Printer Friendly Format

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PR- 162-03
June 13, 2003

MAYOR MICHAEL R. BLOOMBERG RECOMMENDS APPOINTMENTS TO THE MTA BOARD

Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg today announced the recommendation of two new Board appointments to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) that will enhance the City’s ability to monitor the authority’s financial condition and budgeting practices.  Pursuant to State Law, the Mayor is recommending that the Governor nominate, and the New York State Senate confirm, the appointments of Mark Page and John H. Banks III to the MTA Board.

“Under the current circumstances it is imperative that the City provide the MTA the assistance necessary to meet its commitment to make its budget practices more transparent to elected officials and the public,” said Mayor Bloomberg.  “I am confident that the collective financial expertise of Mark Page and John Banks will capably serve the public interest.”

The MTA recently announced changes in its budget and financial reporting procedures that will largely conform them to the City’s four-year financial planning process.  Mark Page, as Director of the City’s Office of Management and Budget, will make an important contribution to this process.  Mr. Page has been a public servant in City government for 25 years and is an expert in municipal finance. He earned a BA from Harvard College and a JD from the New York University School of Law. 

John H. Banks III, former Deputy Director of the New York City Council’s Finance Division and Chief of Staff to the Council, currently serves as Vice President of Government Relations at Consolidated Edison of New York.  Mr. Banks is a graduate of Manhattan College and Baruch College.  His background in City budgeting and his understanding of community relations will ensure that MTA resources are being spent wisely, consistent with the City’s priorities.

The Governor, upon the advice and consent of the New York State Senate, appoints the 17-member MTA Board.  Four of these members are nominated based on the recommendation of the Mayor.  Last year, two new City members were appointed. In making the recommendation to the Governor for the appointment of two additional members, the Mayor will have exercised fully his statutory responsibilities. 

“I want to thank Rudy Washington and Kenneth Caruso for their tireless public service and for their willingness to continue to serve on the Board until the confirmation process is completed in Albany,” said Mayor Bloomberg.  “New York City is extremely fortunate to have them representing our interests. I consider both an asset to this Administration and look forward to continuing to work with these exemplary individuals in the future.”





CONTACT:

Ed Skyler / Jordan Barowitz   (212) 788-2958


More Resources