Como, Crowley square off in Council rematch

In a rematch of a June special election decided by less than 40 votes, Republican City Councilmember Anthony Como will look to defend his 30th City Council District seat against Democrat Elizabeth Crowley.
Como, who narrowly defeated Crowley in a four-person special election for the seat vacated by former City Councilmember Dennis Gallagher’s resignation, has been serving western Queens in the City Council since June. Como believes that his experience serving in the Council and allowing the voters to look at his record is a tremendous advantage for him this time around.
Como cited the money he has secured for his district, addressing quality of life issues and his recent vote against extending term limits - showing his ability to stand up to Mayor Bloomberg in the best interests of his constituents - as only a few examples of what he has been able to accomplish.
“To be able to have that platform to run on and let the people know that I came to them a few months ago and said [what I plan to do], and now I have proven to them and doing so with the integrity and honesty I promised we would,” Como said.
Meanwhile, Crowley, who has taken on more of a grassroots campaign this time, believes that the increased number of voters this time around - compared to the small percentage that turned out for the special election - will clearly benefit her.
“We are anticipating a strong turnout, which of course is a lot different than the special election in June,” Crowley said.
Crowley also cited her ability to help residents deal with the difficult economic times that have increased significantly since the special election as another reason voters should give her a second look.
“I think that we have to be thinking outside of the box when we are looking at ways to create jobs,” said Crowley, trumpeting her experience during the past seven years working in job development and workforce education as an asset that she could bring to the City Council.
Meanwhile, Como talked about a number of issues that he is already tackling for the community including possible landmark locations in Richmond Hill and Ridgewood as well as meeting with representatives from the mayor’s office about possible rezoning efforts in the community.
“I have a comfortable lead,” Como said about a few polls taken in his district “I’m every proud of it, and I think it says a lot of great things about me my staff and the job we’re doing.”