Constructive Dialogue at Community Stakeholders Meeting in Sunset Park

Yesterday, community and event organizers joined together for a Community Stakeholders Meeting in Sunset Park. Representatives from my office, Senator Velmanette Montgomery’s office, Assistant Speak Felix W. Ortiz’s office, and Council Member Carlos Menchaca’s office, the 72^nd Precinct, and Community Board 7 gathered with community advocates, neighbors, and the organizers of the Time Warp Festival planned for Sunset Park. Community members raised concerns regarding parking, crime, transportation, drug use, garbage, health, and even coat check procedures for the upcoming two-day event to be held at the 39th Street Pier in Sunset Park.

I recognize the festival organizers, TCE Presents, for their professionalism and willingness to engage neighbors over our shared concerns. I know that, as a community, we will remain vigilant to ensure that those who profit from Brooklyn also give back to the our community. Good events must be good neighbors.

According to the 72^nd Precinct, the festival was successfully held with only very minor problems in the past. The biggest snag being lines at coat check resulting in frustrated patrons. As a result, the music played longer than expected to maintain a positive environment. This year patrons will use lockers dispersed throughout the venue, preventing long lines and patrons will receive email notifications to confirm their locker location.

Community Board 7 received notice about last year’s festival, acknowledging but not approving the plan—they had not seen the organizers in action. This year, Community Board 7 has approved the plan.

I want every event held in our community to be a success, that requires sustained community engagement, proactively allaying genuine community concerns, and working in partnership to make sure that event organizers are good neighbors. We want safe, successful, and respectful events in our community and I will work in partnership with all stakeholders to make sure events proceed under that rubric.