Debating the Queens Special Election

Juniper Park Civic Association, a (surprisingly?) large and organized community group in western Queens, is hosting a debate for candidates in the June 3 special election to fill Dennis Gallagher’s City Council seat, and it will be followed the next day by a forum for candidates in the same race.

JPCA’s influence was best demonstrated when their quixotic campaign against the Cross Harbor Tunnel led to a billboard, and, since it was an election year, resulted in Michael Bloomberg forcefully denouncing the plan. (After the election, Bloomberg shifted his position.)

Also, it's led by Robert Holden, a colorful character who has been a major force in Queens politics for some time.

That debate is taking place Tuesday, May 20, at 7:30 p.m. at Our Lady of Hope, 61-21 71st Street in Middle Village.

Then, on Wednesday, May 21, there’s a candidates forum sponsored by the League of Preservation Voters and the Historic Districts Council. It's at 7 p.m. at P.S. 49, 79-15 Penelope Avenue.

I'll be going to at least one if not both events, and to blatantly copy DFNYC, I'm wondering: What would you ask the candidates?

To refresh your memory, they are: Elizabeth Crowley, Anthony Como, Charles Ober, Tom Ognibene and Joseph Suraci.