Bronx Political Chatter

BP Diaz Learns He May Not Have So Many "Friends"

2012-03-04T10:16:00.003-08:00

Here is an interesting article about a hard lesson learned by Bronx Borough Presiden Ruben Diaz, Jr.'s about his large circle of "friends" on facebook. Here is a guy who has the maximum number of friends allowed by facebook (5000) and yet when he recently had a gathering for his facebook friends only about a dozen showed. Lesson one learned. Lesson two came weeks earlier when Diaz used facebook to garner support for the new Freshdirect project in the Bronx was blindsided by the lack of support from his friends. One posting by local gadfly Karen Argenti (pictured with Diaz) said it all -- " This is a plan to utilize public lands without reviewing community input….Too bad there wasn't an unlike button!!!!!!!!!!!!”

Bronx Boss Heastie Fighting Over Redistricting

2012-02-29T18:20:00.002-08:00

Here is an article by Fredric Dicker of the New York Post about the battle raging over redistricting which has pitted Bronx County Boss Carl Heastie against Manhattan Boss Keith Wright. Heastie accuses Wright of "trying to “colonize’’ The Bronx by demanding a three-county district controlled by Harlem powerbrokers but containing an overwhelming number of Bronx and Westchester voters, sources said. " The battle over Congressional lines has exposed some strong borough and racial animosities.

City to Vote on FreshDirect Plan Supported by Bronx BP

2012-02-14T19:03:00.000-08:00

Here is an article about the recent deal made to lure Fresh Direct to the Bronx. Some residents have raised concerns about the company's practices given that it will get over $100 million in subsidies. But others have argued that it will create many new jobs in a borough that definitely needs it. The Mayor and Bronx BP Ruben Diaz, Jr. have strongly supported the move and subsidies.

Diaz, Sr. Hints At Running for Congress

2012-02-14T18:55:00.000-08:00

Here is a press release by State Senator Ruben Diaz Sr. that was posted on Capitol Confidential where he hints about his interest in running for Congress. In discussing the redrawing of Congressional lines, he says, "according to the census, the Bronx has gained population and I as well as many others are on the waiting list to decide what our options are. A new congressional seat in the Bronx will give many of us an opportunity to consider moving up. "

Riverdale to Have Only One State Senator Under New Rules Proposed by Senate -- Jeff Klein

2012-01-29T19:33:00.000-08:00

The new Senate district being proposed by the state GOP Senate would eliminate the current configuration of three Senators representing Riverdale and would have just one Senator representing the area and much of Kingsbridge Heights. That Senator would be Jeff Klein. So while most residents may be thrilled to see the area consolidated into the hands of one very competent and hard working elected official, there is probably one other elected official who is not happy about this proposal even though he might pick up some new areas of Kingsbridge Heights.

Riverdale Review Editor Finally Admits that Congressman Engel and Councilman Koppell Helped Him Acquire Paper

2012-01-23T19:36:00.000-08:00

Chris Bragg over at City Hall blog managed to get an answer to a question that people have been asking for nearly a decade -- who helped Andy Wolf acquire the Riverdale Review nearly two decades ago? The answer confirmed the long-standing rumors that Congressman Eliot Engel and Councilman Oliver Koppell were instrumental in his ability to acquire the paper. Earlier today Andy Wolf "acknowledged that in the mid-1990’s – when he bought the Review – Engel made a phone call to a Elias Karmon, a local businessman, in an effort persuade Karmon to give Wolf a loan that would allow him to buy the paper. Wolf declined to say how much the loan was worth. Wolf also acknowledged that Koppell, an attorney, did some pro-bono legal work on his behalf that helped complete the transaction. " For years it has been whispered that these elected officials made it possible for Wolf to acquire the paper, and it appears they have been rewarded handsomely with two decades of favorable coverage. Not surprisingly, despite being asked in another local publication about their involvement, neither has ever acknowledged any role -- but that may change now that Wolf has come clean.

New Candidate Emerges for Koppell Council Seat

2012-01-23T18:57:00.000-08:00

Chris Bragg over at the City Hall blog reports that Clifford Stanton has emerged as a candidate for the 11th Council district currently held by the term-limited Oliver Koppell. Stanton is a small business owner and a parent leader at two local schools. He is also a leader in the year long boycott of the Riverdale Review and its editor Andy Wolf.

Andy Wolf Kisses Diaz, Jr.'s Ring (And Everything Else)

2012-01-19T18:18:00.000-08:00

Here is a campaign newsletter for Ruben Diaz, Jr. disguised as a legitimate article in the online NY Sun written by Andy Wolf -- the editor of the Riverdale Review. Wolf writes glowingly about Diaz and credits him for victories regarding jobs in the Bronx, the Kingsbridge Armory and the living wage. So while the Bronx remains the Borough with the highest unemployment rate in the City, somehow Wolf thinks Diaz has hit all home runs. Contrast that with this unprecedented joint editorial put out by four Bronx newspapers (the Riverdale Press, Norwood News, Hunts Point Express and Mott Haven Herald) about the living wage bill and the Armory, which said "Diaz’s statements saluting the deal and the revival of talks to develop the armory expose him as an empty suit."

State Senator Diaz Wants to Give Leadership Positions to Rebel Group

2012-01-19T18:07:00.000-08:00

Here is a piece by Chris Bragg discussing a proposal by State Senator Ruben Diaz, Sr. that would give leadership positions to the four members of the Senate breakaway group known as the Independent Democratic Conference. The group includes Jeff Klein and Diane Savino. Diaz's goal in offering those positions is ensure that the Democrats can retake the Senate. As some may recall, Diaz led another breakaway group known as the Four Amigos -- three of which are either in jail or on their way there today.

Mayor Set To Announce New RFP for Armory

2012-01-11T18:47:00.001-08:00

Ahead of his State of the City Address, Mayor Bloomberg has announced that a new Request for Proposal will be issued for the Kingsbridge Armory. The Norwood News reports that the RFP will not include a requirement of a living wage -- which helped to sink the prior bid. Despite that, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. is supporting this latest RFP.

Senator Klein Introduces Anti-Bullying Legislation

2012-01-11T18:42:00.000-08:00

State Senator Jeff Klein has introduced legislation aimed at cyber bullying. "Klein said the bill would add the charge of third-degree stalking to include bullying through electronic communications, add texting or computer communications to the means to the charge of aggravated harassment and update the crime of first-degree criminal impersonation to include electronic communications."

Bronx BP Asks for Vote on Living Wage Bill

2012-01-08T14:26:00.001-08:00

Here is a New York Daily News story reporting on a video put out by Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. calling on the City Council to hold a vote on the Living Wage bill. The bill would require builders who receive any taxpayer subsidies to ensure that any future jobs at the site pay $10 an hour with benefits or $11.50 an hour without. City Council Speaker Christine Quinn has not taken a position on the bill.

