Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso has opened applications for aspirant community leaders to join Brooklyn’s 18 community boards.
New Yorkers who wish to apply need to be 16 years and older and can apply at Brooklyn Borough President’s website. Reynoso encouraged underrepresented groups to apply community leadership, according to a press release.
“While Brooklyn is on the way, we still have work to do to address the underrepresentation of certain groups on our boards," Reynoso said. "I hope we see more applications from renters, mass transit users, young people, skilled trade workers and public housing residents – but no matter your background or story, as long as you have love for this borough and all who call it home, we want to hear from you."
Community boards are the most grassroots level of local government and often the first point of contact for residents. They address issues including land use, transportation projects and liquor licenses. Board responsibilities include reviewing neighborhood housing developments, public transit improvements and city services like sanitation.
Brooklyn boasts the largest number of community districts among the five boroughs and offers opportunities for up to 50 volunteers per board to work with city agencies, elected officials, and local leaders to address community needs.
Community boards meet monthly from September through June at in-district locations. Members are required to attend these meetings in person, join a committee, and participate in committee meetings. This requires an estimated time commitment of six to eight hours per month.
The application process includes completing a two-part process, starting with detailing their background and interest in serving on a board. A brief virtual interview with the Borough President’s team will follow, and selected members will be notified once decisions are finalized.
For more information on community boards and to identify your district, visit NYC Community Profiles. Applications are due by Feb. 14, 2025.
