Liu Chides City Agencies at CB 11 Meeting

City Comptroller John Liu told Community Board 11 members Monday night that he believed the city could have a more independent board to control water rates.

During the meeting, he also said that his office would soon release an audit on the Department of Finance’s assessments of co-ops and condos.

The comptroller criticized the city Department of Environmental Protection's next year after being asked by an audience member whether he believed an independent agency could oversee the rates.

“I believe we can have, at least, a more independent agency,” he said. “Right now, the Water Board is completely controlled by the mayor. It’s somewhat absurd that it’s almost good news this year that we’re not getting a double digit rate increase. It’s ludicrous when you think of the homeowners who are being taxed left and right. The water rates are not only being used to support the water’s infrastructure, but also being put into the city’s coffers. I believe that needs to be changed.”

Liu said his office would soon release an audit on the Department of Finance following that agency’s .

“Keep an eye out for those results,” Liu said of the audit. “They won’t be pleasant, but they won’t be shocking.”

Liu also addressed the recent criminal investigation of his campaign fund-raising operation, including the arrest of his treasurer in February.

“There are a number of allegations about my supporters, campaign staff and me,” he said. “None of them have ever been proven. I’m very proud of the way I’ve conducted my office. We uphold the highest level of ethics in everything we do.”

The comptroller also said he was unsure whether he would run for his current office again if he does not win next year’s mayoral race, in which he is currently a candidate.

“I have not made it clear exactly what I’ll do in next year’s election,” he said. “It’s a humongous opportunity for a lot of people.”