UPDATE: Staten Island Assemblymember Sam Pirozzolo is igniting a renewed push for the borough’s independence, holding a rally today at Richmond Road and New Dorp Lane to unveil his “Staten Island Independence Declaration.” This move aims to reignite discussions about secession that have simmered for decades, with Pirozzolo calling for a fresh examination of Staten Island’s potential as an independent city.
Pirozzolo’s declaration emphasizes the need for Staten Islanders to dissolve ties with what he describes as a “distant and unresponsive government.” He stated, “We the citizens of Staten Island declare… it becomes necessary for one borough to dissolve the political bonds which have connected it.” His statements resonate deeply with many frustrated residents, highlighting grievances against city governance.
The rally comes on the heels of a recent announcement from Borough President Vito Fossella, who committed to funding a new study assessing the feasibility of Staten Island’s independence. This follows a 1990s referendum where 65% of voters favored secession, though the proposal was ultimately blocked by city and state authorities.
Pirozzolo’s initiative arrives in a politically charged atmosphere, shortly after the election of Zohran Mamdani, a democratic socialist. While some Staten Island Republicans express hope for collaboration with the incoming mayor, Pirozzolo openly criticizes past and current city leadership for neglecting the borough’s needs.
“We have petitioned time and time again for fairness, for reliable transportation, for safe streets and for our local voices to be heard,” Pirozzolo asserted.
The rally was held at a historically significant location—the former site of the Rose and Crown Tavern, where the Declaration of Independence was read by British soldiers in 1776. Pirozzolo drew parallels between past revolutionary grievances and the current struggles of Staten Islanders, who feel ignored by city officials.
Addressing concerns about the implications of independence, Pirozzolo acknowledged potential challenges such as sustaining first responder services and education systems, but emphasized that taxes are already on the rise. “They might go up anyway, but let’s ensure that money is spent on Staten Island schools and roads,” he said. “This is about the freedom of Staten Islanders to choose their own fate moving forward.”
The assemblymember’s declaration, which spans 485 words, details claims that Staten Island is treated unfairly by city leadership, with residents entitled to representation and respect. He argues that while taxes are diligently collected, the borough suffers from neglected infrastructure and overwhelming regulations.
“We are taxed as if we are Manhattan, but we are treated as if we are expendable,” he read from his declaration.
The gathering, though modest, saw residents encouraged to sign the declaration in support of Pirozzolo’s initiative. Currently, no legislation has been introduced to revisit the study, but Pirozzolo is actively working to build a coalition of local officials to support this cause.
As this situation develops, many Staten Islanders are watching closely. The response from the incoming Mamdani administration remains pending, with no comments available at this time. The renewed push for independence could reshape Staten Island’s political landscape, making it a crucial development for local residents and city governance.
Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds and the debate around Staten Island’s future continues to heat up.
