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.
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April 29, 2025

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East New York- Firefighters Battle Easter Night Two Alarm Fire.

Firefighters battled a two alarm fire in between two buildings at 426 New Lots Avenue between Vermont Street and New Jersey Avenue on Sunday, April 20th. Just after 10:15 p.m. The fire left a civilian with minor injuries. The fire extended into the cockloft, the area between the ceiling and roof of the both buildings. Over a hundred firefighters deployed three hoselines to  aggressively knock down the main body of fire despite a van blocking a hydrant. Searches throughout both buildings yielded negative results. The Fire was placed under control by 10:45 p.m. FDNY Fire Marshals will investigate the cause and origin of the fire.  
Firefighters used three hoselines to knock down fire in two buildings at 426 New Lots Avenue on April 20.
Just over a hundred firefighters responded to a two alarm fire at 426 New Lots Avenue on Easter Sunday.
An Officer from the 75th Precinct wrote a car a ticket for blocking the hydrant during a two alarm fire at 426 New Lots Avenue.
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April 22, 2025

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Brooklyn Residents Rally to Stop NineDot’s Battery Plants: “Pack Your Batteries and Go!”

Flatbush — A spirited crowd gathered at the corner of Flatbush Avenue and Quentin Road on the evening of April 10 to protest the expansion of NineDot Energy’s lithium-ion battery storage facilities throughout the city. Organized by the grassroots group New Yorkers First, the rally drew residents from across Brooklyn and beyond who are sounding the alarm about what they see as a growing public safety crisis. The demonstration, held next to Frank’s Pizza, was part of a broader borough-wide mobilization against NineDot’s rapidly spreading energy sites. “These batteries are ticking time bombs,” said Ron Canterino, President of New Yorkers First. “They’ve [Operational lithium-battery sites in other states] already caught fire — not once, but multiple times — and they’re putting these things next to homes, schools, and small businesses.” Demolition Already Underway Residents are particularly concerned about a site at 2118 Flatbush Avenue, where fresh permits were issued on April 1, 2025, and demolition has already begun. Construction is slated for completion by winter. “We cannot wait for this to go through the budget process,” Canterino emphasized. “Call Senator Kevin Parker — 718-629-6401 — and demand that he moves Senate Bill S7197 out of committee and onto the floor for a vote. Don’t let it get buried.” Legislative Support from Albany The crowd heard from Donald Cranston, representing Assemblywoman Jaime Williams, who has introduced companion legislation in the Assembly (A6955) to ban lithium-ion battery storage sites within 1,000 feet of homes, schools, commercial properties, and farms. “Assemblywoman Williams has been with us from day one,” said Cranston. “This bill is common sense — it protects families and neighborhoods from a real and present danger.” Both the Assembly and Senate versions of the bill now have co-sponsors, but pressure is mounting to move them forward before further construction ensues. Curtis Sliwa Shows Solidarity Curtis Sliwa, founder of the Guardian Angels and a familiar face at protests citywide, was also acknowledged for his unwavering support. “Curtis has been there for every rally and every march,” said one organizer. “Whether he’s running for office or not, he stands with the people of Brooklyn.” Not Just a Brooklyn Issue Organizers stressed that this isn’t just a local fight. “We’ve been to Staten Island, Queens, and now the Bronx,” said Canterino. “Next, we’re bringing all four boroughs together for a massive citywide protest. Manhattan? They don’t have these facilities — because the money and the developers live there. But they’re dumping them on us.” Calls to Action Rally leaders urged all attendees to keep the pressure on by calling elected officials, sharing information with neighbors, and most importantly, showing up. “If we don’t turn out in numbers, nothing changes,” Canterino declared. “This is about our safety, our property values, our kids. If you live in Marine Park, Mill Basin, Bergen Beach, Sheepshead Bay — this affects you.” The crowd held a moment of silence to honor the victims of a tragic plane crash occurring that same day, underscoring the seriousness of life-and-death risks that have galvanized so many to action. As chants of “Pack your batteries and get out!” echoed across Flatbush Avenue, the message was unmistakable: the fight against NineDot is just getting started.
Get Involved:
  • Call Senator Kevin Parker’s office: 718-629-6401
  • Demand action on Senate Bill S7197 to restrict dangerous battery sites
  • Follow updates from New Yorkers First on social media
  • Join the next rally — date to be announced
 
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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.  
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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.
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November 1, 2024

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Fire Marshals Investigating Attempted Arson at Breukelen Houses.

