City Comptroller Scott Stringer on Sunday called for a near-total shutdown of New York City to combat the coronavirus — including shuttering public schools, a move Mayor Bill de Blasio has strongly resisted.
“The way to get out of crisis is to act logically and strategically,” wrote Stringer in the first of a series of tweets. “Logic says we need universal testing but that’s sadly not happening. Strategy says we need more aggressive social distancing.
“That is why today, out of an abundance of caution, I am calling for a city shutdown.”
Stringer outlined in dire terms exactly what that would look like for The City That Never Sleeps.
“Only essential services should remain open,” wrote Stringer. “No bars, restaurants, or movie theaters.
“And I am again calling for NYC schools to be shut down.”
De Blasio said earlier Sunday that he is weighing a city shutdown — as cases have surged to 269 across the five boroughs — but has resisted a chorus of calls for a mass school closure, including from teachers.
Stringer — considered a possible City Hall contender in the 2021 — said that while he understands Hizzoner’s reservations, the cost of inaction would be greater.
“As Comptroller and as a public school parent, I am painfully aware of the consequences these actions will have: on families who depend on schools for critical services and on the livelihoods of New Yorkers,” he wrote.
“But the consequences of not acting will be even more devastating.”