Feliz explains vote - Intro 553 small business security, CityFEPs, Fair Fares

I am disclosing on the record that CUNY is funded in the budget we're adopting.

I serve proudly as an adjunct lecturer in the CUNY system.

Also, my parent is associated with Volunteers of America, which is also being funded in this budget.

With that said, permission takes my vote.

Permission granted.

And I see everybody standing up for their statements, so I'll do the same.

I want to start by congratulating our wonderful speaker, Julie-Menin, also our finance chair, Linda-Lee, and all of my colleagues on fighting for a budget that helps resolve the issues of our time,

including the issue of housing affordability, expanding the CityFAPS program so that rather than living in a temporary shelter, our most vulnerable families can live in a stable home with the dignity that they deserve.

Also, public transit affordability, expanding the fare-fares program so that costs related to travel do not become an obstacle when residents are in search of opportunity.

Housing affordability, public transit affordability, and so much more.

We fought to properly fund our libraries, our parks.

Please keep it down in the chambers.

Our kids'rights program.

to ensure that we're truly preparing our youth for the future.

So many big wins for the hardworking people of this city.

This is a budget that we should all be proud of.

I'm also proud and thankful that we're finally voting to approve Intro 553, the Small Business Protection Program.

Or Small Business Protection Act.

Small businesses are the heart of our economy.

They create local jobs, they make communities vibrant.

They do so much and it is crucial that we listen to them and help them resolve the challenges that they face, including challenges related to safety.

Some of our businesses continue to face challenges related to safety, problems that are affecting their ability to stay afloat.

My bill will ensure that businesses have the tools to help prevent safety issues by equipping them with technology, including cameras, plexiglass for the bodegas, and more to help deter.

This is an important step that we're taking to protect small business owners and their hard work.

We're also sending a very crystal clear message.

Now when it comes to the safety issues that they've consistently raised, this City Council is listening.

So with that said, I want to thank you, Speaker Manon, for helping get that bill to the finish line.

I want to congratulate everybody.

I vote aye on all.

Thank you so much.

Perfect timing.