November 4th 2010
Community Board 2 Monthly Meeting and Public Hearing
Attendance
Andrew Anzalone Sandra Bigitschke
Kate Brennan Anna Bridge
Jean Carubia Bernard Callegari
Thomas Casey Bessie Cassaro
Barbara Coleman Joseph Conley
Stephen Cooper Emilia Crotty
Lisa Deller Don Dodelson
Mary English Kenneth Greenberg
Richard Gundlach Reverend Joseph Jerome
Mohammed Choudhury Jewel Tom Kalamaras
Ellen Kang Marie Konecko
Dominic Lippolis Rita Manton
Guadalupe Marzana Gregory Matos
Donald McCallian Gertrude McDonald
Taina Hernandez McShane Golam Mehraj
Dorothy Morehead Patrick Murray
Evan O’Neill Moitri Choudhury Savard
Regina Shanley David Shin
Lauren Springer Carol Terrano
Karolina Tosi Al Volpe
Absentees
Terri Adams Diane Ballek
David DeCicco Brian Flynn
Anne Hart Luis Jimenez
Sheila Lewandowski Patrick O’Brien
Norberto Saldana Robert Wilkanowski
Community Board 2 Staff
Debra Markell Kleinert, DM
Guests
Welland Fuller, Assemblywoman Marge Markey’s CB2 Liaison
Joe Kenton, Councilperson James Van Bramer’s CB2 Liaison
Sam Goldman, Ridgewood Times
Aaron Monteabaro, Baruch College
Janelle Ali, La Guardia Community College
Cindy Chan, NYIT Talha Kirmani, NYIT
E. Petrie Monark
M. Daniel Bach Mary Tibaldi
Rose Tibaldi Joe Walter
Earl Nelson Rebecca Olinger
Matt Quigley Chris Persheff, SCA
Brent O’Leary, Sunnyside Boy and Girls Jim McNamara
Maria Mercedes Hubbard, AHRC Lisa Keys
Jim Condes Penny Lee
Agenda
Mr. Conley welcomed all to the Meeting.
Pledge of Allegiance
Comments by Public Officials/Guest Speakers
108th Precinct
Mr. Conley announced that the new Commander of the 108th Precinct was scheduled to speak and requested that his presentation be postponed due to a scheduling conflict. Mr. Conley spoke about the Commander’s attendance at the 108th Precinct’s Community Council Meetings.
Mr. Conley commented that among the many issues discussed between the Community Board and the 108th Precinct, one issue that was a reflection of the wonderful partnership between the Community Board and the 108th Precinct, was closing down Casa Romano on Queens Boulevard in Sunnyside.
Mr. Conley introduced Capt. Hellman of the 108th Precinct. Capt. Hellman offered a presentation with local crime statistic. He reported that crime is down 17.5% compared to this time last year.
Capt. Hellman entertained questions from Attendees.
Board Member, Ms. Terrano inquired about the statistics offered at this Meeting. She stated that she believed that there are discrepancies in the numbers. Mr. Conley stated that the information would be reviewed.
A Committee Member spoke about truck traffic and truck violations.
Mr. Conley stated that truck traffic on 48th Street has been a tremendous issue for the District.
Capt. Hillman spoke about a continued proposal he has submitted to the QNTF for radar traffic enforcement.
Board Member Richard Gundlach spoke about an e-mail he sent to the Community Board office on November 4th. Mr. Gundlach spoke of truck traffic.
Mr. Conley told Attendees that these issues would also be discussed at the District Services Cabinet Meeting.
An Attendee inquired about a recent kidnapping attempt in the community. The 108th Precinct does not have a license plate number, detailed description, etc. There have been no similar incidents reported to the 108th Precinct.
New Community Board 2 Liaison from Assemblyman Michael DenDekker’s Office
Mr. Conley introduced and welcomed Mr. David Longshore. Mr. Longshore offered his appreciation for the community’s support of Assemblyman DenDekker and added that he would be in attendance representing the Assemblyman at the Community Board 2 Monthly Meetings each month.
- Parking Tickets
Mr. Longshore spoke about a proposal that the Assemblyman is supporting, which would have a person receive a check for $100 for their time defending a summons which is ultimately dismissed. Although it is understood that the City needs to generate revenue, Mr. Longshore explained that a constituent should not be forced to pay a fine for no wrong-doing. The Assemblymember has been aggressive to highlight this problem.
