5 Takeaways From Adrienne Adams' State Of The City Address

NEW YORK CITY — Adrienne Adams, New York City Council speaker, in her final State of the City address, expressed her focus "has always been public service" as she touted the Council's agenda and accomplishments to a packed crowd at Jazz Lincoln Center in Midtown.

The speech on Tuesday is expected to be followed by a potential announcement of a mayoral run in the coming days, according to reports.

"Welcome to my grand finale," Adams told the crowd.

Here Are Five Takeaways from Tuesday's State Of The City Address

1. Touts Leadership And Political Accomplishments

Adams spoke on her outlook throughout her career in the city council as she expected to announce a mayoral bid.

“Throughout my time in office, I’ve been labeled a ‘moderate’ in people’s attempt to make sense of who I am. But my focus has always been public service, which has no political label,” she said. “How we gauge policy solutions should be based on their effectiveness in improving the lives of New Yorkers.”

2. Improved Access To Affordable Child Care

In Adam's plan for affordable child care, the city would expand the income eligibility for families to qualify for child care subsidies.

The plan would expand affordable childcare for children two years old and younger. The city would give out a voucher that covers half the cost of childcare, or $12,000 per child annually, for families earning up to $128,000 a year—or 100% of the State Median Income.

3. Mental Health Crisis In City Jails

Adams called for improved mental health care infrastructure throughout the city and in its in jail system.

The city council speaker mentioned that half of the people in city jails have a mental health diagnosis.

"The city must stop relying on its jail system as a substitute for mental health care infrastructure," she said.

Adams proposed a community based model and a holistic approach to deal with individuals with mental health crisis.

4. Other Notable Proposals

Adams touted plans to increase the number of affordable housing through 'City of Yes', additional discounts for residents struggling to pay bus and subway fares, and a plan to help individuals obtain degrees at the City University of New York by providing up to $1,000 to clear unpaid balances, allowing those to re-enroll in classes.

In addition, Adams announced a plan to restore seven-day-per-week service at 10 libraries across the city.

5. Makes Potential Pitch With Looming Mayoral Campaign Decision

“We need solutions more than slogans, service rather than saviors and partnership over patriarchy,” Adams said. “The dignity and trust in government leadership has been shaken in our city, and it must be restored.”