LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

What do you believe in? Vote

Posted

To the editor:

With the election of Letitia James as state attorney general, New York City is left without a public advocate.

According to the City Charter, the public advocates serves as an ombudsman for the public and ensures that city government responsibly responds to their needs. The public advocate reviews complaints of systemic problems with city services and programs, and takes, investigates and attempts to resolve these complaints.

While a non-voting member of the city council, the public advocate has the right to introduce or co-sponsor legislation. The public advocate is the first in line to replace the mayor in the event of a vacancy or incapacity.

When you think about it, the public advocate should be a very important job, but one most citizens neither understand nor avail themselves of, in terms of services or assistance.

On Feb. 26, there will be a special election to choose a new public advocate. We are not used to voting mid-mid-term, but this year, I encourage you to rise above complacency and head to the polls. In New York City and Riverdale, we are increasingly challenged by the influence of private interests who lobby and act to advance their own agendas, and city agencies do not always adequately enforce the laws and regulations that provide fairness and balance to this influence.

This can create catastrophic results in terms of public safety, public health and fabric of life.

The public advocate’s role is to represent us in the face of circumstances such as these, when city government lets us down and needs correction.

By voting, and voting en masse, we can show city government that we are awake, and that we can care who represents us. When we vote, we also show which values and actions we don’t endorse, by voting for individuals who represent values, which we do embrace.

In this case, be your own best advocate. By voting this time, and every time.

Vote Riverdale. Vote New York City.

Stephanie Coggins

Stephanie Coggins,

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