Mr. Longshore spoke about Emergency Insurance Preparedness Fair that will be hosted at the Lexington School for the Deaf in Jackson Heights on November 15th, from 7 pm – 9 pm. Representatives from the Office of Emergency Management, the Red Cross, FEMA, the Citizens Emergency Response Team and representatives from different insurance companies will be present at this event.
Mr. Longshore entertained questions from Board Members.
Presentation by Shawn Slavin; Swim Strong Foundation
Ms. Slavin introduced herself and said that she was formerly a coach for St. Sebastian’s Swim Team. She explained that her purpose at this Meeting was to introduce the Foundation and to seek the financial support of the community’s businesses.
She told attendees that over the years, former swim students had come back to St. Sebastian’s to share their successes which they attributed to their experiences with the swim team. Ms. Slavin said that this experience inspired her to start her new foundation, Swim Strong Foundation. This is a non-profit organization which began in 2006.
Ms. Slavin stated that the second largest cause of death among children under the age of 14 is drowning. She added that African-American children drown three times more than any other demographic group. She also spoke about the rise of childhood obesity and other childhood illness such as diabetes and heart disease. She said that swimming is an excellent way to get exercise and help to fight these diseases.
Ms. Slavin spoke about Swim Strong Foundation’s mission:
Stop the Drowning
The organization offers low to no-cost swim lessons. There are three locations in which the organization operates from:
- Flushing Meadow Park
- Far Rockaway High School
- St. Francis College
The organization’s goal is to spread its message across the country and eventually globally. Ms. Slavin added that drowning is the second largest cause of death globally.
Ms. Slavin spoke about life lessons for children and said that swimming lessons are an important way to build confidence and provide healthy exercise. Ms. Slavin said that she has also learned that strong academics and competitive swimming have a strong correlation.
All those involved within this program are volunteers. Ms. Slavin said that mentoring, strong communication skills and patience are skills required to teach children to swim.
Ms. Slavin spoke about partners of the organization that are at the collegiate and Olympic levels and provided contact information at organization’s website address is: www.loveswimstrongfoundation.org
Public Hearing
School Construction Authority; 45-46 42nd Street, Sunnyside; Primary School Facility; School District 24
School Construction Authority is proposing a new school, 45-46 42nd Street, Sunnyside; 379 Primary School Facility in School District 24; Block 169, Lot 6, and any other property in the immediate vicinity which may be necessary for the Proposed Project in the Borough of Queens.
Mr. Chris Persheff of the School Construction Authority was in Attendance to offer a presentation of this Proposal. He explained that this site was brought to the attention of the SCA by Councilmember James Van Bramer.
Currently, the SCA is planning the development of a school for 1,200 students. He stated that the school is slated to open in approximately two years. Mr. Persheff has already met with the Office of Portfolio Planning and the SCA’s Capital Plan has funding budgeted to acquire the land. The plan for this site is to develop an elementary school. Mr. Persheff said that he has met with the Principal of PS 199 to introduce the project and to discuss how this development may or may not alleviate the enrollment at PS 199.
The Office of Portfolio Planning would communicate with the community regarding the programming for the school. Those meetings would be scheduled to plan the exact type of school this new development would be.
Mr. Persheff entertained questions from Board Members.
City Planning Application
The Department of City Planning is proposing a Citywide Text Amendment to the Key Terms Clarification Text Amendment (N110090 ZRY) to the Zoning Resolution to Clarify the Meaning and Usage of the Key Terms “Development” and “Building” In addition, the Department of City Planning proposes other Text Modifications that are Necessary to Clarify the Intent of the Zoning Resolution, Resolve Conflicting Regulation or bring a Regulation into Accordance with Current Department of Buildings Practice.
Ms. Penny Lee of the DCP explained that this Text Amendment is extraordinarily technical. The Zoning Resolution regulates developments, enlargements alternations, etc. The text amendment being considered has to do with the use of the term “development.” The Department of City Planning writes the Resolutions and the Department of Buildings interprets the language. When the term “development” was written within the Resolution by the Department of City Planning, the term referred to a new building, a new building or an existing building or all buildings on a zoning lot. Over time, the Department of Buildings interpreted the term “development” differently.
