Stop and Frisk
Discontent grew over the controversial practice of stop, question, and frisk used by the NYPD, despite a decrease in reported numbers for 2012 and a list of promised reforms by Police Commissioner Raymond Kelly in May. In October four bills were introduced in City Council, including prohibiting bias-based profiling. The bills remain in committee.
High Cost of Living
Three of New York City’s boroughs—Manhattan (1), Brooklyn (2), and Queens (6)—were listed in the nation’s top 10 most expensive urban areas in the cost of living index, published in September.
Summer Heat
The summer of 2012 reached a record-breaking 98 degrees F at La Guardia Airport and 94 degrees F at JFK Airport on June 20. The heat caused some power outages throughout the city, and Con Edison asked residents to reduce their electrical use. The summer of 2010 was the hottest summer ever, but 2012 was the hottest for the Northeast region.
Aquarium Woes
On Aug. 16, Mayor Michael Bloomberg announced funding for a new shark exhibit and an upgraded exterior for the Coney Island-based aquarium, ending a 10-year funding battle. On Oct. 29, floodwaters from Hurricane Sandy ravaged the aquarium, forcing it to close indefinitely while extensive repairs are made.
Bike Share Stalled
The bike share system has been delayed twice—once due to technology glitches and secondly due to Sandy damage. Originally scheduled to start in July, the rollout has been pushed back to May 2013. The system is slated to have 10,000 bikes and 600 stations.
Soda Ban
A plan for 2,000 yellow cabs and 16,000 outer-borough taxis, which could pick up passengers everywhere but the Manhattan core and airports—was blocked temporarily by a judge in June. Supported by Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Mayor Michael Bloomberg, the plan, estimated to garner over $1 billion, faces fierce opposition from taxi owners and drivers.
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