Union-Sackett

Latest Letter to the Clarett Group

2008-06-17T22:17:00.000-04:00

June 17, 2008

Mr. Dan Hollander

Vice President

The Clarett Group

79 Madison Avenue 17th Floor

New York, New York 10016

Dear Mr. Hollander;

We are writing to you today on behalf of the South Brooklyn Neighborhood Alliance (SoBNA) and Union-Sackett Block Association, a member of the Alliance.Part of our mission is to work with developers to help incorporate community input into new development projects. Since attending the public presentation of 340 Court Street, now known as "The Collection", we have been fervently hoping that the Clarett Group would agree to meeting with a small group of community leaders including representatives from the Union Sackett Block Association to discuss the design.

Baltic & Warren Neighbors, a group within SoBNA, has had a very successful ongoing working relationship with L&M Development Partners in regards to the Columbia-Hicks Project, a new residential development planned in the Columbia Waterfront Neighborhood. Ron Moelis, a principal in L&M Development Partners, has said on several occasions that the Columbia-Hicks project benefited from community involvement and in turn was a better development project as a whole.

We understand the Columbia- Hicks Project had to go through the ULURP process because of the zoning changes involved and that 340 Court Street is an "as of right" project. However, wouldn't it be beneficial for all if the community welcomed this new building wholeheartedly into Carroll Gardens?

We urge you to reconsider, we believe by holding this meeting you have nothing to lose and everything to gain. We would be very pleased to meet with you in a small group at your earliest convenience and prior to the meeting we would be happy to provide you with an agenda.

We look forward to hearing from you,

Sincerely,

Elizabeth Lind

Spokesperson

South Brooklyn Neighborhood Alliance/SoBNA

· Baltic & Warren Neighbors

· Carroll Gardens Neighborhood Association, Inc.

· Cobble Hill Association

· Columbia Waterfront Neighborhood Association

· Committee for the Historic Integrity of Cobble Hill

· C.O.R.D.

· Hoyt Street Alliance

· South Brooklyn Local Development Corporation

· Union Sackett Block Association

May Event: David vs. Goliath: Neighborhood Planning in the Face of Large-Scale Development

2008-05-08T15:11:00.005-04:00

The Municipal Art Society of New York, as part of its Campaign for Community Based Planning, will present a series of panel discussions to promote community-based planning in New York City.The series, titled “Creating the City We All Want: A Roadmap,” will be conducted in conjunction with the release of the Fifth Edition of Planning for All New Yorkers: the Atlas of Community-Based Plans, a resource that compiles all community-based plans undertaken in New York City since 1989. This series will explore the potential of neighborhood-led plans to shape equitable development and growth in the city, from the perspective of elected officials, community advocates, and planners.

Many observers opine that community-driven plans—official and approved through a city process or unofficial but widely recognized—are no real hedge against unwanted development. But in the cases of West Harlem, Midtown East, and Atlantic Yards, would developers have had carte blanche without community plans? How do community planners believe alternative plans can be more effective? How can alternative plans guarantee that future development will fit consensus-based neighborhood visions? We’ll look at some recent cases—West Harlem, Midtown East, and Prospect Heights/Fort Greene—where developer-driven plans threaten to undermine community vision, and examine the place of community-based planning in these struggles.

Panelists:

Alberto Vourvoulias-Bush, Executive Director, El Diario/La Prensa (moderator)
Anthony Borelli, Director of Land Use, Planning and Development, Office of the Manhattan Borough President
Marshall Brown, Architect, UNITY Plan for Atlantic Yards
Candace Carponter, Council of Brooklyn Neighborhoods
Jordi Reyes-Montblanc, Chairperson, Manhattan Community Board 6

When:
May 14, 2008 6:00 pm

Where:
Municipal Art Society
457 Madison Ave. (at 51st Street)
Manhattan

RSVP
E-mail rsvp@mas.org or call 212-935-2075

More Info
Municipal Art Society

USBA Monthly Meeting Saturday, May 10th 11:30 AM

2008-05-08T14:54:00.005-04:00

Monthly Meeting:

This Saturday, May 10th 11:30 AM
Meeting Room of the Carroll Gardens Branch of the Public Library
Corner of Union and Clinton Sts.

Agenda items:

1. Re-Cap wide streets amendment hearing from May 7th

2. Carroll Gardens downzoning update

3. Report on a meeting at Councilman De Blasio's office attended by Core Members of the USBA, during which development issues and our continued neighborhood involvement was discussed.

4. Discussion about the USBA's request for a limited extension of the Cobble Hill landmark district into a small section of Carroll Gardens.

This should be a short meeting unless we should hear from Clarett before hand. The biggest item will be our introduction of the issue of landmarking in Carroll Gardens.

Thank you.

****Note to any of our elected officials or aides: please do not feel any obligation to be at his meeting; we really do hope to make it short and we know that you have had a lot this week. You are very appreciated.

Brooklyn Historical Society Gowanus Exhibit

2008-05-07T13:02:00.001-04:00

Carroll Gardens Neighborhood Assocation Meeting Monday, May 12th

2008-05-07T12:10:00.004-04:00

CGNA General Meeting
Monday, May 12, 2008
7:30 PM
St Mary Star of the Sea Senior Residence
41 First St (Hoyt & Bond)

AGENDA:

Report on Post Office Community Meeting: Frank Verderame

Update on Regional DEP meeting:
Deanna Bitetti, representing the office of US Congressional Rep Yvette Clarke
Dan Wiley,representing the office of Congresswoman Nydia Velazquez

Update on May Sacred Sites Guided Walking Tour: John Heyer

Report from the 76th Precinct

Updates from local action groups

Reports from local elected officials

CGNA Committee Reports
Glenn Kelly and John Hatheway, Land Use
Gary Reilly, Transportation

EVERYONE WELCOME!

Carroll Gardens Zoning Text Amendment Hearing Tomorrow, Wednesday, May 7

2008-05-06T16:24:00.011-04:00

Tomorrow is the public hearing for the Carroll Gardens Zoning Text amendment. The meeting is at 5:30 PM and will be located in the Community Room in Brooklyn Borough Hall at 209 Joralemon St, Brooklyn, NY.

As Gowanus Lounge reports, there are a number of fliers circulating, which manipulate the reality of the amendment and provide misleading information to a number of homeowners. Please spread the truth about the amendment and invite all friends and neighbors to Wednesday's meeting.

Here is a useful FAQ provided by CORD.

And from the Department of City Planning website:

In response to concerns about out-of-scale development from Community Board 6, local civic groups and elected officials, the Department of City Planning is proposing zoning text amendments to define certain streets in Carroll Gardens as narrow streets for zoning purposes. The text amendment would limit the size and configuration of new buildings and enlargements to more closely match the area's prevailing built character.

Certain streets in Carroll Gardens are mapped on the City Map with widths of 100 to 130 feet. On these streets in Carroll Gardens, the mapped street therefore includes the characteristic deep front yards of homes as well as the sidewalks and roadbeds. The Zoning Resolution has more liberal floor area and height and setback rules for streets that are mapped at widths of 75 feet or more ("wide streets").

