Captain Elliot Colon led the 76th Precinct Community Council meeting at a packed house at 191 Union Street on Tuesday, October 6th. Community Affairs and Crime Prevention officers were on hand as were members from government agencies, the Red Hook Justice Center and The Visitation Church.
Captain’s Recap
The meeting commenced with Captain Colon’s report covering crime statistics and news on recent weapons and drug arrests. Overall year-to-date total crime is down 2% and 28-day data showed a 21% drop from last year. The Captain reported the recent arrest of a high profile burglar who was indicted. The man, only identified as a Staten Island resident who frequents a methadone clinic had a history in the precinct, being previously collared in July. When arrested earlier this summer crime went down, however when he was back on the street crime spiked according to the Captain. The burglar was caught on camera this time and the Captain urged the importance of having a security camera installed, as the evidence can be used to prosecute.
The Captain was proud to announce a bust involving a perpetrator who had 50 decks of heroin, 2 rocks of crack-cocaine as well as cocaine and marijuana. A .40 caliber weapon was also taken off the street with the arrest. There was a foot chase with the arrest occurring within the vicinity of Colombia St & Mill St.
Officer Carl Brady took the floor to announce some tips on how to recover property in case of theft. He mentioned the precinct can record serial #’s on high profile items residents have. Should the items ever be stolen, if pawned and there is a match to the serial #, the precinct will be notified.
Vehicle safety & Community Issues
Community Council Leader, Jerry Armer opened up the floor to resident comments. Robert Berrios from the Visitation Church mentioned a continued issue of cars driving too fast on Van Brunt St. It was mentioned the crossing guard in the area seemed dis-engaged and is often not displaying full attentiveness. Mr. Berrios mentioned an issue in front of St. Paul’s church on Court St. & Congress St. where a male has been loitering in the timeframe of 6-8 PM. Berrios also mentioned issues with unruly kids in Coffey Park destroying property and bikes being stolen.
The conversation shifted to parking issues. There were several community members present to address the rising incidence of illegally parked cars in the neighborhood and potential safety hazard. The area around Success Academy of Cobble Hill was cited by Margie Fuerst, as a problem where parents choke up the block, sometimes even triple parking. She stated on Baltic and Butler streets the problem has gotten out of control to the point where emergency trucks cannot pass. Fuerst proclaimed, “Summons’s need to be issued”. There were many others at the meeting who agreed with her. The Captain said they will start sending cars out more regularly. In a similar situation, resident Martin Haber mentioned issues with illegally double parked cars on Sackett St during Alternate Side Parking. When ASP rules are in effect the narrower blocks in the area become dangerous and unpassable when an entire block is double parked. The Captain said “while double parking is illegal, it is an extended courtesy”. Mr. Haber then questioned the double standard since he got a ticket while double parked. He said of the double parking technicality, “It should be all or nothing”. Mr. Armer tried to diffuse the situation mentioning it is not a local precinct issue and further complaints regarding the matter should be brought to the attention of Councilman Brad Lander.
Officials
Local Representatives took the floor after community input. Councilman Carlos Menchaca was on hand to speak about Red Hook, mentioning the area “Is experiencing a lot of energy right now” and invited community members to take an active role in NYC Participatory Budgeting. Flyers were handed out notifying those who would like to take part to attend a meeting on Oct. 23rd from 6-8 o’clock PM at the Red Hook Initiative on 767 Hicks Street. Local resident Henrietta wanted to know specifics such as how much money is being budgeted for Red Hook and what was done with previous funds. Councilman Menchaca addressed her concern stating $2 Million is available and current projects include the upgrade of HVAC systems for public schools in the area, and the building of a technology room and garden at the library.
The Red Hook Community Justice Center spoke about their Peacemaking Program. Peacemaking is a traditional Native American method of practicing justice focusing on healing rather than punishment. Peacemakers will go through a free training which will include meeting members from the Native American Cayuga Nation. The goal is to help young people resolve conflicts, restore relationships and prevent violence. The center is currently recruiting with training sessions taking place in November. For more information contact Coleta Walker at cwalker1@nycourts.gov or (718) 923-8293.
Allen Bucy, Outreach Coordinator for the office of Public Advocate Letitia James was on hand to provide an update on a program to monitor air quality at nail salons. Public Advocate James’s office issued a report highlighting the hazardous health conditions in salons. The meeting concluded shortly after the very late arrival of the Mayor’s representative, Daniel Abramson, with many in the room remarking, “Isn’t that typical of the Mayor’s office”, referring to his tardiness.
Community Council meetings are held on the first Tuesday of each month at 7:30 PM and community members are invited to attend. Community Officers Paul Grudzinski and Vincent Marrone reminded everyone to call 911 if there is an emergency or crime in progress. For non-emergencies and issues regarding quality of life they may be contacted at (718) 834-3207.
Keith J. Klein
