Your guide to NYC's public proceedings.
New York City Council
Committee on Rules, Privileges and Elections
Apr 28, 2025
·
10:00 AM
1 hr 55 min
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Summary
A hearing on nominations and reappointments to various New York City commissions.
Discussions focused on the reappointment of members to the Board of Correction, new appointments to the Landmarks Preservation Commission, and a nomination for president of the Tax Commission.
Features testimony from the nominees, including Board of Correction members, Landmarks Preservation Commission candidates, the Tax Commission nominee, and the public.
Meeting chapters
Read summaries and watch videos for short segments that matter to you.
Council Member Keith Powers introduces the Rules, Privileges, and Elections Committee meeting agenda
Council Member Keith Powers opens the meeting of the Rules, Privileges, and Elections Committee, introducing committee members and staff. He outlines the agenda, which includes reappointments to the Board of …
0:01:08
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3 min
Dr. Robert Cohen's testimony on reappointment to NYC Board of Correction
Dr. Robert Cohen provided testimony regarding his reappointment to the New York City Board of Correction. He shared his background in medicine, his experience working in correctional healthcare, and expressed …
0:05:35
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88 sec
Helen Skipper's testimony on her reappointment to the NYC Board of Correction
Helen Skipper, a formerly incarcerated individual, testifies before the NYC City Council Committee on Rules, Privileges and Elections regarding her reappointment to the NYC Board of Correction. She emphasizes her …
0:07:06
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130 sec
Council Member Keith Powers thanks Board of Correction nominees
Council Member Keith Powers expresses gratitude to two Board of Correction nominees for their testimony and service. He acknowledges their independence, thoughtfulness, and commitment, particularly in advocating for those in …
0:09:17
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41 sec
Council Member Brewer questions nominees on reducing Rikers Island population
Council Member Gale A. Brewer questions Dr. Robert Cohen and Helen Skipper, nominees for the NYC Board of Correction, about strategies to reduce the inmate population at Rikers Island. The …
0:10:01
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138 sec
Vote outcome: Resolutions adopted unanimously
The clerk announced the results of the vote on two resolutions. Both resolutions were adopted unanimously by the committee. - Yeas: 9 - Nays: 0 - Abstentions: 0
0:13:29
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8 sec
Introduction to Landmarks Preservation Commission nominations
Council Member Keith Powers introduces the next group of hearings for nominations to the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC). He mentions that Mayor Eric Adams has requested the council's advice and …
0:13:42
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25 sec
Overview of the Landmarks Preservation Commission's powers and composition
Council Member Keith Powers provides a detailed overview of the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC), including its powers, duties, and composition. - The LPC has the power to designate landmarks, interior …
0:14:07
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65 sec
Introduction of Landmarks Preservation Commission nominees
Council Member Keith Powers introduces the nominees for the Landmarks Preservation Commission, providing detailed background information on each candidate. - Nominees include Frank Mahan, Steven Chue, Erasmus Ikpemgbe, Steven Wilder, …
0:15:16
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3 min
Steven Chu's testimony for reappointment to NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission
Steven Chu, an architect and current commissioner of the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission, provides testimony for his renomination to the position. He outlines his experience, qualifications, and vision for preserving …
0:19:26
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4 min
Commissioner Angie Master's testimony on reappointment to NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission
Commissioner Angie Master testifies before the NYC City Council Committee on Rules, Privileges and Elections regarding her reappointment to the Landmarks Preservation Commission. She outlines her background, experience, and contributions …
0:23:38
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3 min
Stephen Wilder's testimony for Landmarks Preservation Commission nomination
Stephen Wilder, an architect from Harlem, presents his testimony for nomination to the Landmarks Preservation Commission. He highlights his extensive experience in architecture, dedication to community enrichment, and passion for …
0:27:42
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4 min
Erasmus Ikpemgbe's testimony for nomination to the Landmarks Preservation Commission
Erasmus Ikpemgbe, a nominee for the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission, presents his background in architecture, experience with preservation projects, and vision for the role. He highlights his diverse …
0:32:16
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4 min
Frank Mahan's introduction and perspective on historic preservation
Frank Mahan introduces himself as a nominee for the Landmarks Preservation Commission, expressing gratitude for the nomination and highlighting his expertise in preservation and adaptive reuse. He emphasizes the importance …
0:37:09
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38 sec
Frank Mahan's professional experience and expertise in preservation
Frank Mahan outlines his professional role and expertise in the field of historic preservation and adaptive reuse. He is a design principal at Skidmore, Owens and Merrill, a globally influential …
0:37:48
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30 sec
Frank Mahan's notable preservation and adaptive reuse projects
Frank Mahan details several significant preservation and adaptive reuse projects he has led in New York City, showcasing his expertise in working with various types of historic buildings. - Projects …
0:38:18
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134 sec
Frank Mahan's approach and philosophy on historic preservation
Frank Mahan outlines his approach to historic preservation, emphasizing the importance of thorough research and understanding of a building's history and context before shaping its future. - Mahan's approach is …
0:40:34
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64 sec
Frank Mahan's personal connection to architecture and New York City
Frank Mahan shares his personal background and connection to architecture and New York City, highlighting the influences that led him to his current career and commitment to the city. - …
0:41:39