The zoning text amendments would apply to the following streets:

•First Place, Second Place, Third Place and Fourth Place between Henry Street and Smith Street; and
•Second Street, Carroll Street and President Street between Smith Street and Hoyt Street

Although these streets have mapped widths that qualify them as wide streets, they look and function as narrow streets. The total width of sidewalks and roadways on these streets is approximately 50 feet.

The text amendment would limit the permitted heights and densities so that future developments would more closely match the existing low-scale context.

The proposal would amend sections of the Zoning Resolution that regulate height and setback, density and FAR. For those sections of the Zoning Resolution, 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th Places, and 2nd Street, Carroll Street and President Street between Smith Street and Hoyt Street would be considered 'narrow streets'. The mapped width of the streets on the City Map would be unchanged.

For buildings developed pursuant to Quality Housing, the proposed amendments would limit new development to and FAR of 2.2 and a maximum building height of 55 feet.

For buildings developed pursuant to R6 height factor regulations, the text change would increase the depth of the initial setback distance and produce a more shallow sky exposure plane ratio.

Carroll Gardens Zoning Text Amendment Hearing Wednesday May 7th

2008-04-30T16:48:00.002-04:00

OFFICE OF THE BROOKLYN BOROUGH PRESIDENT

Public Hearing

Notice is hereby given that the Brooklyn Borough President will hold a public hearing on the following matter in the Community Room, Brooklyn Borough Hall, 209 Joralemon Street, Brooklyn, New York 11201, commencing at 5:30 P.M. on May 7, 2008.

Calendar Item
Carroll Gardens Zoning
Text Amendment
Community District 6
080345 ZRK

The Department of City Planning has submitted an application for amendments to the Zoning Resolution. The proposed text amendments would apply the narrow street zoning provisions for height, setback and floor area ratio to streets which are mapped as wide on the City map but share a similar character to other narrow streets in the area. These streets are 1st Place, 2nd Place, 3rd Place, and 4th Place; and Second Street, Carroll Street and President Street between Smith Street and Hoyt Street in Brooklyn Community District 6.

John L. Heyer II
Special Assistant to
Brooklyn Borough President
Marty Markowitz

Tomorrow: Brooklyn Matters Screening at Cobble Hill Cinema

2008-04-30T14:27:00.004-04:00

Thursday, May 1, 7:30pm. Screening of Isabel Hill's Atlantic Yards documentary "Brooklyn Matters". Cobble Hill Cinema. 265 Court Street. Brooklyn Matters Big Screen Cinema Premiere

First Come, First Serve.

FILM SCREENING & DISCUSSION

Brooklyn Matters- A documentary by Producer/Director Isabel Hill.

No single event will have a more drastic and more long-lasting impact on Brooklyn than the proposed development of Atlantic Yards by Forest City Ratner. This uncommon proposal, however, is mostly misunderstood. Brooklyn Matters is an insightful documentary which reveals the fuller truth about the Atlantic Yards proposal and highlights how a few powerful men are circumventing community participation and skirting legal protections to try to get the deal done.

Atlantic Yards Rally: Saturday, May 3rd

2008-04-30T14:07:00.006-04:00

The Council of Brooklyn Neighborhoods, Brooklyn Speaks, and Develop Don't Destroy Brooklyn will join with community leaders and elected officials in calling for a freeze on all Atlantic Yards activities. The three sponsoring organizations represent thousands of New Yorkers that have had differing perspectives on issues raised by the Atlantic Yards proposal, but all agree that the current state of affairs is intolerable. The following elected officials have confirmed attendance: NYS Senator Velmanette Montgomery, NYS Assemblywoman Joan Millman, NYS Assemblyman Hakeem Jeffries, NYC Councilwoman Letitia James, NYC Councilman Bill Deblasio, NYC Councilman David Yassky, NYC Councilman Tony Avella.

Please visit Develop Don't Destroy Brooklyn for more information and upcoming events.

SoBNA Letter to CB6 Land Use Committee Chair

2008-04-23T14:28:00.001-04:00

This is the letter to be presented on behalf of SoBNA (South Brooklyn Neighborhood Alliance) to the Land Use committee chair on Thursday night at the CB 6 meeting at 250 Baltic at 6:00pm.

April 21, 2008

Mr. Richard Bashner, Chair
Community Board Six
250 Baltic Street
Brooklyn, NY 11201

Dear Mr. Bashner:

Please allow us to introduce ourselves; we are the South Brooklyn Neighborhood Alliance, a new coalition dedicated to bringing community planning to our neighborhoods. Our goal is to build a model where residents, small businesses, elected officials, city government and developers work in common to plan how our neighborhoods prepare for the future. We are local residents and members of civic groups in the CB6 catchment area from the Columbia Waterfront to the Gowanus Canal.

A zoning text amendment has been introduced by the City Council to City Planning for Carroll Gardens. It is designed to protect the blocks of First, Second, Third and Fourth Place from Henry to Smith Streets, and extending to Second, Carroll and President Streets between Smith and Hoyt Streets. The text amendment would re-classify those blocks as "narrow" streets as laid out in the original plans of 1846. We believe it is imperative that the improper wide-street designation be changed to protect the openness of the signature front gardens for which Carroll Gardens is named.

We support this zoning text amendment as a proactive measure, which will allow for harmonious new development while preserving and enhancing the brownstone community that is Carroll Gardens. We urge both our advisory and elected representatives -our Community Board members and the Brooklyn Borough President to join with the Department of City Planning and the City Council to approve and implement this text amendment with all expedience.

Sincerely,

Elizabeth Lind
Spokesperson
South Brooklyn Neighborhood Alliance

Community Board 6 Land Use Committee Meeting Tomorrow

2008-04-23T14:22:00.001-04:00

This Thursday, April 24, beginning at 6pm, at 250 Baltic Street, will be the land use committee meeting of CB6.On the agenda for that evening, is the Carroll Gardens "wide street" issue. Please come if you can and speak out in favor.

TO: MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL BOARD COMMITTE, MEMBERS OF THE LANDMARKS/LAND USE COMMITTE, ALL INTERESTED PARTIES

SUBJECT: LANDMARKS/LAND USE

DATE: THURSDAY, APRIL 24, 2008

TIME: 6:00 PM

PLACE:
BROOKLYN COMMUNITY BOARD 6
250 BALTIC STREET
(COURT/CLINTON STREETS)
AUDITORIUM

A G E N D A

PUBLIC HEARING on 115 King Street/78 Sullivan Street (BSA Cal. No. 16-92-BZ).

Discussion and formulation of a recommendation on a variance application submitted to the Board of Standards and Appeals (BSA Cal. No. 16-92-BZ) to permit the reinstatement of variances originally granted, an extension of the term of years pursuant to Zoning Resolution section 11-411, and the legalization of a change in use to warehouse, carpentry shop and furniture warehouse and business office with accessory parking in accordance with Zoning Resolution sections 11-413, 52-33 and 52.34, as well as a 278 square foot mezzanine for office use pursuant to Zoning Resolution section 11-412, for the property at 115 King Street aka 78 Sullivan Street (Block 556, Lot 15) between Van Brunt/Richards Streets.

Presentation and review of a Certificate of Appropriateness application submitted to the Landmarks Preservation Commission for new front entrance door, rooftop alterations, front yard paving and other façade alterations at 523 3rd Street, Park Slope Historic District.

