A tense New York State budget hearing erupted into a heated exchange when a Long Island senator directly challenged the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s chairman regarding a $35 million security contract. The core of the dispute centered on accusations that the contracted security personnel were failing to prevent fare evasion, fueling concerns about wasteful spending within the agency.
Senator Mario Mattera relentlessly questioned Janno Lieber about the sizable contract awarded to Allied Security Services, particularly as the MTA simultaneously increased fares for paying riders. Mattera argued the deal represented a systemic problem of mismanaged funds, demanding answers about the guards’ effectiveness.
Lieber initially defended the contract, emphasizing that the security personnel were New York residents, not out-of-state hires. However, Mattera countered with reports detailing instances of guards seemingly allowing individuals to bypass fare payment, even assisting those struggling with the new post-MetroCard system.
The exchange quickly escalated, with both men speaking over each other in frustration. Mattera accused Lieber of rambling, while Lieber demanded to be allowed to finish his statements. The escalating volume prompted the committee chairman to intervene with a sharp command: “Shut up.”
Amidst the chaos, an apology was ultimately extracted from Lieber, but not before the chairman, J. Gary Pretlow, firmly stated that raised voices would not be tolerated. The incident highlighted a deep-seated tension over accountability and responsible spending within the MTA.
A security guard, speaking anonymously to a local newspaper, revealed a common sentiment encountered on the job: riders often dismiss their authority, stating, “You’re not a cop, you can’t stop it.” This admission underscored the limitations faced by the contracted security force.
Another state senator, a former police officer, characterized the guards as ineffective “scarecrows,” advocating for a return to more robust law enforcement intervention. He argued that empowering police officers to issue summonses and make arrests, coupled with consistent prosecution, would be a more effective deterrent to fare evasion.
Concerns extended beyond the city limits, with a senator representing suburban commuters expressing the belief that the security expenditure was simply the latest example of a costly “boondoggle.” He called for a comprehensive audit of both the MTA and its subcontractors to identify further areas of potential waste.
The hearing laid bare a growing frustration with the MTA’s financial management and the perceived lack of tangible results from significant investments. The clash between the senator and the chairman served as a stark illustration of the mounting pressure for greater transparency and accountability.
