Mayor Zoran Mamdani, recently elected as New York City’s chief lawyer, acknowledged his administration’s response to the ongoing severe cold, even as the number of fatalities reached 17.
During a City Council Rules Committee meeting, former human services secretary Steve Banks was asked by Speaker Julie Menin about advice he would offer to mayors focused on fashion during similar extreme weather incidents.
“What I’ve observed is essentially what should happen: evaluate individuals according to state law, help bring them inside where allowed, and maintain ongoing communication,” Banks noted. He emphasized that the city is “boosting our efforts around the clock to connect with individuals and provide shelter,” especially as temperatures remain low this season.
However, when Menin inquired about relocating individuals—particularly those with serious mental health issues—for their safety during the cold spell, Banks dismissed the idea of a blanket relocation strategy.
“State law doesn’t support that sort of widespread approach. It necessitates individual assessments, which is exactly what’s occurring now,” he stated.
He further pointed out that such actions require both nursing and clinical evaluations, affirming, “That’s happening at a very high level currently.”
Since taking office just a month ago, Mamdani, a democratic socialist, has faced criticism for implying officials would only intervene to force people indoors “as a last resort.”
Banks acknowledged the tragic loss of lives during his tenure as social services commissioner, noting that, since January 24, 17 individuals have died outside from extreme cold, including 13 due to hypothermia and three from overdoses. Details about the latest casualty remain vague.
“One death is simply tragic. I witnessed such a loss firsthand during my time as social services secretary,” he remarked.
His comments follow the previous administration’s efforts, where Banks led initiatives aimed at moving homeless individuals from public spaces into shelters, especially during the pandemic. De Blasio had characterized street encampments as “absolutely unacceptable,” stating that the city would work to remove them, despite federal recommendations against such actions. Shortly after, he showcased a shelter crowded with homeless individuals.
The City Council is set to vote on Banks’ nomination on February 12.
