Houses for Sale - Canarsie Courier

December 27, 2025

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Holiday Joy and Hope for Ukrainian Children Fill Kings Highway Library

The usual quiet here was broken with laughter, music, and the unmistakable magic of the holiday season filling the Kings Highway Library located at 2115 Ocean Avenue, on December 17, as nearly 100 Ukrainian children and their families gathered for a festive Christmas and holiday celebration hosted by the TraNa Relief Association. Organized in partnership with Fun On Us and the Brooklyn Public Library, the free community event was designed especially for children ages three and up, many of whom are part of Ukrainian refugee families displaced by the ongoing war. A separate room downstairs allowed for the festivities to take place. From the moment doors opened, the atmosphere was warm, colorful, and joyful — a deliberate reminder that even in the face of hardship, childhood wonder still matters. Fun On Us, led by Nicole, provided the heart of the holiday entertainment, keeping the children fully engaged throughout the afternoon with interactive games, lively music, dancing, and energetic activities. The lively programming flowed effortlessly into Santa’s visit, ensuring laughter, and excitement as children sang, danced, played, and lined up for photos, creating a dynamic and joyful atmosphere for everyone, as well as memorable photo opportunities. Every child left with holiday sweets and a gift bag, ensuring no one went home empty-handed. Nearly 100 children received gifts, a testament to the scale of the effort and the generosity of supporters who made the afternoon possible. “This was about creating a space where children could simply be children again — to laugh, play, and feel surrounded by care,” organizers shared. “For families who have endured so much uncertainty, moments like this are deeply meaningful,” said founder Natalia Travilina. TraNa Relief Association, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, has become a vital support network for Ukrainian refugees and displaced families across New York and the United States. Through humanitarian aid, community programming, and family-centered services, the organization works to restore dignity, stability, and hope to those rebuilding their lives far from home. Gratitude flowed freely following the event. Travilina expressed heartfelt thanks to community supporter Robert Pearl for his generosity and thoughtfulness. “Thank you so much for your wonderful post and for the amazing gifts you brought for the children,” she said. “They were truly priceless and brought so much joy to our families. Every day, he was asking how many children would be there.” She also extended deep appreciation to the Kings Highway Public Library for opening its doors to the entire community and providing a welcoming space for the celebration. Special recognition was given to Nicole of Fun On Us, whose engaging and interactive programming helped turn the afternoon into an unforgettable experience for the children. The Brooklyn celebration is part of a broader series of holiday events organized by TraNa Relief this season. Similar children’s holiday parties were recently held in New Jersey and on Staten Island, reflecting the organization’s growing regional reach and continued commitment to serving Ukrainian families wherever they are rebuilding their lives. As the afternoon came to a close, families lingered, children clutching gift bags and parents sharing smiles, photos, and quiet words of thanks. In a library transformed by holiday cheer, the message was clear: through community, compassion, and shared effort, moments of happiness and hope can still shine brightly — even in the most difficult of times. For more information about the organization, or interested in making a donation, you can go to their website: http://www.tranarelief.org

