On Thursday, January 9, Melinda Katz (D) was sworn in as the new borough president of Queens. The event was a who’s who of political leaders, including Senator Charles Schumer, Mayor Bill de Blasio, Congressman Joseph Crowley, Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder, and more. Katz, an accomplished attorney, has served Queens neighborhoods as a representative in both the NYS assembly and NYC council and has been a strong advocate for the middle class. As borough president, she will work with the mayor, city council representatives, and city agencies on borough issues including land use, economic development, and education, as well as participate in the municipal budget process and direct funds to borough-enhancing projects and services.
“What makes Melinda unique is her ability to bring a common vision to diverse groups, both on the constituent side and representative side,” said Dr. Eli Shapiro, vice president of the Far Rockaway Jewish Alliance and member of community board 14. “We are very excited to have her represent our borough.”
For now, Katz is ready to hit the ground running with Deputy Borough President Leroy Comrie and “move it forward” on the issues of education, economic development, and healthcare. v
