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Bill Perkins
Bill Perkins NLN (cropped).jpg
Bill Perkins speaking at Times Square in New York City, 2008.
Member of the New York City Council
from the 9th district
In office
March 1, 2017 – December 31, 2021
Preceded by Inez Dickens
Succeeded by Kristin Richardson Jordan
In office
January 1, 1998 – December 31, 2005
Preceded by C. Virginia Fields
Succeeded by Inez Dickens
Member of the New York State Senate
from the 30th district
In office
January 1, 2007 – February 28, 2017
Preceded by David Paterson
Succeeded by Brian Benjamin
Personal details
Born (1949-04-18)18 April 1949
New York City, New York, U.S.
Died 16 May 2023(2023-05-16) (aged 74)
New York City, New York, U.S.
Political party Democratic
Alma mater Brown University

Bill Perkins (born April 18, 1949 – died May 16, 2023) was an American politician. He was a member of the Democratic Party. He served in the New York City Council and the New York State Senate. His work focused on helping the people of Harlem in Manhattan.

Early Life and Education

Bill Perkins grew up in Harlem, New York. He went to Collegiate School (New York City) with a scholarship. Later, he received another scholarship to attend Brown University. He finished his studies at Brown University in 1972.

Political Career

Bill Perkins spent many years working in government. He served in both the New York City Council and the New York State Senate.

New York City Council (1998–2005)

In 1997, Bill Perkins was first elected to the New York City Council. The City Council is a group of elected officials. They make laws for New York City. Perkins won his seat easily. On the Council, he became the Deputy Majority Leader. He helped create important laws about lead paint. These laws made sure homes were safe from lead.

New York State Senate (2007–2017)

After serving on the City Council, Perkins ran for the New York State Senate in 2006. The State Senate is part of the state government. It makes laws for all of New York State. He won this election and was re-elected five times. He served in the State Senate for over ten years. In 2017, he left the State Senate. He decided to run for his old seat on the New York City Council again.

Return to New York City Council (2017–2021)

In 2016, the City Council seat for his district became open. New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio called for a special election. Bill Perkins decided to run for the seat again. He won the special election in February 2017. He was sworn into office on March 1, 2017. Later that year, he won a full four-year term.

During his time on the Council, Bill Perkins faced some health challenges. He received treatment for colon cancer. In 2021, he sought re-election to the City Council. The election was very close. After a recount, he conceded the election. He then announced his retirement at the end of 2021.

Death

Bill Perkins passed away in New York City. He died on May 16, 2023, at the age of 74.

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