Presentation and review of a Certificate of Appropriateness application submitted to the Landmarks Preservation Commission for an alteration to the entrance steps and installation of handrails at 226-236 Kane Street, Kane Street Synagogue, Cobble Hill Historic District.

Presentation and review of a revised unenclosed sidewalk cafe permit application submitted to the Department of Consumer Affairs on behalf of The Cherry Tree Corp. at 65 4th Avenue (between Bergen and St. Marks Places), to permit 10 tables and 24 seats.

Presentation and review of proposed Zoning Resolution Text Amendment (#N080345ZRK), known as the Carroll Gardens Places Text Amendment, submitted by the Department of City Planning that would define 1st Place, 2nd Place, 3rd Place and 4th Place between Henry Street and Smith Street; and 2nd Street, Carroll Street and President Street between Smith Street and Hoyt Street, in the Carroll Gardens neighborhood of Brooklyn Community Board 6 as 'Narrow Streets' for zoning calculation purposes.

Some Interesting May Events

2008-04-15T16:12:00.012-04:00

May 1: Brooklyn Matters film screening at Cobble Hill Cinema

7:30 PM

FILM SCREENING & DISCUSSION

Brooklyn Matters- A documentary by Producer/Director Isabel Hill.

No single event will have a more drastic and more long-lasting impact on Brooklyn than the proposed development of Atlantic Yards by Forest City Ratner. This uncommon proposal, however, is mostly misunderstood. Brooklyn Matters is an insightful documentary which reveals the fuller truth about the Atlantic Yards proposal and highlights how a few powerful men are circumventing community participation and skirting legal protections to try to get the deal done.

May 10: Brooklyn Designs 2008 Rogers Marvels and Clarett Group Presentation

5pm – 6pm

design + development

Panel explores the new alliance between design and development and how it may help to shape Brooklyn in the coming years. Rob Rogers, principal, Rogers Marvel Architects; Veronica Hackett, managing partner, the Clarett Group; Jared Della Valle, principal, Della Valle Bernheimer; Jonathan Butler, founder of Brownstoner.com; moderated by Michael Cannell, online content director, Dwell.

$15; $10 for students; $12 in advance online here.

May 31: Carroll Gardens Neighborhood Association History Project: Sacred Sites of Carroll Gardens, Guided Walking Tour

12:00 PM
125 Summit St.

Join guide John Heyer, as he takes us through time to explore the rich architectural and religious History of Carroll Gardens. The tour will stop at St. Stephan R.C. Church, St. Paul Episcopal, St. Agnes R.C. Church, and St. Mary Star of the Sea R.C. Church. You will also learn about former houses of worship like the Southern Congressional Church at Court and President, the Methodist church that once stood at Summit and Henry as well as many others that have been long demolished or converted.

$20 day of event
$15 with reservation before day of event
$10 for students and seniors with reservations

To make reservations email CGNA.RSVP@yahoo.com

USBA Joins South Brooklyn Neighborhood Alliance

2008-04-15T15:54:00.003-04:00

The Union-Sackett Block Association is now a member of the newly formed South Brooklyn Neighborhood Alliance. We join other groups, which include Baltic and Warren Neighbors, Carroll Gardens Neighborhood Association, Cobble Hill Association, Columbia Waterfront Neighborhood Association, Committee for the Historic Integrity of Cobble Hill, CORD, Hoyt Street Alliance, South Brooklyn Local Development Corporation, and Warren Street Block Association.

Please check the SoBNA blog for updates and further information.

Here is the group's mission statement:

We are the South Brooklyn Neighborhood Alliance. We are your neighbors and your friends. We are your fellow riders on the subway; the people at the next table in the coffee shop; the parents and grandparents of the children who attend the local schools. We share this neighborhood, its streets and services, with you and with one another. We think that this is a great place to live. The beauty, lower density, human scale of our buildings, safety, and the more neighborly lifestyle of our brownstone communities are some of the many reasons people have chosen to live here. We share a respect and affection for this community and wish not only to preserve it, but make it even better. Over the last two years, we have watched the quality of life here begin to erode under the pressure of out-of-scale development, structures that dwarf our existing neighborhood buildings. Development is based simply on maximizing the square footage and height allowable. New development has had neither respect nor regard for this lovely place, its needs and limitations, its character, or the very residents who have lovingly maintained it. What we want, is to maintain the integrity of our neighborhoods; implement the proper and appropriate infrastructure improvements before we have nothing left of our neighborhood to protect and enjoy.We are members of many different civic groups. We have joined together. We now represent a single united force dedicated to the preservation and improvement of our neighborhoods. We are not anti-development, but rather, wish to work with developers who have the ability to incorporate the special charm and character of this neighborhood into their design.Our goal is to achieve respectful, thoughtful, responsible development. In order to realize this, there is work to be done. There are laws to be changed, agencies and programs to be funded, processes that must be reevaluated. We will insist that the men and women, who have been elected to office by us, work for us to this same end. Let us begin.

Monthly Meeting Announcement

2008-04-07T15:29:00.003-04:00

The Union-Sackett Block Association's monthly meeting is this Saturday, April 12th at 11:30 AM at the Carroll Gardens Branch of the Brooklyn Public Library (Corner of Clinton and Union Sts.)

Topics on the agenda include a review of last Thursday's meeting with Clarett and Rogers Marvel, downzoning, and our much-deserved block party.

Thank you to all those who attended the meeting at PS 58 last week. You all showed incredible support and revealed to the Clarett Group and Rogers Marvel our devotion and commitment to our neighborhood.

Renderings of 340 Court St.

2008-04-07T15:04:00.013-04:00

Here are some images courtesy of Curbed from Roger's Marvel's presentation at last Thursday's meeting with the Clarett Group. Please also check-out Gowanus Lounge, Lost City, Pardon Me for Asking, and Brownstoner for coverage of the event.

Proposed Court St. design
Proposed Union St. design
Proposed Sackett St. design

Meeting with the Clarett Group is TOMORROW

2008-04-02T14:32:00.008-04:00

Just a reminder that tomorrow is the meeting with development company the Clarett Group and their hired architecture firm Rogers Marvel. The Clarett Group and Rogers Marvel will present renderings and talk about their plans for 340 Court St. There will be time for a question and answer session.

The meeting is hosted by the Union-Sackett Block Association and is supported by CORD (Carroll Gardens Coalition to Respectfully Develop) and the Carroll Gardens Neighborhood Association.

Please encourage all your friends, family, and neighbors to attend.

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Tomorrow: Thursday, April 3rd, 2008
P.S. 58 Carroll School
330 Smith St. (enter school on Carroll, between Smith and Court)

See you all there!

April 3rd Meeting Reminder & Flyer

2008-03-27T17:40:00.005-04:00

Please save this date and encourage all members of the community to attend. You can click on the flyer image above to enlarge it. If you have the time, print and distribute.

Please note: in preparation for the April 3rd event, there is a planning meeting this Saturday, March 29 at 11:30 AM in the Carroll Gardens Branch of the Brooklyn Public Library, located on the corner of Clinton and Union.

76th Precinct Community Council Meeting: April 1, 2008

2008-03-25T14:02:00.001-04:00

Come to the 76th Precinct Community Council Meeting

Meet the Commanding Officer, Deputy Inspector Michael Kemper

Get the latest crime statistics for:
*Cobble Hill
*Gowanus
*Carroll Gardens
*Red Hook

Get information on:
*Gun stop
*Anti-graffiti
*Counterterrorism
*Crime prevention
*new programs

Voice any concerns, ask questions, or just attend and take home valuable information!

