Stringer: De Blasio response to outbreak too 'laid-back'
New York Mayor Bill de Blasio answers questions from reporters at the North Shopp Leon Senior Center in the South Bronx on Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2015, regarding the Legionnaires' Disease outbreak that has been centered in the neighborhood. Credit: Craig Ruttle
The de Blasio administration moved too slowly in response to the Legionnaires' disease outbreak in New York City, reflecting a "laid-back attitude," City Comptroller Scott Stringer said Wednesday.
"The bottom line is the city didn't scramble the planes fast enough," Stringer said in a radio broadcast on AM 970.
"We can't hope for the best and assume things are isolated cases," he told guest host John Catsimatidis, filling in for John Gambling.
The disease has killed 12 people and sickened 119.
Asked about Stringer's comments, Mayor Bill de Blasio said: "I think that's absolutely inaccurate ... The best people who've commented on it are those who have been in the middle of doing it, or those who are experts in the field."
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has praised the city's handling of the health crisis.
Officials have said the outbreak is ending, noting no new diagnoses since the beginning of the month. The City Council is expected to pass legislation outlining how to inspect and disinfect cooling towers, the suspected source of the disease.
Matthew Chayes, a Newsday reporter since 2007, covers New York City.
Sarra Sounds Off Ep 36: Champs crowned in lax and flag football On the latest episode of "Sarra Sounds Off," Gregg talks with Michael Sicoli and Tess Ferguson about county champs crowned in boys and girls lacrosse, and Jared Valuzzi reports on the Long Island flag football championship.
Sarra Sounds Off Ep 36: Champs crowned in lax and flag football On the latest episode of "Sarra Sounds Off," Gregg talks with Michael Sicoli and Tess Ferguson about county champs crowned in boys and girls lacrosse, and Jared Valuzzi reports on the Long Island flag football championship.
