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 Member Shanel Thomas-Henry. Council Member Thomas-Henry represents the 21st Council District in Queens which includes the neighborhoods of Jackson Heights, East Elmhurst, North Corona, Elmhurst, Corona and Rego Park.
What are your goals for 2026?
In 2026, my focus is simple: build systems that make investment in District 21 real and lasting. That means stronger communication between City Hall and our community. It means delivering reliable constituent services people can count on. And it means ensuring that when development happens in Queens, whether it’s housing, infrastructure, or private investment, our residents aren’t spectators. They are decision-makers and beneficiaries.
How does your work in the City Council affect constituents in their daily lives?
The City Council decides how New York City runs and who it runs for. We pass laws, oversee city agencies and determine the final city budget. That determines whether your street gets cleaned, whether housing is affordable, whether small businesses survive, and whether public safety strategies actually reflect community needs. Representation isn’t symbolic in the City Council. It’s structural. When District 21 has strong representation, our priorities show up in policy and in funding. My job is to make sure this district isn’t an afterthought. It’s a priority.
What is the top issue in your district and how are you working to resolve it?
The top issues in District 21 are quality of life and affordability. Families are feeling the pressure of rising housing costs, small businesses are navigating economic uncertainty, and residents want clean, safe, and well-maintained neighborhoods. Residents are asking a basic question: Can I afford to stay here and will my neighborhood work for me? I am working to address these challenges through a comprehensive approach: advocating for deeply affordable housing that prioritizes current residents and advancing economic development strategies that create pathways to homeownership, entrepreneurship and long-term stability. My goals for District 21 are about making sure growth in Queens translates into opportunity for the people who call it home.
What services does your office provide to constituents?
Our office has been focused on building a constituent services operation that meets people where they are. We provide free tax preparation services and assist residents with housing applications and connect them to affordable housing opportunities. We help navigate city agencies, resolve service complaints. We are actively building partnerships to expand access to legal services, tenant protections and quality-of-life supports like free pet vaccinations. When someone calls our office, they will get 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 adults deserve to age with dignity, stability and real support in the neighborhoods they helped shape. That means continuing to work with community organizations, service providers, and advocates to identify where investments in the New York City Department for the Aging can have the greatest impact. I believe these conversations must remain part of our broader budget priorities, and I’m committed to helping build the partnerships and support needed to move that work forward for seniors across our city.
