By Bill Parry
Bob Holden, the longtime leader of the Juniper Park Civic Association, will announce his run for City Council at Thursday night’s monthly meeting. The 65-year-old will challenge City Councilwoman Elizabeth Crowley (D-Glendale) in a primary this fall.
“I don’t really like politics, but the thought came to me two weeks ago that I’ve got to step up because there are so many things that need to be taken care of in these neighborhoods,” Holden said in an interview. “I know politics can be nasty and I’ll be going up against the Queens Democratic Machine, but I’m ready for their smear tactics because the truth is she’s been wrong on so many levels it’s hard to know where to start.”
Crowley was elected to the Council in 2008 representing District 30, which includes Middle Village, Maspeth. Ridgewood and parts of Woodside and Woodhaven.
“I look forward to a spirited campaign focused on the issues that affect our communities,” Crowley said. “I’m proud of my record in the Council over the last eight years, standing up for our local families. Together, we have secured school funding for 5,400 new classroom seats, enhanced public safety by hiring more police, and preserved essential city services such as fire and EMS. But there are still many challenges we face. I am eager to make the case to voters this campaign season that I am the experienced, enthusiastic and persistent voice they can continue to depend on to lead our community in the Council.”
Holden, who was born and raised in Middle Village which he still calls home, is preparing to end his 40-year career as a professor at the New York City College of Technology and he was pondering his future when it hit him.
“My commitment to this community is unmatched. I’ve lived here all of my life. I live around the corner from where I grew up,” Holden said. “It’s my turn to step up. It’s my duty to run. You can’t fake love of neighborhood, it’s exhibit A and Elizabeth Crowley can’t prove that. All she has is her name.”
Crowley is the cousin of U.S. Rep. Joseph Crowley (D-Jackson Heights), the leader of the Queens Democratic Party, and Holden is highly critical of both.
“In all the battles we fought on the homeless shelters the city wanted to put in Glendale and Maspeth, she was a no-show,” Holden said. “I led the fight for the community and you can see the results.”
Reach reporter Bill Parry by e-mail at bparr
