New York City Comptroller William C. Thompson, Jr. today issued the following statement concerning the City Corporation Counsel’s motion for leave to appeal the Appellate Court decision on Snapple:

“The City’s decision to challenge the Appellate Division’s ruling flies in the face of its earlier claims of victory. In fact, this action reflects an unwillingness by the City of New York to ensure transparency and accountability in its procurement.

The Appellate Division ruled correctly that the clear and plain language of the City Charter provision defining “concessions” includes contracts for the private use of the City’s intellectual property. The court was correct in ruling that the City has no right to make these decisions without engaging in a public process.

I will ask the Appellate Division to deny the Mayor’s request for leave to appeal, and I continue to maintain that the name of the City of New York belongs to the people of the City of New York.

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