Inside Government is a Q&A series that gives New Yorkers a glimpse inside the role of the elected officials who represent them. This edition of Inside Government with PoliticsNY, sponsored by AARP New York City, features New York City Council Deputy Speaker Nantasha Williams. Deputy Speaker Williams represents the 27th Council District in Queens which includes the neighborhoods of Cambria Heights, Hollis, Jamaica, St. Albans, Queens Village, Addisleigh Park and Springfield Gardens.
What are your goals for 2026?
In 2026, my focus is execution, equity and accountability for Southeast Queens and across New York City. I will launch the Downtown Jamaica Neighborhood Plan Task Force to ensure commitments translate into housing, jobs, and real investment. I am advancing an agenda to protect Black homeownership and support first-time buyers. Citywide, I will advance budget equity legislation to bring transparency to how resources are allocated, ensuring every neighborhood receives its fair share of investment.
How does your work in the City Council affect constituents in their daily lives?
My work on the City Council focuses on improving how government serves people day to day. Through legislation, oversight and advocacy, I push agencies to be more transparent, responsive, and accountable to residents. As Deputy Speaker, I help guide Council priorities while bringing the voices and needs of Southeast Queens into citywide decisions. That work remains grounded in engagement with constituents, ensuring policies and investments reflect the real experiences of communities across New York City.
What services does your office provide to constituents?
Our office helps residents navigate city government when issues arise, from housing and sanitation concerns to park maintenance, benefits and other quality-of-life matters. We coordinate with city agencies to resolve problems and ensure follow-through. We also connect residents with resources such as legal services, food assistance and youth opportunities. Through our Community Captains Initiative, more than 30 community members work with our office to elevate neighborhood concerns and strengthen connections between residents and city government.
What is the top issue in your district and how are you working to resolve it?
Housing stability and quality of life remain top concerns in my district. Residents face rising housing costs, NYCHA repair delays and limited affordable options. I’m working to hold agencies accountable, protect homeowners from foreclosure and deed theft, and ensure the Jamaica Neighborhood Plan delivers real affordability. My office also tackles issues like sanitation, illegal dumping and street conditions. Through our Community Captains Initiative, residents partner with us to identify concerns and help advance neighborhood solutions.
From AARP New York City: Will you commit to raising the percentage of the overall NYC budget that goes to NYC Aging/DFTA to ensure older adults can age with dignity in the communities they helped build?
Older New Yorkers built this city and deserve to age with stability, dignity, and support. In Southeast Queens, many rely on senior centers not only for meals but for connection, services, and community. That’s why investing in NYC Aging matters. We must ensure older adults can remain safely in their homes by protecting funding for senior centers, home-delivered meals, caregiver support and programs that combat isolation. Supporting seniors strengthens families, neighborhoods and our city.
