By Ericka O’Connell, Roosevelt Island Daily
Hello friends! Big news out of City Hall that touches our neighborhoods from the Upper East Side to Roosevelt Island. Julie Menin, who represents our area on the City Council, has been elected Speaker of the New York City Council. It’s a historic moment for our city and for our community.
What Happened
On January 7, 2026, Councilmember Julie Menin was unanimously elected as the next Speaker of the New York City Council by all 51 members. This means she will lead the legislative body that shapes policies affecting every New Yorker.
Why It Matters
Friends, this isn’t just a title. The Speaker plays a central role in setting priorities for the Council, overseeing committee assignments, and steering legislation on issues like housing, public safety, and city budgets. Menin’s election marks the first time a Jewish New Yorker has held this powerful position, and she is only the fourth woman ever to serve as Speaker.
Julie has long been a part of civic life in downtown Manhattan. Before representing the Upper East Side and Roosevelt Island in the Council, she served as chair of Lower Manhattan’s Community Board 1, led Wall Street Rising in the wake of 9/11, and held key city posts under Mayor Bill de Blasio.
What Julie Menin Says
In her acceptance, Menin called the moment historic and pledged to be a speaker for everyone the Council represents across our city. She has voiced a commitment to collaboration with other elected leaders and to addressing pressing challenges like housing affordability and access to health care.
What’s Next
As Speaker, Menin will have a leading hand in shaping the Council’s actions in the coming years. Her approach balances working with city leadership and responding to the diverse needs of communities like ours in Roosevelt Island and beyond. Residents who care about affordable housing, small business support, and equitable services should stay tuned as her agenda unfolds.
Here’s to strong leadership and a city that continues moving forward together!
Howard Polivy, the Man Who Never Left
There is a particular rhythm to board meetings. Once you have sat through enough of them, they begin to blend together. The agenda appears. The minutes are approved.