This text amendment was precipitated by a situation where a homeowner in Manhattan wanted to add a curb cut on his property. Curb cuts are strictly regulated by the Zoning Resolution. The building owner was denied a Special Permit and sued the City. The City of New York lost this lawsuit. This lawsuit was based on the definition of the term “development”.
The Department of City Planning has now filed an Application to change the definition of the term “development”. The Application would essentially change the definition of the term “development” within the language of the Zoning Resolution. The DCP reviewed the meaning of the term. The use of the term “development” and the use of the term “building” were reviewed by the Department of City Planning. What the Department of City Planning meant when using those terms would now clearly be reflected within the Zoning Resolution.
Ms. Lee used the sign at the top of the Citibank Building as a local example. This building is within a Special Zoning District (three block radius). The adopted Zoning Text read Special Sign Regulations and the text discussed that a sign could not be added higher than 60 feet in height. Approximately a decade after the building was built, instead of seeking zoning text modifications, Citibank hired a Land Use attorney that met with the Department of Buildings and argued that the zoning rules or the term “development” did not apply. The building did not meet the definition of “development”. Citibank was allowed to add the sign at the top of the building.
The Department of City Planning submitted a re-write of the Zoning Resolution to all Community Boards and the Borough Presidents with the modifications within the Zoning Resolution. The Department of Buildings is very active within this process.
Penny Lee entertained questions from Board Members.
Consumer Affairs Application
In the Matter of an Application for a Consumer Affairs Renewable Revocable Consent License for an Unenclosed Sidewalk Café with 17 Tables and 36 Seats, Sal & Vik Corp., a/k/a Bella Via Restaurant, 47-46 Vernon Boulevard, Long Island City.
Mr. Conley explained that this is an Application Renewal.
Mr. Conley entertained questions from Board Members for this Application.
Public Comment
Brent O’Leary, Sunnyside Boys and Girls Club
Mr. O’Leary was in attendance to introduce the Boys and Girls Club of Sunnyside. Mr. O’Leary and Mr. Mark Lewinsky are the founders of this Club.
This organization has been created as a safe environment for kids to go to after school. Mr. O’Leary spoke about games, learning, etc. This organization is affiliated with the Boys and Girls Club in Astoria. Mr. O’Leary commended the Boys and Girls Club in Astoria. It is a wonderful facility. Mr. O’Leary and Mr. Lewinsky are striving for the Sunnyside Club to reflect that facility.
Mr. O’Leary said that the organization was able to send five neighborhood children to a theater camp for the summer.
Mr. O’Leary said that the Club would be hosted at St. Theresa’s from January through May and would be active and available from 5 pm to 9 pm. Sports, games and education would be offered. A program for Wednesday nights would be hosted for teen building, community services and mentoring teens to better serve their community.
Mr. O’Leary explained that volunteers are needed and encouraged all to become involved. Board Members received information about this organization within their Monthly Packets. Mr. O’Leary told Attendees that Mr. Vincent Renda should be contacted.
The next fundraising event would be Dancing with the Stars, hosted on November 20th, 7 pm – 11 pm. Tickets are $45 per person; or $80 per couple; food drinks and entertainment would be provided. Ten local leaders and activists would be paired with local dance teachers. Our very own Board Member, Mr. Donald McCallian, is participating in this event.
Mr. Conley suggested contacting the 108th Precinct to arrange transportation since the Q24 does not run near that location. Mr. Conley spoke about alternative transportation. There was a recommendation to take the Q39.
Mr. O’Leary entertained questions.
Jim McNamara
Mr. McNamara is a resident of 40th Street, Sunnyside and a New York City Fireman. Mr. McNamara said that he had been before the Community Board in the past to discuss the need to modify policies made by the FDNY which jeopardize the safety of the community. Mr. McNamara spoke about the FDNY practice of removing units from service when firefighters are scheduled for training or moved to another area to cover special events. He said that there have been of specific instances where fires have occurred with reports of serious injury as a result of a shortage of coverage due to this situation.
Mr. McNamara explained that in the last month, there have been 51 different instances where fire units in this neighborhood were removed from service due to training.
