The Mayor could have created an agency tasked with Civic Engagement. And like all city agencies, it would have had one commissioner appointed by the Mayor. Instead, 7 members of this Civic Engagement Commission will be appointed by Borough Presidents and City Council. This is far more accountable than any other city agency!
Citywide PB is an incredible opportunity to give residents more direct say in how our tax dollars are spent — and this proposal would be a significant expansion beyond the current Council process.
And language access at the polls is critical. Right now, the Board of Elections follows federal law, which only requires translation and interpretation in some languages and even then, only in some locations. Having a dedicated Commission tasked with permanently ensuring language access will make voting possible for lots of New Yorkers.