap. For more, see Transportation Links in the News.
South Street Seaport Plan Criticized By Landmarks Board (NY Times)
Wall Street Workers Turn to Teaching During Tough Times (Daily News)
Commission Supports Protecting University Towers (NY Post)
Murder Renews Questions at Rikers (Village Voice)
Manhattan Institute Sees Opportunity in GOP Defeat (NY Observer)
Ring of Steel Center Opens (Associated Press)
Could The City See a 1970s Rerun? (AM New York)
New York After the Meltdown (Gotham Gazette)
Economy Links In The News (Gotham Gazette)
November 18, 2008
Extensive Service Cuts Likely for MTA
Facing a budget shortfall of $1.2 billion next year, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority may eliminate the W and Z train lines, cut train frequency and station agents, and increase times between trains -- all leading to crowded trains and longer waits, the Daily News reports. Late night bus service on many routes may also be cut, and over 350 administrative posts eliminated when the MTA reveals a new budget on Thursday. Barring a bailout from the state legislature, New Yorkers will also face a fare hike.
Eliminating Tax Rebate Requires Council Approval (NY Times)
Plastic Bag Surcharge Causes Controversy (NY Times)
Legal Confusion Surrounds 'Toxic' School Site (Daily News)
Paterson Faces a Stand Off over Budget Cuts (NY Post)
Coney Island All Year Round? (Associated Press)
Greater Public Review of NYCHA Housing Deals Needed, Critics Say (City Limits)
Clinton's Seat Will be Hard to Fill (Crain's)
Commuter Tax Gets Yet Another Hearing (Newsweek)
Senator Clinton is Obama's First Choice (Politico)
November 17, 2008
New Push for Cleaner Cabs
Following a federal ruling that blocked the city's effort to place environmentally friendly taxis on the streets, Mayor Michael Bloomberg is taking another approach. On Friday, he announced incentives to encourage owners of taxi fleets to purchase hybrid cars. The plan would change the amounts fleet owners can charge drivers for using cabs, upping the fees for hybrid vehicles and so making the cleaner cars more profitable for the owners. For more, see Transportation Links in the News.
Paterson, Legislative Leaders Fail to Agree on Budget Cuts (NY Times)
Council Approves Plans to Reshape Queens (Gotham Gazette)
Gas Drilling Could Endanger City's Water Supply, Critics Say (Associated Press)
State's Budget Crunch Will Have Wide Effects (Wall Street Journal)
Giuliani Would Consider Run for Governor (AM New York)
High-Stakes Test (Gotham Gazette)
Education Links In The News (Gotham Gazette)
November 14, 2008
School Accountability Spending
School accountability efforts, such as student data systems and school report cards, cost the Education Department over $130 million this year, and are expected to cost $105 million next year, according to a new report by the Independent Budget Office. Many of the measures were originally funded by private donors, but are increasingly funded by the city. The report was requested by Public Advocate Betsy Gotbaum. Mayor Michael Bloomberg has asked the department to cut $181 million from its budget this year. For more, see Education Links in the News or The Wonkster.
Plan to Centralize Choice of Kindergarten Is Ended (NY Times)
Silver Puts it All on the Table for Budget Cuts (Daily News)
CIty Plans to Continue Shrinking Streets (NY Post)
Council Approves Willets Point Eminent Domain Plan (Newsday)
Midlevel Court Rejects Judges' Lawsuit for Raise (Associated Press)
Report: Cable's Cash Sways Government (Crain's)
MTA Workers Doing Their Job? (WABC)
Upstate Gas Drilling Attracts Foreign Investors (WNYC)
For First-Time Candidates, Term-Limits Present Challenges, Opportunities (City Hall)
State Says Concrete Company Polluted Newtown Creek (Queens Courier)
Locals Want BQE Covered Over (Brooklyn Papers)
Cash-Strapped City Cancels Leaf Collection Program (Flatbush Life)
A Brighter Future for University Woods Park? (Mount Hope Monitor)
November 13, 2008
$2 Billion in Spending Cuts Proposed
Gov. David Paterson yesterday proposed $2 billion in spending cuts for this year, and $3.2 billion next year. This year, aid to schools would be cut by $585 million, and health care spending would be cut by $572 million. Tuition for public colleges would rise $300. The plan called for doubling most of those cuts and hikes next year. The city would lose $41 million, or 17 percent, in municipal aid this year, but all other cities would be spared. Paterson would ask unions to forgo a 3 percent pay raise next year. State retirees would also begin paying as much as half of their health insurance premiums, up from 10 percent. He did not propose a gas tax increase, but instead called for a 5 cent deposit on bottled water. Paterson has called a special session for the state legislature next week to vote on the plan. But Senate Republican Leader Dean Skelos said the plan "lacked creativity," and he would not act on the plan until Paterson offered more details on next year's budget. The state faces a $1.5 billion deficit this year, and $12.5 deficit next year. For more, see Finance Links in the News.
Most City High Schools Improved This Year (NY Times)
Hikind Refuses Subpoena for Sexual Abuse Complaints (NY Times)
Shrinking Demand for MTA Bridges and Tunnels (Daily News)
MTA Three Years Behind on Anti-Terror Projects (NY Post)
Half of City Licensed Employment Agencies Swindled Job Seekers (Newsday)
City and State Vie for Federal Stimulus Money (NY Observer)
Deal Struck on Willets Point (Crain's)
City Dumps Red Hook Pier Plan (Brooklyn Papers)
November 12, 2008
State Budget Cuts Expected
With Gov. David Paterson scheduled to announce proposed spending cuts today, speculation continues about how deep the cuts will be and where they will fall. The governor, who has said he would not back an increase in the income tax, reportedly will call for $2 billion in immediate cuts, including reductions in school aid and health care programs and increases in tuition at public colleges. At a forum yesterday, he indicated that no program would be spared. In another sign of the area's fiscal crisis, experts see transit fares rising sharply, perhaps to as high as $3 next year. Drivers could face a hike in the state gas tax. For more see, Finance Links in the News.