Assemblyman Jose Rivera Asks ABC to Apologize to Puerto Ricans

2012-01-08T14:14:00.000-08:00

Here is a press release from Assemblyman Jose Rivera calling on ABC to apologize to Puerto Ricans for the way they were portrayed in a new sitcom called "Work It". The show contains a scence where a Puerto Rican character states “I am Puerto Rican – I’d be great at selling drugs.” The Assemblyman's statement says, in part, "The fact that in the 21st Century we still have to change the channel in order to prevent our children from hearing comments on TV and film that attack their humanity and self esteem is unacceptable. We should not live in fear of watching TV or going to the movies because we do not know when the next insult is coming. We demand that ABC apologize to the Puerto Rican community at the beginning of the next episode of “Work It” and that the President of ABC meet with Puerto Rican community leaders to create a plan in which, instead of discriminating against the Puerto Rican community, the network promotes the rich tradition and contributions of Puerto Ricans and Latinos in general."

Seabrook Given 350k to Hand Out Despite Indictment

2012-01-03T18:32:00.000-08:00

Here is an editorial from the NY Post about indicted Councilman Larry Seabrook getting $350,000 in pork to hand out despite the fact that he is under indictment for misappropriating pork to not-for-profits. Speaker Christine Quinn is under fire from many newspapers and good government groups for making the money available to a guy with the nickname "Cash and Carry Larry".

Panel Finds Espada Improperly Hired Uncle

2012-01-03T18:26:00.000-08:00

Here is an article from the Wall Street Journal reporting that a state ethics panel has determined that there is probable cause that former State Senator Pedro Espada broke New York law by hiring his uncle. He is currently under indictment for much more serious charges so this seems to be minor compared to all the other bad stuff he has done.

NY Post Criticizes DeBlasio and Diaz, Jr. on Living Wage and Jobs

2012-01-03T18:18:00.001-08:00

Here is a NY Post editorial criticizing Public Advocate Bill DeBlasio and Bronx BP Ruben Diaz, Jr. over their stance on the living wage bill. DeBlasio only recently supported the bill and Diaz loudly applauded his stance. The editorial states, "Two years ago, Diaz got the council to kill a promising plan to turn the Kingsbridge Armory into a shopping mall — which could have provided thousands of jobs — by insisting on living-wage salaries at the site. The demand made the project economically unviable — and the developer, the Related Co., pulled out. Puff went the mall. And all the jobs. Diaz couldn’t have been prouder. “The notion that any job is better than no job no longer applies,” he exulted. Two years later, The Bronx boasts the highest unemployment in the state. Now, Diaz is applauding de Blasio, citing his “support for this historic legislation.”

One Lonely Amigo

2011-12-22T07:30:00.000-08:00

Juan Gonzalez at the Daily News reminisces about the Four Amigos of the State Senate. As you may recall the Four Amigos managed to shut down the State Senate by threatening to vote with the Republicans or Democrats if they did not get their demands met. Three of the Amigos are gone but they did not leave for a vacation -- Pedro Espada, Hiriam Moserrate and Carl Kruger -- were all indicted. The lone remaining member is Ruben Diaz, Sr. But remarkably, their extortion brought Pedro Espada to the leadership of the State Senate, and eventually cost the Democrats the leadership.

Diaz Considering Mayoral Bid

2011-12-22T07:25:00.001-08:00

Here is Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. saying he is considering running for Mayor in 2013. He cites as his resume for the job these list of accomplishments: pushing for a living wage bill; his work on job creation; and his effort to build a hotel across from Yankee Stadium. It should be noted that none of these list of "accomplishments" are a reality--yet. The watered-down living wage bill is stuck in the City Council, we are no where close to getting a hotel at Yankee Stadium and the Bronx has the highest unemployment rate in the City. What do you think?

Liu Looks At Klein Law Firm Deal with City

2011-12-22T07:15:00.000-08:00

The New York Post reports that City Comptroller John Liu is looking at a deal the City has with a law firm affiliated with State Senator Jeff Klein that is worth millions. The story reports that
"since 2006, the firm of Klein Calderoni & Santucci has received three contracts worth $2.25 million from the Comptroller’s Office to conduct so-called 50-h hearings — preliminary reviews of suits that help the city decide whether it should settle or fight. Until a few months ago, Klein was also “of counsel” with the law office of William Gallina, a small firm located in the same Bronx building as his Senate district office. Since 2007, Gallina and his associates filed at least 114 lawsuits against various city agencies, according to court records."

Klein's Independence Group Celebrates a Year

2011-12-15T19:13:00.000-08:00

Here is a story from the Norwood News discussing the first year anniversary of the Independent Democratic Conference in the State Senate that was formed by Bronx State Senator Jeff Klein. The article reports that "To be sure, the IDC had a productive year. The four-person caucus—its other members are Rockland County Senator David Carlucci, David Valesky of Syracuse, and Klein’s girlfriend, Diane Savino, of Staten Island—managed to, collectively, pass 68 bills during the 2010 session. The 26-member Senate Democrats passed 103. IDC members introduced and passed legislation dealing with crackdowns on car insurance fraud, efforts to boost the state’s organ donor pool and banning caffeinated malt liquors like Four Loko from stores. The group also advocated for the successful passage of a number of high-profile bills, like marriage equality and the long-awaited ethics reform."

Seabrook Corruption Case Ends in Mistrial

2011-12-11T06:55:00.000-08:00

Bronx City Councilman Larry Seabrook's Federal trial on corruption charges ended in a hung jury. Despite what seemed to be a very strong case that included evidence of kickbacks by contractors and not for profits and the doctoring of reimbursement forms, the jury could not come to a decision on the charges. As the New York Post reports, the U.S. Attorney's office intends to retry the Councilman.

Deadlock Possible in Seabrook Trial

2011-12-05T18:05:00.000-08:00

It looks like the guy that some refer to as Cash and Carry Larry may pull another rabbit out of a hat. The NY Post reports that the trial of Bronx Councilman Larry Seabrook may be headed towards a deadlock. The panel told the judge on Friday that they can't come to agreement on the first charge. Late today that same jury indicated that it could not come to a decision on some of the other charges. Seabrook is on trial for corruption and misuse of public funds. I guess some jurors are not bothered by a $177 bagel.

NY Post Writer Says Living Wage Destroys Jobs -- Cites Empty Armory

2011-12-04T15:20:00.000-08:00

Kyle Smith at the NY Post argues in an article that the living wage bill that is being debated in the Council would kill jobs at a time when jobs are scarce, especially in places like the Bronx. As evidence, he references the Kingsbridge Armory, which all but died when local politicians and some community groups insisted the deal include a living wage for all future employees at the site. That cost the borough over $300 million in investments and thousands of jobs both during the construction and for years after. One very telling quote he includes is from Councilman Lew Fidler, a liberal Democrat from Brooklyn. He said, “I think the problem that many of us have with the [living wage] bill is that we all like it in principle [but] the fact remains that that same principle guided our decision on the Kingsbridge Armory, and it’s still empty. Who am I to tell someone that no job is better than a job that doesn’t pay a quote-un-quote living wage?”

Former Bronx BP Carrion Pays 10K Fine

2011-12-01T18:50:00.000-08:00

David Seifman of the NY Post reports that former Bronx Borough President and current HUD official Adolfo Carrion, Jr. has agreed to pay a $10,000 fine to the conflicts of interest board for failing to pay an architect, who did work on his house, while he also had a proposal to build a project in the Bronx. The architect did the work in 2007, but Carrion did not pay for the services until 2009 after questions were raised by the media. Carrion claims he was not given a bill for $4200 until after the work was done.

