Some of the more regressive possibilities of Mr. Spitzer’s governorship were made clear last week, when – at the behest of Mayor Bloomberg and some others – Mr. Spitzer vetoed a bill that would have directed Social Services agencies to train public assistance recipients for better than minimum wage jobs. Imagine, both houses of the NY State legislature agreed on how to focus job-training! But, shades of Pataki-past, the Governor vetoed the bill. (See, for example, this item from the Drum Major Institute’s Blog .) Well, this is all bitter water under the bridge, so why am I still hocking you about all this? Because it could happen again. UPDATE AFTER JUMP

Another bill would fund public housing authorities for assistance recipients at the same rate which goes to private landlords. In effect, it would increase the amount of cash going to NYCHA and other public housing entities.

Are you, like most New York City residents a renter? Consider spending some time with other tenants this Tuesday. Advocates for actually affordable housing will meet Tuesday, June 26, 2007 at 5PM at the Great Hall of The Cooper Union. 7 East 7th Street at the corner of 3rd Ave. After the press event, you can join other tenants at a Punch & Judy show, the Rent Guildlines Board's final meeting where Mr. Bloomberg's appointees decide how much more rent you should pay. ( To register to speak at the public hearing, call the RGB at 212-385-2934.)

Take the 6 train to Astor Pl., or the R,W to 8th Street
or M1, M15, M6, M101, or M102 buses to Astor Place or Cooper Square

From Tenants & Neighbors:

There will be a press conference to present Mayor Bloomberg's HOUSING REPORT CARD. This event will take place at the final vote of the New York City Rent Guidelines Board, where this year's rent increases will be determined for one million rent stabilized households.

Although the Mayor will receive a few good grades for his