Tuesday, April 1, 2008 at 7:30pm
Red Hook Community Justice Center at 88-94 Visitation Place

For additional information call Community Affairs at (718) 834-3207

Plans for 340 Court St. to be Revealed 4/3/08

2008-03-24T15:30:00.002-04:00

Reminder: Public Scoping Meeting for Toll Brothers Gowanus Project Tomorrow!

2008-03-12T16:18:00.003-04:00

Thursday, March 13, 2008
2:00 to 5:45 PM
&
6:00 to 8:45 PM

City of New York Department of City Planning
Spector Hall
22 Reade Street
New York, New York 10007.

Written comments will be accepted by the lead agency through the tenth day following the scoping meeting (before Monday, March 23rd).

See this post for more information.

Develop Don't Destroy Brooklyn Atlantic Yards Meeting Tomorrow, Thursday, March 13th

2008-03-12T15:55:00.010-04:00

Develop Don't Destroy Brooklyn Community Meeting:

Thursday, March 13, 7PM

Hanson Place United Methodest Church, Main Sanctuary

144 Saint Felix St. at Hanson Place (Entrace on Hanson)

Fort Greene, Brooklyn

Subways: 2, 3, 4, 5, B, D, N, R, Q, and LIRR to Atlantic/Pacific St.; G to Fulton St.; A to Lafayette Ave.

Speculation has been increasing recently that Forest City Ratner's Atlantic Yards project could be falling prey to the triple-whammy of a slowing economy, the crisis in sub-prime mortgages and the global credit crunch. Big real estate deals all around the country are being put on hold or are being shelved altogether, and Ratner's planned City Tech tower project, which would have been Brooklyn's tallest building, unraveled two weeks ago (CUNY scuttled the deal because Forest City Ratner's building "would be too expensive, too slow and too controversial").The Atlantic Yards project is turning into the deal that couldn't get done.

All of which makes next Thursday's community meeting even more important...

Find out the latest on the community's fight against the destructive Atlantic Yards project, including news on the political and legal effort to stop the project. Find out how to get involved. Also, learn about the UNITY Plan, the community's alternative plan to develop the rail yards with truly affordable housing, community-friendly open space without the abuse of eminent domain. City and State politicians will speak and be available for Q&A.

Invited Elected Officials: Councilmember Bill DeBlasio, Councilmember Letitia James, Councilmember David Yassky, Assemblymember Jim Brennan, Assemblymember Hakeem Jeffries, Assemblymember Joan Millman, State Senator Eric Adams, State Senator Velmanette Montgomery

Sponsored by:

Develop Don't Destroy Brooklyn

Society for Clinton Hill

Fort Greene Association

Park Slope Neighbors

Friends and Residents of Greater Gowanus

Bears Community Garden

South Portland Block Association

The meeting is open to all. Please save the date, and bring a friend.

Public Scoping Meeting for Toll Brothers Gowanus Project This Thursday, March 13

2008-03-10T22:09:00.012-04:00

As the Department of City Planning website announces,

"A public scoping meeting has been scheduled for Thursday, March 13, 2008 from 2:00 to 5:45 PM and from 6:00 to 8:45 PM at the City of New York Department of City Planning, Spector Hall, 22 Reade Street, New York, New York 10007. Written comments will be accepted by the lead agency through the tenth day following the scoping meeting.

Copies of the Draft Scope of Work and the Environmental Assessment Statement may be obtained from the Environmental Assessment and Review Division, New York City Department of City Planning, 22 Reade Street, 4E, New York, New York 10007, Robert Dobruskin, Director (212) 720-3423; or from the Office of Environmental Coordination, 253 Broadway, 14th Floor, New York, New York 10007, Robert Kulikowski, Ph.D., Director (212) 788-2937."

These documents can also be found on the Department of City Planning website in pdf form.

The Toll Brothers wants to build approximately six hundred units of housing, ranging in heights up to 12 stories in a three acre space. It will, among other things, involve remediation of the contaminated portions of the site and remapping streets. Since the area isn't zoned for this type of development, several steps must be taken before any work can begin.

One of these procedures is a special meeting called a "scoping hearing," where the residents of our neighborhood get to speak their mind about the things they like or dislike about the proposed project.

The following is a list of subjects that the developer must address. Look over the list. Whether you are concerned about how larger sized buildings will affect your sunlight, how the additional housing will affect the amount of raw sewage flowing into the canal, or how the additional cars will affect the parking and traffic conditions, this is your chance to speak up. You may speak of any other concerns you may have; it does not have to be a topic on this list.

At the spoking hearing, each person has 3 minutes to orally communicate their concerns. There is also an opportunity to fully address your concerns in writing. The written comments must be sent-in before March 24, 2008.

Here is a list of possible subjects:

Land use, zoning and public policy, socioeconomic conditions, community facilities and services, open space, shadows, historic resources, urban design/visual resources, neighborhood character, natural resources, hazardous materials, waterfront revitalization program, infrastructure, solid waste and sanitation services, energy, traffic and parking, transit and pedestrians, air quality, noise, construction impacts, public health.

Please contact the USBA or one of our linked organizations, such as Friends of Bond, CORD, or FROGG for more information.

Spread the word and take this opportunity to make an impact in our community.

Stop Work Order for the Clarett Group at 340 Court St.

2008-03-09T23:03:00.007-04:00

Due to a problem with the safety netting at the 340 Court St. site, the New York Department of Buildings has issued a Stop Work Order. The log of the initial complaint can be viewed below.

If you witness work being done on the site before the Stop Work Order is lifted, or that is unrelated to the resolution of the protective netting issue, please call 311 to make a complaint. You may also contact Councilman Bill de Blasio's office at 718-854-9791.

You can check the status of the Stop Work Order and other construction issues at the DOB website.

Community Meeting with the Clarett Group Scheduled

2008-03-06T14:13:00.008-05:00

The much anticipated meeting with the Carroll Gardens community and the Clarett Group (the developers of 340 Court St.) is set for Thursday, April 3, 7:00 - 9:00 PM. The meeting will be held at the P.S. 58 Carrol School, located at 330 Smith St. All members of the community are encouraged to attend the event. The more attendees there are, the more our concern and commitment to Brooklyn and Carroll Gardens is displayed.

During the meeting, the Clarett Group and representatives from the architecture firm hired for the project, Rogers Marvel, will present plans and renderings of the condo building and townhouses that will replaces the former ILA building at 340 Court Street. There will be a short presentation from the Union-Sackett Block Association and time for a question and answer session.

Please save the date and look out for updates and flyers. Spread the word! If you are interested in helping with the preparation for this meeting, please attend the USBA meeting this Saturday at 11:30 AM at the Carroll Gardens branch of the Public Library.

Meeting Announcement: Saturday, March 8

2008-03-05T11:53:00.002-05:00

USBA Meeting with the Clarett Group Thursday

2008-02-25T12:09:00.013-05:00

On Thursday morning, the Union-Sackett Block Association Core Committee will meet with Daniel Hollander, the Senior Managing Director of Clarett Group, along with other representatives from the Clarett Group. The meeting will be held at Clarett's Manhattan offices and members of the USBA will reiterate to Clarett the importance of working with the community, express community concerns about design and construction, and prepare for another meeting scheduled for March, when Clarett will present its plans for 340 Court St. to the entire community.

