A New York State budget hearing erupted into a furious exchange when a Long Island senator directly challenged the MTA chairman over a controversial $35 million security contract. The core of the dispute? Allegations that the hired security personnel were seemingly allowing fare evasion to continue unchecked, fueling accusations of widespread waste within the agency.
Senator Mario Mattera relentlessly questioned Janno Lieber regarding the substantial contract awarded to Allied Security Services. Mattera argued the deal represented a glaring example of systemic financial mismanagement, particularly as fares for paying riders continued to climb. He pointed to mounting evidence suggesting the guards weren’t actively preventing people from bypassing fare payment.
Lieber initially bristled at the questioning, defensively asserting that the security personnel were New York residents, not out-of-state hires. However, Mattera pressed on, citing reports detailing instances of guards permitting individuals to jump turnstiles, even assisting those struggling with the transition away from the MetroCard system.
The exchange quickly escalated into a shouting match. Mattera accused Lieber of “rambling,” while Lieber demanded to be allowed to finish his statements. The tension peaked when Lieber, losing his composure, shouted “Shut up” at the senator, a remark that ultimately prompted a demand – and subsequent receipt – of an apology.
The committee chairman intervened, forcefully banging his gavel and echoing Lieber’s command, silencing both men. He firmly stated that such outbursts would not be tolerated during the hearing, attempting to restore order amidst the escalating chaos.
A security guard, speaking anonymously to a local newspaper, revealed a common sentiment encountered on the job. Riders frequently dismissed the guards’ authority, stating they “aren’t cops” and therefore unable to enforce fare payment. This highlighted a perceived lack of power and deterrent effect.
Senator Steve Chan, one of the few Republicans representing New York City in the state Senate, characterized the guards as ineffective “scarecrows.” He advocated for empowering police officers to actively issue summonses and make arrests for fare evasion, arguing that this proven strategy had been abandoned.
Another senator, Bill Weber, representing suburban commuters, labeled the security expenditure as the latest in a long line of MTA “boondoggles.” He called for a comprehensive audit of both the agency and its subcontractors, signaling a deeper concern about financial accountability and responsible spending.
The hearing underscored a growing frustration with the MTA’s handling of fare evasion and the allocation of resources. It ignited a debate about the effectiveness of private security versus traditional law enforcement, and the urgent need for greater transparency and oversight within the transit authority.
