“I want to congratulate Laura Kavanagh on her historic appointment and swearing-in as the first female commissioner to lead the New York City Fire Department. I have worked closely with Laura during my time as an elected official and she has demonstrated tremendous commitment, compassion, and dedication for not only her staff but all New Yorkers.

As the Bronx has faced some of the worst residential fires in the history of our City, our first responders have acted swiftly to save lives and we owe them a debt of gratitude. I am excited to see the work we will do together under Commissioner Kavanagh`s leadership and I know diversity, education, recruitment, and safety will be important priorities for her administration.”