The 2019 commission began winnowing its work down to the questions that it will put on the ballot in November. And the focus discernibly shifted from the sweeping to the particular.
‘A small-dollar public financing program modeled on New York City’s would allow more candidates to build campaigns primarily on small donations from New Yorkers.’
Increasing voter engagement and making politics more vibrant is a goal of the 2019 charter revision panel. But by exploring instant-runoff voting and eschewing any re-examination of term limits, the author warns, the commission might be hampering hopes for real progress.
Vicki Been has warned, ‘[U]nless we have a much more specific proposal, those voters will have no idea what they are voting for, except that comprehensiveness, and planning, sound reasonable – like apple pie and teddy bears.’
Let public advocates focus on being ombudspersons, not policy makers. Strengthen the borough presidents’ land-use power. Put Council members in charge of community boards. And more.
The 2019 charter revision could do more than tinker with the mechanisms of power in the city. It could reshape how neighborhood identity, borough loyalty and citywide vision shape our common future.
Gotham Gazette’s Ben Max and Jarrett Murphy from City Limits talk to Pratt Center’s Elena Conte about the possible adoption of comprehensive planning.
The 2019 Charter Revision Commission is considering a menu of changes to the city’s land-use system, including the possibility of requiring a comprehensive plan.
The borough president explained why he defends Mayor de Blasio, how he feels about Albany’s treatment of Brooklyn compared with other boroughs, and what his approach would be if he wins City Hall.
In a time of growing concern over government ethics, the Conflict of Interest Board wants more investigative authority—but not more publicity. Much of its work is confidential.