Former Seabrook Mistress Says She Gave Him Her Salary

2011-11-29T19:33:00.000-08:00

The New York Times reports that Bronx Councilman Larry Seabrook's former mistress testified at his corruption trial that in some instances when he got her a consulting job she gave him part of salary. Seabrook is on trial for stealing public money using various schemes.

Is Living Wage Bill "Absurdly Weak"?

2011-11-29T19:17:00.001-08:00

A piece by Greg David in Crain's New York says that the living wage bill introduced by Councilman Oliver Koppell is so diluted that it's "absurdly weak" because it would only affect about 4 to 5 projects a year. The article states that after "facing intense opposition and testimony from businesses, which showed how so many small firms could be considered as having received a city subsidy, the proponents have scaled back the bill so it applies to companies with at least $5 million in annual revenue and that received at least $1 million in subsidy." Mr. David goes on to say, "yet bill sponsor Oliver Koppell says he is willing to make even more changes to accommodate the complaints of opponents. Really? What would be left? The key is that Mr. Koppell and his allies aren’t sincere. They want to pass a living-wage law, any living-wage law, and then expand it year by year as broadly as they can."

Ruben Diaz Sr. Voices Support for Walmart

2011-11-29T19:08:00.000-08:00

Bronx State Senator Ruben Diaz, Sr. made headlines recently by saying that its a shame that low-income New Yorkers can't take advantage of those low prices at Walmart. He is quoted as saying "Although I deplore the violent incidents at some at some Walmart stores, I congratulate Walmart and Sam’s Clubs for their astronomical sales. However, I feel much more sympathy for the City’s poor who failed to benefit from Walmart’s bargains. " This is certainly a rare statement from city elected officials.

Diaz, Jr. Pushes Living Wage

2011-11-23T05:22:00.000-08:00

Juan Gonzalez of the Daily News reports on a rally held for the living wage bill in the City Council, where Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. spoke forcefully in favor of the bill. Mr. Gonzalez reported that the BP was sticking up for the "other New York" and connected the bill to the Occupy Wall Street protests. The bill would require "any company seeking more than $1 million in tax exemptions or other forms of public assistance for a development project must agree to pay workers on that project at least $10 an hour. That's $2.75 more than the state's $7.25 minimum wage. " It has been opposed by Mayor Bloomberg, and City Council Speaker Christine Quinn has not supported it in the past but said she was mulling it.

Seabrook Shaking Down Relatives

2011-11-23T05:06:00.000-08:00

As the trial of Councilman Larry Seabrook takes it twists and turns, the New York Post reports that prosecutors say his mistress “is prepared to testify that she paid Seabrook cash kickbacks” that he “demanded” for getting her consulting jobs between 2002 and 2004." She will testify that she "gave him “thousands of dollars” in cash from the $9,600 a shady Bronx pharmacy paid her after Seabrook arranged for her to do “lobbying or consulting work” in early 2003."

Seabrook Trial Brings in Bronx Power Broker

2011-11-16T18:19:00.000-08:00

This story from the New York Times provides an update on the latest news from the trial of Bronx Councilman Larry Seabrook. Yesterday the trial's guest witness was Bronx County's most politically connected lawyer Stanely Schlein. Schlein is a consultant for the Yankees and was called to testify about Seabrook's lobbying efforts on behalf of a Bronx boiler company looking to do business with the Yankees. All interesting inside baseball for you political junkies.

Diaz Sr. Calls Out NY Post Reporter Candice Giove

2011-11-14T18:44:00.000-08:00

A recent article from On Top Magazine quotes State Senator Ruben Diaz, Sr. as saying that NY Post reporter Candice Giove "disregarded" what he said about a gay rights group moving into a building named after him. Giove, who formerly was a mud-slinger for the Riverdale Review, quoted an "unnamed" source as saying that Diaz was furious that Bronx Pride was moving into Rev. Ruben Diaz Gardens. In a statement released on Monday, Diaz said Bronx Pride's move honored his work. “I was surprised to read today's New York Post's sensational story by Candice Giove because she completely disregarded what I specifically said to her about Bronx Pride moving in to the Rev. Ruben Diaz Gardens building.” Good to see that Giove is using all the tricks of the trade she learned from Andy Wolf at the Riverdale Review.

Klein's Dem. Gang Makes Deal with GOP

2011-11-09T18:37:00.000-08:00

Kenneth Lovett of the NY Daily News reports that State Senator Jeff Klein and his three other Democrats who formed an independent caucus have been rewarded with coveted chairmanship positions and would not get strong Republican challenges. Klein and the three other Democrats -- Diane Savino of Staten Island, freshman David Carlucci of Rockland County and David Valesky of Syracuse — have worked closely with the Senate GOP over the past year. This group has a lot of influence in the Senate because the Republicans hold a slim 2 seat majority. They have said they will not support Democratic Leader John Sampson if the Dems win back the Senate.

Bronx BPs Running for Citywide Office?

2011-11-07T19:05:00.000-08:00

Roberto Perez, over at the Perez Notes, looks at the possibilty that the current and former Bronx Borough President's could both be running for citywide office. He reports that former BP Adolfo Carrion Jr., is a possible Mayoral candidate, while current BP Ruben Diaz, Jr. could also be eyeing a citywide office but has not made any final decision. A run by either or both could lead to some very interesting dynamics in 2013.

Battle Begins to Replace Seabrook

2011-11-07T18:54:00.001-08:00

He may still be in office, but the seat held by indicted Councilman Larry Seabrook is already drawing a crowd. As reported in this story by Chris Bragg at City Hall News, at least five people are eyeing the seat. Bragg reports that "community activist and union organizer Jerome Rice, has led rallies calling for Seabrook to resign. Others who have created committees include civil rights activist Andy King – who along with Rice ran unsuccessfully in 2009 against Seabrook and would have pre-existing name recognition – Cheryl Simmons-Oliver, Michael Welch and Pamela Johnson. (Only King and Simmons-Oliver both had raised any money for a run as of the July filings). " Seabrook's trial is just getting under way almost two years since he was indicted on federal charges for allegedly bilking taxpayer-funded nonprofits – and forging a receipt for a $177 bagel and soda.

Diaz Proposes Bailout for Yankee Parking Lot Owners

2011-11-01T18:43:00.000-07:00

Here is a piece in the NY Post by Nicole Gelinas about Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr.'s proposal to bailout the company that operates the parking garage at Yankee Stadium. The company, the Bronx Parking Development Co, borrowed $230 million to build the lot through the issuance of bonds. Now that the company is close to defaulting on those bonds, Diaz is pushing to build a hotel on the site. His proposal would call for the hotel bailing out the parking lot company, and that hotel company getting multi-million dollar subsidies. Gelinas says of the proposal, "Diaz’s proposal relies on fear of a bond-market panic, which would force another 2008-style bailout of sophisticated investors. Apparently, such bailouts are OK as long as they come in the form of useful goodies, like the promise of taxpayer-subsidized construction jobs for Bronx voters."

