Unhappy with the mismatching colors of walls and beams facing their properties, residents of 49th Avenue reported this to Queens West by telephone and in person.
A project representative then conducted an informal survey of block residents. The majority wanted the beams painted to match the walls, but Queens West wanted to formally solicit their opinions in person. Unaware of the distinction between the two surveys, no residents attended the June 13 meeting, prompting the project respresentative to comment to Community Board Chairman Joseph Conley: "See how much they (the residents) care?" A Coalition representative had to remind the group that, prior to this meeting, most 49th Avenue residents had already been polled on their doorsteps.
Initially, Queens West had sought to keep this meeting "private," insisting that the Coalition had no right to be represented, and claiming that the presence of Joseph Conley would be sufficient to represent the community. As a public entity, Queens West has an abiding duty to include the public in its proceedings, but it was only after much pressure that a Coalition observer was able to attend.
In their brochure, Queens West claims to "continue its open relationship with...all community groups and individuals wishing to participate in the ongoing planning and review process," but thus far they have only blocked the community's attempts to participate. This community wants to have input regarding the major issues that concern them, such as building height, project density, and the amount and location of open space. Queens West should not consider paint color selection for part of a wall to be the community's active participation in the planning and review process.
One day, Queens West may use this event, as an attempt to discredit community participation and consultation, therefore trivializing our right to be involved in our fate. It's no wonder that Queens West suffers from such a poor public image.
The Coalition's presence at these public meetings is essential!
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