December 3rd 2009
Community Board 2 Public Hearing and Monthly Meeting
Attendance
Terri Adams Andrew Anzalone
Jean Carubia Bessie Cassaro
Barbara Coleman Joseph Conley
Stephen Cooper Emilia Crotty
Lisa Deller Mary English
Richard Gundlach Marvin Jeffcoat
Rev. Joseph Jerome Tom Kalamaras
Ellen Kang Sheila Lewandowski
Dominic Lippolis Gregory Matos
Donald McCallian Golam Mehraj
Dorothy Morehead Patrick Murray
Patrick O’Brien Moitri Chowdhury Savard
Regina Shanley David Shin
Carol Terrano James Van Bramer
Al Volpe
Absentees
Alyson Baker Diane Baker
Aida Bartolome Kate Brennan
Anna Bridge Bernard Callegari
Thomas Casey Anne Hart
Mohammed Choudhury Jewel Marie Konecko
Rita Manton Gertrude McDonald
Lois Saldana Goksel Secilmis
Robert Wilkanowski
Guests
Honorable Richard Brown Queens Dist. Attny Felix Martinez, Jr. Queens DA
Jeff Gottlieb, Senator J. Addabbo, Jr. M. Perez, Assmb. M. DenDekker
Sam Goldman, Ridgewood Times Amir Helibert, Sen. Monserrate
Ciaco Doyle Eduardo Barahona
Dorothy Lewandowski Dorothy Kominsky
Eric Baard Peter T. Johnson
Tom Paino Rebecca Olinger
Sabine Heinlein Mickey John’s
Kellie Phelan Juliana Robinson
Geoffrey Croft Jim Condes
Vito Rak Sofia L. Geier
Nigel Rollings Mary Towey
Don Dodelson S. Rao, Queens Chronicle
Michael Halpin John Edebottls
Christian Murry Katie Evans
Juliana Dobovsky Joseph Walter
Frank Carrado Giovanni Garcia
Jessica Colter Jessica Truncali
Zog Sports Joshua Laird
K. Mariolo Mary & Rose Tibaldi
Jeremy Walsh, Times Ledger Newspaper O. Ebhoinielen
Eric Lindstrom Evan O’Neil
Steven Butler Penny Lee
Community Board 2 Staff
Debra Markell Kleinert, DM
Mary Ann Gurrado
Agenda
Pledge of Allegiance
Comments by Public Official/Guest Speakers
Queens District Attorney, Honorable Richard Brown
Mr. Conley proudly introduced and welcomed D.A. Richard Brown to the Meeting.
The District Attorney spoke about the Harmony Breakfast that he had attended that morning and which was hosted by the NYPD, Commander Chief Pazzutti. D.A. Brown told Commander Chief Pazzutti that Queens North is the safest command in the safest county in New York.
D.A. Brown compared Queens County currently, versus 19 years ago, when he became District Attorney. He recalled the crack cocaine epidemic that had been rampant in the early 1990’s and said that when he became District Attorney 1991, there were 361 homicides recorded in Queens County. The last four years, less than 100 homicides were recorded in each of those years. To date, the homicides in Queens are recorded at less than 19% from 2008.
Auto theft statistics also decreased. In 1991, 52,000 cars were reported stolen in Queens. In 2009, 3,000 cars were reported stolen.
Violent crimes have decreased 85% since 1991.
D.A. Brown commended the Prosecutors, New York City Police Department, citizens of the community and Community Board Members who continue to speak out about issues within their community.
D.A. Brown said that he has been active in Public Service for 50 years and is the longest serving District Attorney in Queens County. He explained that his office is extremely active and busy. In 2009, the Queens County District Attorney’s office handled 72,000 arrests cases. This is in addition to investigative responsibilities and all other responsibilities such as identity theft, domestic violence, etc. The Queens District Attorney’s office operates 24 hours a day; 7 days a week and arraigns many suspects within 24 hours. This is essential to keep the police officers in the field working versus waiting in a courthouse for a case to be heard.
There are 295 Assistant District Attorneys working in D.A.’s office. More than 50% of them have worked for the Queens DA’s Office for 10 years and 54% are women. D.A. Brown spoke about his pride for the stability and professionalism of his staff and of the talented, hard-working individuals that are dedicated to Queens County.