There will be an update about this meeting later in the week.

Support the Hoyt Street Alliance

2008-02-13T13:14:00.005-05:00

Photo courtesy : A Brooklyn Life

Please read the blog entries on Pardon Me for Asking and Gowanus Lounge to learn about the Hoyt Street Alliance's opposition to a proposed oyster bar located directly next to the Black Mountian Wine House on the corner of Hoyt and Union.

Develop Don't Destroy Brooklyn Events

2008-02-09T13:54:00.000-05:00

Sunday, February 10th, 3 PM: Atlantic Yards "Camera Club" Mobilization

A "photographers' rights free expression mobilization" responding to the harassment of video artist/teacher Katherin McInnis by an MTA police officer last Sunday, February 3rd on public property within the Atlantic Yards footprint. We will discuss photographers' rights and the Atlantic Yards situation, then walk and photograph within the footprint. Depending on circumstances, we may have the opportunity to engage in respectful information exchange with MTA police and/or private security personnel. End point: Freddy's Bar and Backroom, 485 Dean Street, corner of Sixth Avenue.

MTA cop tries to stop videographer at Atlantic Yards site
- Atlantic Yards Report

Meet at the Brooklyn Bears Community Garden, Pacific Street and Flatbush Avenue, entrance on Pacific. If there's *heavy* rain or snow, we'll change the meeting place to Freddy's Bar, 485 Dean, corner of Sixth Avenue.

Photographers, videographers, bloggers, and supporters. News media are welcome.

OTHER UPCOMING EVENTS:

Tuesday, February 26, 7:30pm. BROOKLYN HEIGHTS ASSOCIATION ANNUAL MEETING: "What Is the Future of Life in NYC"

Saint Francis College Auditorium
180 Remsen Street (between Court & Clinton Streets). Keynote Speaker
Clyde Haberman
Acclaimed New York Times "NYC" Columnist
"What Is the Future of Life in NYC".

Thursday, March 13, 7pm. DDDB Community Meeting:

Update on the Struggle Against Ratner's Atlantic Yards Project and For Fair Development

Hanson Place United Methodist Church. Main Sanctuary
144 Saint Felix Street at Hanson Place [Map]
Fort Greene, Brooklyn

Subways: 2, 3, 4, 5, B, D, N, R, Q to Atlantic/Pacific.

Get the latest updates on the community's fight against the destructive Atlantic Yards project, including news on the political and legal effort to stop the project. Also, learn about the community's alternative plan to develop the rail yards with truly affordable housing, community-friendly open space and no abuse of eminent domain. City and State elected officials will attend and be available for Q&A.

More details to come as the date approaches.

The meeting is open to all. Please save the date, and bring a friend.

Visit Develop Don't Destroy Brooklyn for more information.

Saturday Meeting Reminder

2008-02-07T13:25:00.000-05:00

Please join us this Saturday to discuss updates on 340 Court St., downzoning in Carroll Gardens, and other important neighborhood issues.

Correspondence with the Clarett Group

2008-02-01T14:51:00.000-05:00

We've been in communication with Clarett Group in hopes of scheduling another meeting with the community. Here is a copy of the correspondance [click images to enlarge]:

Videos from the Jan. 29th Rally

2008-01-30T11:46:00.000-05:00

Part 1:

Part 2:

[Credit: Fred C, Union-Sackett Block Association Member]

C.O.R.D. Letter to Mayor Bloomberg

2008-01-29T18:44:00.000-05:00

Please help us write to the MAYOR!

Calling all Carroll Gardens!

Please Dear C. G. Resident:

Copy/paste this letter below and send it ASAP to Mayor Bloomberg! Here is the link...it's so easy!!

Dear Mayor Bloomberg:

We are Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn. We have sought relief from the hyper-development that is taking place here through moratorium petition (3000+ signatures), contextual downzoning application (an undetermined wait time), amendments to the zoning text (a fairly lengthy and only partial solution), City Council Resolution (valiant and appreciated, but unbinding), expansion of our historic district (a volatile, divisive topic) and a rally at Borough Hall organized by our Councilman and Assemblywoman.

We have overcrowded schools, dirty streets and air, inadequate public transportation. We have far too many stop work orders regularly issued for dangerous construction situations. We have no nearby Post Office. Almost all of the private parking lots have been developed. All of our local elected officials have recently requested information from both the DOB and the MTA/NYCTA regarding their communication and procedures when construction is being conducted in close proximity to our subway tunnel. There are currently dozens of such projects, an unprecedented amount for our Smith Street corridor, most of which seemed to be completely under the MTA/NYCTA radar. We are all concerned. The pace here is fast, and all too often, homeowners are paying the price in property damages, simply for living next to, nearby or behind a developer who has hired careless workers employing, at times, questionable practices.

Read the local blogs, Mr. Mayor, take a look at our local papers. We have been crying out for months for help. We are not anti-development. All we want is thoughtful, responsible, respectful development. We love where we live. We would like to preserve it. Won't you please help us?

Respectfully,

XXXXX (sign you name here)

Thank you so much for your help! Together we will protect Carroll Gardens from overdevelopment!

CG C.O.R.D./Carroll Gardens Coalition for Respectful Development

visit www.carrollgardenspetition.blogspot.com for a longer, more comprehensive letter, which can be mailed by hand.

Photos from the Rally for Downzoning

2008-01-29T17:55:00.001-05:00

Please check out Pardon Me For Asking for more pictures and a good summary of the day's events. More updates and hopefully a video to come soon. Thanks to all those who made it out today, we greatly appreciate your efforts.

Here is a good run-down of the rally borrowed from the blog, Brownstoner, which is ironically well-decorated with advertisements for Clarett's Forte building:

About 50 people (and one well-dressed canine) showed at Borough Hall this morning to support the drive to downzone Carroll Gardens. Council Member Bill de Blasio organized the rally, and he had some big news to share: The Department of City Planning has officially committed to studying a downzoning of the neighborhood. The news comes hot on the heels of Planning’s announcement that it would initiate a a zoning text amendment to impose height limitations on 1st through 4th Place. De Blasio is also pushing for the city to impose building height limitations of 50 feet while the downzoning is studied. “We want to limit heights until a legal downzoning goes through,” de Blasio said at the rally. Representatives of Assemblywoman Yvette Clark and Assemblywoman Joan Millman also spoke in support of the downzoning, as did Gary Reilly of the Carroll Gardens Neighborhood Association. “What attracts people to the neighborhood is its low scale,” said Reilly. “We want to prevent Carroll Gardens from becoming the next Williamsburg, with developers throwing up buildings willy-nilly.” De Blasio noted that downzonings typically take a year to a year and a half to push through, and time is of the essence in terms of downzoning Carroll Gardens since the clock is ticking on the current administration's term.
[From http://www.brownstoner.com]

Update from the Clarett Group

2008-01-29T17:50:00.000-05:00

Dear all,

Here is the latest update on construction activity at 340 Court Street:

Asbestos abatement work will be wrapped up tomorrow morning (January 29th). Interior demolition will begin on Thursday. Interior demolition work will only occur on weekdays from 7 AM to 6 PM. A permit has been pulled and will be posted on the building.

