New York City Mayor Creates Commission on Government Efficiency

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced the creation of a Commission on Government Efficiency on Thursday. The panel will review city government processes and procedures. The commission is chaired by Patrick Gaspard, a longtime adviser to Mamdani and former ally of ex-Mayor Bill de Blasio.

Ann Cheng, who served in the administrations of both de Blasio and former Mayor Eric Adams, will serve as executive director.

The commission is tasked with proposing ballot measures focused on improving efficiency and modernizing city government. Mamdani said the panel will identify reforms to deliver services faster and more effectively for working people. Mamdani stated that the commission’s work reflects a focus on government operations similar to how working-class New Yorkers manage their own budgets.

He added that the effort includes examining existing processes and procedures.

The new panel replaces a charter revision commission established under former Mayor Eric Adams. State Democrats granted Mamdani authority in the recent state budget to end the earlier commission. Citizens Union said the new commission will have less time for public input, research, and deliberation than the Adams panel if it seeks to place measures on the November ballot.

Other members include Henry Garrido, head of DC37, and Kathy Wylde, former CEO of Partnership for New York. Mamdani said the commission’s goals apply to anyone who supports effective public services.