June 17, 2025

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59 Bay 29 Street

Fully Detached 1 can be Converted back to 3 family Opportunity! Bay 20th Street between 86th Street & Benson Avenue Lot Size: 40 ft x 96.67 ft • Building Size: 24 ft x 56 ft per floor • Zoning: R5 Delivered: FULLY Vacant Parking: Private driveway fits 5 cars • Fully fenced & gated backyard Welcome to this magnificent fully detached 3-story property in the heart of Bensonhurst, Brooklyn! Originally a 3-family and gut renovated in 1996, it is currently configured as a turnkey pediatric doctor’s office on the 1st floor, offering incredible potential for conversion back to a multi-family residence, day care center, adult home care, or luxury live/work setup. 1st Floor (Commercial Use / Convertible Residential) Well-established pediatric office, 5 observation rooms Doctor’s private office with half-bath, Reception & waiting areas, public restroom, can easily be converted back to a 4–5-bedroom apartment or community facility use. 2nd Floor- Spacious layout includes Large 1-bedroom plus home office Grand formal living room, Full bathroom, Expansive modern eat-in kitchen, Access to oversized front balcony 3rd Floor (Duplex Layout) Internal staircase leads to 2 large bedrooms (one with additional balcony) Full bathroom, Grand master suite with ¾ bath and generous closet space, Basement (Finished Accessory Space) Fully finished Full bathroom, large recreation & extra room, Private entrance with its own thermostat Separate storage room, Updated electrical and plumbing, Central A/C & 4-zone heating, New 75-gallon hot water heater Gas boiler in excellent condition, Minutes to 86th Street shopping, restaurants, D train, buses & more! easy access to everything Zoning allows for flexibility – a rare opportunity to own a one-of-a-kind Bensonhurst property perfect for investment, personal use, or redevelopment. Just move right in and fall in love! Asking $2,650,000.
Brooklyn Real Property
(718) 288-9601
www.brooklynrealproperty.com

May 11, 2025

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Community Wins Legal Battle Against Coyle Street Homeless Shelter Site — Judge Rules in Favor of Residents

{DRAFT NOT READY FOR REVIEW - THIS WILL BE REMOVED, AND WILL SEND EMAIL WHEN READY THX} Adams Street - On May 7, in a dramatic culmination of legal proceedings and public resistance, the proposed development of a homeless shelter at 2134 Coyle Street in Sheepshead Bay has hit a major roadblock. A Brooklyn judge ruled in favor of a group of local residents who had been sued for allegedly blocking access to the site — a case that now stands as a victory for grassroots organizing and civic opposition to what community leaders have called a “bait-and-switch” project. Inside the courtroom at 360 Adams Street, developers associated with 2134 Coyle Housing Development Fund Corporation sought an injunction against local homeowners. Their claim: that residents unlawfully blocked a shared driveway and backyard area to prevent demolition and construction activity tied to the shelter development. But during arguments, defense attorney Benjamin Xue, representing the residents, successfully dismantled the developer’s case. He argued that the defendants never signed any legally binding license agreement with the current developer; the party seeking enforcement, Coyle Street Owner LLC, lacked clear ownership of the property at the time the access agreements were allegedly signed; and the license agreement presented was vague, lacked consideration, and had no definitive term, making it unenforceable under contract law. “They are frightening [residents] with this huge lawsuit… This is a commercial case with no merit. You can’t find someone in breach of contract when there was no contract,” Mr. Xue argued in court. The developers had cited a March 2025 demolition permit and pushed for immediate access under RPAPL § 881, a statute allowing temporary access to adjoining properties for work, but the judge, Hon. Richard Velasquez, ultimately sided with the community’s argument and stated he would render a written decision — which has now come down in favor of the homeowners. After the court proceedings concluded, and before a verdict was rendered, Mr. Xue was asked how he thought the case went. He answered, “Tough case, can go either way. The Judge asked good questions. And we presented our argument strongly.” Meanwhile, outside the courthouse, dozens of residents and activists gathered in protest. Rallying behind slogans like “No Homeless Shelter,” “Only Affordable Housing,” and “Keep Our Kids Safe,” the crowd chanted in opposition to the shelter plan. The demonstration was led by key organizer Lina Chan and included current mayoral candidate and Guardian Angels founder Curtis Sliwa, Ron Canterino president of “New Yorkers First”, and members of the residential community, “We showed the city that when you try to deceive communities, we push back — and we win,” said Chan in a jubilant post-ruling message to supporters. Though the shelter is outside her district, Assemblywoman Jaime Williams, who stood by the residents, applauded the victory, saying: “Congratulations on a fight worth fighting. This proves the community voice matters. If it can happen there, it can happen anywhere.” Also offering thanks was District 17 community members, who marched in solidarity down Avenue U, and State Senator Steve Chan who credited the peaceful demonstration and thanked NYPD’s 61st Precinct for supporting public safety. Originally pitched in 2021 as an affordable housing initiative, the Coyle Street project was approved with strong community backing — under the belief it would provide middle-income rental units. Instead, documents and affidavits presented in court revealed plans for 175 units of transitional housing for homeless families, contradicting the original pitch. “This is not what was presented to us. There was no ULURP review for a shelter,” said one resident in court, referencing New York City's Uniform Land Use Review Procedure. Court transcripts revealed the developer’s own admissions that while they claimed the site was not a traditional shelter, the units were indeed temporary and aimed at homeless families — which, legally, fits the shelter category under restrictive covenants. While the court ruling blocks immediate access and halts construction plans on 2134 Coyle Street, community members acknowledge this is just the beginning. “This is only the first battle,” said Assemblywoman Williams. “Let’s stay prepared for the next one.” A community celebration was held later that day at the Coyle Street site.