An 8 foot tall plywood construction fence will be erected around the site next week (exact day tbd).

In response to inquiries from the community, Clarett has arranged for the flag pole that currently sits in the Court Street courtyard to be relocated to the courtyard in front of Scotto's Funeral home at the corner of 1st Place and Court. Clarett will also be donating the sign that hangs over the doorway to the archives of the Sacred Hearts & St. Stephen church.

Thanks,

David Lowin
Development Director

Responses to Daily News Article

2008-01-28T11:03:00.000-05:00

Thanks to all those who responded to the Daily News article, both on the site and elsewhere. Here is a response that we found particularly interesting and relevant:

As a resident of Carroll Gardens Landmark Condominium, located in a converted church on Court Street about 150 feet away from the Claret site and protected by national Landmark status, it is quite disturbing to know that our 1868 stained glass windows will be subjected to the violent vibrations of the nearby construction site. These delicate stained glass windows are an irreplaceable part of this community's history, and while it is painful to know that listing on the National Register of Historic Places does not seem to provide any protections against nearby construction, it speaks volumes that the developers are so unfamiliar and out-of-touch with our neighborhood as to even make the effort to care. The historic structures in close proximity to this construction site should be pro-actively protected by these developers to insure that they remain important links to the past in our unique neighborhood fabric.

Jay A. Lubow

Senior Principal

Applied Design Initiative, LLC

JANUARY 29TH RALLY FOR CARROLL GARDENS DOWN-ZONING

2008-01-25T15:23:00.000-05:00

RALLY
TO PRESERVE AND PROTECT CARROLL GARDENS,
SOUTH BROOKLYN, NEW YORK

TUESDAY, JANUARY 29TH
11:00 AM
16 COURT STREET

Join Councilmember Bill de Blasio, Assemblymember Joan Millman, The Carroll Gardens Neighborhood Association (CGNA), Carroll Gardens Coalition For Respectful Development (CORD), Baltic & Warren Neighbors, Columbia Waterfront Neighborhood Association and The Union-Sackett Block Association to support a resolution calling upon the Department of City Planning to immediately commence a downzoning study (50’height limit) of Carroll Gardens to protect our neighborhood and the Department of Buildings to implement the appropriate procedure to preserve the character of Carroll Gardens until the downzoning is complete.

Daily News Article Announcement

2008-01-25T15:09:00.000-05:00

Please check out this Daily News article about the development at 340 Court St.

Councilman Bill de Blasio Drafts Down-Zoning Resolution for Carroll Gardens

2008-01-17T19:39:00.000-05:00

We would like to echo the post on Brooklyn Streets, Carroll Gardens, which announces that Councilman Bill de Blasio has drafted a resolution calling for an immediate down-zoning of Carroll Gardens. This is very positive step by de Blasio and one that the Union-Sackett Block Association endorses and supports. We thank Mr. De Blasio for his efforts. This resolution reflects our requests of the Clarett Group.

The draft of the resolution is as follows:

Res. No.

Resolution calling upon the Department of City Planning to commence immediately a downzoning study of Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn and upon the Department of Buildings to not issue permits that would allow any new construction or alteration to an existing building to exceed a height limit of 50 feet until the Carroll Gardens neighborhood downzoning is complete.

By Council Member de Blasio

Whereas, Carroll Gardens is a charming neighborhood defined by its tree-lined streets, beautiful 3-4 story brownstones, and atypical setbacks that create deep front yards; and

Whereas, The architecture and layout of Carroll Gardens creates a village-like character, which is not commonly found in New York City; and

Whereas, Currently, Carroll Gardens is zoned R6, which does not provide a restriction on height; and

Whereas, With the recent state of hyper-development in Brooklyn, there is widespread concern that large scale new constructions pose a threat to the fabric of this historical Brooklyn neighborhood; and

Whereas, According to a 2006 survey by Brooklyn Community Board 6, 91% of neighborhood residents surveyed responded that they were either very concerned or concerned about the height or size of new buildings in the neighborhood. Further, 83% of those surveyed indicated that they favored stricter limits on the height, size and/or overall bulk of new buildings; and

Whereas, A neighborhood downzoning by the Department of City Planning would be the most effective long term solution to the problem of over-development in Carroll Gardens; and

Whereas, A 50 foot height limit will protect the neighborhood from over-development while also providing time for the Department of City Planning to perform the necessary study and analysis that would precede the downzoning of Carroll Gardens; and

Whereas, A height restriction of 50 feet, to be implemented immediately, will cap the height on new building construction or alternation to existing buildings to prevent the construction of buildings higher than 50 feet over the next several years; now, therefore, be it.

Resolved, That the Council of the City of New York calls upon the Department of City Planning to commence immediately a downzoning study of Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn and upon the Department of Buildings to not issue permits that would allow any new construction or alteration to an existing building to exceed a height limit of 50 feet until the Carroll Gardens neighborhood downzoning is complete.

Union Opposes the Clarett Group's Asbestos Removal at 340 Court St.

2008-01-17T18:32:00.000-05:00

As reported on Curbed, Brooklyn Streets, Carroll Gardens and other blogs, Laborers' Local 78 has put up an inflatable rat and distributed flyers around the 340 Court St. site. The union is protesting Clarett's choice to use non-union workers to perform the dangerous asbestos abatement project. Their flyers encourage members of the neighborhood to call Veronica Hackett, the co-founder of Clarett Group, and urge her to employ union workers in order to ensure that such projects as asbestos removal is done safely and legally.

Neighbors of the site also question Clarett's apparent illegal use of a nearby fire hydrant. Some of their waste bins are also taking up parking space on Union St.

A complaint was put into 311 last night because work on the asbestos removal was being done after 12:00 AM, conflicting with Clarett's promise to work only during acceptable, legal hours. Here is a copy of the complaint as posted on the DOB website:

We have been trying to keep a controlled response to The Clarett Group's efforts at 340 Court St. in hopes of having a productive dialogue about safety and the outcome of the development. The Union's protest today has raised new levels of fear about the asbestos removal and general construction safety, along with all the issues around proper notification.

We have received many emails and calls about this important asbestos removal, along with numerous complaints about the open fire hydrant and blocked parking spots without proper permits on Union St. We know many calls were made to 311 today.

We are currently drafting a letter to Clarett requesting direct meaningful dialogue between USBA and Clarett Group about all these issues. Today's event highlight the immediate need for this dialogue.

Thank You

2008-01-14T17:14:00.000-05:00

Thank you to those who attended the meeting on Saturday. We may have underestimated the amount and degree of concern in the neighborhood about the 340 Court St. development. 37 new members signed the attendance list and in total, there were over 50 concerned atendees.

Using the varied talents of Union-Sackett Block Association members, we have formed three important committees that have already begun to work towards our collective goals. We have established a Core Committee, which is responsible for shaping our goals and message, a Safety Committee, which will directly address issues of demolition and construction at 340 Court St., and a Communications Committee, which will help keep the neighborhood and media informed.

If you have an interest or want to make a contribution to these committees, please email the USBA at union.sackett@gmail.com Check the blog for updates from each commitee over the next few weeks before our next meeting on February 9th.

