BROOKLYN — Applications for city residents to join one of Brooklyn’s 18 community boards — the city’s most grassroots level of local government — are open until Feb. 14, 2025, at 11 p.m. The boards are local bodies that weigh in on topics such as local land use matters, liquor licenses, transportation projects, local businesses and more.
“When community boards reflect the people they represent and are equipped with a full suite of information, expertise, and resources, they become a true venue for community power,” said Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso. “While Brooklyn is on the way, we still have work to do to address the underrepresentation of certain groups on our boards.”
A map of Brooklyn’s community boards. Photo courtesy of CUNY Baruch and NYC Data
Brooklyn has 18 community districts and the most community boards of all five boroughs. Each community board has up to 50 volunteer members who live, work or have significant interest (such as owning a business) in their community. A councilmember chooses half of the community board members, and the borough president chooses the other half.
“As a member of the community board, I have had the privilege of working with fellow members to address issues and concerns brought forth by local residents,” said Amel Afzal, a member on CB7. “Community boards have a mix of experienced veterans as well as new members, ensuring continuity while also allowing fresh perspectives to be brought to the table.”
Graphic courtesy of the Office of the Brooklyn Borough President
After submitting an application, the applicant will be interviewed virtually about their experience and intentions for joining the board. Applicants will then be notified if they have been selected as a board member, and chosen members will be sworn in. Afzal explained the process of joining a community board in a guest submission to the Brooklyn Eagle in 2023.
“I joined a couple of board meetings as a member of the public, and as I began speaking with current community board members, I learned about the application process to become a candidate for membership,” said Afzal. “After filling out an application, a series of interviews and meetings took place to evaluate my qualifications, references and knowledge of the neighborhood. Finally, I was sworn in at Brooklyn Borough Hall and began to serve my neighborhood in a more official capacity.”
Graphic courtesy of the Office of the Brooklyn Borough President
Community board members meet each month from September through June in their district. The expected contribution time is six to eight hours per month, and all meetings are in-person. At these meetings, the community boards work with city agencies, elected officials and local leaders to advocate for their neighborhoods and communities.
“By serving on a community board, you have an opportunity to directly impact policy decisions and advocate for the needs of your neighborhood,” said Afzal. “Furthermore, being a community board member provides you with the opportunity to work closely with other leaders and organizations in your neighborhood, build relationships and connect with local constituents.”
Sworn in for community board service. Photo by Jonah Candelario
Reynoso said on Wednesday, Dec. 11, that his vision for Brooklyn requires that all community boards are fully funded, resourced and as diverse as the people of the borough.
“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,” said Reynoso.
Sworn in for community board service. Photo by Jonah Candelario
According to the Office of the Borough President, Reynoso has redirected Borough Hall resources toward advancing the independence and long-term sustainability of community boards through operational training and support, as well as advocating to relevant City agencies to provide critical resources.
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