Among the items this year are $ 15 million for small high schools , dropout prevention and other education initiatives , requested by Councilman Robert Jackson of Manhattan ; $ 10 million to help subsidize the health care expenses of small employers , championed by Councilman David Yassky of Brooklyn ; and $ 8.1 million for books for the city 's three public library systems , sought by Councilman Vincent J. Gentile of Brooklyn .