Statement of Disappointment at Allegations of Former Upper East Side Council Member's Pay-to-Play Politics

I am disappointed in Council Member Lappin following recent reports that she gifted City funding to organizations who gave cash to her campaign.  This is an unfortunate example of the same old pay-to-play politics from New York City's elected officials. To break this trend, I have expressed my commitment to a fair process through participatory budgeting.

Nonprofits provide vital services to communities in need throughout our City.  Constituents in need should have access to the same opportunities for City funding regardless of the size of the nonprofit or the ability of its employees and board members to contribute to politicians.  City funds for a district should not go out of district just because affiliates of a larger nonprofit have donated more.  No nonprofit should have to use tax dollars to benefit politicians instead of constituents in need.