New York City Council
Committee on Rules, Privileges and Elections
Jun 11, 2024
·
10:00 AM
1 hr 26 min
Summary
A hearing on nominations for various city positions:
- Michael McSweeney for reappointment as City Clerk and Clerk of the Council
- Raju Mann for the City Planning Commission
- Helen Skipper for the NYC Board of Corrections
- Tricia Taitt and Dr. Vincent Calamia for the NYC Health and Hospitals Corporation Board
Discussions focused on budget challenges in the City Clerk's office, connecting zoning with capital planning, reforming correctional institutions, banning solitary confinement, and the financial and medical expertise needed for the Health and Hospitals Corporation.
Meeting chapters
Read summaries and watch videos for short segments that matter to you.
Overview of nominations to be heard in the committee meeting
Council Member Keith Powers presents an overview of the five nominations to be considered during the committee meeting. The nominations include: - Michael McSweeney for reappointment as City Clerk and …
0:01:34
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59 sec
Review of City Clerk duties and responsibilities
Council Member Keith Powers provides an overview of the functions and qualifications of the City Clerk and Clerk of the Council. The duties are set forth in section 48 of …
0:02:33
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81 sec
Introduction of Michael McSweeney for reappointment as City Clerk
Council Member Keith Powers introduces Michael McSweeney for reappointment as City Clerk and Clerk of the Council. The process of swearing in the nominee begins. - Michael McSweeney has served …
0:03:54
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54 sec
City Clerk Michael McSweeney's testimony for reappointment
Michael McSweeney, the current City Clerk, provides testimony for his reappointment, highlighting his accomplishments and passion for the role. He discusses his duties as Clerk of the Council and City …
0:04:49
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3 min
Council member's introduction and appreciation for City Clerk's assistance during COVID-19
Council Member Keith Powers opens the session by congratulating Michael McSweeney on his reappointment as City Clerk. He expresses gratitude for the assistance provided by the City Clerk's office during …
0:08:29
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71 sec
Budget cuts and staffing challenges in the City Clerk's office
Michael McSweeney discusses the significant budget and staffing challenges faced by the City Clerk's office due to recent cuts. He explains how these reductions have affected the agency's operations and …
0:09:41
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91 sec
Impact of budget cuts on marriage license services
Michael McSweeney explains how budget cuts have affected the City Clerk's office's ability to provide marriage license services efficiently. He highlights the challenges in meeting appointment demands and the potential …
0:11:13
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62 sec
Economic impact of marriage equality on New York City
Michael McSweeney discusses the significant economic impact of marriage equality on New York City, referencing a 2013 analysis by NYC GO. He emphasizes how budget cuts affecting marriage license services …
0:12:15
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80 sec
Staffing challenges in the Lobbying Bureau
Michael McSweeney outlines the staffing challenges faced by the Lobbying Bureau, highlighting the disproportionate workload compared to similar state-level offices. He explains how the small team manages to handle their …
0:13:35
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86 sec
Need for a full-time trainer in the Lobbying Bureau
Michael McSweeney discusses the need for a full-time trainer in the Lobbying Bureau, explaining how this position was originally funded but has not been filled. He outlines the challenges this …
0:15:01
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69 sec
Effectiveness of current lobbying laws and regulations
Michael McSweeney discusses the effectiveness of current lobbying laws and regulations in New York City. He explains how the city's regulatory scheme is robust and serves as a model for …
0:16:13
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3 min
Enforcement mechanisms for lobbying laws
Michael McSweeney explains the enforcement mechanisms used to ensure compliance with lobbying laws, particularly focusing on the system of late fees. He discusses how these fees serve as a deterrent …
0:19:21
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78 sec
Lobbyist reporting database and its effectiveness
Michael McSweeney discusses the lobbyist reporting database, highlighting its features and effectiveness in promoting transparency and compliance in lobbying activities. - The database provides public access to information on lobbyists, …
0:20:40
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69 sec
Discussion on staffing and diversity in the City Clerk's office
Council Member Pierina Ana Sanchez inquires about the staffing and diversity in the City Clerk's office. City Clerk Michael McSweeney provides a detailed response on the office's structure, staffing across …
0:22:22
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3 min
Introduction of City Planning Commission nomination
Council Member Keith Powers introduces the next nomination for the City Planning Commission. He announces that Manhattan Borough President Mark Levin has requested the council's advice and consent for the …
0:26:22
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29 sec
Functions and responsibilities of the City Planning Commission
Council Member Keith Powers provides a detailed overview of the functions and responsibilities of the City Planning Commission (CPC). The CPC is responsible for planning related to the city's growth, …
0:26:51
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151 sec
Membership qualifications and structure of the City Planning Commission
Council Member Keith Powers explains the membership qualifications and structure of the City Planning Commission (CPC). The CPC consists of 13 members with specific appointment procedures and term lengths. - …
