May 7th 2009
Community Board 2 Monthly Meeting and Public Hearing
Attendance
Terri Adams Andrew Anzalone
Diane Ballek Kate Brennan
Bernard Callegari Thomas Casey
Bessie Cassaro Barbara Coleman
Joseph Conley Stephen Cooper
Emilia Crotty Lisa Deller
Mary English Richard Gundlach
Anne Hart Marvin Jeffcoat
Tom Kalamaras Marie Konecko
Sheila Lewandowski Dominic Lippolis
Rita Manton Gregory Matos
Donald McCallian Gertrude McDonald
Golam Mehraj Dorothy Morehead
Patrick Murray Patrick O’Brien
Lois Saldana Moitri Chowdhury Savard
James Van Bramer Al Volpe
Robert Wilkanowski
Absentees
Alyson Baker Aida Bartolome
Rev. Joseph Jerome Mohammed Choudhury Jewel
Ellen Kang Goksel Secilmis
David Shin
Guests
Donato’s Resturant Jim McNamara
J. Safier, NYC Coalition for Smoke Free Jim Condes
Joan Deraval Vito Rak
Patricia O’Reilly James Borst
Alyssa Bonilla, Sunnyside Shines Pablo Calle Donatus
Laura Heim, Laura Heim Architects John Edebohls
Marianna Vockman, Woodside Library Mary Tibaldi
Martha Rodriquez Sam Goldman,
Damien Pratt Adam Mehig
Han Shon William Garrett
Thomas Cogan Mike Quigley
Vincent DeMartino David Rosasio
Joseph Cruz Mitchell Hanser
Erick Lindstrom Amanda Ikert, DCP
Claret Wine Bar, Niall Costello
Manny Perez, Assemblyman. DenDekker
David Arnold, Councilperson Gioia
Community Board 2 Staff
Debra Markell Kleinert, DM
Mary Ann Gurrado
Agenda
Pledge of Allegiance
Comments by Public Officials/Guests Speakers
Assemblyman Michael DenDekker’s Office
Mr. Manny Perez of Assemblyman Michael DenDekker’s office spoke in regard to the activities of the Assemblyman’s office. He announced that Assemblyman’s proposed Budget had been approved.
Mr. Perez entertained questions from Board Members.
Mr. Conley introduced each representative of our elected officials’ offices who were in attendance at this Meeting.
Consumer Affairs Applications
- In the Matter of a New Application for Consumer Affairs License for an Unenclosed Sidewalk Café with 24 Seats at Claret Winebar a/d/a 46-02 Skillman Café, LLC, 47-46 Skillman Avenue, Sunnyside.
Ms. Laura Heim testified in opposition to this Application. Ms. Heim said that she is the merchant directly next door to the Wine Bar and expressed her disappointment regarding the lack of communication the owner of the Claret Winebar has had with herself and other businesses. Ms. Heim stated that she believes that this proposal has been inappropriately organized and managed.
There were no other speakers in attendance to testify in regard to this Application.
Mr. Conley closed this item on the Agenda.
- In the Matter of a New Application for a Consumer Affairs License for an Unenclosed Sidewalk Café with 15 Tables and 30 Seats at Sean Og Enterprises LLC, Located at 60-02 Woodside Avenue, Woodside.
There were no speakers to testify in regard to this Application.
Mr. Conley closed this item on the Agenda.
- In the Matter of an Application for a Consumer Affairs License for an Unenclosed Sidewalk Café with 7 Tables and 28 Seats at Donato’s, 50-22 39th Avenue, Long Island City.
There were no speakers to testify in regard to this Application.
Mr. Conley closed this item on the Agenda.
Landmark Preservation Commission Applications (LPC)
- In the Matter of and LPC Application for
The Applicant offered a brief statement with regard to this Application. The presentation was inaudible.
Public Comment
Jim McNamara
Mr. McNamara is a New York City Fireman. He spoke of his opposition to the proposed downsizing of firehouses throughout the City.
Jessica Safier,
Ms. Safier introduced this organization. She said that the organization is funded by a grant from the New York State Department of Health. They work in conjunction with the American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association and the American Lung Association.
Ms. Safier is working on a project to reduce the number of youth within the community that begin smoking. Ms. Safier explained that the tobacco industry has been focusing on youth through local retailers with enticing advertisements. By law, billboard and television advertising by the tobacco industry is prohibited.
Ms. Safier spoke about a group of teenage volunteer who are visiting local merchants within the community to document the habitat of the store. The teens are expected to educate the merchants to modify the advertising and approach to promoting smoking. The volunteers would ask the merchants to sign a non-legally binding policy that states an agreement from the operator to participate in reducing cigarette advertising in their shops especially at eye-level of children and in the location of snacks and candy, magazines and comic books.
