Board of Estimate and Contract Meeting — April 17, 2018
After a lively discussion between the board members, a resolution supported strongly by Mayor Thomas and Comptroller Reynolds that would allow taxpayers involved in 2015, 2016, or 2017 foreclosure proceedings to make partial payments toward their tax arrears was unanimously approved. Council President Copeland voted aye as it was the will of the council, but voiced her personal opposition, citing a revenue gap of $1.25 million if the interest and penalties are not collected. Mayor Thomas countered, suggesting a number of areas for making up the revenue: passing the cable contract which has been on the desk of the City Council for two years would bring in ~$1 million; working with NYPA instead of an unqualified contractor for our street light saved hundreds of thousands; and properly funding the Building Department which would generate massive revenues for the city.
This week’s agenda included 27 items under four (4) categories including:
- Resolutions Approving Ordinances
- Settlements
- Tax Review Settlements
- Retainers
Of the 27 items, 22 items were passed 5 items were held due to the need for more information by the members of the board. A resolution authorizing the comptroller to create a new budget line for the cleanup and revitalization of Memorial Field was held because Comptroller Reynolds believes that a budget line for that purpose already exists, and she offered to retrieve and provide the line number to the board.
To view the agenda, click here:
To view the meeting, click here:
https://www.facebook.com/MayorRichardThomas/videos/593213794366419/
