By KYLE PRATT
Managing Editor
The 10th Ward’s new Council-member is making “waives.”
Owusu Anane, who took office in January, is proposing a bill in the Common Council that would waive civil service test fees for veterans and recent high school grads in Albany. He hopes the legislation will create public-sector opportunities for the two groups, and increase the number of talented applicants.
“It’s a great way to welcome veterans back and to launch our students into the workforce,” Anane said.
He was inspired, he said, when he told one of his student athletes about job opportunities with the city, and the student said he couldn’t afford the fee.
“I could not stand here and watch a talented student get turned away from a great opportunity simply because he couldn’t afford a civil service exam fee,” Anane said.
Dave Nesich, a Saint Rose microbiology student and veteran, benefited from a similar policy in Troy.
“I’m all for it,” he said. “It acts as an incentive for veterans.”
“I’m definitely a fan,” he added.
Anane expects the legislation to pass, and said the vote will most likely take place at the May 7 Common Council meeting.
“As an educator, I want all of our children to be afforded an equal opportunity to succeed, regardless of the ability to pay,” he said. “This proposed legislation is just one way that our city can strive towards this goal, and I am proud to be introducing it to the Common Council.”
