By Tom Momberg
State Sen. Tony Avella (D-Bayside) has publicly announced his endorsement of Satnam Singh Parhar, who is one of six candidates vying for the competitive Democratic nomination in the Sept. 10 primary election for Mark Weprin’s former City Council seat.
Avella said Parhar, a Sikh from India who is one of three South Asians running in the election, reflects the great diversity in the eastern Queens Council district and best understands the issues it faces.
“Over the years that I have known him, Parhar has a strong record of getting results,” Avella said in a statement. “His commitment to serving all the constituents of District 23 makes him a fantastic advocate for this community.”
Parhar, a longtime community advocate and president of the India Association of Long Island, is running on a platform to increase economic development in support of small business, advocate for education equality, improve transportation alternatives in eastern Queens, open more senior centers and seek a freeze on property taxes and utility rates.
“I’m looking forward to working with (Avella) once I am elected to the City Council, and I know that together we will make a difference in both the Capitol and in City Hall,” Parhar said.
The district covers Oakland Gardens, Glen Oaks, part of Douglaston and Little Neck as well Fresh Meadows, Queens Village and Hollis.
Reach reporter Tom Momberg by e-mail at tmomb
