February 15, 2026
At Fito NYC, Community Board 12-Manhattan (CB12M) invited residents to learn more about its work during the first of a series of recruitment events aimed at educating the public about the Board’s role. The February 12 gathering comes ahead of the Manhattan Borough President’s February 27 deadline to apply for community board appointments.
With the help of We Run Uptown, a local organization focused on athletics, the event brought together more than 30 residents from Washington Heights and Inwood, representing a broad cross-section of the community. Attendees discussed the Board’s recent priorities, committee work, public engagement efforts, and upcoming events and hearings.
“As we enter the next round of appointments, CB12M has several vacancies to fill,” explained Anthony Viola, Chairperson of CB12M. Vacancies open for many reasons, including member resignations or the decision by members not to reapply.
The new appointment cycle arrives as community boards adjust to recently implemented term limits. Amendments to the City Charter now cap service on community boards at 10 years. With significant turnover expected, CB12M is seeking new members who can learn from long-serving members with deep institutional knowledge. Over time, incoming members will have opportunities to take on leadership roles within the Board or its committees.
“Community members, local leaders, and residents gathered for an informal conversation to learn how the Board works and how to get involved in shaping neighborhood priorities,” explained Noemi Diaz, a member of CB12M. “Attendees discussed how Community Board actions can impact housing, public safety, sanitation, and access to local resources, and left with clear next steps for continued civic engagement.”
After the application period closes, the Manhattan Borough President will consult with relevant City Councilmembers, interview prospective candidates, and make appointments in the coming months.
Viola continued, “If interested folks aren’t ready to commit to a full appointment, we’re also encouraging applications for public membership on one of our committees.”
In the meantime, the Board welcomes residents to attend its monthly meetings. The full meeting schedule is available on CB12M’s website.
About Community Board 12-Manhattan
CB12M is a local agency of the New York City government, serving the neighborhoods of Washington Heights and Inwood. CB12M consists of up to 50 volunteer members with connections in the district. Made up of committees carrying out its work, CB12M addresses issues including affordable housing, education, small business needs, and public safety, to name a few. CB12M is one of 59 community boards that advocate on behalf of the people of New York City.
