Helbock’s bill
(October 19th 2006)
Robert Helbock's no longer in the race to replace the retiring Marchi but this doesn't mean that whatever he's proposed and raised during his run don't count. During Helbock's run for the position, he strongly stood behind his plans to conduct a major facelift on some Staten Island 's major roads. Maybe of his opponents used this as a weapon against him and linked it directly to International Speedway Corporation's NASCAR track plans. Although he denied any link between his plans and the Staten Island NASCAR track plans, he's out, anyway.
Although he's out of the race, his plan of conducting a major traffic overhaul remains.
Helbock authored a bill in June 2006 that he said could bring in approximately $250 to Staten Island to plump up the cash flow for Staten Island in aid of helping ease the traffic woes of the island. This bill was written over summer when Helbock was serving as Marchi's legal aide.
So, now that Helbock's out, what happens to the bill? It seems as though there is a need for a plan like Helbock's, so Assemblyman John Lavelle will reintroduce the bill when he becomes the challenger this coming month. Seeing that this bill is being introduced by a new challenger, it is agreed that although it was severely criticized and butchered beyond recognition, it is still extremely valid. And that is why Lavelle will reintroduce the bill in January next year as his campaign picks up pace.
Councilman Andrew Lanza is one person who will scoff at the idea of reintroducing the bill. Lanza strongly expressed his disapproval, disagreement and discontentment with Helbock's plan. And it seems as though he will continue to scoff at it. Although Lanza has a strong following behind him, Helbock's bill won quite a few votes too which includes Senator Diane Savino, Senator Martin Golden and Titone.
The fate of Helbock's bill remains unsure because the bill needs a whole lot more than just words and empty promises. And we're just not sure if the supporters and sponsors of the bill is capable or is willing to do more than just nod their heads.