STATEMENT: Molinaro's Appointment of James Vitello to the MTA.

THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
NEW YORK

OFFICES OF COUNCIL MEMBER

YDANIS RODRIGUEZ

CITY HALL

NEW YORK, NY 10007

(212) 788-7053

Tuesday, September 25, 2018

**For Immediate Release**

Contact: Maria Henderson 415-439-9722 mhenderson@council.nyc.gov

COUNCIL MEMBER YDANIS RODRIGUEZ ON MOLINARO'S APPOINTMENT OF JAMES VITELLO TO THE MTA

New York, NY - Today Tuesday, September 25 , Council Member Ydanis Rodriguez , Chairman of the NYC Council Transportation Committee, issued the following statement on the Molinaro's appointment of James Vitello to the MTA:

"Molinaro's appointment of James Vitello to the MTA board is cronyism at its worst. Once again, Molinaro is more than willing to trade favors for his wealthy friends and donors all at the expense of hardworking taxpayers. His handpicked appointee who is supposed to serve the people of Dutchess County has repeatedly voted in New York City for over a decade - even after he was appointed to the board - and doesn't represent the needs of local residents. At a time when the MTA is in crisis, we need proven, experienced leaders who will put New Yorkers first. Instead, Molinaro's history of nepotism and political patronage continues and as these latest troubling facts demonstrate, Molinaro is only looking out for number one: himself."

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Ydanis Rodriguez was elected in 2009. An educator for 13 years, Ydanis co-founded Gregorio Luperon High School and the Washington Heights Health Academy. As a leading voice at the NYC Council, Ydanis has brought changes in transportation, education, economic development housing, police reform, healthcare, and environmental policy, ensuring low-income families have an equitable path to middle class. Ydanis has spearheaded 46 bills in his tenure. As Chairman of the Transportation Committee, he has passed 16 bills improving safety for pedestrians, and cyclists. Ydanis led the charge for the Fair Fares to make public transit affordable and started Car Free Day NYC.