City Hall News Profiles Potential Citywide Latino Leaders

2011-10-17T19:32:00.000-07:00

Laura Nahmias at City Hall News profiled the prospects for a number of latino leaders in the upcoming Citywide elections. In the article she expresses some doubt as to whether anyone can pull it together for the 2013 elections. She writes "Others suggested that the city’s best Latino leadership was being groomed for state and federal office rather than citywide positions. Rising stars like Sens. Gustavo Rivera and Adriano Espaillat are said to have sidestepped city office altogether, leaving an age gap between older machine politicians and the young Latinos now filling the City Council. Espaillat, for example, is said to be considering running for a seat in Congress. The federal level has its advantages: Politicians can control funds for their districts without having to kiss the rings of local Democratic Party leaders." Of Bronx BP Ruben Diaz, she says "One potential candidate to be the first is Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., who is young, charismatic and experienced but is little-known outside the Bronx—except for helping kill a plan to redevelop the Kingsbridge Armory in a dispute over wages there." 2013 should be an interesting year.

Seabrook Trial Gets Under Way

2011-10-17T19:20:00.000-07:00

Courtney Gross over at NY 1 reports that Bronx Councilman Larry Seabrook's trial is about to get under way a year after his indictment. She reports that "Seabrook is charged with getting kickbacks from this Bronx contractor to help secure work at the new Yankee Stadium. He also allegedly steered City Council earmarks to nonprofits that he controlled and where he installed friends and family in so-called “no-show” jobs." Seabrook is the guy who reportedly paid a $144 for a bagel.

Dinowitz Touts Ranking by Conservatives and Heads Off to Russia

2011-10-10T19:10:00.000-07:00

Here is a piece from Captial Tonight blog where Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz brags about his near last ranking by the state's Conservative Party. The party gave him a 16 percent rating based on his votes on 24 key bills. He voted yes on bills such as extending unemployment benefits, legalizing same-sex marriage, raising the maximum retirement age for judges, mandating microstamping of ammunition for semiautomatic pistols, requiring backseat passengers under 16 to wear seat belts, etc. In another bit of news involving Assemblyman Dinowitz, this article from the Queens Gazette reports that he was on a recent junket to Russia with fellow members of the Assembly--the photo to the left is a shot of their visit. I am sure there is a lot that can be applied from Russia to New York State politics.

Mayor Chides Diaz on Armory

2011-09-26T18:04:00.000-07:00

Here is a piece that appeared on NY 1 where Mayor Bloomberg chides Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. for his lack of a plan for the Kingsbridge Armory after Diaz helped to kill a prior investment of over $300 million. The Mayor is quoted as saying, "Related Companies wanted to go and build there. There was this craziness that they had to guarantee that whoever they leased space to would pay prevailing wages,". But his most pointed comment came when he said, "The borough president said he was going to find solutions and he was going to find people to come in. Well that went nowhere." Diaz responded, "I have no regrets about what happened before. There has got to be a better way to develop the armory,". What do you think?

Klein Wants to Make Cyberbullying a Felony

2011-09-26T18:00:00.000-07:00

Here is an article from the NY Post about a bill introduced by State Senator Jeff Klein to make cyberbullying a felony. This comes in wake of a recent suicide of a 14 year old boy from Buffalo who was taunted online for being gay.

Where is Marble Hill?

2011-09-20T18:30:00.000-07:00

Here is an interesting piece in City Hall News about the interesting political status that Marble Hill enjoys (or suffers under). As the article explains, parts of Marble Hill are in Manhattan and parts are in the Bronx. In addition, it intersects multiple Council and Assembly districts. All together, Marble Hill is represented in the Assemblyman by Jeff Dinowitz, Jose Rivera and Guillermo Linares. In the City Council it parts are represented by Oliver Koppell, Fernando Cabrera, and Ydanis Rodriquez. Given that most of it is officially in Manhattan, their Borough President is Scott Stringer. Now that is a crazy mess.

Seabrook Funneled Money to Family and Girlfriend

2011-09-20T18:19:00.000-07:00

Here is a Daily News article about Councilman Larry Seabrook employing family and funneling money to a not for profit that employs his girlfriend. Seabrook is under indictment for using taxpayer dollars for personal expenses.

Independent Democrat Group Denies Deal with Senate Republicans

2011-09-17T18:45:00.000-07:00

Here is an article from Capitol Tonight Blog discussing whether the Independent Democratic Conference, a group founded by Bronx State Senator Jeff Klein, made a deal with the State Senate Republicans on redistricting.

Should Public Decide How to Spend Public Dollars?

2011-09-17T18:33:00.000-07:00

Here is a unique idea by four members of the City Council who are proposing to let members of the community decide how they will spend their descretionary funding. Under the proposal, constituents in each of the four Council districts will be enlisted to develop and choose among proposals for local capital projects like street repairs, new parks and public artworks. Three Democrats, Brad Lander and Jumaane D. Williams of Brooklyn, and Melissa Mark-Viverito of Manhattan, and one Republican, Eric Ulrich of Queens, are taking part. The spending could be worth millions of dollars. The question is will others follow? Of course, this is our money they get to hand out like they are druken sailors.

Jeff Klein Spends $1 Million on Staff

2011-09-06T18:56:00.000-07:00

Former Riverdale Review hack reporter Candice Giove is still slinging mud with a piece in the New York Post about State Senator Jeff Klein's million dollar payroll. The story claims that Klein got more than double the normal staff allotment for his role in creating a breakaway Democratic group called the Independent Democratic Conference, which has at times voted with the Republicans.

Did 9/11 Cost Ferrer the Mayoralty?

2011-09-06T18:41:00.000-07:00

Here is an article from the Huffington Post that postulates that had 9/11 not occurred former Bronx Borough President Fernando Ferrer would have been Mayor of New York. Over the years I have seen countless articles that point to 9/11 to justify an election win or loss in New York because of changed dynamics after the attack, but I have never been able to see how it helped or hurt one candidate more than another. What do you think?

Koppell Backs Measure to Help Potheads

2011-08-29T17:32:00.000-07:00

Councilman Oliver Koppell and his buddies in the City Council have found another great cause to get excited about -- stopping the police from busting pot smokers. In New York, carrying a small, concealed amount of marijuana — less than 25 grams, or seven-eighths of an ounce — is a violation, punishable by a $100 fine. But under current state law, the violation becomes a criminal offense when the drug is brought into the open, even when this happens only after the police ask people they stop to empty their pockets or purses. The Council resolution, co-sponsored by Koppell, supports an effort in the state legislature to reclassify the public display of small amounts of pot as a violation. What will they think of next?

Quinn, Seabrook and the Slush Fund Scandal

2011-08-10T18:34:00.000-07:00

Here is a piece by Harry Siegal at the Village Voice about the continuing fallout from the City Council slush fund scandal and how it will impact the Mayoral prospects for Speaker Christine Quinn. There is also a cameo by our very own Cash and Carry Larry Seabrook.

Senator Klein Pushes for Enforcement of Foreclosure Cleanup

2011-08-10T18:26:00.000-07:00

The Real Deal reports that State Senator Jeff Klein is pushing for enforcement of a law he wrote dealing with the upkeep of foreclosed apartments. Under the law the owners are required to maintain the property after foreclosure, but the Senator is claiming that too many owners are not complying and that could have led to a fatal fire in the Bronx.

Bronx Freshman Assemblyman Tops Per Diem List

2011-08-08T20:34:00.000-07:00

This article reports that freshman Assemblyman Eric A. Stevenson (who represents the Morrisania & East Tremont sections in the Bronx) was at the top of the list in terms of the amount of money he was reimbursed for meals and travel to Albany. Assemblyman Stevenson was reimbursed a total of $26,468 this year. Overall, lawmakers received nearly $3 million in reimbursements, with most averaging about $13,000.

