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 Chris Banks. Council Member Banks represents the 42nd Council District in Brooklyn which includes the neighborhoods of East New York, Spring Creek-Starrett City, Brownsville, East Flatbush, Remsen Village and Canarsie.
What are your goals for 2026?
In 2026, I am committed to strengthening NYCHA by advocating to preserve and protect Section 9 housing and investing in critical infrastructure. I will advocate for support for our seniors and call for increasing the DFTA’s budget. I will continue to work to expand access to affordable homeownership to help families build stability, while addressing quality-of-life issues like illegal dumping, street lighting, and traffic safety to keep our community safe, clean and thriving.
How does your work in the City Council affect constituents in their daily lives?
In the Council, my work is driven by intentionality and results. Over the last two years, I have focused on delivering for the underserved; advocating for NYCHA residents, protecting homeowners from deed theft and predatory lien sales, and ensuring neurodiverse children have safe spaces to play in NYC parks. Every piece of legislation I introduce is designed to reflect and empower the diverse demographics that make our district strong.
What services does your office provide to constituents?
My office provides comprehensive constituent services, including coordinating with NYC agencies to expedite and clarify city-related issues. We connect residents with community-based organizations supported by my allocation of discretionary funding and provide rigorous oversight as a committee chair. My leadership in areas like public housing, economic development, and land use ensures that city policies and budgetary decisions directly benefit our community and address the unique needs of our district.
What is the top issue in your district and how are you working to resolve it?
Our district’s most pressing challenges are senior housing, workforce development and public cleanliness, to name a few. We are combating illegal dumping through my investment in organizations like ACE, which provides supplemental sanitation services in the district. Furthermore, projects like Taylor-Wooten Estates and IUV are essential to our mission, expanding affordable homeownership while creating much-needed local jobs and high-quality housing for our growing community.
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?
Yes, I will commit to advocating for an increase in DFTA’s budget. I am calling for NYC to increase DTFA’s baseline to 1.5%. Our seniors, who built New York City, deserve to age in place with dignity. We must protect them from fraudulent actors, ensure consistent access to healthy food, and provide robust programming. By securing this funding, we guarantee our older adults the care and opportunities they need to thrive during their golden years.
