Council Member Phil Wong and New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Commissioner Lisa Garcia held a meeting on Wednesday, July 8, regarding constituents’ concerns.
Photo courtesy of the Office of Council Member Phil Wong
Council Member Phil Wong met with NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Commissioner Lisa Garcia to discuss water billing reform and revamped infrastructure throughout District 30 in a meeting on Wednesday, July 8.
The meeting was in response to recurring flooding during intense rainfall, with Wong pushing for continued investment in the district’s aging sewer and water infrastructure. On Monday, July 6, parts of Queens saw flooding and downed trees amid heavy rain and strong winds.
Council Member Wong and Commissioner Garcia talked about long-term infrastructure needs throughout the district.Photo courtesy of the Office of Council Member Phil Wong
Wong raised concerns by constituents about customer service issues with DEP water billing. Commissioner Garcia promised to continue improving the agency’s call center and their overall customer service experience.
They also discussed ways to raise awareness of programs that assist qualified homeowners with resiliency upgrades — such as installing backwater valves — along with flooding issues impacting private community driveways.
Council Member Wong and Commissioner Garcia intend to deepen their collaboration in the near future.Photo courtesy of the Office of Council Member Phil Wong
“I want to thank Commissioner Garcia for taking the time to visit my district office and have a productive conversation about the issues my office hears about every day,” Wong said. “Whether it’s flooding after every major storm, concerns with aging sewer infrastructure, or frustrating experiences resolving water billing issues, these are quality of life issues that directly impact our residents.”
Council Member Wong and Commissioner Garcia plan to continue working together to strengthen communication between DEP and district residents while identifying infrastructure needs throughout District 30. Their collaboration will also focus on advancing projects that enhance the district’s long-term water and sewer infrastructure.