Ken Biberaj
Aaron Braunstein*
Debra Cooper
Noah Gotbaum
Marc A. Landis
Helen K. Rosenthal
Mel Wymore
Party Enrolled In: Democratic
Current Occupation: Chair, ParentJobNet.Org -- organization that helps public school parents find jobs.
Previous Occupation(s): Assistant Director, NYC Office of Management and Budget, 1988-1995. Oversaw health care budgets in three mayoral administrations.
Education: Masters in Public Health, Yale, 1987; BA, Michigan State University, 1982
Organizational Affiliations: Board Member, NARAL ProChoice America (2003-2011)
Prior Public Experience: Community Board 7, Chair (2007-09); Member (2001-Present)
1. What is the most important issue in Council District 06 you would address if elected?
I'm a proud Upper West Side liberal. I believe in supporting middle income people through affordable housing, great public schools, and job creation so that New York remains a city where families can thrive and their children advance. Building on the success of jobs programs I've helped to foster, I support creating a Local WPA modeled after the most successful New Deal agency, to rebuild infrastructure while creating sustainable, well-paying jobs.
2. What other important issues would you address if elected?
Four years ago we successfully advocated for a new public school, it comes as no surprise that additional middle school seats are needed now. Beyond additional great schools, we must increase affordable housing and strengthen rent laws; support independent businesses with zoning firewalls to maintain the character of our neighborhoods; stand up to big developers who run roughshod over residents; provide universal pre-K and extended after-school programs; protect our environment and be a consistent strong voice for the rights of women and LGBTQ individuals and families.
3. What makes you the best candidate for this office?
The outsized budget gaps in the next few years must be closed in a way consistent with liberal values and protecting middle-class families, seniors, tenants and public schools. With experience gained after 7 years in the City Budget office and 12 years on Community Board 7, including 2 terms as Chair, I know the UWS, and I know how city government works. I have a solid record of results for the UWS: helping start a new school (PS 452) and defending tenants against a predatory equity landlord. I'll bring that same energy to City Hall, and am proud to have the endorsements of the NYC Chapter of NOW and former District 6 City Councilwoman Ronnie Eldridge.
Reprinted as supplied by the candidate. Participating in the NYC Campaign Finance Program.
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