A recognizable face will return to the City Council, following the resignation of Jazmarie Melendez.
Ex council member Samia Suliman has received the backing of 138th Town Committee District Democrats to replace her as the other council member to represent the Upper East Side. Years ago Suliman had been aligned with Maria Pereira in the district but became one in a long line to walk away from Pereira’s pernicious acts. Melendez was another.
It’s really not a question if it will happen, but when it will happen because it’s become routine with Pereira.
Pereira is now marginalized on the council. Facing multiple state charges of election fraud, she was recently sanctioned by her peers on the legislative body unrelated to her arrest associated with the 2023 municipal election.
Racial remarks directed at City Attorney Tyesha Toms, pointing a middle finger at acting school chief Royce Avery, verbally abusing city employees including social media attacks were some of the highlights in a City Council resolution passed unanimously. As a result, Pereira’s stripped of committee assignments.
Suliman is well regarded in city politics and by council members.
Council vacancies are filled by the legislative body but have historically embraced recommendations by the respective district pols.
The appointment could come as soon as Monday night’s council meeting.
