Harary bids for Quart’s Assembly seat
Rebecca Harary. Republican/Independence/Women’s Equality/Reform/Libertarian/Stop de Blasio
What three things do you most want to get done in the state legislature during the next two years?
After both Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver and Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos were convicted of corruption charges, it became obvious that Albany needs institutional reform. One of the first pieces of legislation I will introduce in the State Assembly would institute Term Limits for legislators. I will also make a commitment to be a full time legislator while I serve as an Assemblywoman.
We must make substantial policy changes to address the fact that homelessness has doubled while Bill de Blasio has been in office. I will work hard to bring more funding to mental health and substance abuse services that will aid the homeless in getting them off the street.
Many parts of my district, including Lexington Avenue, have seen a proliferation of vacant storefronts. Small businesses form the character of our neighborhood and add to our quality of life. I plan on introducing legislation to repeal the Commercial Rent Tax so that small businesses can return to the East Side.
Do you think you will be able to work with the opposition party? How?
As a mother of 6, grandmother of 7, and wife of 33 years, I know how to resolve conflicts, bring people together, and see both sides of an argument. I will bring a different skill set to Albany: problem solving, listening, and getting things done. I’m grateful to have received the Independence Party endorsement which speaks volumes about my ability to work with people on both sides of the aisle.
What is your favorite TV show, and why?
My favorite show is “Blue Bloods” because it is centered around the NYPD and their families. As an NYPD Community Liaison, I feel that the show gives a respectful view of the judgment employed by the police. It shows that policing comes from the heart and the law.
Dan Quart, Democrat/Working Families
What three things do you most want to get done in the state legislature during the next two years?
My three priorities during the next legislative session are transportation infrastructure funding, addressing the needs of our homeless population and expanding the state’s payment of Medicaid funding. During this past year, we were able to secure $1 billion to continue construction of the Second Avenue Subway, as well as critical funding for bus and train maintenance. We need to create dedicated sources of revenue to continue funding our transportation infrastructure needs. We must also increase the homeless shelter allowance and create a state subsidy program to help families remain in their homes. Lastly, the state of New York should commit to expanding its payment of Medicaid benefits. By doing so, New York City would be able to keep more of its revenue to address its critical needs.
Do you think you will be able to work with the opposition party? How?
During my five years in office I have worked in a bi-partisan manner to pass legislation reforming the state’s insurance law, require greater disclosure within the City’s property tax system, and create a $15 million fund to improve our air quality. I sponsored legislation with a republican state senator that was the impetus for the state’s environmental agency setting aside $15 million to retrofit boilers to use cleaner fuel oil. This will have a direct and positive impact on our air quality.
What is your favorite TV show, and why?
My favorite television show is “Teen Titans Go” because that is the only show both my children will agree to watch together.
Donal Butterfield, the Green Party candidate, did not submit answers to the questionnaire.