Espada Doled Out Most Cash to Staff

2011-08-08T20:28:00.000-07:00

The New York Post reports that former State Senator Pedro Espada, who is now under indictment, was the most generous boss in Albany. In just the last three months of 2010, Espada spent more than $750,000 on staff -- which was more than any other Senator for a full six month period. You have to ask yourself, who was watching the store here?

Rivera and Seabrook Head List of Absentee Council Members

2011-08-04T19:22:00.000-07:00

Looks like the Bronx delegation is a leader when is comes to missing Council meetings. The Daily News reports that Councilmembers Larry Seabrook and Joel Rivera are in the top 5 when it comes to missing Council meetings. Seabrook, who is under indictment for fraud, missed 27 percent of the meetings while Rivera, who is the Majority Leader and gets an extra $23,000 stipend on top of his $112,000 pay, missed 19 percent.

A Doggy Wedding for BP's

2011-08-02T19:27:00.000-07:00

Here is a New York Post article about Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz but it is really about role of borough presidents. The article details some of the unusual events that BP's preside over -- such as a dog wedding -- and it sets forth the costs to run these offices. For example, they cost $23 million for staff and to operate their offices, they dole out $63 million in capital cash to their pet programs, and BP's pull down $160,000 in salary. Markowitz's office employs 66 people, including three chauffeurs, the most of any borough president. After their role was severely diminished with the 1989 elimination of the Board of Estimate, the article points out that "the role of a borough president includes appointing community board members, making budget recommendations, issuing advisory opinions on land-use matters and producing official maps. " What do you think about these offices?

Bronx Boss to Select Election Boss

2011-07-28T18:40:00.000-07:00

Here is an article by former Bronx Assemblyman Michael Benjamin in the New York Post about the convoluted way that the head of the Board of Elections is selected. In this instance, a deal was made to allow the Bronx Boss, Assemblyman Carl Heastie, to select the person. However, that deal fell apart when the Staten Island Election Commissioner, who was going to provide the needed vote, resigned to run for DA. Now there could be a vacancy for a while in this important position. This quote from Mr. Benjamin says it all, "our modern elections are far too important to remain a vestige of a bygone political era. It's time to free our election process from patronage control by the two major political parties. "

As Stringer Calls for Elimination of Pork, Diaz Hands Out $13 Million

2011-07-21T17:49:00.000-07:00

Here is an article from the Daily News pointing out that just one day after Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer called for the elimination of member items or pork, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. announced that he was handing out $13 million to Bronx organizations. Diaz's office said they are in the process of examining Stringer's report. My bet is that Stringer will be the only major politician in this City to take this position.

Engel Talks Tough on Budget

2011-07-21T17:43:00.000-07:00

Here is Congressman Eliot Engel talking tough to Nancy Pelosi regarding the proposed budget deal that could cost NY a billion dollars in Medicare funds. Engel is quoted in the Daily News as saying, "We served notice on Pelosi that we are not going to support this," Engel said. "This would mean tremendous cuts in health care services in New York and massive losses of jobs . . . I'm determined to beat it back." Tough words from a guy primarily known for getting to the State of the Union address hours early to snag an aisle seat.

Council Members Rack up Debt -- Koppell Near Top of List

2011-07-20T18:59:00.000-07:00

Despite a salary of over $112,000 for a part-time job, many members of the City Council seem to still rack up a good amount of credit card debt. The categories are so ridiculously broad that it can be hard to determine what they really owe, but one Councilman from Brooklyn (Jumane Williams) has debt of between $35,000 to $308,000. Bronx Councilman Oliver Koppell lists $160,000 on 3 credit cards. His comment was "I get offers for zero percent interest," he said. "It's sort of too good to pass up."

Manhattan BP Stringer Calls for Elimination of Member Items

2011-07-20T18:52:00.000-07:00

Here is a first among any major elected official -- Manhattan BP Scott Stringer has called for the elimination of member items (worth nearly $50 million) in the City Council. While certainly the timing of his proposal is suspect given his intention of running for Mayor, it still makes him the first elected official to go on record in saying that slush funds should be eliminated. The race for 2013 is already getting interesting.

City Attempts to Investigate Illegal Apt. at Engel Building

2011-07-18T18:30:00.000-07:00

Congressman Eliot Engel is answering questions about a building he owns in the Bronx that might contain an illegal apartment. The problem is that the City has been denied access to the building six times since 2009 to inspect the claims. Engel owns a portion of the building with a realty company in the Bronx.

NY Post Calls on City Council to Stop Slush Funds

2011-07-18T18:14:00.000-07:00

A recent NY Post editorial calls on the City Council to eliminate member items or discretionary funding to individual members of the Council. The editorial discusses how these funds are used to ensure loyalty to the leadership, and it details some of the recent major abuses by members of the Council.

Diaz Sr. Calls Crowley a Hypocrite Over DC Residency

2011-07-12T07:49:00.001-07:00

State Senator Ruben Diaz, Sr. is quoted in the NY Post saying that Congressman Joe Crowley of Queens is a hypocrite for moving his family to a suburb of DC. In addition to calling him a hypocrite, he also says "It's telling the people of the city . . . 'I'm leaving you.' "

Bronx BP Threatens Lawsuit Over Miltary Base

2011-07-07T19:30:00.000-07:00

Dan Beekman at the Daily News reports that Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. is threatening to sue the Bloomberg administration over the fate of the Muller Army Reserve Center in the Wakefield section of the Bronx. The Bloomberg administration is proposing a homeless shelter for the site against strong community opposition. The Borough President is opposed to using the site for a homeless shelter and has proposed that the National Guard current located at the Kingsbridge Armory be moved to the site.

City Councilman Joel Rivera into Real Estate

2011-07-07T19:09:00.000-07:00

Bronx News Network reports that current City Council Majority Leader Joel Rivera of the Bronx is exploring a new career outside of politics. Councilman Rivera will now be selling real estate in the Bronx for RE/MAX Results. It's probably a good idea to have another career to fall back on if the political stuff does not work out.

Criticism Continues Over Diaz Armory Report: UPDATE: Diaz Responds to Critics

2011-06-30T20:18:00.000-07:00

Here is an article from Bob Kappstatter of the Daily News about the fallout from the much anticipated report on the Kingsbridge Armory released by Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. last week. After blocking an earlier deal to develop the Armory, Diaz appointed a task force 15 months ago to explore alternative uses for the site. However, to many people, the 267 page report was short on substance and any ideas that have a real chance of happening given the massive public dollars that would be needed. Kappstatter references the Daily News editorial about the report that said, "No money. No business. No renovation. No employment. No prospects for anything,". The report calls for a number of possible uses, including a sports arena, film studio, an indoor bike track and a megachurch. Kappstatter also quotes a developer who said, "Even the best of these proposals would violate his own conditions,"..."None of these proposals have wall-to-wall living wage jobs, and the best proposal he's got is 420 jobs, of which 270 are living wage." In a tongue and cheek reference, Kappstatter joked that one way resolve the controversy and save a whole lotta money would be to remove the lighting rods from the roof of the structure and hope for a storm. UPDATE: Here is a letter by Ruben Diaz in today's Daily News responding to his critics on the Armory. In this article he likens the Armory to the High Line in the City -- you be the judge.

