Backed by the Bronx Democratic County Committee, Assemblyman Carl Heastie and 1199SEIU, the health care workers union, Councilman Andy King received the majority of votes in District 12 of the Bronx, in 2012, beating five opponents.
Since then, the Bronx native has set a course to improve the quality of life for his constituents. “I will continue to do what I said I would do since I was elected, and that is to keep the community informed and engaged,” King told the AmNews.
Recently, King delivered the first State of the 12th District Address in Co-op City. He revealed his 12-point action plan to speed up economic growth and improve health and wellness in his district.
During his speech, King detailed ways to enhance the district’s educational system, affordable housing, and expand and the Bronx Youth Empowerment Program’s connection program, which promotes dialogue between youth and NYPD officers.
In an effort to promote “community accountability”, he announced the formation of the 12-District Cabinet, a group comprised of community leaders, who meet regularly to discuss issues that involve his district.
“The formulation of the 12-District Cabinet allows us to be the gatekeepers of our neighborhoods,” King said. “I have also formed a housing committee, a labor committee and an education committee to keep me informed about what is happening in our district. This way we can take opposition to City Hall or bring valuable information back from City Hall to the district.”
King wants to provide all of his constituents with the opportunity to communicate the challenges they face and collectively resolve their concerns.
King is presently implementing his 12-point plan. Last week, he hosted a session at the Williamsbridge NAACP Center to encourage young people ages 18 to 25 to get health coverage. He is currently engaging the community in operation “Clean Up the Streets,” a joint effort with the Department of Transportation and the Department of Sanitation.