New York City Council
Committee on Technology
Mar 08, 2024
·
11:30 AM
2 hr 15 min
Summary
A hearing on the Fiscal Year 2025 preliminary budget for the Office of Technology and Innovation (OTI), discussing its allocation towards personnel, technology contracts, and projects including the Big Apple Connect public safety IT services and technology platforms for asylum seeker support. The hearing also covered upgrades to security at the Public Safety Answering Center and enhancements to the city's data center network. and the mayor's. Features testimony from OTI and the public.
Meeting chapters
Read summaries and watch videos for short segments that matter to you.
Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez opens FY 25 preliminary budget meeting for the Office of Technology and Innovation (OTI)
Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez kickstarts the Fiscal Year (FY) 25 preliminary budget meeting for the Office of Technology and Innovation (OTI), focusing on the financial planning and operational priorities. - …
0:00:32
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158 sec
Matthew Fraser, Chief Technology Officer, Office of Technology And Innovation (OTI) on OTI's Achievements, Priorities, and Budget for Fiscal Year 2025
Matthew Fraser discusses the Office of Technology And Innovation (OTI)'s fiscal year 2025 budget, its recent projects, and future plans. - Fraser highlights the consolidation of city tech agencies under …
0:03:31
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7 min
What are the details of the OTPS spending for the $44,800,000 in specific capital projects?
Deputy Commissioner Edwin Pemberton explains the allocation of $44,800,000 for specific capital projects in the OTPS spending. - The funding is part of the collaboration between the Office of Management …
0:11:08
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73 sec
What are the new needs addressed by the capital projects beyond 311 and cyber command?
Edwin Pemberton clarifies there are 5 different projects aside from 311 and labor command, with varied funding allocations. - $104,000 is allocated for 311 projects. - Applications receive $8,000,000 in …
0:12:21
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42 sec
What was the specific use of the allocated funds for NYC 311?
The funds allocated to NYC 311 were primarily used for maintenance and upgrades of the backend systems. - Deputy Commissioner Edwin Pemberton explained the funds were likely split in an …
0:13:03
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48 sec
What is the confirmed spending amount for infrastructure, and what does it cover?
The confirmed infrastructure spending amount is 27.9 million, covering various upgrades and maintenance costs. - The upgrades include enhancing the city's backbone network from 40 gig to 100 gig and …
0:13:50
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75 sec
What does the public safety spending relate to?
Chief Technology Officer Matthew Fraser explains that public safety spending is related to the next-generation 911 upgrade, including both capital-eligible and non-capital-eligible components. - Public safety spending relates to the …
0:15:09
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21 sec
How are specific capital projects prioritized by the Office of Technology And Innovation (OTI)?
Matthew Fraser, Chief Technology Officer, explains that capital project prioritization is based on impact to the constituency, especially considering fiscal challenges from the migraine crisis. - Prioritization is driven by …
0:15:30
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34 sec
How does the Office of Technology And Innovation (OTI) determine its impact on constituencies?
Matthew Fraser explains that the Office of Technology And Innovation (OTI) collaborates with other authorities to identify key priorities based on feedback from constituencies and agencies. - OTI operates primarily …
0:16:05
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32 sec
What is NYC Cyber Command’s budget, and how are the funds managed?
NYC's Cyber Command has a $5.1 million budget, primarily expense-based, with certain acquisitions not shared with capital due to procurement guidelines. - The $5.1 million budget may include acquisitions not …
0:16:37
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101 sec
How was the additional $1,000,000 for Project Cupid determined, and what is its future?
Deputy Commissioner Pemberton explains the funding and future of Project Cupid, a program for online marriage licenses initiated during COVID. - The additional $1,000,000 for licenses and technical support was …
0:18:18
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173 sec
How many people are using Project Cupid for licenses? What challenges are disabled users facing?
Approximately 40% of people use the application for licenses, with concerns raised about accessibility for disabled users. - Deputy Commissioner Edwin Pemberton suggests that 40% of people utilize the application, …
0:21:12
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42 sec
When will it be decided if Project Cupid will become a permanent program?