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47 sec
Council Member Brewer introduces questions for LPC nominees
Council Member Gale A. Brewer introduces three specific questions for the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) nominees. The questions focus on criteria for granting hardship, defining demolition by neglect, and the …
0:42:36
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69 sec
Steven Chu responds to questions on hardship and demolition by neglect
Steven Chu, a commissioner for the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission, responds to Council Member Brewer's questions about granting hardship, defining demolition by neglect, and the LPC's ability to permit restoration …
0:43:44
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3 min
Angie Master discusses hardship cases and demolition by neglect
Angie Master, a commissioner for the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission, responds to Council Member Brewer's questions about hardship cases, demolition by neglect, and the LPC's role in permitting …
0:47:16
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3 min
Stephen Wilder addresses questions on LPC processes and responsibilities
Stephen Wilder, a nominee for the Landmark Preservation Commission, responds to Council Member Brewer's questions about hardship grants, demolition by neglect, and restoration permissions. - Wilder acknowledges his limited experience …
0:50:28
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95 sec
Erasmus Ikpemgbe responds to inquiries on LPC processes
Erasmus Ikpemgbe, a nominee for the Landmark Preservation Commission, addresses Council Member Brewer's questions about hardship grants, demolition by neglect, and restoration permissions. - Ikpemgbe acknowledges his limited experience with …
0:52:07
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104 sec
Frank Mahan discusses LPC responsibilities and processes
Frank Mahan, a nominee for the Landmark Preservation Commission, responds to Council Member Brewer's questions about hardship grants, demolition by neglect, and restoration permissions. - Mahan acknowledges his limited knowledge …
0:53:53
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85 sec
Council Member Brewer provides closing remarks on landmark preservation
Council Member Gale A. Brewer concludes the questioning with additional information about hardship criteria and emphasizes the importance of landmark preservation. - Brewer mentions that there are four categories that …
0:55:18
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36 sec
Council Member Hudson inquires about preserving culturally significant structures
Council Member Crystal Hudson asks the LPC nominees about their approach to preserving structures that are culturally or historically significant to local communities, even if they are not officially landmarked. …
0:55:55
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138 sec
Steven Chu explains LPC's process for identifying and designating landmarks
Steven Chu, a Commissioner of the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission, responds to Council Member Hudson's question about preserving culturally significant structures. He explains the LPC's process for identifying and designating …
0:58:12
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125 sec
Angie Master details LPC staff's role in preparing landmark proposals
Angie Master, a Commissioner of the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission, elaborates on the role of LPC staff in preparing landmark proposals. She explains the process of how buildings and districts …
1:00:23
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71 sec
Stephen Wilder shares personal experience with community landmark loss and preservation efforts
Stephen Wilder, a nominee for the Landmark Preservation Commission, shares his personal and professional experiences with community landmark loss and preservation efforts. He discusses growing up in Harlem and witnessing …
1:01:40
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162 sec
Erasmus Ikpemgbe discusses the importance of preserving architectural, historical, and cultural significance
Erasmus Ikpemgbe, a nominee for the Landmark Preservation Commission, shares his perspective on the importance of preserving architectural, historical, and cultural significance in the city. He emphasizes the commission's charge …
1:04:32
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80 sec
Frank Mahan explains the meaning of architecture and its role in preserving history and culture
Frank Mahan, a nominee for the Landmark Preservation Commission, shares his perspective on the meaning of architecture and its importance in preserving history and culture. He emphasizes that buildings are …
1:05:56
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61 sec
Council Member Hudson urges commissioners to challenge staff recommendations when necessary
Council Member Crystal Hudson concludes the discussion by emphasizing the importance of commissioners being willing to challenge staff recommendations. She encourages the nominees to question proposals and consider their impact …
1:06:58
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33 sec
Council Member Farías asks about LPC's role in balancing preservation and development
Council Member Amanda Farías introduces questions about the Landmarks Preservation Commission's role in balancing historic preservation with new development needs and reflecting the city's diversity. She emphasizes the importance of …
1:07:34
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67 sec
Steven Chu discusses LPC's approach to housing development and borough representation
Steven Chu, a commissioner of the Landmarks Preservation Commission, addresses the balance between historic preservation and housing development, as well as efforts to increase representation across all five boroughs. - …
1:09:06
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125 sec
Angie Master explains LPC's approach to development and diversity in designations
Angie Master, a commissioner of the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission, discusses the LPC's approach to balancing preservation with development and efforts to reflect diversity in designations. - Master …
1:11:16
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112 sec
Stephen Wilder and Erasmus Ikemge share views on balancing preservation and development
Stephen Wilder and Erasmus Ikpemgbe, nominees for the Landmark Preservation Commission, offer their perspectives on balancing historic preservation with development needs and recognizing diverse cultural heritage. - Wilder emphasizes the …
1:13:12
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158 sec
Frank Mahan discusses preservation's role in managing change and prioritizing diverse designations
Frank Mahan, a nominee for the Landmark Preservation Commission, shares his views on the role of preservation in managing change and the importance of diverse designations. - Mahan emphasizes that …
