Community Events and Sanitation Issues Discussed at Joint Southern Brooklyn Civic Meeting
Spring has arrived, and with it came another monthly meeting for two of Southern Brooklyn’s civic groups.
On Tuesday, April 15, neighborhood residents gathered at the Carmine Carro Community Center, located at 3000 Fillmore Avenue. MPCA and MMHC joined forces to tackle neighborly concerns and let residents know about upcoming events.
Hot Topics in the Neighborhood
Two issues continue to draw attention — the planned homeless shelter on Coyle Street and the proposed lithium-ion battery storage facilities on Flatbush Avenue. These were still on people’s minds, but other matters were also discussed, including composting rules and community gatherings.
Shredding and Compost Giveaway
MMHC Vice President Elizabeth Morrissey welcomed Donald Cranston, a liaison for Assemblywoman Jaime Williams. Cranston announced a Shredding and Compost Giveaway event.
It will take place on Tuesday, May 27, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Williams’ office, 5318 Avenue N. Residents can safely shred documents and pick up compost for their gardens.
Update On Battery Storage Legislation
Cranston also gave an update on the battery storage issue. Senator Joseph Addabbo, Jr. has introduced legislation (S.7197) to increase transparency and community involvement before these facilities are built.
If passed, the bill would change the NYC Fire Code to require a minimum setback of 250 feet from homes. It would also require a public hearing before construction can begin.
Composting Rules Explained
The conversation then shifted to composting. Many residents had questions about how to properly separate compostable waste from regular trash.
Morrissey reminded everyone that this separation is now required by law. As of April 1, property owners could receive a summons if compostable waste is not separated — although, since the meeting, Mayor Eric Adams has announced fines will not begin until 2026.
She explained what can be composted:
Leaf and yard wastes
Food wastes, such as meat and bones, shells, and cooked food
Among items that must not go in the compost bins are:
Cases, pet waste, diapers, and hygiene products
Glass, metal, plastic, cartons, and cardboard can be recycled.
Morrissey also requested that residents treat sanitation workers with respect, and they should not make recordings of sanitation workers as they perform their duties.
Young Adults Making a Difference
Next, Sam Daniele spoke about the Marine Park Young Adults Association (MPYAA).
Daniele founded the group in June 2024 to give residents aged 18–35 more chances to connect, have fun, and serve the community.
“We saw there weren’t many social or recreational opportunities for young adults in our area,” he said. “We’re changing that one event at a time.”
There are game nights, trivia nights, and movie nights. You can witness dances, and even a murder mystery night. The gatherings allow the young adults to grow and make new friends.
MPYAA also takes part in charity work. They also had a winter coat drive in February at Marine Park Coffee to support the Community Heartbeat Foundation. We also collected more than 100 coats, scarves, gloves, and boots for local victims of domestic violence.
Another donation drive is set for Saturday, May 3, at Marine Park Coffee.
Concert For A Cause
The MPYAA will also host a concert on Friday, April 25, at 7:30 p.m. at The Gather Inn Again, 2718 Gerritsen Avenue.
Two local bands, Screwbawl and Irish Exit, will perform. Proceeds and donations will go toward helping victims of domestic violence.
Marine Park Alliance Events
Scott Middleton, Executive Director of the Marine Park Alliance, invited residents to a dedication for a willow tree near the Gerritsen Ballfields.
The event will be successfully held on Friday, April 25, at 11 a.m. The tree will be listed among the “Great Trees of New York City.”
Middleton also mentioned upcoming activities, including
Intro to Birding on Sunday, May 4, at 9 a.m. at the Salt Marsh Nature Center
Arts & Crafts Showcase on Saturday, May 10, at 11 a.m. by the Carro Center
Garden of Giving Gala on Thursday, May 22, honoring Assemblywoman Jaime Williams and Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce President Randy Peers
Salt Marsh Alliance Celebration
David Schulman, Treasurer of Salt Marsh Alliance (SMA) invited all to the 25th Anniversary and Earth Day event, the Salt Marsh Alliance.
The Brooklyn Dance Ensemble is doing this show and will be performed at 2 p.m. on Sunday, April 27, at 3302 Avenue U.
Zoning Changes and Housing Concerns
Morrissey encouraged residents to attend the upcoming Community Board 15 meeting on Tuesday, April 29, at Kingsborough Community College.
At the meeting, the City of Yes for Housing Opportunity will be presented. The Department of City Planning designed the zoning text amendment to “construct a little bit more housing in all neighborhoods.”
Morrissey made the point that showing up and speaking out was necessary, particularly on matters that might impact the character of the neighborhood and housing balance.
Homeless Shelter Update
The planned homeless shelter on Coyle Street was also discussed. Morrissey explained that while the developers have the right to build it, community opposition will continue.
“This place is where people live—this place is their livelihood,” she insisted. “We are still fighting, yet we will do so with respect and in full compliance with the law.”
Call To Stay Involved
Morrissey urged everyone to attend meetings and stay engaged. “Please come to your meetings,” she said. “This is how we keep our community strong.”
The next joint civic meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 20, at 7 p.m., at the Carmine Carro Community Center.