Reminder: CGNA Meeting Monday Night

2008-01-13T18:45:00.000-05:00

The Carroll Gardens Neighborhood Association meeting will be held this Monday at 7:30 PM in Scott's Funeral Home, on the corner of Court St. and First Place.

Also, please sign up for the Carroll Gardens CORD (Carroll Gardens Coalition for Respectful Development) newsletter. To do so go to http://www.feedblitz.com/f/f.fbz?Sub=301391. Also check out their website at carrollgardenspetition.blogspot.com and sign the petition, which demands a "MORATORIUM OF ANY BUILDINGS OR ALTERATIONS WHICH WILL EXCEED A HEIGHT OF FIFTY FEET (50')UNTIL LANDMARKING OR A DOWN-ZONING IS DECIDED. WE WANT OUR PUBLIC OFFICIALS TO KNOW THAT NO MORATORIUM MEANS NO VOTES."

Asbestos Update / Meeting Reminder

2008-01-10T17:55:00.000-05:00

The next meeting with be held this Saturday, January 12th at 11:30 in the basement meeting room of the Carroll Gardens branch of the Brooklyn Public Library. We will be joined by Maria Pagano of the Carroll Gardens Neighborhood Association, Rita Miller of CORD, OscarJonas of State Senator Martin Connor's office and Deanna Bitetti from District Representative Yvette Clarke's office.

I would also like to post some follow up information about the asbestos removal at the 340 Court St. site. There has been a lot of discussion about it both here and on the Gowanus Lounge and I would like to share the corespondence I have had with David Lowin of Clarett Group:

Dear Mr. Lowin,

Thank you for your response on the Union-Sackett Block Association blog. I am pleased you read it and have an interest in what the community is doing. I'm confident that you and Clarett, as well as your construction team, are doing the work at the 340 Court St. site correctly and safety. My concern lies in the fact that the information you have given me about asbestos, concerning permits and their placement, does not correspond with the information I have received from the Department of Environmental Protection. This is the response I got from the Asbestos Ombudsman of the DEP in Washington D.C.:

There is an EPA publication entitled Guidance for Controlling Asbestos-containing Materials in Buildings which discusses at length the requirement of constructing barriers completely around buildings in which asbestos containing materials are being disturbed. The barriers usually consist of heavy-gauge plastic sheeting stretched vertically to contain anything that is removed or released. It is also stated that aprominent sign must be posted at all entrances at a distance of at least 20 ft from the entrance.

Another document, National Emission Standards for Hazardous AirPollutants; Asbestos NESHAP Revision (40 CFR Part 61 Subpart M) statesthe requirement for warning signs that must be posted on all trucks that are involved in hauling/removing asbestos material away from the site.The link below is to asbestos rules and regulations published by the NewYork City Department of Environmental Protection. Go to p. 58 where youwill find Subchapter G, Part 2 (Work Procedures), article1-125 (Work Area Preparation), paragraph (a). That paragraph deals with noticesthat must be placed at each entrance to a facility in which abatement isto be done.

http://www.nyc.gov/html/dep/pdf/asbestos.pd

The neighbors of the site on the Union St. side of the site were unaware of the abatement. One tenant was unpleasantly surprised, particularly after he spent the whole day raking in his yard. Can you clarify why permits or notices were not posted? There seems to be continual discrepancy about the law and my response from D.C. conflicts with the information I have received from you via the blog.

The purpose of our blog is to make Block Association members and other community members aware of what is going on in our neighborhood, particularly at the 340 site. It would be much more direct if a member of Clarett could communicate to the community directly about what is going on at the site, especially when it is something as serious and of a concern as asbestos abatement. A posted notice, a phone call to neighbors, or even an email would have been appropriate.

If you or member of your team would like the information of the neighboring residents I can forward it to you, along with any other contact information for members of our association.

Please let me know your thoughts.

Sincerely,

Anne Joseph
Member

Union-Sackett Block Association

Mr. Lowin replied:

Anne,

I have just double checked the notification requirements per our third-party monitor. The only entrances that need to have signs are those that are unlocked. As you know, all entrances to the building are locked, except for the rear entrance of the building, which is how our workers are entering the building. That rear entrance has signage on it indicating that asbestos abatement is in process.

Also, I am surprised to hear that anyone has been unaware of the abatement activity. As you no doubt recall the topic of asbestos abatement was discussed at length at our meeting in December. At the time, we indicated that abatement activity would begin right after New Years and would last for about 3 weeks. Therefore I believe we have provided the Association with several weeks notice of the commencement of abatement activity, and we asked that all in attendance spread that word. In addition, I received an email from Tom Gray (from Bill Diblasio's office) requesting an update on the abatement timing, and responded that day, that abatement was set to begin right after New Year's day.

Regarding future communications, I believe that a representative of one of the elected officials who was present (Tom Gray) offered to start up an email mailing list to facilitate the distribution of further knowledge. I have not yet received such a list, but will use it to update the association once it is compiled.

Thank you for your concern,

David Lowin
Development Director
The Clarett Group

We will try to get an e-mail list together for David Lowin and encourage him and others at Clarett to use both that list and the blog to help keep us informed.

See you at the meeting!

Inspired by "Nuts," Brooklyn Squirrels Start Contextual Building in Carroll Gardens

2008-01-08T14:40:00.000-05:00

Asbestos Removal at 340 Court St.

2008-01-07T18:34:00.000-05:00

I'm sure some of you have not only noticed the garbage at 340 Court St., but also the taped windows and curious device in the parking lot. Deanna R. Bitetti, District Representative of the Office of U.S. Representative Yvette D. Clarke, confirmed today that this is indeed evidence of asbestos removal. In response to an e-mail sent by Union-Sackett Block Association member, Vincent Joseph, Ms. Bitetti wrote:

Dear Vince,

The response I received was:

Yes, the air monitoring was related to the asbestos abatement. They began asbestos abatement last week and that work will continue for a couple more weeks. Demolition activity should begin after that -towards the end of the month.

Also, on another topic: There was a concern about increased rodent activity during demolition. Their contractor has agreed to put additional rodent baiting in neighboring properties' basements if theyare requested and this is available to any neighbors who might want it.

[...]

Deanna R. Bitetti, District Representative

Office of U.S. Representative Yvette D. Clarke

Brooklyn District Office

Although word seems to have gotten out about the asbestos abatement, there are no visisble permits posted on the building and I question the legality of this. A phonecall and complaint will be put into 311 tonight and I will post any updates.

Upcoming Meeting

2008-01-06T17:32:00.000-05:00

Our next meeting will be held on Saturday, January 12th at 11:30 AM at the library on the corner of Clinton and Union St.

All are encouraged to attend this meeting and the upcoming Carroll Gardens Neighborhood Association meeting listed below.

CGNA Meeting Announcment

2008-01-02T12:34:00.000-05:00

The next Carroll Gardens Neighborhood Association meeting will be held on Monday, January 14th at Scotto's Funeral Home, located on 106 1st Place at Court.

