What is a Community Board?
There are 59 Community Boards throughout New York City (12 in Manhattan), each representing a unique geographic area. Each consists of up to 50 non-salaried volunteer members who are considered officials of the City of New York. They are people who either live, work or have a significant interest in the particular district the Community Board covers. Board Members are appointed by the Borough President, with half nominated by the City Council members who represent the district. Community Board 10 covers the geographic area of Central Harlem.
What does the Community Board do?
The board serves as the City of New York’s most local level of government and often works with other governmental agencies with plans or mandates that affect the residents of Central Harlem. The Board serves as the “official” voice of the community. Residents and business owners can raise concerns, make complaints and discuss possible solutions in a non-partisan environment. It is the people who live and work in the district who generally know what’s best for their neighborhood because they experience firsthand the day-to-day life of the community. The Community Board serves as an advisory panel to all city officials and organizations, offering opinions in the form of Resolutions and incorporating the feedback received from community members.
What area does Community Board 10 cover?
Community Board 10 covers the neighborhood of Harlem and Polo Grounds in the borough of Manhattan. Three of the District’s four major boundaries are natural features: Harlem River to the north, Central Park to the south and the Fordham Cliffs to the west. The District’s eastern border, Fifth Avenue, is its only boundary that is not a natural feature.
What are some of the issues that Community Board 10 pays attention to?
Community Board 10 has eight individual committees that focus on particular areas of concern. Each Committee meets monthly to discuss in-depth issues affecting the community. Topics range from housing development/construction, health issues, education issues, police and sanitation matters, as well as issues concerning the delivery of municipal services. For a full list of the meetings, go to the Calendar and Meeting Archives section of this site.
When and where does the Community Board meet?
The General (Full) Board meets the first Wednesday of every month at 6:00 PM on Zoom. Individual Committees meet at various times throughout the month prior to the General Board and are also held on Zoom. Check the Calendar each month for the most current information.
Can I speak at a Community Board meeting?
Yes. The Community Board represents the community, and members of the public are invited to make announcements. Community members can attend Full Board meetings as well as Committee meetings. To speak at a Full Board Meeting, you may forward your name and topic to Community Assistant Jasmin Heatley at [email protected]. Upon approval you will be called in the order in which you signed up and given two minutes to speak during the Public Session. The Board reserves the right to allow announcements only, as complaints about service can be handled during normal office hours.
How do I register a complaint?
To make a complaint, please call the District Office at 347-554-0161. Any complaint relating to municipal services can be made to the District Office, including those regarding noise, street cleanliness, potholes or anything relating to the safety and quality of life of the District. Take an active role in the life of your community and make the call. In order to serve you best, we strongly suggest you call 311 first and get a 311 complaint number so that we can follow up on your complaint.
How can I become involved with my community?
Becoming an official Board member is not the only way to participate in your community. Attending the open meetings, understanding the underlying issues and advocating for your particular solution and volunteering will help the Board be more effective. Remember, Board members are not city employees, elected officials or agency providers but residents and neighbors like yourself that advocate for a better community.