Fight for State Senate Set to Continue Until January (NY Times)
Brooklyn Lab Could Boost City as Bio-Tech Center (NY Times)
City Lawyers Seek to Settle Fire Department Bias Suit (Daily News)
Times Square Ball Won't Be Just for New Year's Anymore (Associated Press)
New Education Department Rules Threaten Small Publishers (City Limits)
On-line Job Listings in New York Fall Sharply (Crain's)
Intrepid Air and Space Museum Reopens (USA Today)
November 11, 2008
Service Reductions and Fare Increase Likely
Fare increases and potentially "draconian" service reductions are increasingly likely next year as the Metropolitan Transportation Authority looks for ways to close a budget gap that has grown substantially since the authority released their preliminary budget this summer. The MTA depends on real estate taxes and taxes on corporate profits for revenue, and both have plummeted in the wake of the financial crisis. A state commission is scheduled to release a full report in December that will recommend solutions to the MTA's chronic money problems. For more, see finance and transportation links in the news.
Lines Growing at Food Pantries, (NY Times)
Transit Workers Union Collecting Dues Again (NY Post)
City Proposes Bike Parking Rules for New Buildings (Associated Press)
SUNY Trustees ask for Tuition Increase (Albany Times Union)
Union Leaders Won't Reopen State Contracts (Albany Times Union)
Dissident Albany Democrat Won't Quit Party (Albany Times Union)
Saving Jamaica Bay's Disappearing Marshes (City Limits)
Immigrant Voting on the Rise (City Limits)
November 10, 2008
Paterson Identifies Cuts
Gov. David Paterson said the state could see cuts in the billions to Medicaid and education in response to the state's financial crisis. Such cuts could resemble measures the state took in the 1970s and are sure to be controversial. Already Republican Senate leaders are vowing to block cuts to education. Paterson also said he would look to reopen labor contracts to avoid or decrease layoffs. The state Legislature will hold a special session next week to address a $1.5 billion budget shortfall for this fiscal year. For more, see Finance Links in the News.
Senator Says Goodbye To Politics (NY Times)
State Republicans Scramble for Relevance (NY Times)
Attorney May Leave for Private Practice (NY Times)
City Sited for Unsafe Conditions at School (NY Times)
The Intrepid's Million Dollar Makeover (Daily News)
Dogs Sniff Out Tobacco (NY Post)
Commission Calls For Tolls on Bridges (NY Post)
Transit Leader Swears Off Strikes (Newsday)
What Obama Could Mean For the Big Apple (Crain's)
November 07, 2008
Spitzer Won't Face Charges
Federal prosecutors announced yesterday that former Gov. Eliot Spitzer would not face charges for his dealings with a prostitution ring. U.S. Attorney Michael Garcia of Manhattan said they found no evidence that Spitzer had used public money or campaign funds to pay for prostitutes. For more, see Crime Links in the News.
Officer Testifies in Sodomy Case
A transit cop who witnessed part of the arrest of Michael Mineo, who is accusing the arresting officers of sodomizing him, gave his testimony of the incident to a grand jury yesterday. The testifying officer, Kevin Maloney, saw one of the officers, Richard Kern, place a baton on Mineo's buttocks while he called out that he was being sodomized. Mineo's pants were falling down from the arrest and his underwear was exposed. For more, see Crime Links in the News.
State to Cut Drug Abuse Programs for Ex-Convicts (NY Times)
City Reaches Agreement With State on Sewage (NY Times)
Council Looks to Thwart Bloomberg's Tax Plan (Daily News)
Back Up Plan for 911 Takes Major Hit (NY Post)
City Could Receive More Homeland Security Funds (NY 1)
News Corp. Shares Plunge on Outlook (Associated Press)
State Public Asset Sale Hearings Off to a Slow Start (Metro)
New Bike Share Program Coming to New York University (AM New York)
Only Modest Gain in Voter Turnout (WNYC)
Residents Get First Look at Proposed North Brooklyn Rezoning (Greenpoint Star)
Co-ops Locked-In to High Heating Oil Prices (Riverdale Press)
November 06, 2008
Tax Hikes and Budget Cuts
Mayor Michael Bloomberg yesterday announced plans to bridge widening budget gaps. He called for an immediate halt to the $400 property tax rebate, raising the personal income tax by as much as to 15 percent, and ending the 7 percent property tax break. He also outlined $1.5 billion in budget cuts. The city will scale back school construction as well, and plans to build only 42 new schools with 17,000 new seats over five years, according to a plan released yesterday with no press release. Four years ago, 76 new buildings with 66,000 seats were planned. Bloomberg has the authority to cancel the rebate checks, but the City Council needs to approve of the property and income tax rises. The state legislature also needs to approve the income tax rise. For more, see Finance Links in the News.
Director Accuses Police Complaint Board of Bias (NY Times)
Officer in Sodomy Case Has History of Excessive Force (Daily News)
Democrats Try to Elect Their Own to Senate Leadership (NY Post)
City Looks To Bolster Media Industry (NY Observer)
Dozens of Legislative Incumbents Faced No Challenger (City Limits)
Change in Senate Control Could Hurt Landlords (Crain's)
Street Redesign Competition Announces Winners (Brooklyn Daily Eagle)
Wall Street Meltdown's Effect on Real Estate (Real Deal)
November 05, 2008
Victory for Obama and State Democrats
On an Election Day many New Yorkers will remember for the rest of their lives, Barack Obama was elected president of the United States. New Yorkers waited in long lines to cast their ballots for the Democrat, who captured 62 percent of the vote in the state.
Democrats wracked up local victories too, as unofficial results showed the party winning 32 of New York's 62 State Senate seats. Some Democratic senators still might cross party lines to support Republican Dean Skelos as Senate majority leader, but if the Democrats do assume the leadership, they will control both houses of the legislature and the governor's office for the first time in more than half a century. In the city, Democratic City Councilmember Joe Addabbo ousted longtime GOP State Sen. Serphin Maltese, and another Queens race -- between Frank Padavan and James Gennaro -- remained too close to call. The city's other incumbents in the legislature won re-election.
In another win for Democrats, Michael McMahon won the race in the 13th Congressional District, now represented by Vito Fossella. This means Democrats now hold all the city's seats in the U.S. Congress. And in Queens, Liz Crowley defeated Republican City Councilmember Anthony Como. Republicans now hold just two of 51 council seats.
For results of local races, go to Gotham Gazette's Election Results page.
Democrats Set to Control State Senate -- and Albany (NY Times)
Long Lines and Some Breakdowns at Polling Places (NY Times)
New York Cheers Obama Victory (NY Times)
Bloomberg Plans to Cut 3,000 City Jobs (Daily News)
City to Cut Police Class (NY Post)
New Yorkers Wait, Vote, Worry -- and Celebrate (NY Observer)
Crane Rules Too Unwieldy, Construction Industry Says (Associated Press)
Democrat McMahon Takes City's Last GOP House Seat (Staten Island Advance)
Foreclosures in City Rise Sharply (Crain's)
November 04, 2008
Obama Wins N.Y. -- and the Nation!