0:29:26
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51 sec
Introduction of nominee Raju Mann
Council Member Keith Powers introduces Raju Mann, the nominee for the City Planning Commission, and administers the oath. Mann is sworn in and invited to testify. - Raju Mann previously …
0:30:20
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57 sec
Raju Mann's testimony for City Planning Commission nomination
Raju Mann, nominee for the City Planning Commission, presents his background and outlines his priorities if confirmed. He emphasizes his experience in public and nonprofit sectors, understanding of zoning and …
0:31:17
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170 sec
Introduction and discussion of housing crisis in New York City
Council Member Keith Powers introduces the topic of the housing affordability crisis in New York City and asks the nominee, Raju Mann, about potential improvements to the land use process. …
0:34:11
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113 sec
Improving the land use process through integration of capital planning and zoning
Raju Mann discusses potential improvements to the land use process, focusing on integrating capital planning with zoning and development frameworks. He emphasizes the importance of helping communities understand how public …
0:36:05
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84 sec
Considering community feedback in the ULURP process
Keith Powers inquires about how community feedback might influence Raju Mann's approach to applications in the ULURP process. Mann emphasizes the importance of building trust and responding to feedback to …
0:37:29
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104 sec
Balancing community feedback with city-wide objectives in land use decisions
Keith Powers asks Raju Mann about the criteria for determining when an application is not ready to move forward based on community feedback. Mann discusses the challenge of balancing community …
0:39:13
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122 sec
City Council experience and its relevance to City Planning Commission role
Keith Powers asks Raju Mann about how his experience in the City Council has informed his ability to take on the role in the City Planning Commission. Mann reflects on …
0:41:16
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77 sec
Addressing housing affordability and the role of City Planning Commission
Keith Powers raises the issue of housing affordability in New York City, asking Raju Mann about the City Planning Commission's role in addressing these challenges. Mann discusses the complex interplay …
0:42:33
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3 min
Impact of City Council experience on City Planning Commission role
Council Member Sanchez questions nominee Raju Mann about how his City Council experience would influence his approach to the City Planning Commission role, particularly in balancing affordability concerns with community …
0:46:15
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62 sec
Addressing housing affordability through land use policy
Raju Mann elaborates on the limitations of land use policy in addressing deep affordability needs, particularly for low-income households. He explains the challenges of using land use tools to meet …
0:47:18
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45 sec
Role of different agencies in addressing housing challenges
Raju Mann outlines the collaborative approach needed among various city agencies to address New York City's housing challenges. He emphasizes the importance of integrating land use policy with housing policy …
0:48:02
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66 sec
Approach to problem-solving in land use projects
Raju Mann discusses how his diverse experience in land use systems will inform his approach as a member of the City Planning Commission. He emphasizes early problem identification and leveraging …
0:49:09
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91 sec
Personal endorsement of the nominee by Council Member Powers
Council Member Keith Powers offers a personal endorsement of Raju Mann for the City Planning Commission, highlighting Mann's understanding of land use dynamics and elected official considerations. - Powers commends …
0:50:42
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55 sec
Overview of the Board of Corrections' responsibilities
Council Member Keith Powers outlines the key responsibilities of the New York City Board of Corrections. He emphasizes their role in overseeing the Department of Correction and establishing standards for …
0:51:56
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41 sec
Composition and appointment process of the Board of Corrections
Council Member Keith Powers details the structure and appointment process for the New York City Board of Corrections. He explains the distribution of appointments and the terms of service for …
0:52:37
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40 sec
Board of Corrections' reporting requirements and grievance procedures
Council Member Keith Powers outlines the reporting requirements and grievance procedures established for the New York City Board of Corrections. He emphasizes the Board's role in addressing complaints and improving …
0:53:18
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41 sec
Importance of the Board of Corrections and welcome to Helen Skipper
Council Member Keith Powers concludes by emphasizing the significance of the Board of Corrections and welcoming the nominee, Helen Skipper. He draws on his experience as the former chair of …
0:53:59
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22 sec
Helen Skipper's testimony on the importance of lived experience in reforming correctional institutions
Helen Skipper, a nominee for the NYC Board of Corrections, emphasizes the importance of including individuals with lived experience in the process of reforming correctional institutions. She stresses the need …
0:54:40
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105 sec