Ms. Safier showed photographs to the Board that that revealed the dangerous advertising in some stores. The photographs were taken all over
Ms. Safier requested an executed Resolution from the Community Board expressing support of this project.
Mr. Conley asked the Community Board Members to locate a document within their monthly packets, which outlined this organization’s request for a Letter of Support. The letter requests the reduction or elimination of cigarette advertisements that are visible to children within all businesses in the Community Board 2 District. Community Board 2 is identifying three actions to be taken by store owners:
1. Voluntarily remove all and no longer place any tobacco advertisements inside store windows or on doors.
2. Remove and no longer place advertisements that are below five feet from the ground where children are likely to view them.
3. Remove and no longer place advertisements within two feet from the check-out area where children purchase snacks and other items.
A Motion was made to write a Letter of Support for the proposed Resolution. The Motion was Seconded. Motion carries for all present and voting.
In Favor 36 Opposed 0 Abstention 0
Chairperson present but not voting.
Jim Condes
Child Sex Abuse Victim Bill
Mr. Condes said that he had written a letter in opposition to this bill to several local newspapers. He said that the “only newspaper that felt the issue was important enough to print was the Gazette.” The Tribune, Chronicle, Woodside Herald and Forum did not respond.
The Woodside Herald, (Mr. Condes supplied Board Members with a copy of the newspaper), printed a response to his letter from Assemblywoman Markey. The reply from Assemblywoman Markey did not discuss an important factor of this Bill, which is that it would only pertain to the private sector and exempts the public sector from prosecution.
Mr. Condes discussed Assemblyman Lopez’s proposed alternative Bill. The Bill discusses the statue of limitations and proposes equal opportunity for public and private sectors.
Mr. Condes entertained questions from Committee Members.
Community Board 2 Transportation Committee
Mr. Condes inquired about the status of the Transportation Committee. He asked when the last meeting was held, when the next meeting was scheduled and who is the Chairperson of the Committee.
Mr. Conley told Mr. Condes that he is the Chairperson of the Transportation Committee. A Meeting was held on Wednesday, May 3rd and a meeting has been slated for June 2009.
Joan Deraval, YAI
Ms. Deraval spoke about services available to the community through YAI. This is a non-profit organization that caters to children, adults and seniors with developmental disabilities. Ms. Deraval’s office is located at
Ms. Deraval distributed literature for Attendees and entertained questions from Committee Members.
Mr. Conley spoke of the wonderful services that this organization provides for our community. There are four volunteers that assist at the Community Board offices. Mr. Conley thanked the volunteers for their help in the office.
Vito Rak
Community Board 2 Banner
Mr. Rak asked that a banner be hung at the location of the Community Board 2 Monthly Meetings in order to identify the location.
Sunnyside Arch
Mr. Rak complimented the refurbishment of the Sunnyside Arch. Mr. Rak recommended that a similar signpost or marker be created for the Woodside community.
Mr. Conley wanted to clarify that the refurbishment of the Sunnyside Arch did not cost $500,000, as quoted in the newspapers. The cost of the Arch was in conjunction with street and sidewalk repairs. New streetlights and benches along with tree planting were also included in the cost.
Mr. Conley spoke of the long process of discussions with City government officials with regard to the fate of the Arch. He explained that going through the process and going before the Art Commission to save the Arch was a challenge. The Art Commission was prepared to remove the Arch. He said that he had been the only person to testify before the Art Commission on behalf of the community, the Sunnyside Arch and the maintenance of
The
Trees have been pruned on
Wind Barriers for
Mr. Rak and Mr. Condes have been active in advocating for the addition of wind barriers at this location. Mr. Rak explained that now that the spring and summer months are upon us, this item would not be a priority. Mr. Rak recommended the submission of a petition.
Ms. Alyssa Bonilla, Executive Director for Sunnyside Shines
Ms. Bonilla explained that Sunnyside Shines is a neighborhood development group for property owners, merchants, and residents. She thanked Mr. Conley for speaking on behalf of the Sunnyside Arch. One of the responsibilities of Sunnyside Shines is the maintenance and upkeep of the Sunnyside Arch. This would be an ongoing community effort.
Ms. Bonilla spoke of the organization’s City mandated responsibilities.
She said that Sunnyside Shines is expected to periodically survey the community to learn of the needs of business owners and property owners in order to address their needs.
Ms. Bonilla introduced the survey to the Attendees. She said, the Sunnyside Business and Residential Survey is a two-page survey. The survey for residents is an easy check-off sheet. She said that the survey was “fun” and asked that all submit the completed survey as soon as possible.
She also said that the survey is available on line and that she would be happy to deliver surveys, if needed.
