On Thursday, September 5th, during an interview with the Voice Newspapers, Pastor Fernando Cabrera, a Bronx native and former New York City Council member, announced his candidacy for his former District 14 seat in the upcoming 2025 election. Known for his extensive service, Cabrera represented District 14 from 2010 to 2021 and also worked as an advisor to Mayor Eric Adams. Cabrera expressed his concern about the district’s current state and outlined his plans to restore public safety, improve housing, and address issues impacting the Bronx community.
A History of Leadership in the Bronx
Pastor Cabrera began his interview by sharing his extensive resume, which spans over three decades of service. “I have had the honor to serve as a pastor for the last 37 years, all the way from 1988,” Cabrera said, referencing his work not only as a pastor but also as a college professor and school counselor in Bronx high schools. “I was born in the Bronx and I have a special love for the Bronx. All my work is in the Bronx,” he added, speaking passionately about his deep ties to the community. Cabrera’s experiences as a public servant have prepared him for a renewed bid for City Council, which he believes is critical to addressing the district’s growing concerns.
Addressing Crime and Public Safety
Cabrera highlighted the urgent need to address rising crime in the Bronx, particularly in District 14. He pointed to his past accomplishments, noting that under his leadership, crime was reduced by 66%. “When I came into my district for those 12 years, we were able to reduce and decline crime by 66%,” he explained, attributing these successes to initiatives like the Cure Violence program and the installation of safety cameras. However, Cabrera expressed alarm over the current crime rate, which has reportedly surged by 130% in the 52nd precinct. “We are seeing the worst condition In our district,” he stated. Cabrera stressed that his leadership experience and his collaboration with law enforcement and grassroots organizations could help reverse these trends.
A Focus on Gang Violence and Drug Addiction
A significant portion of Cabrera’s platform is dedicated to combating gang violence and drug addiction, which he believes are intertwined problems. According to Cabrera, 85% of shootings in the district are gang-related, driven by disputes over drug territory. “The reason why the gangs are fighting is that they’re fighting for territories to sell drugs,” he said. Cabrera’s background as a licensed mental health counselor and his experience running a rehabilitation program position him to take a leading role in addressing these issues. “I understand what it’s going to require to bring the right kind of groups, resources, and have the relationship with City Hall to make that happen,” Cabrera emphasized.
Housing Affordability and Tenant Advocacy
Cabrera has long been an advocate for affordable housing and tenant rights. During his previous time in office, he passed the Tenant Bill of Rights in 2014, providing legal tools to tenants in need of protection. He also ensured that local community boards were involved in housing development discussions by introducing legislation that required the Department of Buildings to notify community members of new projects. Cabrera expressed deep concern over the rising cost of rent in the Bronx, citing research that showed the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment had risen from $1,800 to $2,300 in just one year. “That is just mind-blowing,” he said, noting that his district covers the poorest congressional district in the United States. Cabrera plans to continue pushing for affordable housing and rezoning initiatives to ensure that rising rents do not displace Bronx residents.
Supporting Youth and Mentoring Programs
Youth development has always been central to Cabrera’s public service work, and it remains a priority in his 2025 campaign. He discussed his past success in securing over $4 million for youth programs, including mentoring, after-school activities, and job training. Cabrera believes that engaging young people in positive activities is crucial to keeping them out of trouble. “I want our young people to be so tired of doing good that they’ll be too tired to do bad,” he said, underscoring his belief that the Bronx’s future depends on investing in its youth.
Focusing on Seniors and Veterans
Cabrera also spoke about his dedication to supporting seniors and veterans. He passed legislation that increased access to the Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption (SCRIE) program, allowing more seniors to apply and remain in their homes despite rising rents. Cabrera has also consistently allocated over $1.3 million in funding for senior center programs, ranging from ESL classes to cultural arts and physical fitness activities. His commitment to veterans is similarly strong, having supported the creation of the NYC Department of Veterans Affairs and funding memorials for Dominican and Tuskegee Airmen veterans. “Our seniors and veterans have earned our support, and we must ensure they receive the resources they deserve,” Cabrera stated.
A Vision for Restoring the Bronx
Looking ahead to the 2025 election, Cabrera is calling on Bronx residents to vote for leaders who have a proven track record of delivering results. “If you value safety, vote for those who want public safety, who have a track record,” Cabrera urged. He criticized the disconnect between city council members and their communities, noting that many residents feel disengaged from the political process. Cabrera hopes to reinvigorate civic engagement and restore trust in local government by focusing on issues that matter most to Bronx families, from public safety to housing affordability and youth development.
Cabrera concluded the interview with a call to action: “Our children deserve it, our grandchildren deserve it, and the Bronx deserves it.” His experience, dedication, and vision for the future of the Bronx are at the core of his campaign as he seeks to return to the City Council to bring about meaningful change for District 14.
