Alicia Barksdale
Joyce Johnson
Manuel O. Lantigua
Mark D. Levine
Mark T. Otto
Zead Ramadan
David Sasscer-Burgos
Luis Tejada
Ruben Dario Vargas
Party Enrolled In: Democratic
Current Occupation: Owner of X-Caffe
Previous Occupation(s): Financial Director at Weil, Gotshal, & Manges LLP
Education: Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Stony Brook University
Organizational Affiliations: Founding Chair of Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz Memorial and Educational Center, Board Member of West Harlem Development Corporation, Former Chair of the Northern Manhattan Arts Alliance, Board of Directors of the Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone, Vice Co-Chair of the Washington Heights and Inwood Chamber of Commerce, Former Chair of the New York Chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations.
Prior Public Experience: Former Chair of Community Board 12-Manhattan(Twice Elected), Member of Community Board 12-Manhattan
1. What is the most important issue in Council District 07 you would address if elected?
Economic development that benefits the community is vital for the 7th City Council District. We deserve decent wages, job training, and the ability to provide our families with a standard of living. We must promote cultural and ethnic diversity in our businesses. Economic opportunity will help sustain strong communities and stronger families.
2. What other important issues would you address if elected?
Access to good quality education is an absolute priority. We must also ensure income targeted housing for our residents. Our families have to be knowledgeable about their rights to affordable housing and be protected.
3. What makes you the best candidate for this office?
I possess a proven record that sets me apart from any other candidate seeking to represent the 7th City Council District. I successfully advocated for millions of dollars in resources to directly empower small businesses, support the work of artists and arts organizations, and fund vital programming for our senior and youth centers. I have lived in and served my Northern Manhattan community for over 40 years. I grew up in Washington Heights and at the age of 16 attended the City College of New York. As a Councilmember, I hope to continue to serve the diverse and unique community that is the 7th City Council District.
Reprinted as supplied by the candidate. Participating in the NYC Campaign Finance Program.
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