“New Yorkers depend on the City to enact a balanced, progressive budget that supports the critical social services our most vulnerable citizens depend on – from childcare to education, from senior centers to affordable housing.
“To ensure we can always provide a strong social safety net means also preparing the City for potentially tougher times ahead. That’s why we cannot continue to spend $3 billion a year on homelessness – without reducing the homeless population. That’s why we cannot continue to spend more money at Rikers Island for fewer detainees – but see violent incidents rise ever higher.
“While New York’s economy remains strong for now, there are many warning signs – from the State’s $2.3 billion budget gap, to the recent volatility in the markets, rising jobless claims and a looming trade war. I’m happy to see that the Mayor plans to implement what I’ve been calling for now for several years, which is a real agency PEG program. It’s past time for City agencies to seriously evaluate how effective their spending really is in achieving results for New Yorkers. I look forward to working with the Mayor and the City Council to ensure we have a budget that works for all New Yorkers throughout the five boroughs. My office is currently reviewing the preliminary budget and will release a comprehensive analysis in the coming weeks.”
