Ben Kallos has fought to root out patronage, de-privatize government, eliminate billions in waste, expand elections, and to use technology to improve access to government. He has become a leading advocate for education, affordable housing, public health, sustainable development and transportation improvements and safety.
Join us as he fights on behalf of New Yorkers in his campaign for Manhattan Borough President to finish what he's begun.
Dear Neighbor,
Happy Passover, Easter, and Ramadan! Last year, we began a new custom of concluding the Passover Seder singing "Next Year, in Person!" This year we continued the tradition with new hope as our city begins to recover and as more New Yorkers are vaccinated. Next week, vaccine eligibility will expand to residents aged 16 and older, which means every adult in New York will be able to get their vaccine.
After seven years of advocacy, we finally announced the expansion of 3-K for All citywide, including our neighborhood, and I couldn’t be happier! Please be sure to apply and remember that our success in fulfilling the need will depend on your partnership in securing more providers and identifying buildings with vacant space that would accommodate a new 3K or pre-kindergarten. As we seek to re-open permanently many families are complaining that the Department of Education's 2-case rule is keeping schools closed too often and I agree.
This month we ask asking you once again to vote online on how $1 million should be spent in the district as part of Participatory Budgeting. With municipal elections coming up on June 22nd, I don't think anyone should have to stand in line for hours like they did at Wagner, which is why I've introduced legislation to prevent the long lines we saw at the polls last year.
If you are a fan of Black Mirror, RoboCop, the Terminator, or love Isaac Asimov as much as I do, revelations of the NYPD's use of a robot dog prompted me to author legislation to ban killer robots.
Join us tomorrow for First Friday, a conversation with neighbors and friends. As always, we continue to distribute masks around the district with our community partners.
Yours in service,
Ben Kallos
Council Member
District 5