On an Election Day many New Yorkers will remember for the rest of their lives, the state's voters contributed their 31 electoral votes to Barack Obama's historic election as president of the United States. The city's Democratic members of Congress all won re-election easily, and Democrat Michael McMahon defeated Republican Robert Straniere for the seat now held by Vito Fosella, meaning the Democrats will hold all the city's House seats.
Most of the city's incumbent members of the State Senate and Assembly easily won re-election, although it remained unclear whether the Republicans will be able to hold on to their control of the State Senate. In the closely watched race in Queens' 15 district, the Democratic challenger, City Councilmember Joe Addabbo, held a substantial lead over long-time incumbent Republican Serphin Maltese, possibly putting that seat in the Democratic column.
For results of local races, go to Gotham Gazette's Election Results page.
Term-Limits Extension Signed
New York City residents filed into the mayor's side of City Hall -- a rare space for such a public spectacle -- for the city's final hearing on term limits Monday morning. Despite the relentless opposition and at times piercing criticism, Mayor Michael Bloomberg, as expected, signed a term-limits extension into law just before 2 p.m., effectively allowing dozens of term-limited officials, including himself, to seek another four years in office. Visit Searchlight for full coverage.
Surveillence Cameras Help Solve Crimes, But Do They Prevent? (NY Times)
Tots Taught to Eat Healthy (Daily News)
Son of Queens Crash Victim Wants Safer Streets (Daily News)
Department Reassigns Four Police in Alleged Sodomy Case (NY Post)
Planning for Record Turnout (NY 1)
Term Limits Extension Signed Into Law (Gotham Gazette)
Italian Immigrants Stick to Mother Tongue (City Limits)
ACORN Warned of Mortgage Crisis Early (City Limits)
Democrats Look for a Majority in State Senate (AM New York)
November 03, 2008
Green Taxis Blocked By Court
A federal judge blocked a rule on Friday that would have required a vast majority of the city's taxi fleet be hybrid by 2012. The judge ruled that only the federal government can set fuel efficiency standards. The rule was a large part of the Bloomberg administration's environmental agenda, and it would have required all taxis have a fuel efficiency rating of 25 miles per gallon. The administration was urged to create incentives to encourage taxi owners to purchase hybrid vehicles. For more, see Environment Links in the News.
Term Limits Finale
Starting at 9:30 a.m. this morning, Mayor Michael Bloomberg will hear from the public on term limits at a bill signing ceremony at City Hall. Members of the public will be given two minutes each to speak. For more, see City Hall News.
Republicans Battle for State Senate Control (NY Times)
Governor's Spending Habits Change With Office (NY Times)
State Education Commissioner Steps Down (NY Times)
Groups Call For State Credit Card Freeze (Daily News)
City Workers to Get Salary Increase (Daily News)
Immigrant Detention Up In State (NY Post)
Gas Prices Highest in West (Newsday)
How Harlem Sees The Election (AM New York)
Dealing with the Downturn (Gotham Gazette)
Immigrants Links In The News (Gotham Gazette)
October 31, 2008
Mayor Unveils Financial Relief Plan
Mayor Michael Bloomberg yesterday announced a package of 18 initiatives to help the city weather the financial downturn. The $50 million plan - paid for with federal, state and private money - includes job creation programs and support for small businesses and homeowners. The city plans to use $24 million in federal money to purchase up to 115 foreclosed homes within the next 18 months and turn them into an estimated 250 to 300 affordable housing units. Some of the other efforts include $1.3 million for soup kitchens and food pantries; a loan guarantee program for small businesses and non-profits; and a relaxed property tax payment schedule for homeowners. The mayor also pledged to continue investing in infrastructure programs. For more, see Economy Links in the News.
After Term Limits Vote, Tensions Rise at City Hall (NY Times)
New Bus Retirement Program Saves $600,000 in Months (Daily News)
Transit Cop May Tell All in Sodomy Claim (Daily News)
Concrete-Testing Firm Is Accused of Falsifying Tests (NY Post)
Statewide Foreclosures Down in Third Quarter (Associated Press)
Small Business Loans Drop 35 Percent Statewide (Crain's)
Water Main from 1870 Breaks on Chambers St. (AM New York)
Malcolm Smith Takes Aim at Majority (WNYC)
Manhattan's WIlliamsburg Bridge Approach an Issue for Cyclists (The Villager)
New Building Applications in Manhattan Fall to Three (Real Deal)
North Brooklyn Downzoning Proposed by City (Greenpoint Star)
October 30, 2008
Budget Deficit Pleas and Questions
Gov. David Paterson testified in front of Congress yesterday about the need for federal assistance with the state's budget gaps. He asked that a planned $150 billion dollar stimulus package include money for states. Paterson suggested an appropriate amount for New York was $8.6 billion, or 10 percent of taxes the state pays annually but does not get back in the form of services. Mayor Michael Bloomberg yesterday offered solutions for the city's own financial problems, including relaxed property tax deadlines, a program to turn foreclosed properties into affordable housing, and a financial education campaign. Meanwhile, Bloomberg's forecast of a $500 million deficit this year is being questioned. Economists, including one within the comptroller's office, said they did not expect any deficit this year. For more, see Economy Links in the News.
Record Number of Families Seek Refuge in Shelters (NY Times)
Fewer Children Entering Gifted Programs (NY Times)
Harlem Gun Buyback Program Nets Record (Daily News)
Company Indicted Over Concrete Strength Tests (NY Post)
Term-Limits Extension Opponents Vow to Fight On (Newsday)
Affordable Housing Developer is Top Donor (NY Observer)
Cuomo Demands Info on Bank Bonuses (Associated Press)
New Municipal Bond Issues Start Selling Again (Crain's)
Melting Ice Sculpture on Wall Street of the Word 'Economy' (AM New York)
State Hires 31,684 During Hiring Freeze (Buffalo News)
Boosting Property Values (Gotham Gazette)
Parks Links In The News (Gotham Gazette)
October 29, 2008
Staggering Budget Deficits
The state's budget deficit could grow to $47 billion over the next three and a half years, Gov. David Paterson said yesterday. The budget hole is already $12.5 billion for the next fiscal year, which starts in April. The state could lose 160,000 jobs, the governor said. This gloomy prediction has forced the governor to call the state legislature back for another special session next month to address the budget gaps. Paterson did not propose any solutions yesterday, saying he was waiting to hear ideas from the legislature. For more, see Economy Links in the News.