The District Attorney explained that there is an NYPD squad assigned to the Queens County Office as well as 50 retired Detectives from the NYPD and 7 State Troopers. The D.A.’s office also has the responsibility for overseeing La Guardia and Kennedy Airports. D.A. Brown explained that due to the relationship between the Queens County District Attorney’s office and Kennedy Airport, the Queens DA’s office has developed a relationship with Federal Agencies and Federal Task Forces such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Terrorists Task Forces, etc.
D.A. Brown spoke about the Queens District Attorney’s Domestic Violence Bureau. He commented that one out of three women in the world loose their lives to domestic violence. In 70% of households where domestic violence takes place, children are abused as well. The Queens District Attorney’s offices’ goal is to reduce that statistic.
D.A. Brown added that the budget for the Queens D.A.’s office has been reduced by approximately 20% since September 11th 2001.
The District Attorney entertained questions from Attendees and wished all a Happy Holiday. Mr. Conley thanked D.A. Brown for speaking at the Meeting.
Mr. Jeff Gottlieb, Senator Addabbo, Jr.’s office
Mr. Gottlieb spoke about the Public Authority Report Bill of 2009 and the costly run-off NYC election primaries. He said that Senator Addabbo, Jr. plans to end costly run-off primary elections. Mr. Gottlieb entertained questions from Board Members.
Public Comment
Eric Baard
Mr. Baard testified that the Hunters Point South Park design should include a Community Boat House with a space for boat storage. He said he was also lobbying for a boat launch at 2nd Street with soft shoreline access and recommending that the park plan include the planting of fruit trees such as plum and the Newtown Pippen apple tree which is named for and known to have been grown in the area.
Peter Johnson
Mr. Johnson is a resident of 11th Street, Long Island City. He was in attendance to speak in opposition to the plan to install synthetic turf on the “green” in Phase 1 of the Hunters Point South Park. Mr. Johnson stated that this material has been opposed in other locations and would not be useful in this area. The synthetic grass will be odorous and require constant washing. Mr. Johnson said that there are many different types of grass, which could be used in this location that can withstand constant use.
Kellie Phelan, Our Children
Ms. Phelan spoke about this non-profit organization, which is located at 36-11 12th Street, Long Island City. Our Children helps to reunited incarcerated women with their children. They also have a food pantry, computer classes, mentoring programs for incarcerated women, a program to mentor children of incarcerated parents and a Working Mothers Program. Ms. Phelan said that the organization is looking for volunteers to work with the women and their families and added that donations are always welcomed.
Health and Human Services Committee Co-Chairperson, Carol Terrano commended Our Children and spoke about a site visit that her committee had made to the facility.
Ms. Phelan spoke about her personal life experiences and explained that she is a success story of the Our Children Organization. Ms. Phelan offered literature for the organization and the mentoring programs.
Geoffrey Croft
Mr. Croft is the President of the non-profit organization, New York City Parks Advocates.
Mr. Croft spoke about the controversial artificial turf proposed in Phase 1 of the Hunters Point South Park. He said that the space under discussion is proposed as a mixed-use active and non-active recreation space. The artificial turf proposed generates intense heat and a foul odor. Park advocates have measured heat of artificial surfaces where the temperature has increased to as high as 150 degrees Fahrenheit. Many readings reached 165 degrees. The highest temperature read on a nylon surface reached 168 degrees and those temperatures were not read during the hottest days of the year.
These temperatures prohibit public use during the most common time of usage of the year. The City has increasingly relied on artificial turf without logical reason other than the lack of maintenance funding allocated to care for parks in general. Natural grass is beneficial to the environment.
Mr. Croft encouraged the opposition of the use of artificial turf within in this proposed design. Mr. Croft entertained questions from Attendees.
Jim Condes
Mr. Condes spoke about the following items:
Child Sexual Abuse Bill(s)
- Mr. Condes spoke about Assemblywoman Marge Markey’s Child Sexual Abuse Bill. He explained that this Bill has been delayed and that Assemblywoman Markey modified and added language to the Bill.
