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November 28, 2007

$4K FINE FOR DIP IN 'ATLANTIC'

NY Post
By Maggie Haberman

An embattled city Planning Commission member was fined $4,000 for approving part of the Atlantic Yards project in Brooklyn - a controversial plan that she'd personally invested in, officials said yesterday.

Dolly Williams admitted she violated the city charter section saying public servants can't use their positions to personally benefit themselves or associates, the city Conflicts of Interest Board said.
...
In April 2004, Williams put $250,000 into escrow to start paying for her investment in the Nets basketball team and a new arena at the Atlantic Yards site.

Less than three weeks later, she voted to approve the plan that would modify a parcel in the Atlantic Yards plan, she admitted in an affidavit.

NoLandGrab: The appearance of conflict of interest has been festering for more than three years; it is hardly surprising that Williams actually took action to personally enrich herself.

Additionally, the Post reports:

[Williams] continues to serve in her post until Markowitz fills the position.

That explains why Marty Markowitz announced the appointment of Shirley McRae on the same day this decision was handed down.

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Posted by lumi at November 28, 2007 5:00 AM