COMMUNITY BOARDS
New York is broken into different community boards. Community boards are local appointed bodies and the local subdivision when it comes to how each borough is broken up. These unpaid volunteer community members and stakeholders are at the forefront of what is happening in your neighborhood. They can give you information about new developments or community events. One thing you will notice is that they will never turn down help. If you could volunteer a couple of hours a month it will make a huge difference and you will be one of the most informed people in your neighborhood.
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What Do Community Boards Do?
Zoning and Land Use: They review proposals related to new developments, housing projects, and business expansions to ensure that changes align with the community’s needs.​
City Services: Community Boards monitor the quality and delivery of city services, from sanitation to public safety, and work with city agencies to improve them.​
Budgets and Capital Projects: They participate in the city's budgeting process by recommending funding for neighborhood projects like parks, schools, and transportation improvements.​
Community Concerns: Boards respond to local issues, including noise complaints, traffic concerns, and street maintenance, while providing a platform for residents to voice their needs.
"Joining a community board gives individuals the opportunity to see what’s happening in their neighborhoods and allows community involvement on decisions that can affect them directly."
Edwin Torres (Community Board 9 Member)
"Attending your local Community Board meetings is a critical pathway to learning about what's happening to the schools, streets, parks, and housing in your community and to making your opinion and voice heard on those issues."
Barry Weinberg (Community Board 9 Chair)
Get Involved with Your Community Board
Engaging with your local Community Board is an excellent way to be part of the decision-making process in your neighborhood. You can attend meetings, join committees, or apply to become a member. Your voice can help guide decisions on crucial issues that affect daily life in your community.
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To find out more about your Community Board, meeting schedules, and how to get involved, click here.
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