A significant milestone in New York City’s political landscape was reached on March 7, 2024, when Councilmember Kamillah Hanks of Staten Island was appointed as the Council’s majority whip. This appointment marks the first time a councilmember from Staten Island has held this influential position, which places Hanks among the top power brokers within the city’s legislative body.
Hanks Emphasizes Equity and Inclusion
During her announcement at City Hall, Hanks expressed her gratitude, stating, “I’m deeply, deeply honored and privileged to hold the role as a first Staten Islander to lead the majority whip in the New York City Council. There has to be equity both fiscally and with policy. We plan to be that voice.” Hanks, a Democrat representing the North Shore, aims to advocate for equitable policies and fiscal responsibility in her new role.
The appointment was announced by Julie Menin, the newly elected Council Speaker, who highlighted the importance of representation from all five boroughs. Menin, who represents Manhattan’s Upper East Side, noted that her own history with Staten Island includes her role in facilitating the establishment of Broadway Stages, a film studio located at the former Arthur Kill Correctional Facility. “We are one city, an inclusive city, where all boroughs have a seat at the table,” she stated.
Focus on Key Initiatives
As majority whip, Hanks has outlined several priorities, including the advancement of the North Shore Action Plan, the establishment of Staten Island’s first Community Justice Center, and the creation of a performing arts high school. A graduate of Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School, known for its focus on the performing arts, Hanks is keen to enhance educational opportunities in her borough.
At the press conference, Councilmember David Carr, the Republican minority leader representing Mid-Island and parts of South Brooklyn, acknowledged the importance of bipartisan collaboration. “As I have said in the past, Republicans have a vital role to play in this body and in this city, as a voice for conservative values and common sense policies,” Carr remarked. He expressed optimism that the new leadership would be receptive to diverse perspectives.
Hanks will serve on multiple committees, including the Committee on Public Safety and the Committee on Consumer and Worker Protection. This multifaceted role enables her to influence a range of legislative issues that impact Staten Island and the broader city.
Committee Assignments and Responsibilities
In addition to Hanks’s appointment, other council members were assigned to various committees. Councilmember Frank Morano, a Republican representing the South Shore, will chair the Committee on Veterans while also serving on several other committees focused on labor, criminal justice, and finance. Morano emphasized his commitment to advocating for veterans, stating, “This chairmanship is a citywide responsibility, and I am eager to advocate for veterans and service members in every borough.”
The City Council’s new leadership structure, which includes a diverse array of voices, reflects an ongoing effort to ensure that all communities within New York City are represented in the legislative process. As the Council prepares for the upcoming legislative session, the focus will be on fostering collaboration and addressing the pressing issues facing residents across the city.