Mr. McNamara spoke about a fire that occurred on Saturday, October 30th. He listed those units taken out of service at 9 am until 1 pm on that date.
At 12:50 pm on that day, there was a fire in a private house on 47th Avenue and 76th Street. There were five seriously injured fire-related victims. There were numerous units out of service with no replacements.
Mr. McNamara stated that the response time was “ludicrous”. He listed the response times for this fire. Mr. McNamara stated that these response times were unacceptable in New York City.
Mr. McNamara asked the Community Board whether the City being held accountable for these actions.
Mr. Conley explained to Mr. McNamara that the statistics that were presented at this Meeting have not been submitted to the Community Board. Mr. Conley continued that this information has not been accessible to the Community Board and the Community Board has filed complaints regarding the lack of information shared. Mr. Conley stated that the FDNY would be challenged at the next District Services Cabinet Meeting regarding this issue. Mr. Conley said that Mr. McNamara’s information has been helpful. Mr. McNamara asked if he could sit in on the next DSC Meeting. Mr. Conley explained that the DSC Meeting is not a Committee Meeting, although the information shared at this Meeting would be helpful for the Community Board to share at the DSC Meeting. Mr. Conley asked if Mr. McNamara would allow the Community Board to submit this data.
Mr. McNamara submitted a Daily Training Schedule to Mr. Conley, which is circulated daily within the FDNY. Mr. McNamara stated that there are a variety of other instances where units are taken out of service, above and beyond this situation. Mr. McNamara commented on Mayor Bloomberg’s “accountability” discussions. Mr. McNamara spoke about “Must Fill Status” in other fire departments in other counties. Mr. McNamara spoke about “criminal” treatment toward specific neighborhoods with regard to the lack of FDNY availability.
Mr. McNamara is advocating for an increase of FDNY Personnel. Due to Budget Cuts, firehouses have been closed; equipment has been eliminated, etc.
Mr. McNamara spoke about a new Pilot Program whereby most calls are answered via traffic pattern; the responding units would stop for red lights, therefore not rushing to the site of the emergency.
Mr. Conley commented about how and who is making the decision to determine what is an emergency and what is not and how to respond to a 911 emergency call.
Mr. McNamara submitted a list of questions to ask at the District Service Cabinet Meeting. Mr. McNamara reminded Mr. Conley that he would be grateful for the opportunity to attend a District Cabinet Meeting. He thanked Mr. McNamara for sharing this information with the Community Board and the community.
Mr. McNamara entertained questions from Board Members.
Maria Mercedes Hubbard
Ms. Hubbard was in attendance at this Meeting as a representative for AHRC. This is a non-profit agency that represents those with intellectual disabilities. There are several programs throughout New York City as well as nationwide.
Ms. Hubbard is a coordinator for employment. The organization is seeking to advance their Program and place their clients with intellectual challenges within the workforce and out into the community.
Ms. Hubbard spoke about many success stories for her clients. Ms. Hubbard spoke about the need for the community to advocate for her clients. There is an intensive program that prepares the organization’s clients to go out into the community. The organization offers 100% support for their clients once a client is employed. The client is not left alone. The organization has a 95% success rate. Ms. Hubbard spoke about a tax credit for businesses that hire the organization’s client.
Ms. Hubbard spoke about how proud she is to be part of this Program and provided information for attendees.
Jim Condes
Roosevelt Avenue, 39th Avenue and 58th Street
Mr. Condes spoke about the traffic back-up at this location. He stated that the Department of Transportation has ignored this issue for years.
Mr. Condes stated that Community Board 2 wrote a letter regarding the recommendation for a delayed left-hand turn signal onto Roosevelt Avenue to allow the vehicles to make a left-hand turn without oncoming traffic. This is a short block therefore; Mr. Condes recommended that five meters on the south side block between 58th Street and 59th Street should be removed in order to add another flowing traffic lane. Mr. Condes also spoke about Community Board 2 Board Member, Transportation Committee Member and City Services and Public Safety Committee Member, Mr. Al Volpe’s suggestion to modify the traffic signal timing. This location is complex due to the three different traffic signals at this intersection. To date, Commissioner McCarthy has not offered any suggestions to this problem.
Mr. Condes spoke about the lack of meters on the north side of 56th and 57th Street. This is a wide street and most of the traffic travels down Roosevelt Avenue versus Skillman Avenue.
