1. Affordable Housing

I would urge State Legislators to eliminate the decontrol that takes effect when the rent increases to $2,000. I would expand programs that offer tax credits to construct rent stabilized housing. I would also urge State Legislators to raise the income level to allow more seniors to be eligible for SCRIE.

2. Education

I would encourage State Legislators to change the law to put Board of Education under the direct control of the Mayor; that would make the Board ultimately accountable to the voters. Also, the City should build more classrooms to reduce class sizes but more important is the need to hire more teachers. To do that, the City should institute loan forgiveness programs and tax credits to encourage people to become teachers.

3. Transportation

The district contains sections of the LIE, Grand Central Parkway and Van Wyck Expressway, which are often congested. The congestion is exacerbated because of the district’s proximity to La Guardia and Kennedy Airports. The City should construct a light-rail system, at grade level, which would help alleviate traffic by connecting the airports with each other and Manhattan. Subway service needs to be increased, particularly along the eastern end of the Queens Blvd. line.

(Statement reprinted as supplied by the candidate.)