The decision regarding Project Cupid's permanence will be made between now and the executive plan. - Decision timeline is set between the current time and the executive plan. - Factors …
0:21:54
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14 sec
What are the Office of Technology and Innovation's services for the Housing Recovery Office?
The Office of Technology and Innovation (OTI) allocates $1,000,000 for software licenses and telecommunication costs to support the Housing Recovery Office (HRO). - OTI serves as the administrative and technical …
0:22:18
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99 sec
Why were 13 information technology positions added to the Office of Economic Opportunity, and what types of positions are they?
Matthew Fraser explains that the 13 information technology positions added to the Office of Economic Opportunity result from a consolidation effort, aiming to leverage existing tech resources citywide more effectively. …
0:23:59
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132 sec
Why is the Civic Engagement Commission (CEC) funding reduced in future fiscal years, and is there a relationship between the CEC and the Office of Technology and Innovation (OTI)?
Matthew Fraser, Chief Technology Officer of the Office of Technology And Innovation (OTI), states he cannot provide details on Civic Engagement Commission (CEC) funding reductions without the CEC head present, …
0:26:16
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92 sec
How was the PEG savings of $356k calculated and how is OTI renegotiating contracts?
The PEG savings of $356k was calculated by renegotiating contracts with vendors, leveraging the city's total buying power for better rates and discounts. - Large contracts were reviewed, and deals …
0:27:50
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5 min
Why is there a budget increase for asylum seekers' care from FY 2024 to FY 2025 and what will the additional funds cover?
The budget for the city's care for asylum seekers is set to increase due to changing rules and the need for updates to services. - The increase in budget is …
0:33:40
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88 sec
How is the budget for asylum seeker support affected by changing numbers of migrants?
Matthew Fraser explains that despite fewer migrants expected, there is a continual need to support a significant number still in the system, influencing budget allocations. - Fraser highlights the process …
0:35:08
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77 sec
What does the infrastructure at shelters include, specifically regarding technology?
Matthew Fraser, Chief Technology Officer, explains that the infrastructure at shelters includes a case management system, Wi-Fi, telecommunications services, and devices. - The infrastructure supports case management systems to aid …
0:36:25
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25 sec
Does the Office of Technology And Innovation (OTI) contract include IT or technical support for shelters?
The Office of Technology And Innovation (OTI) contract includes IT or technical support for shelters. - Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez inquires about IT and technical support under the OTA contract …
0:36:50
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13 sec
How is the budget allocated for Wi-Fi setup, case management application, and system enhancements?
The allocation of the $81 million budget includes funding for Wi-Fi setup, case management application development, and system enhancements to comply with new rules. - $10 million is dedicated to …
0:37:07
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6 min
What vendors are supporting asylum seekers and what are their responsibilities?
Matthew Fraser and Edwin Pemberton announce MTX, IBC, and Mason as the principal vendors for asylum seeker support, detailing their specific roles. - MTX oversees the case management system hosting. …
0:44:05
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3 min
Is there a use for city agencies to utilize technology for future emergencies?
The Chief Technology Officer emphasizes the importance of integrating emergency response systems into city agencies for future use. - Matthew Fraser highlights the importance of learning from past emergencies like …
0:47:28
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60 sec
Will there be a reduction in asylum seeker funding in the Executive Plan, and how is it being addressed?
Efforts are underway to reduce asylum seeker funding costs in the Executive Plan through contract renegotiations and rebidding. - The Office of Technology And Innovation (OTI) is engaged in proposals …
0:48:39
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63 sec
Which developments does the Big Apple Connect program cover, and are there plans to include RAD developments?
The Big Apple Connect program covers all major New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) developments except for Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) properties, with ongoing conversations about extending coverage. - The …
0:50:03
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110 sec
Why is the Big Apple Connect budget increasing for FY 2025, and who are the service providers?
The Big Apple Connect program's budget for FY 2025 increases due to higher service adoption rates that incur additional costs. - The Chief Technology Officer explains that costs rise as …
0:51:53
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38 sec
Why have discussions with Verizon and other providers not led to a partnership for Big Apple Connect?