Controversial Program for Housing Subsidies Moves Forward (NY Times)
Classrooms Packed As Seats Dwindle (Daily News)
Overwhelmed Election Board Looks for Patience and Help (NY Post)
An Invigorated Election for Bangladeshi Society (Village Voice)
New Yorkers Who Could Be Tapped for Obama (NY Observer)
St. Vincent's Building Can Be Razed (Associated Press)
Deadliest Streets Include Broadway, Third Ave. (AM New York)
No Campaigning in Class (Gotham Gazette)
Law Links In The News (Gotham Gazette)
October 28, 2008
State Budget Deficit Grows
The state faces a $12.5 billion budget defcit for the 2009-2010 fiscal year, the Paterson administration estimates. This is almost double what the administration forecast in August and surpasses the post-9/11 deficit of $11.2 billion. Gov. David Paterson is urging over $2 billion in current spending cuts to close this year's budget gap before the new fiscal year begins on April 1. For more, see Finance Links in the News.
Gotbaum Won't Seek Re-election
Public Advocate Betsy Gotbaum announced yesterday that she could not in good faith seek re-election, given her opposition to the extension of term limits. Eric Gioia, Norman Siegel and John Liu, as well as Bill de Blasio and Marty Markowitz, have all been considered likely contenders for the job. For more see City Hall News.
State Senate Races Priciest in History (NY Times)
Hunter to Build New Social Work School in East Harlem (NY Times)
Fort Greene Gets New York's First Co-housing Community (Daily News)
Brooklyn Grand Jury to Investigate Alleged Police Brutality Case (Daily News)
Higher Fare Hikes Could be Expected due to Recession (NY Post)
New Voting Machines Put to the Test (City Limits)
Commercial Vacancies hit 17.6 Percent (Crain's)
October 27, 2008
Paterson Aide Resigns
Charles O'Byrne, Gov. David Paterson's top aide, resigned Friday in the wake of revelations that he had failed to pay taxes for five years beginning in 2001. The amount owed came to almost $300,000. Although Paterson originally expressed support for O'Byrne, the continuing controversy was seen as a dangerous distraction for state government at a time it must confront a deepening fiscal crisis. Now, though, some wonder whether Paterson's effectiveness might be affected by the departure of his right-hand man. For more, see Albany in the News.
Unopposed Candidate for Surrogate's Court Faces Investigation (NY Times)
Discount Buses Create Pollution and Congestion (AM New York)
Voting in New Rent Controls? (Gotham Gazette)
Demographics Links In The News (Gotham Gazette)
October 24, 2008
Term Limits Extension Approved
In a 29 to 22 vote, the City Council yesterday approved Mayor Michael Bloomberg's bill to extend term limits from two terms to three. Of the 35 council members that would have been term limited out of office next year, 23 voted in favor of the bill. Six of the 16 first term members also voted yes. An amendment to require a referendum was defeated 28 to 22 with one abstention. Of the three members who introduced the amendment, David Yassky and Alan Gerson voted in favor of the mayor's bill, while Gale Brewer voted against it. The law must be approved by the Civil Rights Division of the federal Justice Department. Two lawsuits challenging the vote have been filed. For more, see "City Council Approves Term Limits Extension," or City Hall News.
Report Finds Government Top Violator on Parking (NY Times)
Delays on $80 Million Data System While Schools Face Cuts (NY Times)
Con Ed Asks for Larger Rate Increase (Daily News)
Hispanic Population Surging (NY Post)
Times Profits Decline 50 Percent, Beat Estimates (Associated Press)
The New Waste Transfer Stations for Queens (Queens Ledger)
Council Finds Gang Clothing Still Being Sold (Queens Courier)
Transforming the Department for the Aging (Queens Chronicle)
Croton Park Filtration Plant Cost Overruns Unaccountable (Riverdale Press)
The President's Prosecutors (Gotham Gazette)
Crime Links In The News (Gotham Gazette)
October 23, 2008
Amending the Term-Limits Bill
Three council members announced plans to introduce today an amendment to Mayor Michael Bloomberg's bill to extend term-limits. The amendment would require the creation of a charter review commission to push for a referendum as early as Feb. Although bills need 26 votes to be passed, amendments need only a simple majority of members present at the vote. The bill will be introduced to and voted on by the council's Government Operations Committee where it is expected to pass and make it to the full council for a vote later in the day. The council members who plan to introduce it are David Yassky, Alan Gerson and Gale Brewer. Meanwhile, Manhattan Supreme Court Justice Jacqueline Silbermann yesterday rejected a petition to block a vote on term-limits without a referendum. For more, see City Hall News.
Federal Reserve Is Cautious in Report on Region (NY Times)
'Racino' Plans at Aqueduct in Home Stretch (Daily News)
Study Calls High School Entrance Exam Unfair (NY Post)
City's Eighth-Graders Rank 18th in World on Math Scores (NY Post)
'Learning 2.0' Brings Schools into the Digital Age (Village Voice)
North Brooklyn Condo Sales and Prices Keep Rising (NY Observer)
Brooklyn Subway Station to Display Real Time Train Locations (NY 1)
Paid Holiday on 9/11 Draws Criticism (Associated Press)
The State of the Campaign Finance Board (City Limits)
New Media the Next Top Business in City? (Metro)
Graveyard of Indie Retailers Growing (Crain's)
New Downtown Brooklyn Bike Lans Swamped by Cars (Brooklyn Daily Eagle)
The Forgotten Crisis? (Gotham Gazette)
Environment Links In The News (Gotham Gazette)
October 22, 2008
Council to Vote on Term Limits
After much speculation, the City Council has scheduled a vote for term limits on Thursday. Its Governmental Operations Committee will consider a bill to extend the city's term limit from two to three terms. If approved, it would head to the full council for a vote later that afternoon. Though many say the council is evenly divided on the issue, others contend the scheduled vote is a sign of confidence from the speaker and the mayor that the bill will pass. Several other bills have been introduced on term limits, including one that would require a referendum, but they have not been scheduled for a vote. The vote was scheduled after a new poll revealed voters may be starting to sour over the idea of extending term limits. For more, see City Hall News.