James Borst, Department of Sanitation
Mr. Borst spoke of the City’s proposed reduction in trash collection in
Mr. Borst entertained questions from Committee Members.
Attendance
Present; 37 Absent; 7
A Quorum was Present at this Meeting
Approval of Minutes
A Motion was made to Approve the Minutes for the April 2009 Community Board 2 Monthly Meeting and Public Hearing. The Motion was Seconded.
The Minutes for the April 2009 Community Board 2 Monthly Meeting and Public Hearing were unanimously approved.
Chairperson’s Report
New Community Board 2 Board Members
Mr. Conley asked all the new Board Members to stand up for the introduction and welcoming to Community Board 2. Some new Members were not in Attendance in April.
Mr. Conley spoke of the importance of learning the issues within the District, procedures, the manner in which the Board operates, voting and the importance of coming to each monthly Meeting.
Perfect Attendance
Mr. Conley announced the names of Community Board 2 Board Members who have displayed dedication to the community. The following Board Members have been presented with awards in appreciation for 100% attendance:
¯ Jean Carubia
¯ Mary English
¯ Richard Gundlach
¯ Pat Murray
¯ Al Volpe
Update on
Mr. Conley spoke about proposed
Update on
Mr. Conley spoke about the efforts of the community and especially the leadership of Mr. Kieran Staunton, to clean up
Mr. Conley spoke about the beginning design phase of the bridge reconstruction project. The first phase of the project would begin in July 2009. He said that an update would be offered at the June Board Meeting.
Library
Mr. Conley announced that the Borough President has allocated an additional $1 million dollars in funding for this library. Mr. Conley spoke of meetings with the Port Authority and assistance needed for this library.
Budget Cuts
Mr. Conley said that the Community Board has experienced a $30,000 budget cut as a result of an overall reduction in city services. The Community Board is hopeful to have funds restored via conversations with the Mayor’s office.
Mr. Conley told Attendees that the Bridge is expected to open on schedule.
Civil
There was no update on this item.
Relocated Bus Stops within the Community
Community Board 2 Member, Ms. Gertrude McDonald has been writing letters to the Department of Transportation with regard to the unannounced and inconvenient relocation of bus stops in the community. To date, Ms. McDonald has not received any response to her correspondence. Ms. McDonald will continue to write in opposition of this change.
Dedication Ceremony for Thomas Manton
Mr. Conley announced that the dedication ceremony took place on May 2nd 2009. The community renamed a portion of
Mr. Conley announced that this event would not have been possible without the perseverance of Community Board 2 Member, Ms. Gertrude McDonald. Mr. Conley thanked Ms. McDonald for her hard work.
District Manager’s Report
There was no report offered at this Meeting.
City Planning Report
Ms. Ikert was in Attendance to offer updates for items concerning the Community Board 2 District.
Ms. Ikert spoke about a vote that took place on April 22nd at the Landmarks Commission. The text amendment was approved and is now in its final stages with the City Council. The Department of City Planning expects the Resolution by June 2009.
These modifications are to be voted on May 20th 2009.
Committee Reports
Veterans Committee
Mr. Jeffcoat wished all a Happy Mother’s Day.
Statistics at
Statistics as of April 8th 2009
213 men living in the shelter; 25 women
150 placements
76 new admissions
3 residents were reinstated
10 residents participated within an education program offered in our community
158 residents are attending the Housing Readiness Group
52 residents were placed into affordable housing
49 residents became employed and return to the working world
8 residents hired and are participating in the Stipend Program
75 residents have Axis I diagnosis
64 residents are participating within a mental health program
135 residents identified with mental health issues
At the request of CAB Members, Dr. Skinner would provide CAB Member with demographics for Combat Veterans, segmented by combat era at the next Meeting.
Election of Officers
Mr. Jeffcoat stated that the official election of officers would take place at the next CAB Meeting, May 13th Meeting, 6:30 pm. The following representatives have been slated as the candidates:
Sam Farrell Chairperson nomination
George Custance Vice Chairperson nomination
Mike Gold Recording Secretary
Daniel’s Post VFW
On May 25th, at
Veteran’s Information Day
This would be hosted on May 16th.
City Services and Public Safety Committee
Mr. O’Brien offered an update of the last Meeting for the Board Members. He discussed the proposal of a large Gentlemen’s Club in
Mr. O’Brien has been researching this issue and has contacted elected officials.
Mr. O’Brien said that the Applicant has already purchased the building and currently owns a similar establishment, Sin City, in the Mott Haven section of the
As proposed, the Club would have 13 private rooms and Board Members strongly question how those rooms would be utilized.
Mr. O’Brien has had discussions with the Community Affairs Officer of the Bronx precinct as well as the District Manager of Community Board 1 in the
Mr. O’Brien has been in contact with business owners of the area. Organized protest and opposition is currently being planned.