Conversations with Verizon and other service providers regarding Big Apple Connect have not progressed to actionable partnerships due to fiscal responsibilities and current provider agreements. - Discussions with Verizon and …
0:52:31
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44 sec
Will the administration renew critical broadband service contracts, and what are the anticipated costs?
Chief Technology Officer Matthew Fraser confirms plans to renew critical broadband service contracts for public housing and addresses program costs. - The administration intends to renew contracts for a critical …
0:53:16
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3 min
What progress has been made on the Big Apple Connect program and other initiatives for expanding internet connectivity in NYC?
Chief Technology Officer Matthew Fraser discusses the expansion of NYC's internet connectivity programs, including public WiFi and Gigabit centers, as part of a broader effort to view the internet as …
0:56:31
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123 sec
How is the OTI engaging with individuals at risk of losing ACP service and the unconnected 20% of NYCHA residents?
The Office of Technology And Innovation (OTI) is addressing skepticism towards free services and boosting engagement to connect NYCHA residents with the Big Apple Connect program. - OTI notes skepticism …
0:58:34
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123 sec
What are the challenges in Internet adoption, and how is the Office of Technology And Innovation addressing them?
The Office of Technology And Innovation is addressing Internet adoption challenges beyond access, focusing on device availability and digital skills training. - Language barriers are not seen as the primary …
1:01:23
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4 min
What actions is the Office of Technology And Innovation (OTI) taking to maintain connections for Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) enrollees?
The Office of Technology And Innovation (OTI) is actively working to ensure Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) enrollees remain connected, both through advocacy and program extension efforts. - OTI lobbies at …
1:06:01
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59 sec
What accounts for the budget increase for 311 operations in fiscal year 2025?
The budget increase for 311 operations in fiscal year 2025 is due to non-baseline items including third-party support during call volume surges and upgrades to core systems. - Third-party support …
1:07:19
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68 sec
What are the improvements and public satisfaction with NYC's 311 service?
Public satisfaction with NYC's 311 call center agents is high, differing from satisfaction with the outcomes of service requests. - Public sentiment around 311 has consistently improved over the past …
1:08:28
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133 sec
How does the Office of Technology And Innovation (OTI) measure public satisfaction after service completion, and what does the future hold for the resolution satisfaction dashboard?
The Office of Technology And Innovation (OTI) uses a resolution satisfaction dashboard to measure public sentiment after service completion, with a public version of the dashboard expected to be launched …
1:10:42
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170 sec
What explains the budget reduction for the my city portal in FY 2025?
The budget reduction for FY 2025 reflects a one-time funding allocation for FY 2024 that is not extending into FY 2025. - The Office of Technology And Innovation (OTI) clarifies …
1:14:23
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3 min
What progress has been made on enhancing 311's and 911's location accuracy?
The Office of Technology And Innovation (OTI) is in the scoping phase of developing a unified mapping solution to enhance 311's and 911's location accuracy, with a realization timeline roughly …
1:18:16
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4 min
How is user feedback being incorporated into the improvement of services by the Office of Technology And Innovation (OTI)?
The Office of Technology And Innovation (OTI) adopts a user-centric application development model to incorporate user feedback into service improvement. - OTI involves users early in the development process to …
1:22:38
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82 sec
Are there financial constraints impacting improvements in location services, and what are other cities doing?
The Chief Technology Officer mentions potential financial constraints on improving location services and highlights collaboration with major cities like Chicago, Los Angeles, and Atlanta. - Financial constraints could arise, requiring …
1:24:01
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56 sec
Which services are being upgraded and which new ones are planned within the Office of Technology and Innovation (OTI)?
The Office of Technology and Innovation (OTI) is upgrading services related to childcare, small businesses, and jobs, and planning new housing benefits programs. - Upgrades include applications for childcare, employment …
1:24:59
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101 sec
Is the Office of Technology and Innovation utilizing state subsidies or funding?
