CB8 is just advisory

To the editor:

(re: “Is CB8 still effective?” April 26)

In response to Avrum Hyman’s April 26 letter, his ire is misdirected. Community boards are advisory, and are not empowered to compel action by a city agency.

It’s been almost three decades since community planning boards could wield any power. In 1989, the Supreme Court determined that the Board of Estimate violated the “one person, one vote” doctrine. The ensuing charter commission significantly reduced the power of the borough presidents, increasing the power of the mayor and the city council.

Community planning boards, which once had the power to compel action, became community boards, which are advisory.

While community board members who serve without compensation work tirelessly to give voice to community concerns, it is our council member who has influence over the budget, a paid staff, and the power to get the transportation department to act.

Deirdre M. Burke