Mr. Condes spoke about another suggestion that he made to Commissioner McCarthy. Mr. Condes recommended the addition of a sign that would divert traffic of passenger vehicles before reach 39th Avenue and 58th Street. Mr. Codes spoke about a letter he received from Commissioner McCarthy regarding the addition of a speed bump on 58th Street. Mr. Condes disagreed. Commissioner McCarthy spoke about the use of 56th Street via trucks. Mr. Condes disagreed.
Mr. Condes stated that he has been requesting a meeting with Councilperson Van Bramer and has not received any response.
Mr. Conley explained to Mr. Condes that the identical information he offered at this Meeting was recently offered at the October Transportation Meeting. Mr. Conley explained to Mr. Condes that he refuses to acknowledge how diligently the Board staff works on the issues that he presents to the Community Board.
Sunnyside Gardens Application
Mr. Conley spoke about Sunnyside Gardens; a recently landmarked community.
He explained that Board Member, Stephen Cooper is a homeowner and resident of Sunnyside Gardens. Mr. Cooper was notified by his insurance company that it is required to add railings to the steps of his home. Mr. Cooper contacted the Landmarks Commission. Mr. Cooper has a Hearing scheduled before the Landmarks Commission prior to the next Land Use Committee Meeting and before the next Community Board Monthly Meeting. Mr. Cooper therefore will make a presentation at this Meeting regarding his application to the Landmarks Commission. Typically an Applicant would come before the Full Board with an architect and drawings and a Public Notice is offered to the community. Mr. Cooper explained that in this case there is not enough time for the common protocol that the Community Board would follow. Mr. Cooper explained that a letter from the insurance company stating that his insurance would be terminated at 11:59pm on December 14th 2010. Mr. Cooper immediately contacted the Landmarks Commission and the process began. Mr. Cooper spoke about how this is not a quick process. Mr. Cooper submitted photographs of the surrounding area as well as his neighbors on both sides of his street and the next block. Mr. Cooper spoke about the homes that had three or more steps had railings from the sidewalk up to the front stoop. Mr. Cooper’s house does not have railings. The insurance company also insisted that he install a railing that the leads to the basement door. Mr. Cooper had the railings installed without the consent of Landmarks but will continue to follow the outlined protocol to assure that the addition is legal.
Mr. Cooper provided photographs for Board Members to review. He requested that Board Members either vote to allow Mr. Cooper to install the railings that are required by the insurance company or waive the right to host a Public Meeting on this matter.
Ms. Deller stated that Landmarks has handled this matter in a positive manner but, unfortunately, Mr. Cooper is in violation with his insurance company.
Mr. Cooper entertained questions from Board Members.
Mr. Conley said that the Landmarks Commission had advised Mr. Cooper to make this presentation to the Board as they are concerned about it’s setting a precedent for future installations.
Attendance
Present, 40; Absent, 10
A Quorum was present at this Meeting.
Approval of Minutes
A Motion was made to approve the Minutes for the October Community Board 2 Monthly Meeting and Public Hearing. The Motion was Seconded. The Motion was unanimously approved.
Chairperson’s Report
The Taste of Sunnyside
Mr. Conley commended the restaurants of the community on their participation in this event. This was coordinated with the Sunnyside Chamber of Commerce.
The Vision of Sunnyside
Mr. Conley spoke about several Sunnyside Vision meetings with Assemblywoman Cathy Nolan’s office, Councilperson Van Bramer’s office, QEDC (Queens Overall Economic Development Corporation) and Mr. Robert Kennedy of Small Business Services to develop a plan for the area.
Food Dynasty on Queens Boulevard, Sunnyside
Mr. Conley said that he had spoken with the owner of the Food Dynasty store on Queens Boulevard about the construction on this site. He explained that it would be four stories, adding corporate offices, two–three floors of apartments and expanding the supermarket. Mr. Conley explained that the Community Board has asked how the $9 million dollar investment would benefit the community. Mr. Conley spoke about the continuous obstruction to pedestrian paths with regard to the daily unloading of merchandise. Community Board 2 was assured that this problem would be resolved. Trucks would be unloaded on Greenpoint Avenue. A presentation would be offered to Community Board 2.
