#United States #New York #Town Hall #Joseph Hernandez #Taxpayer Protection

Joseph Hernandez’s Commitment to Taxpayer Protections and Budget Reform

In a significant move in the New York mayoral race, independent candidate Joseph Hernandez has made headlines by signing the Taxpayer Protection Pledge at the headquarters of Americans for Tax Reform in Washington D.C. This act makes him the sole candidate in the current race to commit publicly to not raising taxes on the citizens of New York City. Hernandez denounces the city’s current tax burdens and aims to reform the budget without compromising essential services.

Hernandez's bold plan identifies an astounding $15.2 billion in annual savings. These savings would stem from targeted cuts and structural changes to the current $120 billion budget, allowing for the reinvestment of funds into critical areas such as public safety, clean streets, educational improvement, and affordable transit options. Notably, Hernandez asserts that this initiative would offer more than $4,000 in value returned to each taxpayer, directly benefiting the working families of New York.

The Tax Burden on New Yorkers
Hernandez’s poignant critique underscores the heavy tax burden New Yorkers face compared to other cities. He emphasizes, “We pay more than any other city and get less in return.” His message resonates with many who feel overtaxed in a fast-paced urban environment. Hernandez insists that what New York truly requires is not increased taxes, but rather intelligent leadership and fiscal prudence.

Identifying Areas for Savings
The targeted savings will come from six critical sectors:

• - Department of Education: With an exorbitant annual expenditure exceeding $38 billion, the department’s administrative inefficiencies will be a focus. His strategy includes eliminating redundant roles, cutting inflated contracts, and reallocating saved resources directly toward classroom necessities, leading to an estimated savings of over $5 billion.
• - Reducing Redundancies in Social Services: Consolidating overlapping homeless and mental health programs, and eliminating unnecessary consultants tied to political affiliations are steps aimed at reducing administrative bloat.
• - Modernizing Procurement: Efforts will include a thorough reevaluation of how contracts and services are procured to ensure cost-effectiveness.
• - Streamlining Staffing: Addressing non-essential hiring to ensure resources are optimized towards productive areas.

Upon assuming office, Hernandez pledges to implement a fiscal emergency order on day one, which includes freezing non-essential staffing and initiating an Independent Budget Reform Commission. His goal is to secure $7–8 billion in verified, recurring savings in his first year, fully realizing this plan within two years.

Moreover, Hernandez’s financial blueprint introduces the concept of a Rainy Day Reserve Fund, aimed at stabilizing the city’s long-term financial health. As a Cuban-American entrepreneur, Hernandez is not new to leadership; his experience in founding healthcare companies and advancing public health innovation provides him with a unique perspective on managing budgets effectively.

A Vision for New York's Future
In his closing remarks, Hernandez states confidently, “This city doesn't need higher taxes. It needs smarter leadership and the courage to finally clean up the budget.” As he campaigns, Hernandez's blend of personal story, professional expertise, and desire for significant change is resonating. His candidacy is not just about the promise of financial reform but speaks to the broader objective of restoring safety, affordability, and accountability to New York City governance. This vision is one that many New Yorkers are likely eager to embrace, looking towards a future that prioritizes practical solutions over political gamesmanship.

For more details about Hernandez's campaign and his reformative proposals, visit his official website at hernandezfornyc.com.