It is apparent, even at a distance, that among the primary concerns of most New York City voters are safety from crime and the need for the police department to insure increased public accountability for it’s actions. While these issues resonate in Red Hook, the community also faces at least two major environmental challenges in the immediate future. Currently a number of massive distribution warehouses are being built on this small peninsula. When operational, in the near future , their trucks will generate massive amounts of air pollution and create traffic gridlock. In addition, as we enter this year’s hurricane season, more than 8 years after “Sandy,” the other issue is the failure to actually implement flood protection for the entire Red Hook community.
Subsequently it is critical that the next mayor not only fully understands these issues, but is committed to taking immediate remedial actions. After living in Red Hook for more than 30 years and intent on returning I strongly believe that Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams would be best qualified as Mayor to address these issues quickly.
He knows from first-hand life experience, the need to not only reduce crime, but also continue to reform the police department. He and his staff know Red Hook issues far better than any of the other candidates. Over the years he has participated in numerous community meetings and provided assistance to the local public schools as well. His office has routinely been accessible and helpful.
Regarding the mega warehouses, as Mayor he could require traffic studies, the use of electric delivery vehicles and reliance on water borne product supply, rather than relying solely on tractor trailers. And he could actually implement long overdue flood protection measures.
These environmental concerns are also of critical importance to the adjacent communities of Sunset Park, Gowanus and the Columbia Waterfront .
John McGettrick was head of the Red Hook Civic Association for many years, as well as a founding member of GAGS (Groups Against Garbage Sites), and a patron of Sunny’s in the prior century.
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