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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 19h

Starbucks’ continued bad labor relations practices are grounds for a return to independent oversight. Comptroller Levine, on behalf of four NYC pension funds, NYS Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli and Trillium Asset Management have filed a shareholder proposal.

Background shows a Starbucks window with ripped paper in the foreground with a headline that reads, "Reuters. Sharehold groups press Starbucks to restore labor committee, cite lack of union contract."

Image show pen on paper. Text reads, "NYC Comptroller Mark Levine, on behalf of four NYC Pension Funds, New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli and Trillium Asset Management filed a shareholder proposal urging Starbucks to reestablish the Environmental, Partner, and Community Impact Committee, which would oversee labor relations policies and practices."

Green background with Starbucks shop. Text shows a timeline of events and reads: The Saga Continues

2021 – Starbucks Employees Voted to Unionize

12,000+ employees and 700+ stores voted to unionize
600 open unfair labor practice charges
2023 – Starbucks Establishes its Environmental, Partner, and Community Impact Committee (EPCI Committee)

EPCI Committee was formed after Starbucks shareholders supported a proposal that would assess the company’s labor practices including collective bargaining rights.
2025 – In a reversal, the Starbucks’ Board dissolved the EPCI Committee.

NOW – This proposal asks Starbucks to re-establish the EPCI Committee to mitigate labor risks that could potentially impact operations and diminish shareholder value.

Quote by Comptroller Mark Levine, "“Starbucks cannot continue to treat labor relations as an afterthought. Investors want accountability, not more rhetoric that makes broad claims that the company is back while ignoring the very real concerns of the status of their workforce engagement. Myriad labor challenges, including the status of an agreement on a first contract with unionized employees, remain unaddressed. This is no way to ensure the long-term success of the company.”

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 28/09/2026

Housing is at the heart of the affordability crisis. We must build more and faster. At a recent Association for Neighborhood & Housing Development (ANHD) panel, Comptroller Levine talked about how public investment can generate strong returns while helping create & preserve more affordable housing.

Comptroller Levine with ANHD Executive Director Barika Williams.

State Senator James Sanders Jr., Brandee McHale, Head of Community Investing and Development at Citi, Comptroller Mark Levine,
Jamal Robinson, Executive Director, IMPACCT Brooklyn, ANHD Executive Director Barika Williams.

Comptroller Markl Levine with ANHD Executive Director Barika Williams and Glenn Davis of Renaissance Economic Development Corporation.

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 25/09/2026

🌙🥮 Passing out mooncakes and spreading joy at the Homecrest Community Services in Brooklyn. Dating back over 3,000 years, the Mid-Autumn Festival is one of the most important celebrations in Chinese culture & recognizes the end of the harvest season on the night when the moon is the fullest.

Comptroller Levine with others holding bags of mooncakes.

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 25/09/2026

Tomorrow, the 26th annual Brides’ March takes place, bringing much needed attention to domestic and intimate partner violence. 💐 This year marks 27 years since Gladys Ricart was brutally murdered by an ex-boyfriend on what was supposed to be her wedding day.

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 25/09/2026

Sukkot reminds us to appreciate the simple things: family, community, gratitude, and the blessings that surround us. During Sukkot, Jews gather in the sukkah, a temporary outdoor shelter to share meals, stories, and time together. 🌿🍋 Chag Sukkot Sameach!

Image of leaves from date palm tree and an etrog. Words say, "Chag Sukkot Sameach."

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 25/09/2026

Climate Week NYC has been a great opportunity to bring ideas together and focus on one of the issues that matters most to New Yorkers: affordability. How do we make sure New Yorkers can afford the energy they need to heat their homes in the winter and keep them cool as summers get hotter?

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 24/09/2026

Comptroller Levine writes for our Substack about the urgent approach City government needs to take on AI: “Whatever happens in these high-stakes fights, this much is certain: enormous disruption is already headed our way. And New York City is simply not ready.”