Graffiti Removal Program
Mr. Conley spoke about Councilperson Van Bramer’s efforts to remove graffiti within the 26th Council District. This campaign has been very successful.
The Community Board and the Councilperson’s office have asked that the BID become involved. Funding became an issue; however, Food Dynasty has offered to donate 50% of the funding to expedite this Project.
Food Drive
When Mr. Conley spoke of Community Board 2’s Annual Food Drive that collects canned goods and dried foods with Food Dynasty, Food Dynasty began to speak about placing food baskets in front of the store. Any food that was placed into the baskets would be matched as a donation and courtesy of Food Dynasty. Food Dynasty later contacted Mr. Conley to offer a proposal to assure that a local food pantry would be restocked on a regular basis. Mr. Conley stated that a detailed list would be submitted to Food Dynasty via Community Board 2 for the items that are needed.
Mr. Conley spoke about the outreach between Community Board 2 and local businesses. The message is to shop locally; attempt to recruit students from Columbia University or other Colleges that focus on the Business Sector that could partner with the local businesses to assist and mentor the improvement of their businesses. Sunnyside has been identified in the newspapers as the 3rd best neighborhoods to live in however, it is necessary to promote the services in the area as equally attractive.
Mr. Conley announced that he is meeting with the Deputy Commissioner of the Mayor’s office at 6:45 am on Friday, November 5th to meet with local business owners. Scheduled for this meeting are discussions to learn how to assist the progression and enhance the success of local businesses within the City.
Mr. Conley entertained questions from Board Members.
Transportation Alternatives
This organization contacted Community Board 2 to discuss the creation of a safer Queens Boulevard Bicycle Zones. Transportation Alternatives recommended a direct route from Sunnyside to Kew Gardens. Mr. Conley’s spoke about the direct route of a bicycle lane and expressed concerns about traveling along the Long Island Expressway.
Mr. Conley encouraged Transportation Alternatives to continue discussions to create a safer route of transportation for bicycles.
Repaved Roadway
Mr. Conley spoke about a meeting he had with Capt. Powers. The recent repaved roadways, mostly within the Maspeth area, have become a drag racing location. Spotters are placed by those involved in these races to scope out NYPD vehicles. The NYPD is working to respond to this activity. Helicopters, rubble strips, cameras, etc. have been discussed as enforcement. The Department of Transportation was notified to adjust traffic signals. Mr. Conley stated that these races can begin from Van Dam Street.
Board Member, Diane Ballek
Mr. Conley asked for all to offer prayers for Ms. Ballek’s brother who is ill.
Liquor License in Long Island City
Mr. Conley announced that Mr. O’Brien, Chairperson of the City Services and Public Safety Committee was unable to attend this Meeting.
Mr. Conley said that there were five Liquor License Applications submitted for Long Island City.
Mr. Conley spoke about a new business located at the Paragon Paint Building. To date, a proposal was submitted for an On-Premise Liquor License Application for this building to offer such amenities for as roof-top access as well as the production and creation of a beach. This is a five story building. The proposal discusses the capacity for 600 patrons. Mr. Conley explained that a better plan must be submitted by the Applicant. The 500 Foot Rule is an issue in this location.
Condolences
The Community Board Offices extend condolences to the following Members of Community Board 2:
Cheryl Sinnott, Community Board 2 staff member, on the passing of her father-in-law.
David Cesar, former dedicated Member of Community Board 2, on the passing of his wife.
Lauren Springer, Member of Community Board 2, on the passing of her father.
New Board Member
Mr. Conley announced and welcomed our new Board Member, Mr. Evan O’Neill. Mr. O’Neill is a resident of Sunnyside. Welcome, Evan!
Mr. Conley entertained questions from Board Members.
Mr. Condes
Mr. Conley spoke about the continuous patience displayed by Ms. Mary Ann Gurrado and the staff of Community Board 2 with regard to Mr. Jim Condes and his focus and passion regarding his issues within the community. For years, Mr. Condes issues have been taken seriously. Mr. Conley explained that there has not been one instance where Mr. Condes thanked anyone or complimented anyone for efforts applied to his issues.
Mr. Conley apologized to Attendees for his reaction to Mr. Condes at this Meeting.
Mr. Conley explained that all constituents’ complaints and comments receive a response from Community Board 2.