MTA Commission May Not Bring A Fiscal Cure (NY Times)
Atlantic Yards Developer Can Use Tax-Free Bonds (NY Times)
Financial Crisis Already Costs City 1.5 Billion (Daily News)
Parents Do Not Want Tots Tested (NY Post)
Two Cops Shot in Subway (Newsday)
Kelly Makes Religious Rounds (Village Voice)
Governors Island Development Moves At Glacial Pace (NY Observer)
Waterfalls Beat Expectations, Mayor Says (Associated Press)
The Candidates' Prescriptions (Gotham Gazette)
Health Links In The News (Gotham Gazette)
October 21, 2008
Missing School
Abut one in five New York City elementary schools students missed at least a month's worth of classes during the 2007-2008 school year, according to a report by the Center for New York City Affairs at the New School. Absenteeism varies widely throughout the city, with students missing the most school in central Brooklyn, Harlem and the South Bronx. Although the report focused on elementary schools, the problem is worse in upper grades. Health issues and family instability contribute to the high absentee rate, the report said. For more, see Education Links in the News.
Choosing Sides on Term Limits
Another billionaire, Tom Golisano, entered the term-limits fray yesterday saying he would fund ads opposing Mayor Michael Bloomberg's effort to change the law to get another term. With no City Council vote scheduled on the measure, but some predicting it could come on Thursday, both sides picked up supporters yesterday. Meanwhile another billionaire -- Ronald Lauder -- muddied the waters by saying the extension for the mayor and council members should be just a one-time move and so should not apply to council members now in their first terms. This could hamper Council Speaker Christine Quinn's efforts to get those members to support the term-limits change. For more, see City Hall News.
Prosecutors Expected to Seek Indictments for Fraudulent Concrete Tests (NY Times)
State Deficit Could Reach $10 Billion Next Year, Paterson Warns (NY Post)
Officials Calls for Crackdown on Ground Zero Vendors (Newsday)
Efforts to Fight AIDS Hit by Spending Cuts (City Limits)
Private Company to Run Downtown Heliport (Crain's)
Violations of Smoking Ban Increase Sharply (AM New York)
Ground Broken for Expansion of Astoria Movie Studio (WNYC)
The Great Tax Debate (Gotham Gazette)
Finance Links In The News (Gotham Gazette)
October 20, 2008
No Deal at Willets Point
Following a City Council hearing Friday, both the administration and opponents of the city's plan to redevelop Willets Point in Queens said the two sides remain far apart. Deputy Mayor Bob Lieber told the council that the redevelopment would clean up contamination and improve the waters of Flushing Bay, but that opponents of the plan are stalling. The owner of one waste management company, the largest landowner in the area and a leading opponent of the plan, denied that opponents are stalling but said a deal is still far off. The city wants to take the industrial land there by eminent domain. For more see Land Use links in the news.
Critics Question Mayor's Term-Limits Tactics
Some city officials have charged that Mayor Michael Bloomberg has been too heavy-handed in his efforts to persuade the City Council and city residents to support his bid to extend term limits. The New York Times reported Saturday that the mayor has been asking nonprofit groups that he gives money to to support legislation that would allow him to seek a third term in office. Comptroller William Thompson, who is planning to run for mayor, accused Bloomberg of threatening council members who oppose him, while the Post reports that members of the council's Government Operations Committee, which has to approve any term-limits extension bill, have received millions from the mayor's discretionary fund over the last year. For more see City Hall news and For Council, Another Term Holds Risks and Rewards.
Day Laborers Feeling the Economic Pinch (NY Times)
Paterson Knew of Aide's Tax Troubles (NY Times)
Cabs Cruising on Empty (New York Magazine)
Two Way Streets Sought (Brooklyn Papers)
The Candidates' Urban Policies (Gotham Gazette)
Land Use Links In The News (Gotham Gazette)
October 17, 2008
Term-Limits Hearing
The first of two public hearings on the bill to extend term-limits was held yesterday. It started at 1 p.m. and closed at 11:30. Over 350 people attended and 150 spoke. Early on in the hearing, a group of 50 supporters showed up, taking up a quarter of the seats, and refused to speak with reporters. Former Gov. Mario Cuomo and former Mayor Ed Koch testified in favor of a legislative change. Lawyers for Mayor Michael Bloomberg argued that the federal Justice Department wouldn't support a referendum on the subject in a special election because turn-out would likely be too low. Billionaire Thomas Golisano said he would join opponents of a change without referendum. The council could possibly vote by next Thursday. The second hearing starts today at 10 a.m. For more, see City Hall News.
Congress Questions Appraisals of Stadium (NY Times)
Think Tank Suggests Eliminating Crosstown Bus Fares (Daily News)
Showdown at Willets Point (NY Observer)
City's Health Department Plans Move to Queens (Associated Press)
Armory Could Bring More Than a Shopping Mall to Bronx (Norwood News)
As Economy Sputters, Grad Schools Overflow (Crain's)
Ferries and Free Buses Top Transit 'Wish List' (AM New York)
Market Volatility Forces MTA to Revise Bond Issue (WNYC)
Council Renews Call for School Bus Tracking System (Queens Courier)
Brooklyn Housing Sales Drop (Brooklyn Daily Eagle)
City Presents Downzoning Plan for Forest Hills (Queens Chronicle)
October 16, 2008
Income Tax Hike Considered
Council Speaker Christine Quinn said yesterday that it may be necessary to raise personal income taxes to close future budget gaps. Although Mayor Michael Bloomberg opposed such an increase recently, a spokesperson said he is "reviewing all the speaker's proposals thoroughly." The increase would accompany previously discussed plans, such as ending the 7 percent property tax cut and cutting agencies' budgets, although Quinn has only suggested $150 million in such reductions. Other new ideas for closing the gap offered by the speaker yesterday were leasing unspecified city property and selling ad space on garbage trucks and city buildings. To spur economic growth, she suggested eliminating business taxes for freelancers who make less than $150,000 and taxing New York businesses only on sales within New York. For more, see Finance Links in the News.