The Office of Technology and Innovation (OTI) explores state capital opportunities for its projects, including a childcare program, but doesn't receive specific state funding for application development. - OTI seeks …
1:26:42
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77 sec
Why has the development of the MyCity app shifted from in-house to outsourcing, and what are the financial implications?
The development of the MyCity app has shifted from in-house to outsourcing due to workforce challenges, with $41,000,000 earmarked for its development. - The Chief Technology Officer (CTO) mentions challenges …
1:28:03
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3 min
Who are the vendors for MyCiti?
Deputy Commissioner Edwin Pemberton names several vendors for MyCiti, including CDW and Inter Business Concepts (IBC). - CDW is mentioned as a vendor for MyCiti. - Inter Business Concepts (IBC), …
1:31:27
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34 sec
Which entities are considered Minority or Women-owned Business Enterprises (MWBEs)?
The Council Member inquires about the MWBE status of entities, and is told IBC is an MWA, a term not explained, while SHI is referred to ambiguously. - The inquiry …
1:32:02
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10 sec
Were any Requests for Proposals (RFPs) issued for specific vendors, and does the type of service affect the issuance of RFPs?
Chief Technology Officer Matthew Fraser confirms that RFPs were issued for certain services, while others do not typically require RFPs. - For software licenses or hardware, direct quotes and mini …
1:32:13
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61 sec
Is the Office of Technology And Innovation (OTI) considering shifting services to in-house operations?
Chief Technology Officer Matthew Fraser discusses OTI's strategy to possibly shift services in-house, emphasizing the evaluation of their hiring and recruitment strategy to support internal operations. - OTI is evaluating …
1:33:16
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69 sec
What level of data access do vendors have when servicing the MyCity portal?
Vendors servicing the MyCity portal have varying levels of access to data, depending on the services they provide. - Vendors providing infrastructure and products have no access to data. - …
1:34:25
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47 sec
Which vendor has access to personal information?
Matthew Fraser clarifies that IBC conducts QA in a test environment and does not necessarily have access to personal identifiable information (PII), and most data is managed by city resources …
1:35:18
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52 sec
Who is responsible in the event of a data breach?
Chief Technology Officer Matthew Fraser states he is responsible for any data breaches within the system. - Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez inquires about responsibility for data breaches. - Matthew Fraser, …
1:36:10
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39 sec
What are the updated plans for the 5G tower rollout in New York City?
The 5G rollout in New York City is proceeding with a phased plan, following a temporary pause for federal approval. - Matthew Fraser, Chief Technology Officer, confirms the clearance from …
1:36:52
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107 sec
How is the new design process for public initiatives approached, and what are the considerations for deployment in equity and destination neighborhoods?
Matthew Fraser details the process of selecting new designs for public initiatives and the considerations for rapid deployment in various neighborhoods. - The design process includes presenting to community boards …
1:38:39
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6 min
Is customer satisfaction for the 311 service based on surveys, and does the service include only phone calls?
Chief Technology Officer Matthew Fraser confirms customer satisfaction for the 311 service is based on surveys and explains the service is not limited to phone calls. - Customer satisfaction for …
1:44:46
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21 sec
Is customer satisfaction for the 311 service measured only through phone call surveys?
Council Member Gutiérrez inquires about the basis of customer satisfaction for the 311 service, asking if it is measured solely through phone call surveys. Chief Technology Officer Fraser clarifies that …
1:44:48
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23 sec
How does the opt-in process work for receiving surveys?
Matthew Fraser outlines how individuals can opt in for future communications and surveys when called or using a specific app. - Individuals get a prompt to opt in when called. …
1:45:11
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22 sec
What is the status and budget for the security upgrades at PSAC 1, and is additional capital funding anticipated?
The security upgrade project at PSAC 1, with a budget of $4,700,000, is ongoing and no additional capital funding is anticipated currently. - The project focuses on exterior security enhancements, …
1:45:44
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140 sec
What is the CitiNet upgrade and what does it entail?
Matthew Fraser explains the CitiNet upgrade as a significant enhancement to the network's capacity, speed, and resilience. - CitiNet is the backbone network supporting communication across city agencies. - The …
1:48:05
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69 sec
What is the status of the citywide data center network upgrade project?
