The Road to City Hall: City Council District 26

Age: 24

Party Affiliation: Republican

Area Serving: District 26

Occupation: Business Analyst

Money raised thus far: Private: $17,185

Why did you decide to run for City Council: “I am running for City Council because recent leadership for District 26 has under-served our community and has not addressed several critical issues,” Maragos said.  He noted that small businesses are closing, unemployment is rising, and he said people have little access to health care.  “I will bring new ideas and creativity to give residents a much-needed break from the status quo and deliver real results to help our community,” he said.

Maragos believes that his young age is a benefit for the campaign. “Real results come from new leadership and fresh ideas, and the young people of our city are full of energy and eagerness to get involved and improve our communities,” he said. “I have real business experience, a record of achievement, creative solutions, and I know that people are excited to see a new, young face,” Maragos added.  In addition, as a Republican, Maragos believes he would bring diversity and a much-needed balance to a City Council that Democrats occupy by a margin of 48 to three.

What are two major issues affecting your community: “Health care is inadequate –there’s not a single hospital or health clinic in the district – and our small businesses are struggling, which causes high unemployment,” Maragos said.

What’s the first thing you would focus on if elected: “In order to improve business I plan to create tax incentives to encourage businesses to hire and locate in our district similar to those being offered in Lower Manhattan.,” he said. “I will also work to offer existing small businesses rent rebates and no-interest loans.”