As expected, Brooklyn Democrats generally reacted positive to Mayor Andrew Cuomo‘s State of the State speech and $145 billion 2016-17 Executive budget, while Republicans warned that spending is increasingly getting out of control. Below are reactions to Cuomo’s speech and budget proposal.
Assemblymember Pamela Harris (D-Coney Island, Bay Ridge): “Today the governor outlined his ambitious agenda to create more opportunities for our families and move our state and city forward. In his address, the governor highlighted plans for infrastructure improvements. This core element will benefit the downstate region and provide an economic boost in the form of construction jobs. However, these plans must be carefully studied to ensure all basic needs – including those of our Brooklyn commuters – are met.
“I’m especially encouraged by the governor’s proposal to restore economic justice by enacting a $15 minimum wage for all New Yorkers. Moving forward, I’m eager to begin working with my colleagues and the governor this session to turn these important measures into a reality. Additionally, I’ll work for new measures to ensure our young adults have the skills for local jobs to help them stay away from crime and off the streets.”
State Senator Martin J. Golden (R-Bay Ridge): “Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has put forth an ambitious agenda for 2016. As I listened to the Governor’s address this afternoon, I agree that
working together, we can keep New York moving in the right direction. My colleagues and I in the Senate have already set the framework for a platform that will focus on unique priorities Statewide.
“Locally, here in Brooklyn, I continue to support the advancement of cutting edge industries that are creating jobs for the new marketplace. As such, the continued expansion of the bio technology industry, the protection of tax breaks for businesses, and the full utilization of the commercial and retail space in locations such as the Brooklyn Army Terminal and Industry City. A multi-faceted economic approach will allow people to live, work and raise a family in their own backyard.
“The Governor’s spotlight on mass transit improvements and toll relief is encouraging. I remain steadfast in working with the MTA to improve bus and subway service, while concentrating on the system’s infrastructure locally. The Governor has proposed toll relief for those who regularly travel the New York State Thruway, therefore he should approve my proposal that would reduce the cost of the Verrazano Bridge toll for Brooklyn residents. I believe that this is the year New Yorkers will finally be less burdened by exorbitant tolls.
“Although I have found common ground in the Governor’s 2016 plan, I have serious concerns about the adverse economic impact to New York City. Governor Cuomo is now asking the taxpayers of the Big Apple to shoulder the expense of an overzealous spending plan. Contribution increases to the City
University of New York, the cost of Medicaid growth Statewide, and efforts to create and maintain affordable and supportive housing throughout the State are among his requests. Equally concerning is the Governor’s $10 billion capital plan that will most certainly increase the State’s debt which the taxpayers of New York City will someday have to pay.”
Assemblymember Walter T. Mosley (D-Fort Greene, Clinton, Hill, Prospect Heights): “As a new legislative session begins, we have the opportunity to tackle the challenges facing our state as we continue to build a brighter future. Our top priority must always be strengthening the people and communities that make New York great.
“In light of today’s State of the State address, I commend Governor Cuomo for his bold plan for 2016. It is an initiative which looks to tackle our aging infrastructure, homelessness crisis and poverty, bolster economic growth, and provide support for our education system.
“Last year, the Assembly Majority had many successes and saw much of our Families First agenda come to fruition. The Assembly Majority led the way on women’s equality, investing in education and making life more affordable for working families. It only makes common sense that we continue that momentum to create more opportunities so that everyone has a chance to get ahead.
“Whether it is ensuring we raise the minimum wage to $15 per hour statewide or making sure we continue to invest in preserving and creating more affordable housing, this year we must maintain a proper level of resiliency and fortitude in order touch upon many of the pertinent issues the Assembly Majority will continue to priorities as we work with our colleagues.
“As a result, I look forward to working with all of my colleagues in the state Assembly and Senate to ensure New York State continues to be a place where families can work and raise their families.”
Assemblymember Nicole Malliotakis (R-Bay Ridge, Staten Island): “Since entering the legislature in 2011, I have worked very hard with reform-minded colleagues to close the $13 billion deficit we inherited and bring fiscal sanity to state government. Today, Governor Cuomo announced a costly agenda that does not respect the state’s hardworking taxpayers. We do not live in an imaginary utopia, where taxpayer money grows on trees and is unlimited. The amount our state currently has in surplus and settlements won’t even come close to covering these outlandish ideas, which means the balance will be made up with high taxes and more debt. My constituents do not work hard every day and pay taxes to fund political campaigns and tuition assistance for illegal immigrants. This childish competition between Governor Cuomo and Mayor de Blasio on who is more ‘progressive’ is going to crush the middle-class and drive taxpayers and businesses out of the state.”
State Senator Kevin Parker (D-Midwood, Flatbush, Ditmas Park, Kensington): “I was pleased with the Governor’s address today as he presented some of the most forward-thinking proposals that will benefit those in my district and New Yorkers across the state.
“I have bills in the State Senate today that address many of the issues the Governor highlighted today like job creation, clean and renewable energy alternatives and resources, and criminal justice reforms. It is my hope that we can partner to advance common sense legislation on behalf of New Yorkers who need it the most.
“As we hit the ground running in the new legislative session, I am eager to work with the Governor and my colleagues in the legislature on polices that ensure families an equal opportunity to succeed in New York State. My community depends on it.”
City Council Member Vincent Gentile (D-Bay Ridge): “Whether it’s raising the minimum wage to $15 in New York State, modernizing the infrastructure and the technological aspects of our New York City subway system, or strengthening New York State’s Environmental Protection Fund, Governor Cuomo has left no stone unturned regarding the best interests of the State of New York. I look forward to Governor Cuomo’s proposals reaching fruition for the betterment of the people of New York.”
