Vallone Hails
Steinway Street BID

Steinway Street Business Improvement District (BID) held its annual meeting last week at Pasta Fina Restaurant. Julian Wager, president, welcomed the membership to the meeting and told the audience that the Steinway Street Business Improvement District was in its 12th year of operation. "During these economic times, it is more important than ever for property owners and business owners to work hand-in-hand through the BID to keep Steinway Street the viable shopping district that it always has been," he said.

Tony Barsamian, chairman emeritus presented the membership with the Annual Report. "The board continues to keep costs down and maximize the use of current assessment levels for Steinway Street," he noted. A budget of $297,100 was proposed for Fiscal Year 2003/2004. Barsamian noted that the Special Assessment has remained unchanged at $250,000 for many years and the additional $47,100 was income from the Parking/Development Fund, interest and fund raising. The report was approved unanimously.

"It is an honor and a privilege to introduce Councilman Vallone who is always hard at work in the best interests of this community, Barsamian then introduced City Councilmember Peter Vallone Jr., the keynote speaker.

Vallone thanked the members of the BID for inviting him to speak at the annual meeting. Vallone noted that the first campaign office of his father, former Speaker of the City Council Peter Vallone, Sr., had been on Steinway Street, and his own involvement with Steinway Street dates back to his youth. Vallone said that he still comes to Steinway Street regularly for his personal shopping needs.

Vallone emphasized the importance of business improvement districts in ensuring the viability of main streets and praised the Steinway Street BID members for their work in keeping Steinway Street the wonderful shopping district that it is. He noted, "It is through the dedication and hard work of members like those of the Steinway Street Business Improvement District that shopping districts and the surrounding community remain vibrant."

Vallone went on to inform the members that while the economic crisis in New York City is very real, he will do his utmost to ensure that the needs of the community are met. Vallone offered his assistance and support to the membership stating, "Feel free to call me or my Chief of Staff, George Mahaltses, at any time we can be of assistance." Members greeted his remarks with applause.

Wager thanked everyone for attending. He noted that the BID Annual Report is available by contacting the Steinway BID office at 718-721-8252.