Hall of Shame from the Courier
- The Courier has written that incidents of graffiti have increased by 80% from 2008 to 2009. In the same issue, the Courier wrote a story called, “Artful Way of Dealing with Graffiti”. Business owners are actually paying these graffiti offenders to paint on their property. The NYPD frowns upon this since this encourages more graffiti crimes throughout the City.
Department of Transportation
- Mr. Condes spoke about a letter received from Commissioner McCarthy regarding the repaving at the intersection of Roosevelt Avenue and 61st Street. He stated the repaving work that was done was done poorly and must be repaved.
Vito Rak
Mr. Rak is a resident of Woodside. Mr. Rak wished all Happy Holidays and thanked the Community Board for their hard work. He spoke of the following items:
- Department of Sanitation - Mr. Rak thanked the DOS for the cleanup that was done at 58th Street and 39th Avenue.
- Barnett Avenue - Mr. Rak thanked Ms. Crewe of the DOT for her efforts at Barnett Avenue.
- Tree Lighting - Woodside on the Move is hosting a Tree Lighting Ceremony on Saturday, December 5th 2009.
There was discussion of the size and type of tree planted at Shonkey Square. Board Member, Ms. Barbara Colman defended this tree and explained that it would survive the elements of pollution in that location. It is expected to grown up to 6 feet high.
Mr. Conley spoke about the possibility of a neighborhood business or resident adopt and volunteer to maintain the triangle.
Woodside on the Move is also hosting a free workshop for homeowners on Friday, December 4th 2009.
Mr. Rak entertained questions from Board Members.
Sofia Geier
Ms. Geier is a resident of Sunnyside and runs a children’s’ Performing Arts program based in Sunnyside. Ms. Geier spoke about summer programs and after school programs, which are available for ages 9 and up. Ms. Geier is currently seeking a space to offer productions that feature professional actors. An upcoming play, Loyalties, will run for 12 performances.
Adopt the Tree
Ms. Geier suggested having children adopt the tree at Shonkey Square.
Nigel Rollings
Mr. Rollings is a 30 year resident of Hunters Point. He said that the continued use of neighborhood streets by film production companies is causing a disturbance to residents. The film companies monopolize parking spaces and make residents walk in the street. He said that the community should get something back from the city or the film companies.
Marty Towey
Mr. Towey testified that he had come before the Community Board three months ago with regard to 5-49 Borden Avenue, Long Island City. He spoke about the lack of parking for residents of this building due to NYPD parking. Mr. Towey stated that the NYPD has 55 parking spaces within the Precinct and that is more than any Precinct in the City.
Mr. Towey said that police officers on duty in Manhattan, park their private cars in the area and have PBA cards and other form of ID placed in the windows. He said that this is an abuse of power and that Inspector Kavanagh ignored the residents until a letter was written to Commissioner Kelly.
Mr. Towey entertained questions from Board Members.
Mr. Conley said that the area around the 108th Precinct is a self-enforcement zone and the Captain has discretion in regard to the enforcement of parking violations. He said that he had spoken about this issue with the DOT and that they are working through the problem.
Don Dodelson
Mr. Dodelson is the President of the Friends of Queens Library at Hunters Point, Queens West. Mr. Dodelson asked the Community Board to add the Library to the January Agenda of the Community Board 2 Monthly Meeting and Public Hearing. He said that since 2000, the library has been promised and that it is still in limbo. Mr. Dodelson is interested in seeing the design plans for the Library and getting a status update.
Dorothy Kominsky
Ms. Kominsky spoke about the Federal Government, the Senate and the Congress and the Health Care Bill. Ms. Kominsky encouraged all to contact their elected officials to vote in opposition to this Health Care Bill.
Tom Paino
Mr. Paino is a resident of Hunters Point. Mr. Paino was in attendance to speak in opposition about the proposed artificial turf for the “green” at Phase 1 of the Hunters Point South Park. He said that this proposal has been presented several times before the Community Board. He stated that natural surroundings belong in a park. The turf is specifically designed for sports activities, not recreational use. Mr. Paino stated that sports industries have rejected the use of this turf.
