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MTA Giveaway Cheered On By Markowitz, Says Mattera; BBP hands over charter powers to real-estate developers
Brooklyn, NY -- September 20, 2005 -- "Marty Markowitz says he’s a cheerleader for Brooklyn but in fact he’s a cheerleader for private developers," said Gloria Mattera, Green Party candidate for Brooklyn Borough President. Mattera spoke at the Fort Greene Association Candidates’ Debate last night against the Ratner Nets Arena and development plan. "Markowitz has given his seal of approval to the handover of state MTA property to private developer Bruce Ratner for a bargainbasement price. Along with other subsidies and tax write-offs, this sale gives Ratner the go-ahead for his vast development scheme which has bypassed the city’s public review process. Markowitz has unquestioningly followed the lead of Ratner every step of the way without ever comprehending the details of the plan." The MTA voted last Wednesday to allow Ratner to build the proposed Nets Arena and office/apartment complex on top of the Atlantic Avenue Railyards for $100 million, less than half of its appraised value, after a sham RFP process. "Instead of using his power to advocate for the Brooklyn residents who elected him, Markowitz has treated his office as ceremonial: showing up for photo ops at neighborhood events, issuing proclamations, and rubber stamping sweetheart development deals for the real powers running this city," said Mattera. "My campaign offers people the choice of electing someone who will give development projects the review and oversight that is mandated to the Brooklyn Borough President by the city charter."
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