Firefighters in Contract Accord (NY Times)
MTA Transit Worker Deal Hits Roadblock (Daily News)
Only 8 Percent of Elementary Schools Meet Art Requirements (NY Post)
Stadium Appraisals Under Fire (Newsday)
Implications of European Fallout on Manhattan Real Estate (NY Observer)
Clinton Calls Push To Extend Term Limits 'Disturbing' (NY 1)
City Buys Wonder Wheel Site in Coney Island (Associated Press)
Parolees and the Right to Vote (City Limits)
Wall Street Crisis Lifts Wall Street Journal (Crain's)
Military Recruiters Given Access to Student Data (WNYC)
Pension Funds Damage from Wall Street Turmoil Still Unknown (City Hall)
Pier Bridges Dropped from Brooklyn Bridge Park Design (Brooklyn Papers)
Term Limits, Civil Rights and the Voting Rights Act (Gotham Gazette)
Civil Rights Links In The News (Gotham Gazette)
October 15, 2008
Jobs Losses Predicted
New Yorkers received more grim economic forecasts yesterday. The office of Comptroller William Thompson forecast that the city would lose 165,000 private sector jobs in the next two years -- twice the number it predicted three months ago. While one fifth of those jobs will be in financial services, the comptroller sees those losses rippling out to affect other parts of the economy. And the New York Building Congress predicts construction spending and jobs will peak this year before leveling off in 2009 and falling in 2010. Its report estimates the number of construction jobs will drop by 30,000 in 2010 - and that does not fully consider the effects of the current economic turmoil. For more, see Economy Links in the News.
City Seeks to Improve Vocational Schools (NY Times)
Police Department Overhauls Crime Scene Unit Following Blunders (Daily News)
Washington investigates Yankee Stadium appraisals (Daily News)
Brooklyn Hopes to Lure Manhattan Businesses (NY Post)
Looking Back at New York in the '70s and '80s (Village Voice)
Council Calls for Waterfront Plan (Gotham Gazette)
Developer Sees More Delays at Atlantic Yards (Associated Press)
Lower Manhattan Transit Center Remains in Limbo (Downtown Express)
New York's Losing Streak (Washington Post)
October 14, 2008
Term Limit Extension Gets Crucial Ally
Council Speaker Christine Quinn announced her support for extending term limits on Sunday, but opposition and confusion surrounding the proposal continues to grow. The speaker said the city needed to extend term limits because of the financial crisis -- the same argument used by the mayor several weeks ago. She said she did not know whether a majority of members would support the measure. The bill, which will extend the city's term limit from two to three terms, will be in front of the council's Governmental Operations Committee this week. In addition, the city's Campaign Finance Board may solicit advice from the public on how it should act if term limits are extended and politicians decide to run for their current offices instead of higher ones. For more, see City Hall News.
Democrats Gain in State's GOP Strongholds (NY Times)
Housing Authority's Reputation Threatened By Fatalities (NY Times)
Wall Street Woes Hit Small Businesses (Daily News)
Affordable Housing Faces Credit Crunch (Daily News)
Primary Winner's Funds Probed (NY Post)
City Planning Policy Promotes Parking (NY Post)
Teachers Sue Over Political Expression (Associated Press)
Goldman Goes for New York Charter (Wall Street Journal)
Manhattan Rental Market May be Softening (AM New York)
Thompson Finds His Voice (City Hall)
Measuring Poverty (Gotham Gazette)
Social Services Links In The News (Gotham Gazette)
October 10, 2008
Term-Limits Conflict of Interest
In another challenge to Mayor Michael Bloomberg's bid to change term limits, two good government groups filed a complaint yesterday with the city's Conflict of Interest board. It charges that Bloomberg violated ethics rules by promising to give Ron Lauder a seat on a charter revision commission in exchange for Lauder's support of a bill that would extend the cap from two terms to three. Another complaint, filed by two City Council members, challenges the council's efforts to extend term limits -- and allow current members to keep their seats for another four years. Both complaints cite a city law that prohibits elected officials from using their positions for “private or personal advantage.” If he gets the extension, Bloomberg reportedly plans to spend $80 million or more to win a third term. For more, see City Hall News.
Power Cut Off by Con Ed for Nonpayment in More Cases (NY Times)
Keeping Wary Eye on Crime as Economy Sinks (NY Times)
Meltdown May Burn Public Schools (Daily News)
Markowitz Non-Profits Get $700,000 from Atlantic Yards (NY Post)
Times Square National Debt Clock Runs Out of Digits (Newsday)
Feds Go Forward with Airport Experiment (Associated Press)
Business Improvement District for Hudson Park? (Downtown Express)
Union Square Web Site Spoof Prompts Suit (Metro)
Port Authority to Sue Feds Over Airport Plan (Crain's)
Bats Flourish in Brooklyn - And That's Good (WNYC)
City Planning Unanimously Approves East Village Rezoning (The Villager)
Rally Against Seventh Power Plant Planned for Northwest Queens (Queens Gazette)
Koppell Would Need to Mend Fences to Run Again (Riverdale Press)
October 09, 2008
New Ground Zero Dispute
A retaining wall at Ground Zero is the center of a new dispute between developer Larry Silverstein and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. The authority says that it has turned over the adjacent parcel separated by the wall to the developer. But Silverstein says it is the authority's responsibility to take down the wall and that the authority must keep paying late fees until it does that. In related news, the Port Authority has eliminated its position for police chief and placed that authority with its superintendent. For more, see Land Use Links in the News.
Term-Limit Developments
The fight to extend term limits has attracted new entrants and positions. The Working Families Party has begun circulating petitions opposing a change without a voter referendum. In the state legislature, two Brooklyn Democrats announced they would introduce legislation requiring a referendum. Billionaire Thomas Golisano may side with Councilmember Bill de Blasio to oppose a change without going to the voters. Meanwhile, billionaire Ron Lauder now supports Mayor Michael Bloomberg's efforts for change through legislation in exchange for the mayor's agreeing to appoint Lauder to a charter revision commission that would consider the issue -- after the next mayoral election. NY1 has an on-the-record head count showing most council members undecided. For more, see City Hall News.
