Vanessa L. Gibson[D]
Benjamin Eggleston*[R, C]
Carlos M. Sierra[I]
Walter L. Newsome[JE]
Party Enrolled In: Democratic
Current Occupation: Community Organizer
Previous Occupation(s): Project Manager - Wilson Elser Moskowtiz Edelmen & Dicker; Special Projects Coordinator - Office of the District Attorney, Bronx County; Paralegal - Office of the District Attorney Bronx County; Paralegal - Law Office of Michael Doyle
Education: Concordia College - B.S., Business Administration; Touro College - J.D., Corporate Law
Organizational Affiliations: NAACP - Award Recipient; American Bar Association - Member; Miss Bronx Pageant - Executive Director; The Bronx Sharks Athletic Club, Founder; Democratic National Committee - Member, Convent Avenue Baptist Church - Member
Prior Public Experience: Bronx County Democratic Committee
1. What is the most important issue in Council District 16 you would address if elected?
We all desire to live in a clean, safe and peaceful community. The size of our district requires that our residents & law enforcement have the tools and technology needed to maintain quality of life. We must also be willing to be socially responsible to ourselves and neighbors. Throughout our community, we hear the same things: more opportunities for our youth. The Bronx is on its way to becoming the green leader in New York City, with many firsts. I have ideas to reduce our carbon footprint and make the 16th District sustainable, all while providing jobs and entrepreneurial opportunities for our residents.
2. What other important issues would you address if elected?
Improved use of community & park space to best suit our needs; a different approach to communication with the district's NYPD commanders & residents; introduction of "Team NYCHA & Multiple family building initiative," which is currently documenting conditions, repair requests; security and quality of life issues throughout the district; bring back Midnight Basketball and alternative recreation centers throughout the district; Improve social services and resource access to everyone, especially the homeless, seniors and the disabled.
3. What makes you the best candidate for this office?
Your issues are my issues. A healthy community benefits from participation, shared ideas, respect and home pride. Our district finds itself at a crossroads. We can maintain the status quo or we can seize the opportunity to make bold changes with a fresh vision that ensures our prosperity.
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