At Tuesday night’s Ozone Park Civic Association meeting, State Senator Joseph Addabbo Jr. and Council Member Eric Ulrich were on hand for a candidate’s night. The two officials spoke about varying policies and then answered questions from those attending the meeting.
Ulrich spoke first, citing some of his accomplishments during his three years as a City Councilmember. He noted his tough policies on graffiti, fixing 327 sidewalks throughout the community, and taking the initial steps to issue the first rezoning resolution in Ozone Park in 50 years.
“Whether it’s protecting the character and integrity of this community, improving the quality of life, or paving the streets and fixing the sidewalks, we have been there for this community,” Ulrich said.
Addabbo talked about how he served during one the worst fiscal crisis in New York State history, and ensured that seniors, veterans and schools stayed afloat during difficult economic times. He also noted that he had recently been endorsed by Governor Cuomo. In addition, Addabbo spoke about the jobs and revenue that has flowed in from Resorts World Casino.
“It’s all about bringing jobs to this community,” the Senator said. “I’m proud of my work with Resorts World.”
After delivering short speeches, the candidate’s took some questions from the audience.
The first one came from Ozone Park Civic Association President Howard Kamph, who asked a common question – when could people expect the HWQ411 project to start.
This project, which has been in the works for almost 30 years, is a massive project that replaces streets, sidewalks, curbs and pedestrian ramps in Centerville. It also provides a new storm sewer system.
“We’ve made tremendous progress, but just not as fast as we would have liked,” Ulrich said. He said that the council has had meetings with the Department of Environmental Conservation, and that the necessary funds have been acquired. The project is currently being delayed because of a tricky acquisition process with homeowners, Ulrich said.
“Once they wrap up the acquisition process I think we’ll see a shovel in the ground, and I think it’ll be a great thing for the people of Centerville who have been waiting a very long time.”
One man in the audience, a World War II veteran, asked Senator Addabbo what he would do to stop companies from shipping jobs overseas. Addabbo discussed a bill he plans on introducing that would prevent businesses in New York State from receiving any government assistance if it outsources its employees.
The topic of negative campaign ads was also brought up, as many people complained about receiving slanderous ads against both candidates in the mail.
Ulrich said that his campaign is not responsible for the ads, and disavowed any attacks on his opponent’s character. In both cases, these mailers are created from independent sources. Ulrich and Addabbo said the content is out of their hands.
“I do not approve any personal negative attack on Joe Addabbo because that’s not the type of politician I am,” Ulrich said.
By Ryan Lavis
