Filipino-speaking New Yorkers can review five proposed changes to city government in their own language as a television and digital advertising campaign urges residents to prepare for the Nov. 3 election.
The Commission on Government Efficiency launched the ads Oct. 13 as part of its “Vote on Faster Government” campaign. Resources include an English-Tagalog palm card, a Tagalog flyer and a presentation slide, according to the commission’s announcement.
Available at nyc.gov/fast, the materials explain measures affecting outdoor dining, accessibility, city contracts, street safety, construction permits and municipal savings. Filipino is among 15 languages included in the outreach effort.
“No one should be surprised at the ballot box,” commission Executive Director Ann Cheng said in a statement, encouraging residents to research the proposals before deciding how to vote.
The commission, convened by Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani, advanced the measures after 10 public hearings and unanimously approved its final report July 23. The proposals would amend the City Charter, which establishes the structure and operating rules of municipal government.
Question 1 would streamline approvals for outdoor dining and accessible entrances. The commission projects it would cut the outdoor dining application process from eight months to two, save businesses up to $1,800 in application costs and shorten approvals for entrance ramps and lifts by two months.
Question 2 would reduce administrative requirements for city contractors, including small businesses and nonprofits. The commission estimates it could shorten the contracting process by up to 30 days.
Question 3 would accelerate street safety projects and change procedures for selling small surplus city lots and transferring unused development rights. The commission projects at least a 33% reduction in street-project timelines and more than $200 million in potential revenue from surplus lots and unused air rights above city-owned landmarks.
Question 4 would consolidate 40 construction approvals handled by 18 offices and agencies, aiming to simplify permitting and accelerate housing development.
Question 5 would establish a rainy-day savings target equal to 12% of total tax revenue to strengthen the city’s long-term financial position.
The projected savings and shorter timelines are commission estimates, not results already achieved.
The campaign, which began Sept. 15, also includes community briefings, canvassing and American Sign Language outreach. The new ads will run through Election Day.
The registration deadline is Oct. 24. Early voting runs Oct. 24-Nov. 1. Election Day polls will be open Nov. 3 from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.