April 7, 2025

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Protesters demonstrate against the homeless shelter in front of Councilwoman Mercedes Narcisse's district office.

The battle over a proposed homeless shelter at 2134 Coyle Street is escalating, as community resistance shows no signs of slowing and political alliances cross traditional party lines. Councilmember Mercedes Narcisse finds herself in the eye of the storm, facing growing pressure from residents and intense scrutiny of her own constituents, despite her public opposition to the shelter plan. Last week, dozens of protestors marched on Narcisse’s district office at 5827 Flatlands Avenue, holding signs, chanting slogans, and demanding answers. Demonstrators have been camping out at the Coyle Street site around the clock in an effort to block construction and prevent developers from breaking ground. Many remain unconvinced by Narcisse’s insistence that she is on their side. “The city council member has the authority to overturn this but she’s playing games!” one protestor shouted. “She promised to ‘solve the problem’ in one week—we’re waiting to see how this turns out!” Councilmember Narcisse made a rain-soaked visit to the Coyle street site on Saturday, where she showed solidarity with those opposing the shelter, and expressed frustration with how the city administration handled the process. “I share the anger and frustration expressed by many at the recent protest,” she said. “The way this shelter plan was handled by the city administration was unacceptable.” Narcisse claimed she had been misled by developers who initially presented the project as affordable housing, and that her office was slow-walked by the Department of Social Services (DSS) when trying to get clarity. “From the moment my office was notified, I pushed back,” she added. “I’ve been clear that the community was misled, and I’ve been fighting ever since to reverse this decision and return to the original plan for affordable housing—the one that was approved by Community Board 15 and the City Council.” Despite these assurances, residents remain skeptical. Critics say Narcisse was informed far earlier than she let on, citing a letter circulated by DSS that was allegedly sent to her in July 2023. That letter, they claim, provided advance notice of the shelter, making her later claims of surprise hard to believe. In response, Narcisse insists that she was also a victim of misinformation and continues to push back through official channels. “I want to assure everyone that I remain in direct communication with the mayoral administration and am actively participating in a working group with City officials to seek a resolution that truly reflects the will and best interests of our community,” she said, vowing to keep residents informed. Councilmember Narcisse told protestors on Saturday that “I have a plan,” though she has yet to publicly release specifics. That plan is believed to involve navigating new programs under the city’s Affordable Housing Services initiative, which offers rental guarantees to nonprofit developers and aims to convert shelters into permanent housing solutions. While officials describe the program as innovative, residents argue it bypasses local input and imposes policy on communities under the guise of progress. In an unexpected twist, Narcisse found a vocal ally in Councilmember Inna Vernikov, a Republican representing the neighboring District 48. At a South Brooklyn Republican Club meeting on April 2, Vernikov offered a strong and personal defense of her Democratic colleague. “I know this may surprise you, but I stand with Councilwoman Narcisse on this issue,” she said. “I believe her when she says she was lied to. I’ve been lied to too. I have no reason to doubt her sincerity.” Vernikov explained that although the shelter is not located within her district, it affects many of her constituents, including businesses and a nearby daycare center. “The bigger fight is against the city administration and these agencies who continuously mislead communities,” she said. “We must come together on this.” She emphasized the need for community unity and urged protestors not to lose focus: “You have a right to be angry, and you have a right to demand the truth.” Vernikov has also signed onto a joint letter opposing the shelter and criticized the DSS and Department of Homeless Services for ignoring local voices. The demonstrators, however, remain unconvinced by words alone. “Our community will continue to hold her accountable for her poor decisions,” a protestor stated. “The resolution is simple—STOP the homeless shelter!” Protest organizers are calling on neighbors to stay engaged and informed, and to vote in upcoming elections. “Stay connected with what’s happening in your community—if not, you will be left out of the conversation!” one speaker urged. As tents remain planted and signs remain high at the Coyle Street site, residents continue their round-the-clock resistance. With Narcisse’s self-imposed timeline to present her plan in the coming weeks to “solve the problem” ticking away, the neighborhood is waiting—and watching. For now, the work and the protests continue.