Helen Skipper discusses the role of the Board of Corrections
Helen Skipper explains the role of the Board of Corrections in overseeing the Department of Corrections, ensuring minimum standards are met, and promoting accountability and transparency. She emphasizes her unique …
0:56:25
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123 sec
Discussion on implementing the ban on solitary confinement
Council Member Keith Powers inquires about the implementation of Local Law 42, which bans solitary confinement in city jails. Helen Skipper expresses strong support for the ban and discusses its …
0:58:31
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62 sec
Helen Skipper's perspective on the Rikers Island closure plan
Helen Skipper discusses her support for the plan to close Rikers Island and move to borough-based facilities, while also suggesting modifications to improve the plan's effectiveness. - Skipper supports the …
0:59:34
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106 sec
Improving participation in educational programs in jail facilities
Helen Skipper addresses the issue of low participation in voluntary educational and other programming inside jail facilities, offering insights on how to improve engagement and the overall culture. - Skipper …
1:01:21
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160 sec
Addressing deaths at Rikers Island and the BOC's role in prevention
Helen Skipper discusses the increasing number of deaths at Rikers Island and outlines the potential role of the Board of Corrections in preventing and overseeing these incidents. - Skipper emphasizes …
1:04:05
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101 sec
Introduction of Health and Hospitals Corporation appointment nominees
Council Member Keith Powers introduces the final public hearing for two council designations for appointment to the Health and Hospitals Corporation. He names the nominees: Trisha Tate from Queens and …
1:05:47
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35 sec
Overview of Health and Hospitals Corporation responsibilities
Council Member Keith Powers provides an overview of the New York City Health and Hospitals Corporation (HHC), explaining its purpose and responsibilities. The HHC was established as a public benefit …
1:06:23
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53 sec
Explanation of Health and Hospitals Corporation Board of Directors structure
Council Member Keith Powers provides a detailed explanation of the Health and Hospitals Corporation's Board of Directors structure, including its composition, committees, and appointment process. - The board consists of …
1:07:17
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89 sec
Swearing in of Health and Hospitals Corporation nominees
Council Member Keith Powers welcomes the nominees, Trisha Tate and Dr. Vincent Calamia, and prepares to administer the oath of office. - The council member asks the nominees to raise …
1:08:47
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14 sec
Tricia Taitt's testimony for Health and Hospitals Corporation Board nomination
Tricia Taitt, a nominee for the NYC Health and Hospitals Corporation Board, briefly addressed the committee, highlighting her 24 years of experience as a finance professional. She emphasized her readiness …
1:09:22
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39 sec
Dr. Vincent Calamia's Brief Testimony for Health and Hospitals Corporation Board Reappointment
Dr. Vincent Calamia, a nominee for reappointment to the NYC Health and Hospitals Corporation Board, delivers a brief, impromptu testimony expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve again and acknowledging …
1:10:04
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28 sec
Council Member Brooks-Powers endorses multiple candidates
Council Member Selvena N. Brooks-Powers expresses her support for several candidates up for appointment, including Michael McSweeney and Raju Mann. She highlights their contributions to the City Council and land …
1:10:44
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62 sec
Endorsement of Tricia Taitt for Health and Hospitals Corporation Board
Council Member Brooks-Powers strongly endorses Tricia Taitt for appointment to the Health and Hospitals Corporation Board, highlighting her extensive qualifications and potential contributions to the board. - Taitt is described …
1:11:46
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36 sec
Berger Commission recommendations and hospital closure process explained
Dr. Vincent Calamia provides a detailed explanation of the Berger Commission's recommendations and the process of hospital closures in Queens. He discusses the rationale behind the closures, the impact assessment …
1:12:24
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177 sec
Assessment and management of hospital closures' impact
Tricia Taitt discusses the importance of assessing and managing the impact of hospital closures on the healthcare system. She emphasizes the need for a comprehensive evaluation of the effects on …
1:15:25
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96 sec
HHC's role in managing HERRCs and emergency response capabilities
Council Member Keith Powers inquires about the Health and Hospitals Corporation's role in managing Humanitarian Emergency Response and Relief Centers (HERRCs) and its emergency response capabilities. Both Tricia Taitt and …
1:17:05
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158 sec
Important knowledge bases for HHC board members beyond medical expertise
Dr. Vincent Calamia discusses the importance of diverse expertise on the HHC board, emphasizing the need for knowledge beyond just medical backgrounds. He highlights the various challenges and areas of …
1:19:43
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145 sec
Tricia Taitt's qualifications and approach to serving on the HHC board
Tricia Taitt outlines her qualifications and approach to serving on the Health and Hospitals Corporation board. She emphasizes her financial expertise, management experience, and previous board involvement as key strengths …
1:22:10
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3 min
