Katz Picks Comrie for Deputy Queens Borough President

Queens borough president-elect Melinda Katz has picked former rival Leroy Comrie to be her deputy borough president, the Daily News reported.

Katz, who defeated Councilman Peter Vallone Jr. in September’s Democratic primary and Republican Tony Arcabascio in November’s general election, announced Tuesday that Comrie, a city councilman, would be her second-in-command.

Comrie, D-St. Albans, had previously been a contender in the Queens borough president race before dropping out in mid-summer. He has been on the City Council since 2002 and has acted as the deputy majority leader.

Jay Bond, Katz’s policy adviser during her years on the City Council, has been picked for chief of staff, the Daily News reported.

Comrie told the Daily News that he was pleased to have been chosen for deputy borough president.

“I’m thrilled to assist her administration and work tirelessly over the coming weeks to ensure Queens residents are represented by the best possible team in Borough Hall,” he said.

Katz, who was a former councilwoman and state assemblywoman for Forest Hills, will take office on Jan. 1.