1:15:53
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58 sec
Balancing LPC's mission with competing community voices and affordability concerns
Council Member Farías raises a question about balancing the LPC's preservation mission with competing community voices, particularly regarding concerns about increased costs and potential housing unaffordability. Commissioners Angie Master and …
1:16:52
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3 min
Integrating climate resiliency into LPC decisions
Council Member Farías asks about integrating climate resiliency measures into LPC decisions without compromising historic character. Commissioners Angie Master, Steven Chu, and Frank Mahan respond with their perspectives on addressing …
1:20:50
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3 min
Council Member Powers introduces nominee for NYC Tax Commission president
Council Member Keith Powers introduces Robert Firestone as the nominee for president of the New York City Tax Commission. He provides an overview of the Tax Commission's duties, the requirements …
1:24:02
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115 sec
Introduction and personal background of Robert Firestone
Robert Firestone introduces himself as the nominee for President of the New York City Tax Commission, expressing gratitude for the consideration. He provides a brief personal background as a lifelong …
1:26:26
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23 sec
Firestone's extensive professional experience in taxation
Robert Firestone outlines his 44-year career in taxation, spanning various roles in city and state government. His experience demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of tax law, policy, and administration. - 13 …
1:26:49
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75 sec
The Tax Commission's mission and significance in NYC
Firestone explains the crucial role of the Tax Commission in New York City's revenue system and its mission to provide fair and efficient review of property tax assessments. - Property …
1:28:04
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34 sec
Firestone's approach to fair and accessible property tax appeals
Firestone outlines his approach to handling property tax appeals, emphasizing fairness, efficiency, and transparency in the process. He stresses the importance of providing adequate guidance to property owners, especially those …
1:28:39
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29 sec
Firestone's experience with public outreach and education
Firestone details his extensive experience in public outreach and education, particularly in helping property owners understand and navigate the assessment and appeal process. - Attended numerous borough outreach sessions as …
1:29:08
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59 sec
Plans for enhancing Tax Commission processes and accessibility
Firestone outlines his intentions to continually improve the Tax Commission's processes and make them more accessible to the public. - Commits to annually reviewing the Tax Commission's forms, instructions, and …
1:30:08
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20 sec
Firestone's additional relevant experience in taxation and real property
Firestone highlights his diverse experience in taxation and real property issues beyond his work with the Tax Commission, demonstrating a broad understanding of the field. - Involved in drafting tax …
1:30:29
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53 sec
Conclusion and affirmation of qualifications for the role
Firestone concludes his testimony by reaffirming his qualifications and readiness to serve as President of the NYC Tax Commission. - Expresses confidence that his experience qualifies him to administer the …
1:31:22
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16 sec
Council Member Powers questions nominee Firestone on Tax Commission appointment
Council Member Keith Powers questions Robert Firestone, the nominee for President of the NYC Tax Commission, about his dual appointment and qualifications. The discussion focuses on the need for mayoral …
1:31:39
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4 min
Testimony by Andrea Goldwyn, Representative of New York Landmarks Conservancy
Andrea Goldwyn, representing the New York Landmarks Conservancy, testified on the importance of preservation in New York City, highlighting the economic benefits and the need to balance development with historic …
1:36:48
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117 sec
Testimony by Matt Dillon on the Importance of Landmarks Preservation
Matt Dillon, a resident of the Upper West Side, testified about the importance of preserving landmarks and architectural integrity in New York City. He shared personal experiences with landmark preservation …
1:38:49
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153 sec
Testimony by Scott Elliott, Founder/Director of The New Group, on the importance of preserving historic spaces for arts and culture in NYC
Scott Elliott, founder of The New Group theater company, testifies on the importance of preserving historic spaces for arts and culture in New York City. He emphasizes how these spaces …
1:41:24
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143 sec
Testimony by Simeon Bankoff, President of Fine Arts Foundation, on Landmarks Preservation Commission
Simeon Bankoff, a long-time observer of the Landmarks Preservation Commission and former executive director of the Historic Districts Council, provided insights and recommendations for the LPC nominees. He emphasized the …
1:43:49
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143 sec
Testimony by Mark Ruffalo, Supporter of Center at West Park
Mark Ruffalo, a supporter of the Center at West Park, testified about the importance of preserving landmarks in New York City, particularly focusing on the efforts to save the church …
1:46:22
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4 min
Testimony by Debbie Hirshman, Executive Director of Center at West Park
Debbie Hirshman, Executive Director of Center at West Park, provides testimony on the importance and success of their community arts facility. She emphasizes their model of financial self-sustainability and the …
1:51:13
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107 sec
Council member's remarks on preserving the church and cultural center
Council Member Gale A. Brewer expresses strong support for preserving the church and enhancing the cultural center. She addresses the concern about new commissioners not hearing the testimony. - Acknowledges …
1:53:09
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11 sec
Council member's remarks on the nomination process and landmark preservation criteria
Council Member Gale A. Brewer clarifies the nomination process for new commissioners and expresses concern about their knowledge of landmark preservation criteria. - Emphasizes that the nominated commissioners have not …
1:53:20
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61 sec