Protestors line Coyle Street by homeless shelter site.

Councilwoman Mercedes Narcisse talks to residents by 2134 Coyle Street shelter site.

Protestors demand answers from Councilwoman Narcisse in front of her office.

Councilwoman Narcisse joins the crowd opposing the homeless shelter bait and switch.

More protestors outside Councilwoman Narcisse’s office..

Councilwoman Narcisse shows her solidarity with residents.

Councilwoman Narcisse at Coyle Street tells everyone, “I have a plan.”

March 15, 2025

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Fire and Fury Over NineDot Energy’s Lithium Battery Storage Plans Boils Over at Explosive Town Hall

NineDot Representatives Sam Brill and Anthony Santamaria have a laugh while irate residents question the safety and wisdom of this BESS site in their residential neighborhood

A firestorm of outrage ignited at Community Board 18’s special town hall meeting on March 6, as Brooklyn residents, civic leaders, and elected officials gathered in opposition to NineDot Energy’s controversial plans to install lithium-ion battery storage facilities in residential neighborhoods. The high-tension event, held at the CB18 headquarters on 1097 Bergen Avenue, was the latest flashpoint in an intensifying battle against the company’s attempts to establish Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) in densely populated areas. Attendees from Queens also joined in solidarity. The meeting followed a tumultuous encounter at the Oasis Diner on February 11, where NineDot’s hastily arranged community outreach effort fell apart under fierce public scrutiny. The February 20th edition of the Canarsie Courier (Vol. 105, No. 8, p.14) captured the anger and confusion surrounding the project, but what transpired at Thursday’s town hall was, by all accounts, even more incendiary. Community Backlash: “We Don’t Want This in Our Neighborhoods” With tensions already at a boiling point, the revelation that NineDot had initially backed out of the meeting—only reversing course after public outcry—fueled suspicions that the company was attempting to sidestep accountability. CB18 Chairwoman Naomi Hopkins minced no words in a scathing letter to NineDot, calling their refusal to engage “insulting” and a clear indication that they had “fundamentally misunderstood or disregarded” the community’s role in such developments. In front of a packed room, Hopkins reaffirmed the board’s position: “While you have made it clear that NineDot has the legal right to develop this project, rights come with responsibilities. When a development causes such widespread distress and concern, the very least you can do is listen.” Sue Ann Partnow, district manager and key organizer of the townhall, was also acknowledged in a letter from Assemblymember Jaime Williams, who thanked both her and Hopkins for their unwavering dedication to the community. The town hall was a bipartisan battlefield, with political party lines erased in favor of a unified front against NineDot’s plans. Indeed sparks were flying, as an unsettled and cantankerous crowd shouted down the NineDot reps. Among the notable attendees was Republican mayoral candidate and longtime Canarsie resident Curtis Sliwa, who spent nearly two hours listening before delivering a fiery rebuke of the project. “Are you out of your freaking minds?” Sliwa bellowed, drawing thunderous applause. “We remember the toxic waste dumps that poisoned generations in this borough. As a Canarsie resident, I stand in solidarity with the community against this.” NineDot Reps Scrutinized Over Safety Claims Representatives Sam Brill, VP of Strategic Development, and Anthony Santamaria, VP of Construction, from NineDot Energy were present to give a presentation, attempting to reassure the crowd that the lithium battery storage facilities were safe. In a comparison that was met with immediate backlash, they likened the BESS units to the lithium batteries found in everyday cell phones. They also claimed the facilities