Citizens Union Releases Report on Special Elections -- Urges Reforms

2011-06-27T18:51:00.001-07:00

Citizens Union released a report today that shows that 1 in 4 legislators were first elected in a special election. That means that they managed to get into office outside of the normal democratic process. The report urges a number of reforms to ensure that whenever there is a vacancy there is a process where the voters get to decide who fills the seat.

Diaz Releases Ideas for Kingsbridge Armory

2011-06-21T20:02:00.000-07:00

It's finally here -- Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. released his long awaited report on what should fill the vacant Kingsbridge Armory. As Bronx News Network reports this report really does not recommend a specific use. Instead it calls on the EDC to issue another Request for Proposal for the site. Is anyone else confused by this? I think Bronxities were led to believe by the Borough President a year ago that this task force would come up with a better idea for this unique site. Of course all is not lost. As reported in the NY Post, one idea put forth is to have an Atlanta based evangelist turn it into a mega-church and multi-purpose site (whatever that is). The minister, who drives a rolls and flies in a private jet, is appropriately named Creflo Dollar. This was definitely worth the wait! UPDATE: Here is an editoral from the NY Daily News on the report released by the BP entitled "Bronx Borough Pres. Ruben Diaz made a fool of himself claiming he'd find use for Kingsbridge Armory"

A Look at NY Reps. Debts and Riches

2011-06-20T14:06:00.000-07:00

Here is a article from the NY Post about the financial disclosures of New York members of Congress. Nita Lowey is the wealthiest with assets ranging from $15 million to $67 million and no liabilities. On the other end of the spectrum is Eliot Engel of the Bronx who reports $50,000 in credit card debt.

Dinowitz in Push to Kill Electoral College

2011-06-20T08:02:00.000-07:00

Here is an article from New York Magazine about a push by some NY State lawmakers, including Bronx Assemblyman Jeff Dinowitz, to kill the electoral college. For many people the Bush/Gore fiasco was their first realization of how under the current system more people can vote for one candidate but he or she can still lose because all of a state's electoral votes go to the candidate who wins that state. However under a new proposal, all of a state's electoral votes would go to a candidate who wins the popular vote -- thereby killing the electoral college without having to endure a Constitutional amendment. Thus far, Maryland, New Jersey, Illinois, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Washington, Vermont, and the District of Columbia, have pledged their 77 electoral votes to this new arrangement. New York is now considering doing the same. It has already passed the State Senate and now under a bill sponsored by Bronx Assemblyman Jeff Dinowitz it may well pass the Assembly. However it appears that Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver may not be too keen on it. The articles quotes Dinowitz as saying, "I really have trouble understanding why somebody would object to the first-place finisher actually winning an election," said Dinowitz, sounding sincerely bewildered."

Diaz Sr. -- Ok With Sexting But Not Gay Marriage?

2011-06-17T06:53:00.000-07:00

With the debate in Albany in full bloom regarding gay marriage, here is a piece from Michael Daly at the Daily News where he contrasts the position of State Senator Ruben Diaz Sr. on the Weiner texting scandal and the battle over gay marriage. Diaz has been the most vocal opponent of the gay marriage bill, but Daly points out that "At the same time, Diaz (D-Bronx) seems to think it's no big deal for a man who is married to a woman also to be a lying perv with any number of other women." As backup, he quotes Diaz as saying, "The Bible teaches us to take care of others and to help others when they are down. ... It is shameful to see how many of Congressman Weiner's supposed friends have abandoned him as the media makes a total mockery of him." Daly follows up with these words, "In Ruben's World, the Good Book commands the faithful to help and take care of a perv but shun gays who seek only to live in a relationship sanctioned by the law as well as by love."

Dinowitz Wants State Park Smoking Ban

2011-06-01T20:01:00.000-07:00

The New York Post reports that Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz wants to extend the City's park smoking ban to state parks such as Jones Beach and Roberto Clemente park. But he has yet to find a sponsor in the State Senate.

Diaz Sr. Hits Others Over Rent Regs

2011-05-23T19:26:00.000-07:00

Here is a posting by Bronx News Network about State Senator Ruben Diaz, Sr. blasting Mayor Bloomberg and City Council Speaker Quinn over their support for gay marriage as opposed to spending more time supporting extending the rent regs. But, BNN points out that last year Diaz supported a rent freeze bill by former State Senator Espada that some say would have hurt tenants rights.

Bronx BP Diaz Wants Yankee Parking Lot Made into Hotel

2011-05-18T18:38:00.000-07:00

Juan Gonzalez of the Daily News writes today about the major financial difficulties at the Yankee Stadium parking lot. The $340 million parking system is in financial collapse, partly because customers are using only 31 percent of the 9000 parking spots. Gonzalez writes, "In a desperate effort to stave off default, the firm hiked its rates this season to $35 for self-parking and $48 for valet, from $23 and $36, respectively. The new prices have driven more fans away. Barely 100 patrons a game are forking out the $48 valet price, less than half what the company expected." Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. has suggested that the garage be torn down and a new hotel or other project be built in its place. What do you think?

Diaz Protest Against Marriage Equality Angers Lesbian Granddaughter

2011-05-16T18:34:00.000-07:00

In another chapter in the complex and almost bizzare public life of State Senator Ruben Diaz, Sr., has his lesbian granddaugther holding a counter-protest to his protest against marriage equality. Senator Diaz led a march down the Grand Concourse towards the Courthouse at 161st st. in oppostion to the movement to pass marriage equality in New York. Celeste Katz of the Daily News reports that "his granddaughter, Erica Diaz, a former Marine who said she was ousted under the military's "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy, said her grandfather has met Torres, whom she hopes to one day marry. Despite their differences, she said she'd like her grandfather to attend the wedding."

Vacca Raises Fines For Cab Refusals

2011-05-16T18:17:00.000-07:00

Councilman James Vacca has led the charge to raise fines associated with the refusal of cabs to take passengers to the outer boroughs. The New York Post reports that fines are now $500 for the first offense and $1000 for the second offense. If you have ever tried to get a cab to the Bronx late at night you will appreciate this change.

Espada Wants to Keep Getting Paid

2011-05-16T18:10:00.000-07:00

Despite being indicted on charges of looting his own health care clinic, the New York Post reports that former State Senator Pedro Espada is asking a judge to allow taxpayer medicaid dollars to continue to pay his six-figure salary as the head of the clinic. He currently lives in an $800,000 home in Westchester and drives a $95,000 mercedes.

Member Item Funding for Groups That Discriminate

2011-05-11T20:20:00.000-07:00

Here is an outstanding article from Andy Humm at the Gotham Gazette that takes a close look at member item funding from City Council members that goes to organizations that promote a religion and discriminate against certain groups such as gays or women. The article cites a number of examples, including a St. Patrick's Day committee in the Bronx funded by Councilman James Vacca, and explores the moral and legal issues raised by such appropriations.

