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Mayor Mamdani's Tax Proposal Sparks Controversy Amid Budget Crisis

2/19/2026

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Center

Mamdani Proposes Tax

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani proposes a 9.5% property tax to cover a $7 billion budget gap, warning the Rainy Day Fund could be needed.
Lawmakers, including Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, say the measure burdens struggling residents.
Council Speaker Julie Menin urges exploring other revenue sources before imposing tax hikes.
Governor Kathy Hochul disapproves of the tax proposal.
Negotiations with the City Council are forthcoming.

Right

Mamdani Resumes Sweeps

The Brooklyn Navy Yard Development Corporation will not renew Easy Aerial's lease for operational reasons.
Critics including Councilman Lincoln Restler say public assets should not back military operations.
Officials described the decision as operational, provoking ire from Scott Feltman publicly.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani plans to resume homeless encampment sweeps, reversing his pledge after public outcry over deaths during a cold snap.

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Mamdani Proposes Tax

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani proposes a 9.5% property tax to cover a $7 billion budget gap, warning the Rainy Day Fund could be needed.
Lawmakers, including Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, say the measure burdens struggling residents.
Council Speaker Julie Menin urges exploring other revenue sources before imposing tax hikes.
Governor Kathy Hochul disapproves of the tax proposal.
Negotiations with the City Council are forthcoming.

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