Mayor Gainey's Director Signs Israel Referendum Petition

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) — A petition for a controversial referendum, which Jewish organizations have labeled antisemitic, has sparked significant concern within Mayor Ed Gainey's administration. The referendum aims to prohibit the city from funding or engaging with any entity that conducts business with Israel until military actions in Gaza cease. The Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh has condemned the initiative, arguing it jeopardizes local Jewish organizations and businesses. Jeffrey Finkelstein, the Federation's CEO, expressed alarm over the potential implications of the referendum, questioning whether it would affect police response to incidents at synagogues or disrupt vital medical supplies from Israel. He emphasized that the referendum crosses a line from political discourse into antisemitism, raising serious concerns about its impact on community safety and business operations. Despite the administration's doubts about the referendum's enforceability, it has not opposed its placement on the ballot. Finkelstein was particularly troubled to discover that Maria Montaño, the mayor's communications director, signed the petition, raising questions about the administration's stance. He noted that her signature could imply support for the referendum, which he believes should be clarified by Mayor Gainey. In response, the mayor's office acknowledged the concerns surrounding the referendum, stating that while city employees have the right to sign petitions, it does not reflect the administration's position. The mayor remains focused on preventing the referendum from becoming part of the home rule charter, leaving the future of the ballot question uncertain.