Thursday, January 21, 2021

Apologies for emailing so late but today has been crazy, and I’ve got a newsletter streak to maintain, and like every other day, I hope this finds you well.

Apologies for emailing so late but today has been crazy, and I’ve got a newsletter streak to maintain, and like every other day, I hope this finds you well.

One year ago today, the CDC announced the first case of COVID-19 in the United States. Sadly it was far from the last as was suggested then, and new records are broken every day. Hopefully, with a new presidential administration focusing on safety measures, vaccinations, and financial help, we can return to a new normal sometime soon. 

Speaking of “new’” normal, we’ve written to the Department of City Planning regarding virtual ULURP for Gowanus. The letter, with the support of 37 of our 44 board members, including NYCHA tenant leaders, states that after years of in-person meetings, multiple precertification meetings, notices via email, and discussion at board meetings, the process should move forward virtually. 

This letter should not be read as an endorsement of the proposal that’s yet to be released. It is a request for an opportunity to evaluate the DEIS and plan. Our members hold several varying perspectives on the rezoning and the issues—from environmental justice to housing affordability and manufacturing jobs—that the rezoning encompasses. The way for the community’s voice to be heard is to let the community process move forward—not to stifle our community’s voices just as this vital dialogue is set to begin formally.

Anyway, I’m sure the above paragraphs will produce some great discussions, but I’d still recommend reading below my signature. Either way, stay safe and enjoy the remaining hours of Thursday. 

This is the web archive of a newsletter originally sent by email to Brooklyn Community Board 6 subscribers on Thursday, January 21, 2021. The email edition may contain additional event listings and links.