LIBRARY REFORM OK’ED approved an expensive office renovation while the system reduced services and cut staff due to losses in government funding. The bill passed the Assembly unanimously on June 10, but up until last Thursday, State Sen. Tony Avella—a member of the Independent Democratic Conference, which shares control of the State Senate with Republicans—blocked a vote, claiming similar legislation which he introduced had more stringent standards. Following a week of negotiations, Avella and Assemblyman Jeffrion Aubry agreed to bring the legislation to a vote before the State Senate. The accord included provisions which Avella sought requiring Queens Library’s Board of Trustees to hold annual public budget hearings and disclose information subject to the state and city Freedom of Information Laws. Unofficially, the bill passed the State Senate 59-1, with upstate member Greg Ball being the lone dissenter. TIMES, THURSDAY, JUNE 26, 2014 • 8 Albany Agrees To New Rules For System As previously reported, the legislation was formed in the wake of scandals surrounding Queens Library’s president and CEO, Thomas W. Galante, who reportedly raked in a six-figure salary and -SEE LIBRARY ON PG. 30- Perp Turns His Gun On Cops In Elmhurst Trigger-Happy Suspect Still At Large by Robert Pozarycki As the Times Newsweekly went to press yesterday afternoon, June 25, police continued to seek the gunman who opened fire on two 110th Precinct officers on an Elmhurst street early last Saturday morning, June 21. The NYPD identified the perpetrator as a Hispanic male between 20 and 25 years of age, standing 5’6”-tall with a medium build. Police are offering a $12,000 reward for information leading to the shooter’s arrest and conviction. Neither of the officers that the gunman targeted were injured, law enforcement sources said. Reportedly, the trouble began at about 1:47 a.m. last Saturday in the vicinity of Lamont Avenue and Forley Street. According to authorities, a sergeant and a police officer assigned to the 110th Precinct responded to a by Robert Pozarycki Hours before the state legislature’s session ended, lawmakers struck a deal to pass legislation reforming the Queens Borough Public Library’s governing body and requiring greater public oversight over the nonprofit system. -SEE GUNFIRE ON PG. 30- Ridgewood Family Fest Was A Real Hit Guests of all ages got into the swing of summer during the Ridgewood Savings Bank Family Festival held on Sunday, June 22, at the bank’s main branch in Ridgewood. Children enjoyed free inflatable rides as well as games of skill and face painting. Free food and music were also available. The bank also hosted Alex’s Lemonade Stand, which raises funds for children battling cancer. (photo: Marcin Zurawicz)
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