Bill > S01592

This bill modifies the composition and appointment process for the New York City Water Board, changing it from being entirely appointed by the mayor to a more distributed appointment structure. Specifically, the board will now consist of seven members, with four members appointed by the mayor, one member appointed by the city council speaker, one member appointed by the city comptroller, and one member appointed by the public advocate. All appointees must be confirmed by the city council before beginning their terms, and no appointee can be a current city employee or have been a city employee in the preceding six months. The bill also removes the mayor's previous authority to unilaterally appoint the board's chairman, instead requiring the board members to elect their own chair through a voting process. Board members will continue to serve two-year terms, with the initial group having staggered terms, and at least one member must have expertise in water resource development. The goal appears to be creating a more representative and independent water board by diversifying its appointment process and reducing direct mayoral control.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1592