Living Wage Study Heats Up Debate Among Bronx Politicos UPDATE

2011-05-11T20:03:00.000-07:00

Bronx News Network reports that the City's Economic Development Corporation released the results of its study on the impact of a living wage bill, and it findings are that it would potentially kill tens of thousands of jobs and stifle commerical development. Of course, a number of politicians, including Bronx Council members Oliver Koppell and Anabel Palma who sponsored the bill at the behest of Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr., panned those findings and called the process rigged. City Council Speaker Christine Quinn has not taken a formal stance on the issue, but the Gotham Gazette reports that Councilman Koppell has stated that he is willing to consider using a rare motion to discharge the bill and bring it to the floor should Quinn not support the bill. UPDATE: Here is a recent Daily News article by Dan Beekman tracking the progress of this proposal.

Jeff Klein Goes After Doctors with Ties

2011-05-03T20:34:00.000-07:00

Here is a bit of an odd story out of Albany. It seems that Bronx State Senator Jeff Klein and his Independent Democratic Conference are supporting legislation to ban doctors and some hospital workers from wearing neckties. It is believed that this will prevent the transfer of germs that might reside on the necktie. I guess they have not heard that the world has gone to casual wear.

Diaz to Rally for "Traditional" Marriage

2011-05-03T20:28:00.000-07:00

Captial Tonight reports that State Senator Ruben Diaz Jr. is at it again over the issue of gay marriage. He is planning a rally for "traditional" marriage on May 15th -- the same day as the annual AIDS walk in NYC.

Klein and Savino Make It Official

2011-04-25T18:28:00.000-07:00

Here is a New York Times article about the worst kept secret in the State Senate -- the relationship between Bronx Senator Jeff Klein and Diane Savino, who represents parts of Staten Island and Brooklyn. They have been dubed "Klavino". You might recall that both are also part of a group of 4 Democrats who formed a breakaway conference.

Jimmy Vacca for Bronx BP?

2011-04-22T10:49:00.000-07:00

Here is a posting by Bob Kappstatter of the Daily News about the future chances of Bronx City Councilman James Vacca becoming Borough President.

Diaz Sr. "Offended" by Cuomo's Push on Gay Marriage

2011-04-20T18:49:00.000-07:00

Celeste Katz over at the Daily News reports that State Senator Ruben Diaz, Sr. is "deeply offended" by Governor Andrew Cuomo's efforts to legalize gay marriage. In a statement, Diaz is quoted as saying, "I am deeply offended that during this Holy Week, which is a most sacred time to millions of New Yorkers, Governor Andrew Cuomo is working hard to mobilize elected officials to legalize homosexual marriage in New York."

Councilmembers Vacca and Palma Sponsor Snow Bill

2011-04-11T19:17:00.000-07:00

Bronx News Network reports that Bronx Councilmembers Anabel Palma and Jimmy Vacca are sponsoring a blizzard bill that will set forth protocols when the City is hit with a major storm like the post-Christmas storm that dumped 2 feet of snow on us. The new bill would set forth criteria for which streets to clean first as well as providing an inventory of snow management equipment and personnel. Just in time for summer.

Former Bronx Boss Rips Cuomo

2011-04-07T19:40:00.000-07:00

Here is a video posted on the Bronx News Network of former Bronx Boss and Assemblyman Jose Rivera criticizing Governor Cuomo on the budget, including not extending the "millionnaires tax." Jose has been taking videos for decades so it would be great to see some more of his archives.

Koppell Wants ACS Chief to Resign

2011-04-07T19:13:00.000-07:00

Here is City Councilman Oliver Koppell calling for the Commissioner of the Administration for Child Services John Mattingly to step down in the aftermath of a four year old in the agency's supervision.

Espada and Son Plead Not-Guilty

2011-04-05T20:00:00.000-07:00

Former State Senator Pedro Espada and his son Pedro G. Espada pleaded not guilty today to new charges accusing them of tax evasion. They are charged with filing bogus tax returns for hundreds of thousands of dollars in business expenses for a community development company they ran. Last December they were charged with embezzling $500,000 from the health care clinic they ran to pay for Broadway shows, sporting events and meals. This is some family business.

Is Diaz Ready for Primetime?

2011-03-29T15:23:00.000-07:00

Here is an article by Chris Bragg over at City Hall News that looks at the 2013 citywide prospects for Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. It touches on his political skills (he has been in office since he was 22) and his ability to work with the borough's politicians. Interestingly, Diaz takes a moment to take a shot at former BP Ferrer when he says, "Think about former borough presidents,.. Did they ever get the support of the leadership in Riverdale, when they wanted to run for higher office? Did Freddy [Ferrer]? No. Think about how we've been able to bring in the folks in Riverdale, the Jewish community, the Italians. Leadership and bringing people together has to be a quality that people are looking for in a mayor." The article then goes on to detail his two major albatrosses -- his father and the Kingsbridge Armory. After killing the $350 million investment and 2200 jobs at the Armory, Diaz appointed a task force to look at another development idea. However, Jack Kittle, a labor leader who served on the task force said "We think he's crippled any development there for generations, ... There's a reluctance to invest anywhere in the Bronx, if not the whole city." About 2013, Diaz is quoted as saying "Look man, whoever runs for mayor is going to have a story to tell, ... I'm working on my narrative." What do Bronxites think about his narrative?

Borough Presidents Split on Whether to Return Tainted Money

2011-03-25T19:13:00.000-07:00

This article in The Brooklyn Paper explores what some of the Borough President's are doing with donations they received from a developer Aaron Malinsky, who was indicted for bribing State Senator Carl Kruger. Brooklyn BP Markowitz is unsure whether he will return the $20,000 he has received, but Manhattan BP Scott Stringer is donating the $31,000 he has received to charity. Bronx BP Diaz has received $21,000 but he has not said whether he will return it.

New Signs for the Bronx?

2011-03-25T19:03:00.000-07:00

Bronx State Committeeman Ronald Savage has an idea to try to spice up the signs that welcome people to the Bronx by referring to it as the birthplace of rap. I am more fascinated that Mr. Savage refers to himself as the "first Hip Hopper elected to office". Not even sure what that means?

Daily News Uncovers Many Skeletons in Council's Closets

2011-03-23T16:52:00.000-07:00

Following an exhaustive three-month investigation into the City Council, the Daily News began publishing its findings this week and the results are nothing short of shocking. Public perception of our elected officials is at an all-time low, and these findings only confirm our suspicions. In one instance, a Queens Councilman (Ruben Willis) was found to have outstanding warrants for petty larceny and nonpayment of child support. He turned himself after the story appeared. In another case, they found that Manhattan Councilwoman Inez Dickens owes the City a $100,000 in taxes for a couple of buildings she co-owns. Another story uncovered the fact that a number of Council members are living in affordable housing while at least four other Council members claimed places outside of their districts as their primary residence and claimed a a tax break for it. Finally, in a story released today, it was revealed that the homes of two Council members are in foreclosure (Dan Halloran and James Sanders both of Queens). In addition, they report that Bronx Councilman Oliver Koppell had as much as $270,000 in credit card debt in 2009.

What does this all mean? First, the Daily News should be commended for digging deeper. What is really ironic is that much of this was hiding in plain sight -- it's pretty difficult to hide an arrest warrant. Second, while elected officials are human and will sometimes make mistakes, there seems to be an inordinate number of Council members (remember there are only 51 in total) who are either not abiding by the law or who have shown very poor judgment. Hopefully, investigations like these will help to root that out so that voters are more aware of these issues before they go to the polls. Can you imagine what a major news organization would find with the same scrutiny of our state elected officials?

