Credit: Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office.
July 9, 2024 Story by: Editor
In a surprising move, New York City Mayor Eric Adams has decided not to veto a bill that would expand the City Council’s authority over his appointments. This decision comes amidst a backdrop of heightened tension between the Mayor’s office and the City Council.
The Bill and Its Implications
The “advice and consent” bill, passed by the City Council in June, grants lawmakers the power to hold hearings and vote on the Mayor’s nominees for key city agencies, including the buildings and sanitation departments. To become law, this bill requires a change to the city charter, which must be approved by voters in a general election.
Mayor’s Strategic Move
Mayor Adams’ office has framed his decision not to veto the bill as a gesture to reset relations with the City Council. However, Adams has initiated changes to the City Charter that could delay the Council’s legislation.
“Our administration’s opposition to this bill has already been submitted into the record,” said City Hall spokesperson Liz Garcia. “So while we respect the council’s authority to explore this measure, we welcome the opportunity to collaborate on other, more efficient ways to improve the way the government serves New Yorkers, and look forward to working with our partners on our many shared goals moving forward.”
Potential Delays and Political Tensions
Although Adams has not vetoed the bill, he has called for a Charter Revision Commission to convene in November. This commission’s work preempts the council’s proposal from appearing on the ballot, likely postponing the vote until November 2025.
“They could think they’re gaining a point by not vetoing, but if the Charter Revision Commission is still in play, that’s all moot,” commented a Democratic Council Member, granted anonymity to discuss internal dynamics.
Council’s Response
Council Speaker Adrienne Adams’ office has urged the Mayor to allow New Yorkers to vote on the proposal this November and to delay his own ballot measures until 2025.
“Mayor Adams’ inaction is tacit approval of this proposal expanding advice and consent, or a blatant admission that his Charter Revision Commission’s mission is simply to block New Yorkers from exercising this democratic right,” stated Council spokesperson Julia Agos.
In a notable instance of the rising tensions, Council Member Lincoln Restler, a strong supporter of the bill, presided over a heated hearing in May where Adams’ intergovernmental affairs director walked out without taking questions.
“Glad Mayor Adams has come to realize his administration needs more checks and balances,” Restler responded sarcastically via text.
Conclusion
Mayor Eric Adams’ decision not to veto the City Council’s bill is a strategic move in a complex political landscape. While framed as an effort to improve relations with the Council, the concurrent call for a Charter Revision Commission suggests a longer-term strategy to delay the Council’s legislative efforts. The coming months will likely see continued debate and maneuvering as both sides navigate this contentious issue. Source: Politico