NYCLU: 300 Student Busts Were Illegal (Daily News)
Democratic Lawmaker Faces Tough Senate Challenge (NY Post)
Third Term May Not Help Bloomberg's Development Vision (NY Observer)
State Ranked Second Worst for Business Taxes (Associated Press)
States to Focus on Tax Cheats as Economy Sags (Associated Press)
Advocates Fear Displacement with East Village Rezoning (WNYC)
Wall Street Crisis Brings More Pain to Real Estate (Real Deal)
October 08, 2008
Bills on Term Limits Introduced
The term-limits issue officially moved to City Council yesterday as a bill to permanently extend the cap from two terms to three -- without a voter referendum -- was introduced at Mayor Michael Bloomberg's request. While City Council Speaker Christine Quinn refused to say where she stands on the issue, some council members acted to block the mayor's effort, introducing measures that would bar any change in term limits without voter approval. The council will hold hearings on the issue next week. For more, see Gotham Gazette's coverage of the new developments and Comparing Proposals on Term Limits
Last Chance
This is the final day to enter Gotham Gazette's first-ever writing contest. Tell us how the 2008 elections will affect you -- and you could win $200 and see your essay published in Gotham Gazette. For details click here.
Wall Street Tremors Shake Harlem (NY Times)
9/11 Memorial to Open, Then Close (Daily News)
$700 Million Redevelopment of East Harlem Approved (NY Post)
Former Crane Official Indicted in Bribery Scheme (Newsday)
Paterson to Run for Full Term in 2010 (Associated Press)
Can a 'Nice Guy' Governor Save New York? (New York Magazine)
Real Estate Market Braces for Tough Times (Metro)
Vacancy Rate for Manhattan Offices Hits Two-Year High (Crain's)
Federal Transportation Spending: Pork or Priority? (Gotham Gazette)
Transportation Links In The News (Gotham Gazette)
October 07, 2008
City Overhauls Crane Testing
In an announcement yesterday, the city handed over its license testing responsibilities for smaller crane operators to the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators. The city will still conduct tests for larger operators looking to get crane operator licenses, but one official did not rule out handing over that responsibility to the national group as well. The move precedes expected indictments at the Department of Buildings. For more, see Land Use Links in the News.
Council Divided on Term Limits
In a closed-door meeting, the City Council seemed split over a proposal to extend term limits, according to several members who attended. Some say the proposal, which would extend the city's term limit from two to three, should not be decided in the council chamber, but by a referendum. City Hall reports Council Speaker Christine Quinn is expected to support an extension. That revision met further opposition when billionaire Ronald Lauder, who had expressed support for the plan, said he would not support the proposal unless it was a one-time only extension. A bill to revise term limits is scheduled for introduction at the City Council today. For more, see City Hall News.
Nonprofits Feel a Pinch (NY Times)
Arguments on Brutality History Prohibited at Protest Trial (Daily News)
Ground Zero Plaza Sees Delay, Again (NY Post)
State Pension Suits Settled (Newsday)
How Businesses Back Bloomberg (City Limits)
Environmental Advocates Criticize Starbucks Water Usage (AM New York)
October 06, 2008
Term-Limits Deal?
Negotiations over whether and how to extend term limits to allow Mayor Michael Bloomberg to serve a third term continue. Yesterday, billionaire term-limits advocate Ronald Lauder, who supports a one-time one-term extension for Bloomberg, said he opposed any move that would permanently change term limits. But today, The New York Post reports that Bloomberg has offered Lauder a seat on a charter-revision commission in an effort to win his support. Meanwhile opposition is building in City Council to any move that would change term limits without a city referendum. For more, see City Hall News and Gotham Gazette's "Going for Three.
Paterson Call for Cuts
Late last Friday, Gov. David Paterson warned New York's legislative leaders that the state faces an additional $1.2 billion budget gap that would require budget cuts across the board. With unemployment having reached 6 percent for the first time since after Sept 11, 2001, and the deficit for the year now expected to reach $2 billion, Paterson says every agency will have to dramatically curb spending. He has called for an emergency session in November to address the problem. View Finance Links in the News.
Paterson Moves to Help Democrats in State Senate (NY Times)
Computer Theft Rampant in Public Schools (NY Post)
October 04, 2008
NY faces $1.2B budget shortfall
Late last Friday, Gov. Paterson warned New York's legislative leaders that the $1.2 billion budget gap would necessitate budget cuts across the board. With unemployment rising about 6 percent for the first time since after Sept 11, and the deficit expected to grow beyond $2 billion, Paterson advised every agency to dramatically curb spending. For more, view full story.
Two Women Killed by Taxis (Daily News)
Coney Island at Crossroads (Wall Street Journal)
Gov. Paterson warns of $1.2 Billion Budget Shortfall (AM New York)
October 03, 2008
Third Term Try Official
Mayor Michael Bloomberg formally announced yesterday that he supports changing the term limits law and that he will seek a third term if it is refashioned. Although he has been known to be considering this for months, the mayor pointed to the economic turmoil the city faces as the root of his desire for a third term. Council Speaker Christine Quinn said the mayor's bill would be a permanent extension of the law to a three term limit for all elected officials. She said the bill would be introduced Tuesday and could be voted on this month. Quinn didn't declare whether she supported the idea or not, but said she would run for a third term if the bill passes. Although Bloomberg said he supports the idea of putting the change before voters in a referendum, he deemed it impractical to do so before the bill is voted on. Quinn didn't rule out the possibility of a referendum at a later date. For more, see City Hall News.
Concern for 2009 as Manhattan Real Estate Market Slows (NY Times)
$75 Million Needed to Put Trade Center Memorial on Track (Daily News)
Trade Center Timeline Pushes Into 2013 (NY Post)
Officer Who Gave Taser Order Commits Suicide (Newsday)
MTA Wants to Light Up Tunnels with Ads (AM New York)
As Lawsuit Looms, No End to Talk on East Village Rezoning (The Villager)
Flatbush Rezoning Moving Forward (Flatbush Life)
October 02, 2008
A Three Term Future
The news that Mayor Michael Bloomberg would try to change the term limit law has upset a number of council members. Some are upset that they weren't consulted and others are worried a change in the law would only apply to the mayor's office and not to the council. If Bloomberg does run again, he is expected to do so on a new third party line. Some say his priorities in a third term would be education and the economy. But fiscal experts are mixed on his economic legacy, saying he has done well on short term financial management, but not as well on longer term issues. Meanwhile, Comptroller William Thompson announced he would run for mayor even if Bloomberg were in the race. How does all this make you feel? Voice your opinion with our online poll. For more, see City Hall News.