FDNY Fire Marshals are investigating an attempted arson of an apartment in the Breukelen Houses. Fire Investigators were seen taken photos of broken glass of a first floor apartment at 106-08 Glenwood Road on Tuesday, October 22.. According to FDNY Officials firefighters extinguished a small fire in a bottle and burning substance  just after 8 a.m.  No arrests have been made and an investigation remains ongoing.
Fire Marshals are investigating an attempted arson in the Breukelen Houses.
Fire Marshals are looking into the suspect, cause and origin of an attempted arson at 106-08 Glenwood Road.
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September 24, 2024

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Floyd Bennett Field Lease Renewal Sparks Community Outrage as Government Disregards Its Citizens

The recent renewal of the Floyd Bennett Field (FBF) lease, permitting the site to house over 2,000 migrants for another year, has provoked widespread outrage among community members and local leaders. Despite months of protests, petitions, and rallies, the State and Local administration has extended the lease, a move that many say disregards the voices and concerns of residents from neighborhoods like Marine Park, Canarsie, Mill Basin, Bergen and Gerritsen Beach. Assemblymember Jaime Williams, who has been at the forefront of the opposition, expressed her frustration with the city’s decision. "This ill-advised decision to place men, women, and children in a dangerous flood zone with no resources is no less unconscionable today than it was when originally conceived," Williams stated. She pointed out the overwhelming community objection, noting that over 5,000 people signed a petition against the renewal. "Our community and surrounding neighborhoods came out in force, but our objections were ignored by city and state leaders." At a recent rally to oppose the lease renewal, Assemblymember Michael Novakhov also voiced his frustration with the city’s handling of the crisis. "The renewal of the lease at FBF to house illegal migrants is a slap in the face to our community," Novakhov said. "Despite overwhelming opposition from residents, the city and state continue to pour taxpayer dollars into a failed, short-term solution. We've already spent over a billion dollars with no clear plan for an end to this crisis. Our priority should be addressing root causes, not perpetuating policies that burden our neighborhoods." Former Councilmember Ari Kagan, another attendee at the rally, criticized the misuse of FBF, which was originally designated as a recreational space, where the city has sunk over a billion dollars of taxpayer money. "FBF was never meant to serve as a shelter for illegal migrants, and renewing this lease disregards the voices of local residents, and time to listen to our citizens who care deeply about public safety and fiscal responsibility," Kagan said. Ron “Ronbo” Canterino, Chairman of New Yorkers First and the Coalition for Better Communities, discussed the community’s ongoing efforts to oppose the renewal “ it is a blatant disregard for the community’s united opposition. FBF is not equipped for housing and is not safe for anyone to live in, especially during the winter when it floods. It’s a national park, not a shelter," he said, adding concerns about safety, illegal activity, the destruction of the local environment and threats to the communities. Bren Lee, founder of the STOP FLOYD BENNETT ILLEGAL MIGRANTS Facebook group, echoed the sentiments of the other speakers.  "The decision to renew this lease without considering the voices of those who call this place home is a profound disappointment and a new level of disrespect, reflecting major disregard for the fabric of our community, As the lease renewal moves forward, the community remains committed to fighting what they believe is an unjust and unsafe use of the park's natural resources, and has turned their neighborhoods into migrant havens at the cost of taxpayers.
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March 5, 2024

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SECTOR C GETS LESSONS IN CRIME PREVENTION AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

The first Build the Block meeting for Sector C was held om February 29th, at Church at The Rock, 1288 East 92nd St. Chaplain Faith Williams opened the meeting with a prayer for the safety of the Officers and everyone present.   NCOs Gunvinder Singh and Carlos Delgado were joined by Crime Prevention Officer Peter Yuen in conducting the meeting.   Officer Singh updated everyone on crime statistics for Sector C which, according to his report, was doing quite well overall. He said year to date, there had been one shooting at a deli on Flatlands and 82nd which, thankfully, was not fatal.  Grand theft auto continues to be a major problem. Officer Singh urged everyone to ensure their vehicles, especially Kias or Hyundais, 2012-2022 turn-key models, are always secured. He strongly suggested using tracking devices to be able to locate vehicles in the event they are stolen.   Officer Yuen reiterated the need to exercise due diligence when responding to unsolicited calls from unknown individuals. He said scammers continue to “up their game” and warned everyone to be cautious about responding to calls requesting money for any reason. “Don't rush,” he advised. “Make a phone call and verify that your loved one has been arrested before sending money for their release.”  The Crime Prevention Officer also offered tips on how to stay safe while riding the bus or train late at night. “Remember safety comes first. Stay in groups and minimize the chances of anything bad happening to you.” Yuen also shared that between 10pm and 5am, if requested, bus drivers are permitted to drop passengers off at a stop other than a bus stop, if they deem it to be safe. He also suggested riding in train cars with the motorman or conductor, even if another car might be more convenient for you when you reach your stop.   Officer Yuen also suggested moving wallets from back pockets to the front or even taking similar items out of your handbag and securing them elsewhere. He advised being discreet with jewelry. “Turn rings around so the stone doesn’t show.” He also recommended teaching young children how to dial 911 and that everyone should make a practice of notating the address where they are so that that information could be relayed in case of an emergency.   Elba Melendez, Borough Coordinator at CERT, gave a rundown on how to prepare for an emergency. Some tips provided were to pack “go bags” for each member of the family. Include copies of important documents, names of medications, water and snacks. Also include crayons that could be lit in case there are no candles.                
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