Queens Community Board 12

Queens Community Board 12 is a local government body in the New York City borough of Queens, responsible for advising on land use and zoning, participating in the city budget process, and addressing community concerns. It encompasses the neighborhoods of Jamaica, Hollis, St. Albans, Springfield Gardens, Baisley Pond Park, Rochdale Village, and South Jamaica.

History

The community board system was established in 1975 as part of a decentralization initiative by the New York City Charter. Queens Community Board 12 was one of the original 59 community boards created citywide.

Structure

Each community board in New York City consists of up to 50 volunteer members appointed by the local borough president, half from nominations by City Council members representing the community district. The board elects its own chair and other officers. Queens Community Board 12, like other community boards, has a district manager who oversees the delivery of city services to the district.

Responsibilities

Queens Community Board 12 is responsible for advising on land use and zoning matters, participating in the city budget process, and addressing community concerns. It reviews applications for zoning changes and special permits, and makes recommendations to the City Planning Commission. The board also plays a role in the city's budget process by identifying community needs and advocating for funding.

Neighborhoods

Queens Community Board 12 encompasses the neighborhoods of Jamaica, Hollis, St. Albans, Springfield Gardens, Baisley Pond Park, Rochdale Village, and South Jamaica. These neighborhoods are diverse in terms of their demographics, history, and character.

Jamaica

Jamaica is a middle-class neighborhood known for its significant African-American and Caribbean populations. It is a major commercial and transportation hub in Queens.

Hollis

Hollis is a predominantly residential neighborhood with a significant African-American population. It is known for its single-family houses and its role in the birth of hip-hop music.

St. Albans

St. Albans is a residential community known for its jazz history. Many famous jazz musicians lived in St. Albans in the mid-20th century.

Springfield Gardens

Springfield Gardens is a suburban-style neighborhood with a mix of single-family homes, duplexes, and small apartment buildings.

Baisley Pond Park

Baisley Pond Park is a large public park with a pond, sports fields, and playgrounds.

Rochdale Village

Rochdale Village is a large cooperative housing development built in the 1960s.

South Jamaica

South Jamaica is a residential neighborhood with a significant African-American population. It is known for its public housing developments and its role in the birth of hip-hop music.

See also

• Community boards of Queens
• Government of New York City