Senator Diaz Disclosure Bill Rejected

2011-03-22T19:10:00.001-07:00

A bill pushed by State Senator Ruben Diaz to require all state elected officials to post their campaign donations on their websites was defeated in the State Senate. Diaz rightly said “Everybody is asking for transparency, but nobody wants transparency.”

BPs Discuss Budget Cuts Over Steak

2011-03-21T20:38:00.000-07:00

Here is a piece by Dan Beekman at the Daily News about the 5 Borough Presidents getting together to chew the fat over steak and their anger over the proposed cuts to their budgets by Mayor Bloomberg. Bronx BP Ruben Diaz is quoted saying that the cuts "would force him to lay off up to a dozen staffers who work on issues such as housing, land use and education."

Councilman Cabrera's Residency Questioned: UPDATE

2011-03-21T19:50:00.000-07:00

Bronx News Network picks up on a story first reported in the Daily News that questions the residency of a number of Councilmembers, including newbie Bronx Councilman Fernando Cabrera. It seems the Councilman claims a home he owns in Westchester as his primary residence and this got him a $1500 tax break. The article also mentions that Cabrera's residency was an issue in his 2009 campaign. When reached, Cabrera's office said it was an oversight and he would pay back the money immediately. UPDATE: Here is a Daily News article calling for investigations into some of the allegations of misdeeds by some Councilmembers that was highlighted in a series of articles in the News.

New Poll Shows New Yorkers Want Wal-Mart but Not Bike Lanes: UPDATE

2011-03-18T09:13:00.000-07:00

Here is a link to the Politicker NY highlighting a poll by Quinnipiac that looked at how New Yorkers feel about Wal-Mart, bike lanes, Last in, first out, and renaming a bridge for Ed Koch. Support for Wal-Mart is strong but Koch does not get much love. UPDATE: An eagle-eyed reader picked up these mistakes in the Observer numbers below:"The Observer screwed up their summary of the results: 59-35 of Dems say bike lanes are GOOD, and 78-16 (63-32 union) say teacher layoffs should NOT be based on seniority."

Wal-Mart

57-36 percent say electeds should allow a Wal-Mart to open here.

68-29 percent say they'd shop there once open.

Last In, First Out

78-16 percent say teacher layoffs should be done based on seniority.

63-32 percent of union households agree.

Bike Lanes

59-35 percent of GOP say bike lanes are bad.

59-35 percent of Dems say bike lanes are bad [number corrected].

56-39 percent of Indys say bike lanes are good.

Koch Bridge

64-24 percent oppose renaming Queensboro bridge after Ed Koch.

The Last Bandito Standing

2011-03-17T13:49:00.001-07:00

Here is a link to Bob Kappstatter's weekly column in the Daily News where he refers to State Senator Ruben Diaz, Jr. as the last Bandito standing after his 3 buddies (Espada, Monserrate and Kruger) have all faced serious legal troubles. Diaz is loyal to a fault and has stuck by his fellow Banditos no matter what the charge.

Dodge City in the State Legislature

2011-03-14T06:40:00.001-07:00

Here is a great in-depth piece by Tom Robbins in the New York Post about how our State Legislature continues to be a hotbed for corruption. He takes a close look at the history of Pedro Espada to show how the culture in Albany and focus on power causes everyone to overlook even the worst ethics violations. One report found that 14 state legislators have been indicted or convicted in the past ten years, but that was prior to last week's addition of two more -- Kruger (pictured far left) and Boyland. Here is a revealing quote from the article by former Assemblyman Anthony Seminerio, who pled guilty to bribery and died in prison, “What the f - - - does it mean that we’re elected officials?” he said. “It doesn’t mean s - - -.”

Diaz Strikes Again -- Says He Will Accept Kruger Bucks

2011-03-13T07:40:00.000-07:00

State Senator Ruben Diaz, Sr. remains the best gift to political writers since Pedro Espada. After his sole remaining Amigo, Carl Kruger, was indicted on Friday, Diaz came out with a bizarre statement saying that if any of his colleagues were unsure what to do with money donated to them by Kruger they should just donate it his campaign. Jimmy Veilkind at Captiol Confidential has posted relevant portions of the press release. Some of his colleagues have offered to give the money to charity, but I guess Diaz thinks this is a more worthy cause.

The Lone Amigo in the Senate

2011-03-10T06:47:00.000-08:00

And now there is one -- one Amigo. As is reported in the New York Post, State Senator Carl Kruger has turned himself in today to face federal corruption charges. As you may recall, Kruger was one of the 4 Amigos in the State Senate that included Pedro Espada, Hiriam Monserrate, and Ruben Diaz, Sr. With both Espada and Monserrate having been indicted for various good deeds, that leaves only Diaz as the lone Amigo in the Senate. What an illustrious club.

Dueling Letters on Cuomo's Budget: UPDATE

2011-03-08T14:12:00.000-08:00

There is a contentious "battle of letters" brewing in Albany surrounding Governor Cuomo's budget proposals, and Bronx politicos are deeply involved on all sides. About a week ago, twenty Senate Democrats signed a letter supporting keeping in place the "millionaires tax" -- which applies to people making over $200,000. This letter apparently was spearheaded by Bronx Senator Gustavo Rivera, and it was also signed by Ruben Diaz, Sr. and Adriano Espaillat. Earlier, sixty eight members of the Assembly signed a similiar letter, including Bronx Boss Carl Heastie. Finally, there was another letter put out by another group of Democrats, including some members of the NYC Council and a number of Democratic State Committee members, applauding Cuomo for strong leadership on the budget and supporting the need to make tough choices. The Bronx is barely represented on this letter, but it does include Pat Williams (Bronx Democratic Activist), Aisha Ahmed (President – Liberty Democratic Club) and Joseph McManus (Bronx State Committeeperson). Believe it or not, there are actually a few other letters but I think you get the point. UPDATE: Here is Senator Ruben Diaz, Sr. again hitting the Gov. on the "millionaires tax", and of course on the issue of same sex marriage. This issue continues to rankle Albany. The Daily News has an editorial on it and Sheldon Silver is quoted in the NY Post saying they may have to compromise and "may adjust that to conform to the sound bite, all the way to a million."

Councilwoman Arroyo in Housing Flap

2011-03-07T08:31:00.000-08:00

Crain's New York is reporting that Councilwoman Carmen Arroyo might be in a bit of hot water over trying to steer the award of a building with a HUD mortgage to an organization in the Bronx with close ties to her. The article reports that "Ms. Arroyo apparently reached out numerous times to City Hall, Bronx Borough Hall and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's regional office in New York—run by former Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrion Jr.—to make her own case. She pressured officials to instead hand over the building to a Bronx-based team made up of real estate services firm Foxy Management Ltd. and the Neighborhood Association for Inter-Cultural Affairs, according to a dozen sources familiar with the situation. Executives and family members from Foxy donated at least $10,875 to Ms. Arroyo's two City Council campaigns, according to filings with the Campaign Finance Board. The councilwoman had previously pressed for the installation of South Bronx Community Corp., a nonprofit organization run by her nephew, as managing agent, according to Bronx political insiders. But that effort died last year when he pleaded guilty to stealing $115,000 from the group and was sentenced to a year in jail."