Brooklyn’s borough president is an elected official who represents and advocates for the interests of our community within the New York City government.
The specific duties and responsibilities of a borough president can vary depending on the borough and the current political climate, but some of the main functions include:
- Advising the mayor and city council on matters related to their borough: The borough president is responsible for advising the mayor and city council on issues affecting their borough. This can include everything from land use and development projects to social and economic issues.
- Appointing community board members: Community boards are local advisory groups made up of volunteers who represent the interests of their neighborhoods. The borough president appoints half of the members of each community board in their borough.
- Allocating funding for capital projects: The borough president is responsible for allocating a portion of the city’s capital budget to fund projects in their borough. These can include infrastructure improvements, parks and recreation projects, and other initiatives that benefit the local community.
- Hosting events and engaging with the community: Borough presidents are expected to be visible and engaged with their communities. They often host events, participate in community meetings, and work to build relationships with local residents and community groups.
- Advocating for their borough at the city and state level: The borough president is responsible for advocating for their borough’s interests at the city and state level. This can include lobbying for funding, testifying at hearings, and working with other elected officials to advance policy initiatives.
Overall, the borough president serves as a local representative and advocate for Brooklyn, working to ensure that the needs and concerns of their constituents are addressed at the city and state level.