Chief Technology Officer Matthew Fraser confirms the citywide data center network upgrade project is ongoing and on track. - The project focuses on connecting assets within the data center, such …
1:49:16
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76 sec
How does the AI action plan aim to serve new workers in New York City?
The AI action plan is designed to embrace new technologies and guide the city’s investments in artificial intelligence to serve broader interests. - The plan aims to build a consortium …
1:50:33
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109 sec
What progress has been made in the AI action plan's service delivery component?
Matthew Fraser, Chief Technology Officer at the Office of Technology And Innovation (OTI), outlines the progress in the service delivery component of the AI action plan, focusing on building a …
1:52:25
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173 sec
How is AI being used to expedite the contract backlog in NYC?
NYC is exploring AI to expedite contract backlog and improve service efficiency, particularly through Mox and voice assistant technologies. - Matthew Fraser highlights how AI can alleviate mundane, repetitive tasks, …
1:55:18
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71 sec
How does the steering committee operate, and is there funding specific to its initiatives?
The steering committee operates under the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) with representation from every agency, without specific funding for the committees themselves. - The steering committee is chaired by the …
1:56:29
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122 sec
What are the AI specific procurement standards under development?
Chief Technology Officer Matthew Fraser describes the development of AI-specific procurement standards focusing on privacy, cybersecurity, contract scrutiny, computing costs, and security measures. - Privacy and cyber writers are essential …
1:58:37
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56 sec
Who is involved in developing the procurement standards?
The advisory board and internal committee are involved in developing the procurement standards, incorporating both external and internal perspectives. - Chief Technology Officer Matthew Fraser states the advisory board and …
1:59:33
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31 sec
How often do committees plan to meet, and what is their coordination strategy?
The committees are scheduled to meet at least quarterly, with additional monthly meetings focused on AI and public safety. - At least quarterly meetings are planned for both committees. - …
2:00:05
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33 sec
Can Council Members Be Part of Working Groups, and How to Join?
Chief Technology Officer Matthew Fraser confirms Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez's inclusion in working groups, noting a more inclusive policy. - Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez inquires about the possibility of council …
2:00:39
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10 sec
Can the 2023 report on AI use across city government, mandated by Local Law 35 of 2022, be shared with the committee?
Matthew Fraser commits to locating and sharing the mandated 2023 report on AI use within city government with the committee. - Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez inquires about the availability of …
2:00:50
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18 sec
How is the AI tool performing on the Small Business Services (SBS) site, and what feedback has it received?
The AI tool on the Small Business Services site is performing well and has received positive feedback, especially from restaurant business owners and other cities. - Restaurant business owners state …
2:01:08
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65 sec
Greg Morris, CEO of the New York City Employment and Training Coalition, on Enhancing Workforce Development Through Technology and Economic Development
Greg Morris advocates for the integration of technology and economic development in workforce strategies to ensure equitable opportunities and inclusivity. - Emphasizes the coalition's role as the leading voice for …
2:03:53
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139 sec
Daniel Golliher, Founder of the Civic School Maximum New York, on Civic Engagement and Tech Sector Collaboration
Daniel Golliher testifies about the increasing civic engagement in the tech sector and its implications for city governance. - Daniel Golliher emphasizes the rising public interest in understanding city governance …
2:06:16
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95 sec
What are the expectations and benchmarks for the Office of Technology and Innovation's (OTI) involvement in digital literacy?
Council Member Gutiérrez questions the Office of Technology and Innovation's (OTI) commitment to digital literacy and seeks advice on expectations and benchmarks for success. - OTI has shifted its stance …
2:07:59
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78 sec
Which communities or demographics should be targeted to increase New Yorkers' placement in tech jobs?
The discussion addresses the need for targeted efforts to place more New Yorkers in tech jobs, mentioning current strategies and gaps. - Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez questions whether there are …
2:09:20
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3 min
Misconduct during a testimony
Alex Stein makes several offensive remarks towards Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez.
2:13:11
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128 sec