Over the past several months, I have logged onto numerous Zoom meetings, where New York City mayoral candidates fielded questions and explained their positions on the future of the city’s for-hire transportation industry. Since incumbent Mayor Bill de Blasio is barred from running due to term limits (whew), I thought it important to hear out as many of the candidates as possible.
IMPORTANT: The mayoral primary is June 22, 2021. Regardless of who you choose, I urge everyone to assert their rights and VOTE! The 2021 NYC Democratic and Republican primaries will be followed by a general election on November 2.
While there were several candidates that impressed me, none so much as Brooklyn Borough President and Mayoral Candidate, Eric Adams, who participated in a “virtual Meet & Greet” Zoom call in May, hosted by the Black Car Assistance Corporation (BCAC).
Mr. Adams has a history of actively supporting our industry – going as far as co-authoring an op-ed with the BCAC’s Executive Director, Ira Goldstein, early in the pandemic about the importance of The Black Car Fund (BCF). Simply put, his vision and plans for the future not only made the most sense to me, I was also deeply impressed by his knowledge of the industry and its history.
The following is a recap of some of the most important points about Adams that came out of the Zoom call, as well as some additional details provided by the BCAC:
- Adams said he supports allowing small businesses – such as traditional Black Car bases – to obtain additional FHV licenses while the moratorium continues on the true source of city’s congestion: HVFHVs.
- He has long been a strong supporter of small businesses and understands the critical role they play in the city’s economy. He said he would push forward smart policies and a better government that delivers for ALL New Yorkers.
- A 20-year veteran of the NYPD, Adams understands the importance of public safety and has plans to address the recent spike in crime in NYC.
- He acknowledged that many of the city’s transportation laws are outdated and disorganized. He said he would prioritize a full review and updates.
- He said he wants groups like the BCAC – as well as other stakeholders – to be more involved in decision making on issues that affect their industry. He added that he would support creating a “transportation czar” to more closely involve stakeholders and industry leaders in those decisions.
All of these things are a far cry from what we experienced from the current Mayor. I agree with the BCAC’s assessment that Mr. Adams is the best choice for our industry and the city at large. Please, don’t forget to vote!