Vote for Community Board 2 Executive Board Officers
Ms. Deller introduced the Officers Seats for Board Members.
- Chairperson Joseph Conley
- 1st Vice Chairperson Stephen Cooper
- 2nd Vice Chairperson Patrick O’Brien
- Secretary Lisa Deller
- Treasurer Diane Ballek
Ms. Deller entertained nominations from Board Members. All Officers have stated that they are interested in running for their current Seats.
A Motion was made for the Officers’ Seats to remain the same.
In Favor 39 Opposed 0 Abstentions 0
Chairperson present but not voting.
Ms. Deller spoke about how she enjoys her position. She encouraged all to become involved and participate actively on the Board.
District Manager’s Report
There were no Reports presented at this Meeting.
Department of City Planning Report
Ms. Lee offered her report to the Board.
Waterfront Plan
The opportunity for Public Comment on the draft recommendations are near closing. Additional comments and recommendation can be submitted on the Department of City Planning’s website, www.nyc.gov/planning
Sunnyside/Woodside Rezoning
Mr. Tom Smith continues to work on this Project and will offer a presentation to the Full Board in December. Certification is expected by the end of this year.
Hunters Point South
The DCP, EDC, HDC and HPD continue to review Proposals submitted in response to the RFP for the first two blocks.
Queens Plaza Bicycle Lanes
There is a bicycle lane between Crescent Street and 21st Street. A portion of the street is landscaped. There is a left turn from the bicycle/pedestrian path heading west toward the River. Pedestrians have been crossing the north side of Queens Plaza North to the south side of Queens Plaza North to walk through the landscaping but this is just a bicycle lane.
As the Queens Plaza Project continues, the off-street bicycle lane would be constructed in the median headed east.
Millstones
The Millstones have been relocated from the construction zone to the Long Island City Library. The Millstones will remain at the Library until they are relocated into the park.
Jackson Avenue
This Project is complete.
Board Members Attendance at the Newtown Creek Brownfield Opportunity Area Project
Community Board 2 Board Members were in attendance at the Public Meeting.
This Project is reviewing opportunities to identify sites along the Creek, work with property owners to clean the site and redevelop the area. There is discussion of the increase of public access and a sustainable design initiative on individual sites to prevent storm water run-off into the Creek. Community Board 2 Board Member and Chairperson of the Environment Committee, Ms. Dorothy Morehead has been actively working on this issue.
A Public Meeting was held on October 28th. Recommendations were submitted for sub-areas. There would be a follow-up meeting with local businesses.
Department of Health
The Agency would move into the new building on Queens Plaza in January 2011. This process is expected to take four months to complete.
Committee Reports
City Services and Public Safety Committee
Mr. O’Brien was not in attendance at this Meeting. Mr. Conley asked Board Members to read the Minutes.
Environment Committee
Ms. Morehead spoke about three different events regarding Newtown Creek.
Boat Ride on Newtown Creek
Ms. Morehead has done this before and spoke about the different perspective of the Creek.
Meeting with the City Parks Foundation
Reports were offered for various Projects that were previously proposed. The proposal for the Barge could not be submitted.
Ms. Morehead spoke about the development of a park as part of Hunters Point South as well as the addition of a small park near the Long Island Expressway. The site is currently being utilized for storage.
Dutch Kill Basin, 47th Avenue west of 27th Street to 29th Street, Long Island City. The Project proposes waterfront access.
Ms. Morehead spoke about how this Project that was greatly supported by students from LaGuardia Community College. The students plan to ask for community support.
Ms. Morehead spoke about a concrete company at this location that rinsed remnants of concrete into the Creek. Currently, there is a pond at the site which is now used to clean the trucks.
Ms. Morehead stated that the DEP will submit funding however; the DEC will approve the different projects.
There are three organizations that are administering $10 million dollars.
Brownfields Opportunities Area Program
Ms. Morehead encouraged Board Members to read the information that was submitted into their Monthly Packets regarding this Program.
Foundry Building
Ms. Morehead spoke about a fundraiser being hosted at this location. The event is for the support of a food co-op to be established in Western Queens. The event is scheduled on November 17th from 7 pm to 9 pm.
Ms. Morehead entertained questions from Board Members.