Black and white photo of Comptroller Mark Levine looking at some papers. Headline reads, "NYC is Not Ready for the AI That's Already Here" by Mark Levine. Read the full article NYCComptroller.Substack.Com

Photo of an office. Text reads, " “Job postings are down for the most AI-exposed careers... If large numbers of New Yorkers lose their white-collar jobs because of automation, we have no pool of funds ready to provide them wage support or to offer large-scale retraining.”

“NYPD will need to figure out how to balance the allure of powerful new AI tools against the imperative to preserve privacy. Our public schools will have to rethink homework in a world where students have access to AI at home or on their cell phones by fourth or fifth grade, if not earlier. Workforce agencies will have to figure out what jobs they are even training people for now. The Health Department will have to adapt disease surveillance for the AI era.”

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 24/09/2026

Financing the clean energy transition is one of the defining economic opportunities of this generation. ⚡🗽 Joining @ceresorg.bsky.social CEO Mindy Lubber and @governor.ny.gov on the Climate Week NYC main stage, discussions centered on unlocking capital for real-world deployment and grid reliability.

Comptroller Mark Levine with Ceres CEO Mindy Lubber on stage at Climate Week NYC.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul at NYC Climate Week event.

Comptroller Mark Levine with Ceres CEO Mindy Lubber.

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 23/09/2026

💰️ 🌱 New York City is putting $5 billion behind clean energy investments. Comptroller Levine is proposing an investment of $5 billion into private markets, targeting cleaner, more reliable energy while seeking to generate strong returns for our pensioners.

Background of NYC skyline with solar panels in the foreground. Text reads, "Bloomberg. NYC Pensions Eye Private Markets in $5 Billion Green Allocation."

Background shows a building. From Bloomberg article, text reads: New York City Comptroller Mark Levine unveiled a plan to steer billions of dollars into private markets, characterizing the move as a shift designed to help the investor meet its climate-related goals while safeguarding returns.

The Comptroller’s Office’s Bureau of Asset Management said the proposal targets three of the City’s public pension funds: New York City Teachers’ Retirement System (TRS), Employees’ Retirement System (NYCERS) and Board of Education Retirement System (BERS), according to a statement on Wednesday. In all, the plan is to allocate $5 billion to private markets.

Background shows an electric vehicle charging. From Bloomberg article: “There’s a pretty compelling case that the most important projects are now being funded in the private markets,” Levine said in an interview. There’s “also a strong case that this is a good investment on financial merits. And because of all that, this is the right move right now.”

Levine’s plan to steer green capital into private markets coincides with climate week in New York, where more than 100,000 people are expected to gather over the coming days in order to discuss investments, policies and civil society measures that can help address global warming. For many, the event also represents an opportunity to highlight the affordability and security benefits of clean energy solutions.

Background is a close up of solar panels.
From Bloomberg article: “Americans are facing high energy costs, while extreme weather is putting growing strain on infrastructure that wasn’t built for the climate challenges we face today,” Levine said in the statement.

“Our pension systems have an opportunity to put substantial capital to work in a growing sector,” he said. The goal is “seeking the strong returns our pensioners depend on while investing in cleaner, more reliable and resilient energy that can lower costs and reduce emissions at the same time.”

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 23/09/2026

What if New York City could make its own power? This isn’t a hypothetical question anymore. The technology is available & city owned land could provide the space to make it happen. Comptroller Levine makes the case for putting NYC’s land & clean-energy potential to work @NYDailyNews: bit.ly/4ybf1mz

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 22/09/2026

AI is already reshaping New York City’s economy and workforce, and business and community leaders recognize the urgency required to meet this moment. The packed house at the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce’s “AI and the Future of NYC Business” breakfast made that clear.

Comptroller Mark Levine speaking at a podium, headline reads, "Businesses Focus on AI and the Economy. Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce Dives into How AI Will Impact NYC Businesses and Growth."

Comptroller Mark Levine with Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce CEO Randy Peers.

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 21/09/2026

$300 million dollars is going into the affordable housing pipeline. Four of NYC’s pension funds have invested in the AFL-CIO Housing Investing Trust, HIT, the largest-ever allocation to HIT. The investment will finance the construction and preservation of affordable homes across the city.