would have built-in redundancy, 24/7 monitoring, and surveillance—though they would remain unmanned. Residents pushed back forcefully, arguing that these assurances were insufficient. There was no outlined safety or evacuation plan in the event of an emergency, nor were there any guarantees of compensation for homeowners who could suffer damages due to potential fires or plummeting real estate values. Fire Safety Concerns: No Clear Answers Adding to the tension, fire chiefs in attendance were unable to provide clarity on how the FDNY would handle a potential lithium battery fire. Residents pointed out that local fire officials seemed to contradict some of NineDot’s safety claims. The stark reality emerged: FDNY’s official policy on lithium battery fires is to “let it burn,” a statement that left the audience visibly alarmed. “A Loophole to Avoid Oversight” Another focal point of community outrage was the apparent effort to circumvent stricter regulatory oversight. Assemblymember Jaime Williams highlighted that NineDot’s proposal strategically keeps each site’s energy capacity just below the 25-megawatt threshold that would trigger heavier scrutiny. “It’s a loophole. Plain and simple,” Williams charged. “If you exceed 25 megawatts, you face real regulation. By staying under, they’re gaming the system and putting our safety at risk.” Williams further announced a key victory: NineDot had withdrawn its proposal for a battery storage site at 965 Remsen Avenue in Canarsie. While she noted this as proof that community voices could influence the process, she warned that continued vigilance was necessary to halt the Flatbush Avenue project. A Project Too Close for Comfort Local resident Claudia Cohen and her husband, who have been featured in multiple news reports, voiced deep concerns that one of the proposed sites along Flatbush Avenue directly abuts their home. Another young mother, cradling her infant, shared that her house is located right next to the site, underscoring the risks posed to families living in immediate proximity. Elected Officials and Community Leaders Stand United Representatives from Senator Roxanne Persaud’s office, as well as newly elected Assemblyman Kalman Yeger’s office, were present to observe and take part in the discussion. Councilwoman Mercedes Narcisse made her stance clear: “We have to stand together. We don’t want this in our community, and we’re going to continue to fight.” Frank Seddio, a longtime Brooklyn political leader, weighed in, stating: “This is about common sense. You don’t put hazardous energy storage in the middle of a neighborhood where people live, where children play, where families go to school and worship.” Also in attendance were Ronny Canterino from New Yorkers First and Brenda Lee from New York Voices for Change, both of whom have been vocal in rallying opposition against NineDot’s plans and advocating for increased community awareness. Staten Island Joins the Fight The resistance against NineDot has extended beyond Brooklyn’s borders, with Staten Island activist and artist Scott LoBaido attending in solidarity. LoBaido, who has been spearheading opposition to a similar NineDot project in Staten Island, vowed to unite both boroughs in the fight. “Brooklyn and Staten Island are coming together on this,” he declared. “We will not allow this to happen in our neighborhoods.” A Movement Gains Momentum The town hall concluded with a renewed commitment from community members and elected officials to block the project. Plans are already underway for continued protests, legislative efforts, and potential legal challenges. “This is far from over,” Hopkins assured the crowd. “We will not stop fighting until our neighborhoods are safe.” With tensions escalating and public resistance growing stronger, NineDot Energy now faces a community unwilling to back down. The battle over Brooklyn’s BESS facilities is just beginning, but one message came through loud and clear: South Brooklyn refuses to be ignored.