Councilman Mark Gjonaj's NYC Moving Forward Week in Review - 9/3/2021

 

Dear Friends, As we are going into this long Labor Day weekend, I hope you and your families are continuing to do well. Tropical Storm Ida brought historic flooding this week a tornado watch, torrential downpours, major roadways and airports were impacted, power outages and fourteen individuals were killed by the storm. Unfortunately another scenario replayed for our borough-The Tale of Two Cities—the neglect of the outer boroughs plays out in many ways, but none as distressing as when a storm hits. The Bronx continues to be neglected in power restoration and clean up among others. This is not just a mere inconvenience, it is a public safety concern. We need more funding and changes in legislation and that is why I have introduced, a trio of bills to make our city more storm resilient, its power more protected and its citizenry safer. If you have been impacted by the Tropical Storm Ida please check this detailed resource assistance page or call our office for assistance at 718-931-1721 https://www1.nyc.gov/site/em/resources/ida.page As you may already know, starting on September 13th, the city will begin the enforcement phase of its vaccination mandate for almost all indoor events and businesses. I was glad to host a Vaccination Mandate Town Hall with NYC Small Business Commissioner Jonnel Doris and other leaders on how this new policy and its enforcement will impact small businesses. There are officially 10 days left until the first day of school in NYC. For many, it will be the first time students return to the classroom after more than a year of online learning. The return to in-person learning has caused anxiety among both parents and students as COVID-19 cases surge throughout the city and remote learning still remaining off the table. Team Gjonaj is proud to have given out over 1,700 bookbags and supplies to families and students in need in every corner of our District. Please remember we are here for you, contact my office with issues or concerns at 718-931-1721 or email at MGjonaj@council.nyc.gov. Enjoy the long weekend and remember and celebrate Labor who created this great city and great country. Sincerely, NYC Councilman Mark Gjonaj District 13, Bronx