Dear Neighbors,

On Monday I had the privilege of representing the BHA at a small group of community leaders invited to share our concerns with U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer at a small socially-distanced outdoor gathering. The wide-ranging discussion covered education, climate change, federal COVID-19 relief, the Census, jobs and infrastructure, small business support and more. With such a litany of challenges facing us, it was nevertheless inspiring and motivating to hear about the unsung contributions by numerous individuals and organizations across our district. Local-level activism and engagement is important even in the best of times—but never more so than during a time like this.

I am guilty of my share of hand-wringing and armchair agonizing, but I also know that doing something is the quickest way to feel better.

I’ve just signed up to be a poll worker; perhaps some of you reading this would consider doing the same. Because of COVID-19, New York is experiencing a critical shortage of poll workers. Historically, 55 percent of all New York’s poll workers are over the age of 60, making them especially vulnerable to the pandemic. This has resulted in a significant need for poll workers who are willing and able to assist with the administration of in-person voting during the November 3rd general election. (You’ll find more information on voting in NYC further on in this newsletter.) Learn more about being a poll worker.

And finally, Brooklyn Heights residents PLEASE fill out your census form. Census Tract 3.01, which is bounded by Upper New York Bay and Pineapple, Hicks and Joralemon streets has a response rate hovering around 50 percent. This is a very poor showing for our community. If you haven’t responded, you can do so without a census identification number at my2020census.gov. Billions of dollars for education, housing, roads & transportation, and more are at stake. The count ends September 30th.

I look forward to seeing folks out and about helping us complete our tree survey (see below) while the weather remains so beautiful. Finally, a special shout out to all the parents and kids starting school this month. It’s a September like no other!

Stay safe, Lara

We’re asking for volunteers to help us survey the condition of our local trees and tree pits – it couldn’t be easier to help out. All you need is an hour or two, your phone, and a tape measure (which we can provide.) Interested? Learn more and sign up to help.

The BHA will use this data to identify blocks with multiple tree beds in need of enlargement. We will work with the owners, city agencies, and contractors to enlarge the beds up to a minimum of 25 square feet -- the size recommended by NYCParks. 

Read more about this project and the history of caring for trees in Brooklyn in Mary Frost's Daily Eagle article.

Volunteer with the survey or contribute to our Tree Fund.

The Election is 47 Days Away

New Yorkers must register to vote by Friday, October 9th. If you are unsure if you're registered, confirm your registration. Once registered, there are three ways to vote this year:

1) VOTE EARLY: Saturday October 24 - Sunday November 1
Learn about your Early Voting Rights in New York and check for updates to the Kings County plan, including the location of early voting sites.

2) VOTE-BY-MAIL: request a ballot by Tuesday October 27
Registered NYC voters may request an absentee ballot until October 27th. (Please be warned that despite this deadline, the Post Office has advised they cannot guarantee timely delivery of ballots applied for less than 15 days before an election.)

 **An absentee ballot must be postmarked by Election Day November 3, 2020 and must reach the Board of Elections no more than 7 days after the election to be counted**

3) VOTE ON ELECTION DAY: Tuesday November 3
Check your polling place address, verify your voter information, and confirm your voter district information, all in one convenient location: voterlookup.elections.ny.gov