Transcript: Mayor de Blasio Holds Impromptu Press Availability in Albany

February 25, 2015

Mayor Bill de Blasio: …obviously, as always the case, a lot of areas where we agree – sometimes where we disagree – but it’s [inaudible] 

Question: In particular, can you share with us the discussion on the mayoral – the issue of mayoral control of the school system?

Mayor: Again, I’m not going to get into the details of a private conversation, but I simply made clear why this is necessary for all the changes we have to make in our schools, why it’s a proven system at this point. You know, my point is – I’m saying to everyone today – after a decade, you know, it’s obvious this is the system that works and there is no alternative that makes any sense at this point. So, you know, let’s ratify that and get back to work. I just think, at this point, that mayoral control has proven itself. 

Question: Did he offer any explanation to some of the cuts that you highlighted onto the homelessness funding – the $22 million –

Mayor: Well, again, without getting into detail, we talked about some of the areas where the city has concerns, and there’s going to be an ongoing dialogue about that, and, you know, I’m hopeful that will lead to some improvements. 

Question: Did you get the sense that he’s willing to change his position on any of those particular items? Did he seem open to increasing funding for any of these things?

Mayor: Look, there’s a process that happens up here over – you know, in the case of the budgets, it’ll be over the next weeks – in the case of legislative session, it’ll be over months – and there’s always a lot of give and take. So I think it was an open and productive conversation, meaning I have phrased a series of concerns, he was receptive, nothing was concluded – it’s a beginning – but I think, at least, I can say safely he heard very clearly that the city has a number of concerns. 

Phil Walzak: One or two more, guys.

Question: [inaudible]

Mayor: Hold on, I’ll get to everyone. Go ahead. 

Question: Did you talk about Sunnyside Yards at all?

Mayor: No, we did not.

Question: Did you guys get to see Christine Quinn today? 

Mayor: No, I didn’t.

Question: Could you tell us quickly everybody you met with or who you might meet with today, other than the governor? 

Mayor: All the different leaders – you know, I met with Andrea – and we’re still trying to work out everyone’s schedules, but I’m hopeful that I’ll see Senator Skelos and Senator Klein as well.

Phil Walzak: Thanks, guys. We’ll give a full rundown when the day’s over. 

Mayor: Thanks, guys.