Latest Responses from Political Officials and the Department of Transportation.

As of lately, I have been sharing the petition with other Political Members of Staten Island and the New York City Department of Transportation. The First Response from one of our Political Representatives in New York City was from Councilwoman Debi Rose and the Department of Transportation. The e-mail from Debi Rose's Office I recently got back several days ago and the Department of Transportation replied back this morning. These were the following responses. "Thank you for contacting the office of Council Member Debi Rose. We are sure that like your suggestion there are many possibilities for naming the new ferryboats – all representing people, locations and heroic efforts that deserve recognition. The final voice in this decision making process is Mayor Bill DeBlasio. In that regard I am forwarding your suggestion to his Staten Island representative, copied above. I am confident that Ms. Barnes will faithfully relay your recommendation. I will certainly relay your feelings to Council Member Rose." NYC Department of Transportation Response of the Ferry Division: "Good Morning Mr. Lacari: Thank you for contacting the Staten Island Ferry. This letter is in regards to your inquiry dated February 28, 2017 concerning the naming of a new ferryboat in honor of Firefighter Stephen G, Siller. The Department of Transportation (DOT) appreciates your name suggestions and all name requests are kept on record with the city and will be referred to when City Hall makes the decision as to what the next vessels will be named. It is a very exciting time for everyone involved! Thank you for sharing your comments and ideas with us." Are these a good step forward? In some way they are, but the wording itself still is one of concern. This is why we need to keep the momentum going and to keep pushing to ensure Stephen G. Siller get's his name on one of the New Ferry Boats. If we got over 1,100 signatures, who says we can not reach 1,500 by next week? Again, it is up to us alone to ensure this idea becomes a reality.