Land Use Committee
Ms. Deller introduced and summarized each of the following items to Community Board Members before voting. Ms. Deller was inaudible due to several conversations occurring at once.
- Vote on New Application for Consumer Affairs License for an Unenclosed Sidewalk Café with 12 Tables and 24 Seats at Claret Winebar a/d/a 46-02 Skillman Café, LLC,
A Motion was made to Approve this Application. The Motion was Seconded.
In Favor 34 Oppose 2 Abstention 0
Chairperson present but not voting
- Vote on New Application for a Consumer Affairs License for an Unenclosed Sidewalk Café with 15 Tables and 30 Seats (on
The Applicant spoke on behalf of this Application. The Applicant was inaudible.
The Applicant entertained questions from Committee Members.
A Motion was made to Approve this Application. The Motion was Seconded.
In Favor 31 Oppose 4 Abstention 1
Chairperson present but not voting
On behalf of Board Member, Mr. Al Volpe, Mr. Conley offered the Applicant of Sean Og’s a “challenge”. On May 6th 2009, the New York Times wrote about the best hamburgers in
- Vote on Application for a Consumer Affairs License for an Unenclosed Sidewalk Café with 7 Tables and 28 Seats at Donato’s, 50-22 39th Avenue, Long Island City.
Ms. Deller listed several complaints filed by the community with regard to the operation of this establishment. There was discussion regarding sidewalk obstruction via planters, noise, double parking for deliveries and occupying parking spots during deliveries.
A Motion was made to Approve this Application with the stipulations that the bench is moved inside the restaurant at night and the planters must not obstruct the crosswalk or the pedestrian traffic. The Motion was Seconded.
In Favor 36 Oppose 0 Abstention 0
Chairperson present but not voting
- In the Matter of and LPC Application for
Homeowner, Mr. Patrick O’Reilly offered a presentation to Board Members with regard to this Application. Mr. O’Reilly displayed photographs to the Board and explained why he was applying to the LPC for the installation of a five-foot fence in his rear yard. Mr. O’Reilly said would like to install the latticework fence in order to create privacy for his family. He said that his neighbor’s yard was poorly maintained and that the fence would obstruct the view from his yard. Mr. O’Reilly spoke of painting the fence green and enhancing it with ivy.
Mr. O’Reilly said that he has discussed this proposal with approximately five neighbors in the alleyway and he said that it has been viewed as an enhancement.
Mr. O’Reilly entertained questions from Board Members.
A Motion was Made to Approve this Application. The Motion was Seconded.
In Favor 26 Oppose 7 Abstention 2
Chairperson present but not voting
Health and Human Services Committee
Ms. Terrano spoke about a recent strategy meeting. She said that site visits are interesting and informative; however, the Committee has begun to focus on the closing of our local hospitals,
Ms. Terrano has been in contact with the Chairperson of the Health and Human Services of
Ms. Terrano said that the Community Board’s Health and Human Services Committee had written a letter to the Chairperson of the Health and Human Services Committee of
Ms. Terrano discussed rumors that
Ms. Terrano spoke about the lack of services within this community. The citizens of
The next Health and Human Services Meeting has been scheduled for Wednesday, May 27th 2009. Ms. Terrano also announced and welcomed two new Committee Members to HHSC. Ms. Moitri Chowdhury Savard and Mr. Bernard Callegari.
Ms Terrano announced that an ACQC Meeting has been scheduled for this month as well.
Environment Committee
Drilling for Gas from Shale
Ms. Dorothy Morehead distributed photographs for Board Members to view. The photographs show a rural site where gas was being mined from shale. Ms. Morehead explained the process of extracting natural gas from shale and outlined the contents of the photographs. She said that pristine farmland is being used and that farmers are facing difficult challenges.
Ms. Morehead spoke about how the laws governing the use of this system and this process were weakened during the last administration.
Newtown Creek Update
The Brownfields funds are becoming available. Ms. Morehead spoke about the perimeter of Newtown Creek. There would probably not be enough funding to complete the improvements of this site however funding is available to conduct studies. The surveys would be useful to learn exactly what should be done. The clean-up cost would be a separate issue.
Environmental Health Program
Ms. Morehead spoke about an Environmental Health Program underway. This is a concern for those who live in the area that is affected. There are mixed feeling about recording health problems for fear that property values would decrease. However, residents are eager to have the neighborhood cleaned up.
Ms. Morehead spoke of the slow and expensive process of cleaning up the toxic oil spill in Newtown Creek. The Newtown Creek Alliance and Riverkeeper continue to remain focused on this issue.
This Meeting was adjourned.
The next Community Board 2 Monthly Meeting and Public Hearing has been scheduled for Thursday, June 4th 2009.