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 20/09/2026

Harlem’s streets were pure joy today—pride, music, and unity at the annual African American Day Parade. 🎺 Marching alongside community leaders, workers, and neighbors made for a powerful celebration of Black culture and its foundational role in shaping New York City. 🗽🖤

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 20/09/2026

Wishing all who observe Yom Kippur a meaningful day of reflection, repentance and renewal. G'mar chatima tovah, גְּמַר חֲתִימָה טוֹבָה

A decorative background with a Jewish star. Text reads, "Yom Kippur, G'mar Chatima Tova. Wishing you a Blessed Day of Prayer and Reflection and a Meaningful Fast."

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 20/09/2026

The 3rd Annual Brooklyn Mid-Autumn Parade and Asian Cultural Festival is a time for family, togetherness and gratitude. With more than 3,000 years of history, the Mid-Autumn Festival honors the moon and gives thanks for a bountiful harvest.

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 17/09/2026

🚨 Big News: $300 million to increase affordable housing so the people who build this city can afford to live here. Four NYC pension funds just made the largest-ever allocation to the AFL-CIO Housing Investment Trust (HIT), supporting workforce and affordable homes. For maps of HIT investments 👇️

Background shows skyline of New York City with a headline from a Gothamist article that reads, "NYC pension funds make $300M affordable housing investment to help solve apartment shortage."

Excerpt from Gothamist article that reads, "The new investment in the AFL-CIO Housing Investment Trust marks the first allocation of its kind since Levine announced a plan to direct $4 billion in city pension funds over the next four years to build more apartments.

“This is a dramatic increase in the pace of investment because the crisis is worse than it's ever been,” Levine said. “There are projects all over the city where the zoning is ready, and they have a developer, but they're waiting and waiting and waiting for financing, and projects die because it can take years.”

Excerpt from Gothamist article that reads, "The trust has helped construct more than 44,000 homes in New York City over the past four decades, according to its website, and officials say they plan to finance 10,000 more in the coming years.

The apartments constructed with loans from the AFL-CIO Housing Investment Trust are typically priced for middle-income residents or feature a mix of income levels, with luxury apartments and some units priced for lower-income renters. The projects require union labor."

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 16/09/2026

What a summer ☀️ celebrating community at NYCHA Family Days across all five boroughs! These gatherings are always a highlight, bringing neighbors and families together. A big thank you to all the tenant association presidents, resident leaders and families who welcomed us so warmly at every stop.

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 15/09/2026

The curtain rises at the People’s Theatre: Centro Cultural Inmigrante in Inwood! A new cultural landmark is taking center stage. We joined singer, songwriter and producer Lin-Manuel Miranda, his parents Luis and Luz, People’s Theatre Co-founder Mino Lora and elected officials for the ribbon cutting.

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 15/09/2026

The Met is undergoing a massive transformation that will solidify NYC’s reputation as the cultural and arts mecca of the world. Thrilled to join the groundbreaking ceremony of the Oscar L. Tang and H.M. Agnes Hsu-Tang Wing.

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 14/09/2026

Congratulations to the newly sworn-in executive board of the Uniformed Fire Officers Association. The impact of 9/11 remains front and center for the UFOA & the FDNY, which lost 343 members on September 11, 2001. The effects of that day continue to be felt by firefighters, officers & their families.

Comptroller Levine swearing in the new executive board of the Uniformed Fire Officers Association.

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 13/09/2026

It was an honor to celebrate the rich and vibrant African communities that call New York City home at the African Heritage Festival and Resource Fair at Lou Gehrig Plaza in the Bronx.

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 11/09/2026

To many, September 11, 2001 feels like yesterday. “Never forget” is the promise we made to those who were killed, and today, 25 years later, we honor the memory of the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives and the heroes who ran toward danger to save them. We will never forget.

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 10/09/2026

School is officially back in session! 📚✏️ No first-day jitters here, just lots of excitement for the year ahead. It was wonderful to kick off the start of the school year with educators and students at PS 48 in Upper Manhattan and PS 456 in Brooklyn.

