April 2, 2024: Midday news

Two men are facing drug charges in the February death of trans rights advocate Cecilia Gentili after allegedly supplying her with fentanyl laced heroin. Meanwhile, the first Ramadan Night Market in New York City is opening Wednesday night in Astoria, Queens. Plus, New York City’s budget is due by the end of June but Mayor Adams and the City Council need to agree on it first. The Mayor has recently overseen a series of cuts to city services, including schools, parks and libraries. He says the cuts are due to the number of migrants in the city and the end of federal pandemic aid. But the City Council is claiming an extra $6 billion is available from a variety of sources the administration didn’t account for. The Council released its response to the Mayor's preliminary budget for the 2025 fiscal year on Monday afternoon. WNYC’s Sean Carlson speaks with City Council Finance Committee Chair Justin Brannan to understand city lawmakers’ priorities. Finally, WNYC's Community Partnerships Desk is highlighting hidden gems across New York City. Today, we explore an alley on Manhattan’s Lower East Side, renowned for its vibrant and impactful street art.