Williams appoints a new legislative director

Williams appoints a new legislative director

Brooklyn Council Member Jumaane D. Williams, deputy leader of the City Council, has appointed Michael J. Twomey as his new legislative director.

Williams, who represents the 45th Council District in Brooklyn, said on Wednesday that Twomey will be taking on the role formerly held by Nicholas E. Smith, who has transitioned to a position in the De Blasio Administration.

“Michael is a welcomed addition to our team,” Williams said. “He began as a legislative intern in my office nearly five years ago, and has since grown tremendously both professionally and personally.

“Michael brings a wealth of information and experience to this role, and I look forward to working with him,” he added.

Working in Williams’ office, as an intern, from 2012 – 2013, Twomey assisted with policy research, budget logistics and the participatory budgeting process, Williams said.

He said Twomey is also a proud graduate of New York Law School, where he earned his Juris Doctorate, with a specialization in legislation and government.

Following his internship, Williams said Twomey worked as a legal fellow for the Center for New York City Law, where he authored articles for CityLandNYC.org and CityLaw.org on zoning changes, special permit requests and Uniform Land Use Review Procedure.

Most recently, Twomey served as an attorney in the Litigation and Program Counsel Unit for the New York City Human Resources Administration, Williams said.

He said Twomey is an active member of the political community, “having dedicated his time to the Brooklyn Young Democrats and the Brooklyn chapter of NAACP [National Association for the Advancement of Colored People].”

In his role as legislative director, Williams said Twomey will manage his legislative portfolio and coordinate with the Committee on Housing and Buildings on tackling affordable housing issues in the city.