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 10/09/2026

For generations, Jewish communities have helped shape the civic, cultural, and economic backbone of New York City. 🏙️ As we enter the year 5787, may New Yorkers stand firmly against hatred and find strength in one another. ✡️ Wishing everyone a blessed new year! Shanah Tova U’Metukah! 🍎

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 09/09/2026

As Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, approaches, Jewish organizations across New York are embracing the spirit of Tikkun Olam, by helping ensure that food-insecure New Yorkers of all faiths have access to nutritious meals. Grateful to the numerous groups and volunteers help others year round.

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 09/09/2026

Union strong ✊Thousands of union workers converged in Lower Manhattan for the NYC Central Labor Council, AFL-CIO Labor Day Rally & March, a powerful show of solidarity from teachers, transit workers, writers, healthcare workers, construction workers, & so many others who keep New York City moving.

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 08/09/2026

The Bronx may be known around the world as the birthplace of hip-hop, but salsa is also deeply woven into the borough’s culture. Throughout the Summer, the Bronx Summer Concert Series hosted by Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson brought free live music and entertainment to the community.

NYC Comptroller Mark Levine speaking before a crowd at the Bronx Summer Concert Series in Orchard Beach.

NYC Comptroller Mark Levine with Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson on stage at Bronx Summer Concert Series in Orchard Beach.

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 07/09/2026

An illustration of the first Labor Day in New York City with a caption that reads: Celebrating Labor Day. The nation’s first Labor Day Parade was held in New York City in 1882. Tens of thousands of workers marched, calling for an eight-hour work day."

Image of Hotel workers rally with a caption that reads, "New York City is a union town. Workers' rights continue to be a cornerstone of this city."

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 04/09/2026

The Employer Violations Dashboard helps hold bad actors accountable by bringing together enforcement data from federal, state and city agencies to identify employers across NYC that have violated labor laws including:💰️ Wage theft 🦺 Health & safety violations 🏗️ Prevailing wage violations

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 17/08/2026

🇵🇰 The Brooklyn Pakistan Day Mela is a celebration of Pakistani-American culture and heritage in the heart of Midwood, also known as “Little Pakistan.” Comptroller Levine joined the “mela,” which means “gathering” in Sanskrit. This annual celebration honors Pakistan’s 1947 independence.

Comptroller Mark Levine with community leaders at the Brooklyn Pakistan Day Mela.

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 16/08/2026

The heart and spirit of the Indian community were on full display at the 11th Annual Queens India Day Parade! 🇮🇳 This celebration honors both the vibrant and growing Indian-American community in Queens and 79 years of Indian Independence, a historic day when India became a free and sovereign nation.

Comptroller Mark Levine speaking on stage at the 11th Annual Queens India Day Parade.

Comptroller Mark Levine at the 11th Annual Queens India Day Parade.

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 13/08/2026

Expanding access to capital and strengthening Minority Depository Institutions (MDIs) is essential to building an equitable economy across New York. NYC Comptroller joined Senator James Sanders Jr., state and city partners, and MDI leaders to discuss pathways to increase municipal deposits.

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 12/08/2026

📢 Good News: NYC’s five pension systems delivered a 13% return for FY2026, significantly exceeding the 7% actuarial target. That strong performance brings the funds’ combined value to $326.3 billion. Read the @Bloomberg.Com article buff.ly/rPtNPQQ

Image of NY Stock Exchange with a headline by Bloomberg that reads, "New York City's Five Pensions Gain 13% on Surging US Stocks."

Chart showing Assets Under Management, Return of Fees and Contribution to Return.

Total Combined NYC Assets equals $326.3 billion and shows a 13% rate of return.

Quote by NYC Comptroller Mark Levine, "Retirees work for decades to earn the financial security that a pension provides and protecting that security requires a disciplined and prudent investment approach. Global markets faced significant headwinds over the past year, and our results demonstrate the importance of maintaining a long-term focus and a diversified strategy designed to deliver sustainable, risk-adjusted returns for decades to come."

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 04/08/2026

This summer, the NYC Comptroller's Office welcomed 40 interns across our bureaus. Throughout the internship program, they gained valuable skills and hands-on experience while supporting our teams with research, data analysis, community outreach, and more. They made a lasting impression!

