The Bronx News Network, in conjunction with BronxTalk, the cable television talk show hosted by Gary Axelbank on BRONXNET on Aug. 31, held a debate between Fernando Cabrera and Yudelka Tapia, candidates in the 14th District City Council race.

Councilwoman Maria Baez, the incumbent who is seeking a third term in office, was invited but decided not to participate.

Cabrera, a pastor and college professor backed by the Bronx Democratic Party, was asked about recently switching parties and moving into the district a little more than a year ago.

Cabrera didn’t respond to the specific questions, but noted that he was born in the Bronx, has lived here for 14 years of his life, and has worked in the community for 20 years. He added: “If being a Democrat is working for the poor, if being a Democrat means helping in the [homeless] shelter, if being a Democrat means reaching out to the needy, the outcasts, and those who don’t have an opportunity, then I’m 110 percent Democrat.”

Tapia countered by saying she’s lived in the 14th District for 20 years and has been a Democrat her entire life.

If elected, Cabrera said he’d sponsor a “living wage” bill to help combat low pay. Tapia was unable to give an example of legislation she’d introduce, except to say that she would look to acquire “more money and space to build more schools.”

Both candidates said the redevelopment of the Kingsbridge Armory shouldn’t just benefit the developer, Related Companies, but local residents as well. The developer should sign a Community Benefits Agreement, that includes a living wage requirement for those who work there, they said.

Ed. Note: For more on the candidates’ views of affordable housing and other issues, watch the entire debate on-line at www.bronxnet.fliggo.com/video/4hRouaHN.