Encarnación explains vote - first budget, immigration services, CityFEPs

Encarnación.

I'm disclosing on the record of the council proceedings that Community Voices Heard is funded in the budget we are adopting and I'm associated with that entity.

I'd also like permission to explain my vote.

Permission granted.

Thank you, Majority Leader.

I am proud to vote in support of this budget, my very first as a member of the City Council and my first as a member of the Council's leadership team.

It has been an incredible learning experience and I am grateful to everyone whose hard work made this budget possible.

This budget reflects our shared values from our solidarity behind city FEPS to the incredible expansion of fair fares.

And as chair of immigration committee, I am proud that we are reaffirming our commitment to immigration legal services, ensuring that immigrant New Yorkers continue to have access to the legal representation and support they deserve.

These are meaningful investments that will make a real difference in people's lives, and they are the result of collaboration, thoughtful negotiations, and a commitment to delivering for New Yorkers.

I want to sincerely thank Speaker Menon for her steadfast leadership and for holding the line on one of the council's most important priorities.

I also want to thank Finance Chair Lee for her partnership and dedication throughout this process, the incredible finance division for their tireless work, and every member of the budget negotiation team and the finance committee.

It has truly been an honor to be a part of this process, and I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished.

With that said, I vote aye on all.

Thank you, Majority Leader.

Epstein.