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 came 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.
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.
“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,” said 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.”
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.”