As a business owner, family man, and political activist, I have lived first-hand through the many changes our Downtown community has faced over the last several years. After careful consideration and encouragement from friends and fellow business owners, I have decided to run for New York City Council in District 1. It is my hope that my innovative ideas and modern solutions will help me continue to serve our neighborhood in the best way possible.
I have always been concerned about education. As the father of a young child, and as a vocal member of the downtown community, I have loudly supported the call for more schools and for higher educational standards. This issue is of particular importance now, given the recent influx of new families who now call District 1 “home.”
Of equal importance are the other amenities necessary to make our neighborhood more livable. We need to find ways to make our streets cleaner, more pedestrian friendly, and with better parking. We also need to encourage small business owners to offer the services sought by all of us, such as supermarkets, dry cleaners, and restaurants.
I have always been active in District 1 politics. I worked closely with various Democratic politicians and organizations, such as Speaker Sheldon Silver and Councilman Alan Gerson. Immediately after 9/11, I served as a member of several groups seeking to restore, revitalize and clean up our downtown neighborhoods, such as Community Board 1, From the Ground Up and The TriBeCa Organization. My strong record of community service clearly speaks to my dedication to Downtown, and my commitment to those I serve.
In order to succeed in my effort to become Councilman, I need the support of my friends, family and neighbors in District 1. I cannot do this alone. It is my sincere hope that you will join me in this campaign as a volunteer, a donor, a friend.
I am very excited at this opportunity to serve the people of New York City. District 1 is a wonderful, eclectic community that deserves all the support and leadership that a strong politician can provide. I am that person.
I thank you for your support and generosity, and look forward to seeing you at the primary, September 15, 2009.
Sincerely,
Arthur Gregory
PS the last day to register for the 2009 Democratic primary is August 21.