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 03/08/2026

Donating blood saves lives and right now, it’s needed more than ever. For the first time ever, the New York Blood Center has declared two blood emergencies in a single summer. Extreme heat, severe storms, and power outages have reduced donor turnout, while the need for blood continues to grow.

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 29/07/2026

ATWORK is helping New Yorkers with disabilities find jobs but it's reaching only a fraction of those who need it. A new review by the NYC Comptroller’s Office found that in FY24 and FY25, the program served 1,268 job seekers and placed 99 people in jobs.

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 28/07/2026

NYC Comptroller Levine met with Queens Together and the Jackson Heights Merchants Association, nonprofits that work to strengthen communities through food relief while supporting local restaurants and businesses with economic development and partnerships.

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 23/07/2026

🚨 NEW AUDIT: NYC Public Schools (NYCPS) failed to collect up to $431.6 million in federal Medicaid reimbursements for services provided to students with disabilities over the course of 3 fiscal years. We found missing documentation, unclaimed reimbursements, years of unimplemented recommendations.🧵

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 22/07/2026

The Comptroller’s Office welcomed the Flushing Chinese Business Association (FCBA) Youth Leader Council this morning. These outstanding high school students are spending their summer, touring various city and state agencies as part of a seven-week leadership and career exploration program.

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 22/07/2026

July’s extreme heat showed how vulnerable 🪫 NYC’s power grid has become, increasing the risk of outages and higher energy costs. During back-to-back heatwaves, Con Edison reported more than 80,000 outages across the five boroughs during a two-day period.

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 17/07/2026

📈 NYC's cash outlook is stronger than expected. The city started the fiscal year with $16.2 billion in cash, nearly $3.5 billion more than previously projected, thanks to stronger-than-expected revenues driven in large part by Wall Street and accounting moves that have increased near-term liquidity.

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 17/07/2026

A new chapter for West Harlem. The ribbon has been cut on a new public walkway, marking the completion of Janus Property's Innovation Triangle–West Harlem Factory District master plan. NYC Comptroller Mark Levine was proud to join community leaders and partners to celebrate this milestone.

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 16/07/2026

Stay indoors if you can New Yorkers! The region is dealing with a one-two punch of extreme heat and dangerous air quality due to wildfires in Canada. Find cooling centers and free masks

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 16/07/2026

New York City's economy continues to show resilience, but today's strength doesn't guarantee tomorrow's stability. Many New Yorkers are still feeling the affordability crisis, and the City faces a projected $6–8 billion budget gap next year. Preparing now is the best way to protect New Yorkers.

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 08/07/2026

Nonprofits & businesses doing work for the city are left waiting to get paid for months or even years. Today, the NYC Comptroller’s Office launched the first-ever Late Contracts Dashboard, a new tool that tracks contract registration delays, one of the biggest factors contributing to late payments.

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 06/07/2026

SpaceX’s recent IPO has sent shockwaves throughout capital markets – but leaves investors with few meaningful tools to challenge decisions that may harm shareholder value. In our newest Substack article, Comptroller Levine argues both that this limited-governance structure is textbook Elon Musk...👇️

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 06/07/2026

Six months down. Plenty more to do. From every borough to every neighborhood, the NYC Comptroller's Office has been working alongside New Yorkers to tackle the affordability crisis, support communities, and build a city where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Want to what's coming up next?👇️

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 04/07/2026

Wishing everyone a safe, happy, and memorable Fourth of July as we celebrate 250 years of independence. 🇺🇸

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 03/07/2026

New Yorkers, don’t take your chances during this extreme heat wave. Complete your errands early and stay out of the sun and in air-conditioned spaces like libraries, senior centers, and NYCHA facilities. If you need a place to stay cool, nyc.gov/beattheheat.

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Office of NYC Comptroller Mark Levine @nyccomptroller.bsky.social · 02/07/2026

Workers at the Fairfield by Marriott Times Square and Four Points by Sheraton Midtown have been on strike since Monday and are on the picket line. After voting to join the Hotel and Gaming Trades Council in 2022, they’ve been fighting for a fair contract....

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