Teachers to Be Measured on Standardized Test Scores (NY Times)
State Senators Spent Over $500,000 on Office Supplies (Daily News)
Teachers Union Distributing Obama Pins (NY Post)
October 01, 2008
Bloomberg to Try for Three
Mayor Michael Bloomberg is expected to announce tomorrow that he will seek a third four-year term. To accomplish this, he will probably ask City Council to change the law, overwhelmingly approved by voters, barring him and other elected officials from holding office for longer than two consecutive four-year terms. The move represents a stunning reversal of Bloomberg's previous strong opposition to overturning term limits without voter approval and seems certain to throw city politics into turmoil, as many politicians will now have to decide whether to seek re-election to third terms or vie for other offices. While the mayor recently has toyed with trying to remain in office, the upheaval on Wall Street gave new impetus to the idea as business leaders apparently decided the city needs the mayor's continued leadership in difficult economic times. Some politicians balked at Bloomberg's move, but many believe it will be difficult to stop someone with his backing -- and his billions of dollars. For more, see City Hall News.
Credit Crunch Likely to End Real Estate Boom... (NY Times)
...And Squeeze Small Businesses (NY Times)
Crime Rate, Murders Rose in September (Daily News)
Area Home Prices Drop (NY Post)
2006 Report Warned of Delays, Cost Overruns at Downtown Transit Hub (Newsday)
Paterson Weighs Leasing of State Assets (Associated Press)
Empire State Building Celebrates Muslim Holiday of Eid (Washington Post)
New Yorkers Grapple with Worsening Economy (AM New York)
September 30, 2008
Third Term Path Cleared for Bloomberg?
Billionaire Ron Lauder, a leading supporter of term limits, has reversed his stand and says he would support a change in the law to allow Mayor Michael Bloomberg and other city officials to serve a third term. The city needs Bloomberg to guide it through the financial crisis, he told the Post. For more, see City Hall News
9/11 Health Bill Stalls in Congress
A measure that would have provided federal money to help 9/11 rescue workers who became sick after working at ground zero has stalled in Congress, at least partly because of opposition from Mayor Michael Bloomberg. The bill would have created a $5.1 billion health program and a $6 billion compensation fund for workers who now have health problems. Bloomberg reportedly objected to a requirement that the city pay about 10 percent of the cost of the health program. Defending his position, Bloomberg said yesterday the city wanted more control over how the money was spent. For more, see Health Links in the News.
The Sun Retires after Six Years (NY Times)
Clean Subways Will Cost $100 Million, According to Pilot Study (Daily News)
Cranes Back at East Side Construction Disaster Site (Daily News)
Bloomberg Sues Tribe for Illegal Cigarette Sales (NY Post)
Letter from The Sun's Editor, Seth Lipsky (NY Sun)
Like it or Not, Modern New York Owes Most to Guiliani (New York Magazine)
Atlantic Yards Postponed Again (Crain's)
State Comptroller Warns of $3.5B loss in Tax Revenues (AM New York)
September 29, 2008
Taser Unit Gets New Leader
The New York Police Department's Emergency Service Unit received a new commander just two days after a Taser gun related fatality. Police Commissioner Ray Kelly also ordered about 400 officers to participate in training sessions starting today that would review tactics for dealing with mentally disturbed people. The move follows the shooting of a naked man, who then fell to his death from a security gate in Brooklyn, with a Taser gun by an officer. For more, see Crime Links in the News.
Consulting Firm Offers Glimpse Inside Albany (NY Times)
Where Spitzer Is Now (NY Times)
Firm Gets Millions For World Trade Center Design (Daily News)
Child Prostitutes No Longer Treated As Criminals (Daily News)
Tappan Zee Replacement Plans Aim High (NY Post)
New York Lags in Regulating Bed Bugs (NY Sun)
Stated Meeting: Tax Breaks for Industry (Gotham Gazette)
Handgun Database Doesn't Lead to Prosecutions (Associated Press)
A Chat With Koch and Bloomberg (New York Magazine)
City Apartments May Be Next in Housing Crisis (Crain's)
Looking for Accountability (Gotham Gazette)
Finance Links In The News (Gotham Gazette)
September 26, 2008
Teacher Reserves and the Budget
The Education Department wants to remove teachers in a reserve pool if they don't find full-time placement within a certain time period. The teacher's union, meanwhile, is calling for a hiring freeze to ensure new teachers are pulled from the reserve pool. Teachers in the pool end up there when their school or program is closed, and they act as substitutes or perform non-teaching tasks until they find another placement. They have become an issue because the school system must cut $185 million from this year's budget and the pool is estimated to have cost $75 million this year. For more, see Education Links in the News.
High Failure Rates Found in City Elevator Inspections (NY Times)
City Charges MTA $12 Million a Year for Water, Cops (Daily News)
Plans to Open Trade Center Memorial on 10th Anniversary (NY Post)
Members of Police Union Approve Contract (Newsday)
Bedbugs Emerge as New Area of Housing Law (NY Sun)
Harlem Forum Debates Supermarket Sweeps (Village Voice)
Paterson Calls Public Meeting On Economy (Associated Press)
Four Groups Submit Bids for Starrett City (Crain's)
Maltese and Addabbo Face Off at Debate (The Forum)
Astoria Residents Rally Against Fed Ex Truck Depot (Queens Gazette)
Broadway's New Pedestrian Access (USA Today)
Recognizing Same-Sex Marriages (Gotham Gazette)
Law Links In The News (Gotham Gazette)
September 25, 2008
Mayor's Discretionary Funds
Mayor Michael Bloomberg distributed $19.5 million in discretionary funds over five years, according to a memo released by the administration yesterday. The top two recipients of Bloomberg's largess were Councilmembers Simcha Felder, who received $5.7 million, and Domenic Recchia, who got $2.2 million. Both are Brooklyn Democrats that crossed party lines to endorse the mayor for reelection in 2005. During reelection, the mayor's spending increased to $5.6 million from $1.8 million the year before. The mayor discontinued spending the discretionary funds earlier this year in the midst of the council's slush fund scandal. For more, see Finance Links in the News.
How a Plan for Bus Fuel Grew Expensive (NY Times)
Bloomberg: City Can Cut $1.5 Billion Without Layoffs (Daily News)
House Panel Probes Rangel (NY Post)
Man Falls to Death After Being Tasered by Police (Newsday)
Fewer Blacks, More Whites Are Hired as City Teachers (NY Sun)
Many New Yorkers Have High Risk Of Heart Attack, Stroke (NY 1)
Carbon Goes on the Auction Block in New York (Associated Press)
State to Get Nearly $500 Million in Heating Aid (Associated Press)





