Ingrid Lewis-Martin, the chief advisor to Mayor Eric Adams, has retired after nearly 35 years of service to New York City. She plans to spend more time with her family while continuing to support the city as a private citizen. Lewis-Martin’s departure follows a series of high-profile resignations in the administration amid federal investigations. She denied any wrongdoing in connection to the investigations. Throughout her career, Lewis-Martin has been a close friend and advisor to Mayor Adams, wielding significant influence in City Hall.
Ingrid Lewis-Martin, the former chief advisor to Mayor Eric Adams, has recently retired, marking a significant departure from his administration. After nearly 35 years of service to the city, Lewis-Martin expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve, citing a desire to spend more time with her family while still advocating for the city as a private citizen.
Mayor Adams praised Lewis-Martin for her dedicated work and their longstanding friendship, acknowledging her as not just a colleague but also a trusted confidant. Lewis-Martin’s tenure came to a turning point in late September when she was intercepted by federal investigators upon her return from a trip to Japan, along with Jesse Hamilton, the city’s deputy commissioner for Real Estate Services.
Despite facing federal scrutiny, Lewis-Martin denied any wrongdoing and expressed confidence in the integrity of her actions. Her association with Adams dates back to 1984, and she has been a key figure in his political career, serving as his senior advisor and chief of staff during his time as a state senator and borough president.
During her time at City Hall, Lewis-Martin wielded significant influence as one of the mayor’s closest advisors. However, her decisions, such as intervening to roll back Department of Transportation street safety projects in Brooklyn, drew criticism from street safety advocates. She was involved in controversial actions like canceling an open street in Fort Greene and influencing the redesign of McGuinness Boulevard in Greenpoint, actions that were met with opposition from community members and experts.
Lewis-Martin’s trip to Japan and the subsequent federal investigations added a new layer of complexity to her role, prompting her to reconsider her initial plan to retire after a shorter period. Despite the challenges she faced, Lewis-Martin expressed gratitude to Mayor Adams for his support and encouragement throughout her time in office.
In conclusion, Ingrid Lewis-Martin’s retirement marks the end of an era in Mayor Adams’ administration, following a long and dedicated career serving the city of New York. While her departure comes amidst federal investigations and controversy, Lewis-Martin remains steadfast in her commitment to the city and her advocacy for its well-being as a private citizen.
Source: TheCity.NYC