Mr. Paino stated that this turf would allow bacteria to grow and asked whether the turf would be maintained regularly.
Mr. Paino spoke the permeability of the turf and the likelihood that run-off from the turf would wind up in the East River. He added that the material is a petroleum derivative and that it would produce heat during the summer during and in the winter it would freeze and thaw and become brittle. He said that this turf costs 3 to 4 times more than natural turf.
Rebecca Olinger
Ms. Olinger is a resident of Hunters Point. Ms. Olinger spoke about the public access to the water at Hunters Point. Ms. Olinger noted the increased activity over the years of residents using the waters for boating, kayaking and canoeing. She spoke about the Long Island City Boat House. She also noted that there is waterfront access at Pier 40, 84th and 96th Streets in Manhattan.
Ms. Olinger spoke about the design of the Community Boat house and its need for storage space.
Claire Doyle, President of Arrow and Vice President of Green Shore NYC
She said Green Shores is a greenway advocacy organization and that she would look forward to starting a Friends of Hunters Point South Park Group.
Sabine Heinlein
Ms. Heinlein is a resident of Sunnyside Gardens. Ms. Heinlein spoke about noise coming from a bar, Mickey John’s that utilizes the backyard for their patrons. Neighbors have complained to the police and when the police arrive, the noise stops. Ms. Heinlein asked for suggestions that would help to solve this problem.
Mr. Conley stated he would contact the 108th Precinct. Ms. Terrano suggested that a petition should be signed and submitted to the Precinct.
Eduardo Barahona
Mr. Barahona spoke about Rufus King Park, a 6 ½ acre park in Jamaica where artificial turf had been installed. He said that the natural grass turf had become a dust bowl and that the residents were satisfied with installation of artificial turf. He entertained questions from Board Members.
To Hear Public Comment on: The Proposed Open Space at Hunters Point South (boundaries are 50th Avenue, south to Newtown Creek, west from Borden Avenue to the East River).
Mr. Conley introduced Josh Wallack of Mayor’s Office who introduced the design team for this project:
- Charles McKinney, Chief of Design, NYC Department of Parks and Recreation
- Christian Gabriel, Thomas Balsley Associates
- Christopher Ballentine, Weiss/Manfredi
- Michael Newey, Arup
Mr. Conley recommended that Board Members take notes during the presentation for a Q & A once the presentation has been completed.
Due to the poor acoustics and background noise during the Hunters Point South Presentation, the narration of segment was inaudible. The full Powerpoint presentation is available on the New York City Economic Development Corporation website:
At the completion of the presentation, Mr. Conley described the project’s background. He explained that when the Hunters Point South Project was originally presented to the Community Board for review, it was know as an extension of Queens West, the New York State project that included Gantry Park. In an effort to distinguish this new phase of the waterfront development that was not under State control, the name of the area was changed to Hunters Point South. The experience in the design and operation of Gantry Park was helpful in formulating the plan the Hunters Point South Park.
Mr. Conley noted that the experience of the Community Advisory Committee which was convened by the Olympic Committee in 2001 to develop plans for the Olympic Village at on this site helped to formulate the current plan. The Advisory Committee’s recommendation in regard to the vision for the waterfront park, the desire to commemorate the neighborhood’s history and the list of community recreational needs were the beginning for the plan for the Hunters Point South Park.
Mr. Conley acknowledged the contributions of Board Members, Ms. Terri Adams, and Board Member, James Van Bramer in helping to move the project forward.
Mr. Conley requested that the following items be incorporated into the design of Phase 1 of the park:
- The existing proposal to specify the installation of natural grass on The Green rather than artificial turf.
- Sustainable energy sources to be used as much as possible.
- Utilize historical references in the identification and design of the area.
- The boathouse and storage space for kayaks and canoes to be included in the development plan for the apartment buildings.
Questions from Board Members were entertained.
Board Members discussed, at length, the merits of including waterfront access and a Boathouse with storage in Phase 1 of the Park.
A Motion was made to Approve this Application with the stipulation that natural grass be utilized instead of artificial turf for The Green in Phase 1 of the Hunters Point South Park. The Motion was Seconded.
