On Wednesday, Julie Menin, a City Council member from the Upper East Side, is set to be elected as the new president of the New York City Council. Menin, 58, identifies as a moderate Democrat and could serve as a key figure against the feared influence of a far-left majority. In a lengthy discussion, she outlined her aspirations for her new role as the first Jewish chairman of the council, emphasizing her commitment to foster collaboration with the newly elected mayor, Zoran Mamdani.
Q: What are your goals and objectives as president?
answer: I’m eager to see the City Council become more proactive in the next four years. Previously, we’ve been more reactive, but that’s going to change. We plan to introduce a robust affordable housing initiative that will review 215 public library locations to see which could host new housing projects. Also, we’re surveying 1,000 city-owned lots because there’s a significant amount of underused space that could be transformed. Additionally, our legislative focus will prioritize universal childcare—a longstanding issue the council has been addressing. I think we also need to look at reducing fines for small and medium businesses while cutting through unnecessary red tape. Tackling waste and fraud in City Hall is crucial too. It’s been a persistent problem—particularly regarding at-will contracts—which have cost the city billions. Lastly, we must reform procurement processes to avoid outrageous expenditures, like the $4 million spent on a park restroom.
Q: You’re the first Jewish president of the City Council. How will you and Mayor Mamdani, with his unique perspectives, handle divisive issues like the Gaza conflict?
First off, I take pride in being the first Jewish president, especially with rising anti-Semitism. It’s imperative to unite the city right now. My background as the daughter of Holocaust survivors drives my commitment against all forms of hatred. After 9/11, I led community efforts in Lower Manhattan, advocating for cultural inclusivity. It’s historic to have the first Muslim mayor alongside the first Jewish speaker, and we must work to protect all communities in New York.
Q: Are you confident about collaborating with him?
answer: Absolutely. The City Council focuses primarily on New York City’s issues. We can do a lot to combat hate here. It’s about making our communities feel secure, which is why I aim to advance legislation that protects places of worship and schools from protests that threaten their safety.
Q: What’s your opinion on Mayor Mamdani potentially rescinding an executive order from former Mayor Adams that supports Israel?
answer: I’m concerned about that. I reached out to the mayor because I wanted to express my worries. He’s indicated that he would issue an executive order to keep the anti-Semitism unit intact and ensure police focus on protests near houses of worship. We’ll have ongoing discussions, but my priority is ensuring New Yorkers feel safe.
Q: How do you envision your relationship with council members who opposed your speakership?
answer: I believe I can work well with them. I want to be an inclusive leader, and honestly, I feel grateful for the support I’ve received. We all share more common ground than disagreements.
Q: Will there be any consequences for those who opposed your candidacy in relation to receiving discretionary funds?
answer: No, there will be no retaliation. Every council member must serve their community equally—everyone deserves that.
Q: How do you feel about increasing salaries for elected officials? Is that something you will pursue?
answer: I think it’s appropriate to consider salary adjustments through an impartial remuneration committee. It’s been a decade since salaries for positions like mine have increased, and it’s time for transparency and fairness.
Q: Former Mayor Adams vetoed 19 bills on his last day in office. Do you plan to revisit any of those, including the Local Opportunity to Buy Act?
answer: I do expect to bring back many of those vetoed bills, especially those focused on combating gender-based violence and addressing the challenges faced by street vendors. I’ll review each case thoroughly before making decisions.
Q: Will the COPA bill be revisited in this session?
answer: COPA has various perspectives surrounding it. I didn’t vote for it previously, and it didn’t pass with overwhelming support. We’ll discuss each bill and decide collaboratively on the next steps.
Q: What are your thoughts on the childcare fraud situation in Minnesota? Do you worry about similar issues in New York?
answer: That scandal really highlights the issues when systems intended to help are misused. It’s unacceptable. I’m passionate about fighting waste, fraud, and abuse here in New York as well. I want to ensure efficient spending, especially regarding no-bid contracts, which have cost us significantly in the past.
Q: Mayor Mamdani has appointed Stephen Banks as the city’s corporate counsel. How will the council interact regarding this appointment?
answer: I hold the Legal Department in high regard. They support city agencies and the council in legal matters. We’ll ensure unbiased hearings concerning Banks, just as we do with any appointment.
Q: Do you support the mayor’s free municipal bus initiative?
answer: I’m in favor of making public transport faster and more accessible, especially for those in need of reduced fares.
Q: What’s your stance on the proposal for municipal grocery stores?
answer: Since that doesn’t need council approval, I want to review the details carefully. Supporting small businesses, like bodegas, is really important to me, and I aim to ensure fairness in competition.
Q: Do you think Rikers Island should be closed?
answer: Yes, I believe it should close. However, I’m worried about the delays in constructing replacement facilities, which is something we need to address.
Q: Residents of Staten Island are pushing for independence from New York City. Do you support this idea?
answer: I have a fondness for Staten Island. Having spent considerable time there as a commissioner, I want it to remain part of New York. Not everyone feels that way, but I personally value Staten Island’s integration into this great city.
