City Council Speaker Corey Johnson slammed the de Blasio administration on Monday for going it alone on an executive budget that proposed adding $954 million in new spending since February — but included just 11 out of 50 Council initiatives.
Mayoral aides were in the hot seat at a public hearing Monday on the $89 billion fiscal 2019 budget, forced to explain why the administration’s program were prioritized over those backed by the Council, such as half-priced Metrocards for the poor.
“Why can the mayor and this administration find nearly $1 billion for his priorities but no funding for a program like fair fares that for so many people can mean the difference between going or not going to doctor appointments, school, or job interviews?” Johnson asked.
“It is not clear that the administration wants to work with us.”
The Council and Mayor de Blasio must come to a joint agreement on the fiscal 2019 budget by June 30.
The speaker also mentioned the $6.60-per-rider subsidy for the the city’s new ferry service to tout the subway subsidy that he says will cost $212 million per year.
Budget Director Melanie Hartzog repeatedly insisted Hizzoner does support such a subsidy, but only through a dedicated funding source such as a tax on the wealthy — which needs approval in Albany.
“The mayor has always supported fair fares… he also talked about a dedicated funding stream,” she testified.
Council member Mark Gjonaj (D-Bronx) accused officials of spending money “like drunken sailors” without meeting the needs of New Yorkers.
He was among a handful of lawmakers who pushed for a $400 property tax rebate for households whose income is under $150,000.