In Favor 26 Opposed 2 Abstentions 0
Chairperson present but not voting
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
To Hear Public Comment on: On the Conversation of a One-Way Street from 49th Avenue between Vernon Boulevard and 5th Street, headed Eastbound.
A Motion was made to Approve this Application. The Motion was Seconded.
In Favor 28 Opposed 0 Abstentions 0
Chairperson present but not voting
To Hear Public Comment on: The Installation of a Speed Hump on 49th Avenue, between 5th Street and Vernon Boulevard
A Motion was made to Approve this Application. The Motion was Seconded.
In Favor 28 Opposed 0 Abstentions 0
Chairperson present but not voting
Attendance
Present – 29; Absent – 15
A Quorum was Present
Approval of Minutes
There were modifications recommended for the November 2009 Community Board 2 Monthly Meeting and Public Hearing Minutes.
1. Councilperson Van Bramer should read Councilperson-elect Van Bramer.
2. The November minutes noted that Penny Lee’s comments about the Newtown Creek BOA were inaudible. Ms. Lee clarified this item and reported that the Steering Committee for the Newtown Creek BOA had selected a consultant to undertake the required study and nominating application for the state’s Brownfield Opportunity Area program. Work should begin on the project in early 2010, after the contract with the consultant is negotiated.
A Motion was made to Approve the Minutes, with modifications discussed. The Motion was Seconded.
By a show of hands, with modifications discussed, the November Minutes were unanimously Approved.
Chairperson’s Report
Board Member, James Van Bramer
This would be Mr. Van Bramer’s last Community Board Meeting. As of January 1st 2010, Mr. Van Bramer would be known as Councilperson Van Bramer but will always be know as Jimmy to Community Board 2. Good luck, Jimmy!
Mr. Conley announced that although, Mr. Van Bramer has not officially been sworn in as Councilperson; he has already accepted his responsibilities as Councilperson and is working very hard for the community.
Barnett Avenue
Mr. Conley encouraged the Attendees to see the improvements at Barnett Avenue in Sunnyside. The improvements are a great victory for the community. Recently, temporary sidewalks have been installed. Parking has increased in the area.
Mr. Conley thanked Ciaran Staunton of Sunnyside Gardens and Kimberly Crewe of the DOT. Mr. Conley asked Ms. Crewe to thank Commissioner McCarthy for her quick response by turning the street traffic flow One-Way.
Long Island Rail Road Idling Trains
The Community Board contacted the MTA about idling trains. Mr. Conley announced that the MTA has turned off the trains during the day. When the weather drops below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, the trains may remain idle to prevent diesel fuel from freezing.
Holiday Party
This event will be hosted at the Borden Avenue Veteran’s Shelter, 6 pm. Community Board 2 Member and Veteran’s Committee Member, Rev. Joseph Jerome would forward an e-mail regarding the details. Mr. Conley spoke about donations.
Hart Playground, Broadway and 63rd Street
Mr. Conley spoke about the abundance of Day Laborers loitering at this location. This has been an issue within the community for quite a while. Community Board 2 has been working with the Mayor’s office and Mr. Conley attended a meeting at CAU. The Parks Department has added signs stating rules and regulations. The community is hoping to see improvement.
Mr. Conley spoke about a Program on CNN called Heroes. He discussed a story about a gentleman who drives a bus for a living. In the evening, he and his family fix meals and bring them to Day Laborers and destitute people in the area along Roosevelt Avenue. This family serves about 150 meals per night.
Budget Cut
Mr. Conley spoke about the percentage of cuts expected for 2010 and 2011; 4% mid-year in 2010 and 8% in 2011.
Toy Drive for Metro Residence
The Community Board offices are collecting donations for the children at the Metro Residence for the Holidays.
District Manager’s Report
There were no updated reports offered at this Meeting.
The Department of City Planning
There were no updated reports offered at this Meeting.
Committee Reports
Mr. Conley requested that Board Members read the Minutes provided within their packets. Mr. Conley wished all Happy Holidays!
This Meeting was adjourned.
Respectfully submitted by:
Cheryl Sinnott
The next Community Board 2 Monthly Meeting and Public Hearing has been scheduled for Thursday, January 7th 2010.
