Blakeman Criticizes Mayor’s Approach to Homeless Shelter in Brooklyn
During a rally on Sunday at a proposed homeless shelter site in Brooklyn, Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman called out Mayor Zoran Mamdani for what he described as a neglectful stance towards suburban areas. Blakeman, who is the Nassau County executive and is gearing up to challenge Gov. Cathy Hochul in the upcoming November election, addressed around 50 supporters at the proposed shelter location on 86th Street in Bensonhurst. He emphasized his ties to both Queens and Brooklyn, arguing that the mayor has been indifferent to the needs of these communities.
“We share a lot of similar neighborhoods,” the Long Island politician stated. “These are suburbs as opposed to urban spaces, and people appreciate that character. If one prefers a more urban setting, Manhattan is right there.”
He further noted, “Local control and transparency are what residents want, yet they aren’t receiving it from either Zoran Mamdani or Kathy Hochul. It’s crucial for the voices of our suburban populations to be heard. If I become governor, I will ensure they are heard.”
The community in Bensonhurst has been vocal against the plan for a 150-bed homeless shelter at 86th Street and 25th Street for over two years, fearing it will disrupt their peaceful environment. The shelter is slated to open by the end of 2027.
A large protest took place on March 30, with hundreds of residents demanding an end to construction, prompting the presence of up to 100 NYPD officers to manage the situation.
Despite ongoing unrest, Mamdani’s administration is proceeding with the proposal, arguing that the city must address the needs of its homeless population without retreating from the plan.
Blakeman and other opponents of the shelter expressed their determination, insisting there are alternative solutions to the homelessness crisis beyond simply placing shelters in established neighborhoods. “We need a multifaceted approach rather than just isolating the homeless in shelters amidst vibrant communities,” he argued. “Some individuals need help with personal issues. Let’s provide the treatment they require. Others could benefit from vocational training.”
“We’re not anti-homeless; absolutely not,” Blakeman stated. “We just believe that fostering conditions for them to become self-sufficient members of society is the way to go.”
State Representative Lester Chan (R-Brooklyn) echoed Blakeman’s sentiments, suggesting that Mamdani has alternative routes to explore. “There are 9,000 locations available for renovation,” he noted. “Instead of spending $17 billion on neighborhood jails, which are unwanted, we could allocate $1 billion to fixing Rikers Island and apply the rest toward affordable housing, addressing the city’s budget deficiency.”
The mayor’s office did not respond to requests for comment following the rally.