Transportation Committee
Land Use Committee
Sunnyside Gardens
A Motion was made to approve the installation of the hand rails at the residence of Mr. Cooper. Board Members agreed that this would be considered an exception and not a precedent. The Motion was Seconded.
In Favor 39 Opposed 0 Abstention 0
Chairperson was present but not voting
Key Terms Text Amendment (N110090 ZRY)
A Motion was made to support the Key Terms Text Amendment. The Motion was Seconded.
In Favor 34 Opposed 0 Abstention 3
Chairperson present but not voting
Consumer Affairs Renewable Revocable Consent License for an Unenclosed Sidewalk Café with 17 Tables and 36 Seats, Sal and Vic Corp., a/k/a Bella Via Restaurant, 47-46 Vernon Boulevard, Long Island City
A Motion was made to Approve this Application. The Motion was Seconded. All were in favor by a show of hands.
In Favor 37 Opposed 0 Abstention 0
Chairperson present but not voting
379 Seat Primary School Facility, 45-46 42nd Street, Sunnyside, Queens Community School District No. 24
A Motion was made to support the School Construction Authority to develop a school at this site with the stipulations that the entrance to be located on 42nd Street versus 43rd Street or Queens Boulevard as well as the SCA is to come before the Board during the design phase for the inclusion of community input. The Motion was Seconded.
In Favor 37 Opposed 0 Abstention 0
Chairperson present but not voting
Health and Human Services Committee
HCQC Funding
Ms. Terrano announced that the Committee received a letter from the former Heath Dept. Chairperson addressing the Committee’s concern about the funding cuts for HCQC. The letter explained the process but the Committee was not satisfied with the response. The Committee will continue to write. Ms. Terrano stated that elected officials and the Borough President are in support of the Committee’s issue.
Ms. Manton announced that the date scheduled on the Community Board’s monthly calendar for the next Health and Human Services Committee Meeting was incorrect. The correct date has been scheduled for Monday, November 22nd 2010.
Old Business/New Business
Canned Food and Dried Cereals
Mr. Conley announced that the Community Board offices continue to collect these items.
Thanksgiving Day
Mr. Conley invited all to go the Sunnyside Community Services Building to witness the wonderful Thanksgiving feast that is prepared and served by volunteers. The volunteers prepare and serve over 200 meals. Mr. Conley encouraged Attendees to volunteer.
Veteran’s Day
Mr. Conley reminded Attendees to express thanks to our Veteran’s on November 11th.
This Meeting was adjourned.
Respectfully submitted by:
Cheryl Sinnott
The next Community Board 2 Monthly Meeting and Public Hearing has been scheduled for Thursday, December 2nd 2010.
November 4th 2010
Community Board 2 Monthly Meeting and Public Hearing
VOTES
Sunnyside Gardens
A Motion was made to approve the installation of the railings at the residence of Mr. Cooper.. Board Members agreed that this would be considered an exception to the normal Land Marks Process and not a precedent. The Motion was Seconded.
In Favor 39 Opposed 0 Abstention 0
Chairperson was present but not voting
Key Terms Text Amendment (N110090 ZRY)
A Motion was made to support the Key Terms Text Amendment. The Motion was Seconded.
In Favor 34 Opposed 0 Abstention 3
Chairperson present but not voting
Consumer Affairs Renewable Revocable Consent License for an Unenclosed Sidewalk Café with 17 Tables and 36 Seats, Sal and Vic Corp., a/k/a Bella Via Restaurant, 47-46 Vernon Boulevard, Long Island City
A Motion was made to Approve this Application. The Motion was Seconded.
In Favor 37 Opposed 0 Abstention 0
Chairperson present but not voting
379 Seat Primary School Facility, 45-46 42nd Street, Sunnyside, Queens Community School District No. 24
A Motion was made to support the School Construction Authority to develop a school at this site with the stipulations that the entrance to be located on 42nd Street versus 43rd Street or Queens Boulevard as well as the SCA is to come before the Board during the design phase for the inclusion of community input. The Motion was Seconded.
In Favor 37 Opposed 0 Abstention 0
Chairperson present but not voting
Vote for Community Board 2 Executive Board Officers
A Motion was made for the Officers’ Seats to remain the same.
In Favor Opposed Abstentions
Chairperson present but not voting