Minutes from 12/21 Meeting

2008-01-02T11:14:00.000-05:00

Reposted from http://cgunion.wik.is

Meeting Summary, 12/21
Location: Scotto's Funeral Home
Notes taken by Gian Trotta/Ms. Morley Morley

Partial List of those in attendance:
Local Politicians:

Assemblywoman Joan Millman
Paul Nelson, her chief of staff
John L. Heyer, Special Ass't to Borough President Tom Gray, representing offices of Bill De Blasio (De Blasio unable to attend on what Tom referred to as family business in Iowa) Deanna Bitetti district representative from office of Yvette Clarke Buddy Scotto

For the Clarett Group:
Mr. David Lowin, Development Director
Mr. Daniel Hollander, Senior Managing Director

For Union-Sackett Block Ass'n:
Fred Caruso
Robbin Slade
Ros Morley
Gian Trotta

Other representatives included
Maria Pagano of Carroll Gardens Neighborhood Association Oscar Jonas - deputy Chief of Staff for Martin Connor Jeff Strabone, CB6

Other concerned neighbors:
Tom Diller 285 Sackett
David Kruth, Clinton Street

Mr. Hollander began meeting by noting that Clarett Group had decided to abandon an earlier tower-based plan as "not appropriate" for the neighborhood in favor of a combination of four story brownstones and a seven-story mixed retail/condo unit building.

He and Mr. Lowin then passed around a prototype draft of the proposed building and a drawing of the elevation for all to see. Later on when asked if we could have a copy of that drawing he said no.

The architect is Rogers Marvel PLLC, who have done the State St.
townhouses and are currently working on the building at 3rd and Bond Streets.

Back on Court St., the basic structure of the latter building is an L-shape that begins on Court St. just south of Apple Bank building and turns corner onto Union. Further West on Union, the building will slant gradually backwards join the setback strip of four townhouses in such a way that it will not create a right angle.

In the main building, the sixth story will have private terraces and the seventh story will have shared and private rooftop space.

The total number of units are: 10 townhouses (four on Sackett, six on
Union) on 100x20 plots. The buildings will be set back ten feet from property line, be 50 feet deep, and have 40 foot long backyards.

The 30 condo units condos will average 1900 square feet and be mostly 3 bedrooms. Some on Union St. will be configured as maisonettes with ground-floor entrances and small outdoor spaces; the second floors in the back of these structures will stick out to create a private outdoor area.

The building will be excavated to a depth below 10 feet to create a 10 foot downlevel for parkign for 70 cars.

Mr. Hollander noted that Clarett and the current Apple Bank building owners could not agree on a price, which is why their property was not purchased and included.

On building, Mr. Hollander said Clarett plans to use "Materials consistent with neighborhood; a lot of brick, and panel system that may be cementitious but will look like stone."

Mr. Hollander adds the the first floor of the condo building on Union Street will have a number of duplex condos with high ceiling and double-height windows that will break up an large expanses of slab wall.

Buddy Scotto noted that too many architects wish to do signature pieces that stand out, and they succeed to the point it was ugly. He cited State St., however as a pretty good example of modern architecture.

Mr. Hollander notes the entrance for cars will be on Sackett St. about 100 feet back from Court St., just behind the current Apple Bank building. The garage, which will be excavated 10 feet below building, will have 70 spaces or "maybe a few more."

Ms. Morley asked if the building would have a loading dock?

Mr. Hollander noted that while the city requires a loading dock for the retail establishments planned on the first floor of the building on Court Street, Clarett has not decide if they will put in int the building or garage space, but in any event, such a facility would not be for loading as the businesses would work via curbside deliveries on Court St.

Anoher question: Are there any plans to hire a leasing group to help move the 13,000 sq foot of retail space in the less-than-booming Court St. market?

Mr. Hollander: We will hire agent, don't know if local, could be someone like Corcoran, one of three real retail specialists.

Assemblywoman Millman then noted that the neighborhood could most use a supermarket and/or a post office.

It was noted that post offices cannot afford to pay high rents currently in effect in neighborhood. The turned to what supermarkets that were moving into the area and why the currently vacant former Blockbuster building wouldn't be suitable -- it's two-level format is not useful for supermarkets (although it is for drugstores) -- but the assemblywoman noted that the neighborhood did not need any more drugstores.

Mr. Hollander noted that contractor is aware that they can only work between 7am and 6 pm Schedule as they plan it:
January - demolition
around March - excavation
about 15 months from start to finish

Robbin Slade, who lives on Sackett very close to construction site, noted that her driveway was blocked in four times by Utility trucks.

She also noted that demolition work was done at night, and her son was very afraid.
She requested that Clarett notify them in future.

Mr. Hollander said that they were not aware of this situation and that it was probably due to LICH moving out of the parking garage and clearing the building of their property.

Tom Diller: noted that when Clinton St. was ripped up to run new gas mains, there was notable damage to homes. Was Clarett aware they were dealing with a really old infrastructure?

Mr. Hollander said Mr. Lowin will be the "point person" for problems. He added that "there will be damage but we hope that it will be kept under control."

Tom Diller that antiquated sewer pipe made of clay as seen at the time the sewer main was redone on Clinton Street, could be especially vulnerable.

Mr. Hollander noted that a construction protection survey, is part of the process, typically immediately upon building, and they document existing condition of homes and take pictures. He said they will do this before the demolition.

Ms. Morley Morley described how disconcerting both lack of warning and actual technique used by backhoe operator -- dropping claw onto macadam in parking lot was. she asked why they did not use a diamond saw or jackhammers instead.

Mr. Hollaner noted that this happened because macadam was found to have concrete underneath, and that's the way they break it up. He said that they are working with contractor to make them aware of this issue.

Again Mr. Lowin will be the point of contact with the community, and there will be onsite office.

What precautions are being take for asbestos removal?

Mr. Hollander: It will be abated as per standard practice by a licensed asbestos-removal firm. He notes that the demolition will be done from within, with small bobcats taking down walls in inside building rather than the old-style wrecking ball.

Ms. Morley asked if any of the materials in the building salvageable in accordance with emerging green building standards of reuse

Mr. Hollander: Basically no. LICH group did a pretty thorough job of removing anything usable; neighbors concur, noting they even took out stained-glass windows.

Back on the asbestos front, the air will be monitored and all results filed.

Robbin cites fact her son suffers from asthma and this could be a problem.

Gian Trotta asks Mr. Hollander to explain what kind of procedure the asbestos-abatement teams will follow and what kind of oversight they are subject to.

Mr. Hollander said they will follow all established procedures applying to asbestos-removal firms licensed by New York State. Asbestos will be bagged inside of building and brought out in special sealed bags into a secured container.

Ms. Morley and Robbin raised specter of vermin during demolition -- how will that be controlled?.
Mr. Lowin: They have put out poison and are monitoring its effectiveness.

Ms. Morley and Deanna Bitetti asked when plans would be filed.

Mr. Hollander: They are currently more focused on layout than the particular details, but expect them in early spring to coincide with breaking ground in March.

Tom Gray askes if the building's exterior will have Fedders-style boxes:

Mr. Hollander: No, compressors are located within each unit.

Gian: Will there be rooftop compressors or other mechanicals that will generate noticable noise on a regular basis?

Mr. Hollander: No, this is not in plans; all mechanicals are encapsulated in house. Compressors are the noisy parts of the system and they will be in each unit. On the roof will be a "cooling tower"
which makes only a small noise.

Fred Caruso asked if the locust trees on Union Street be knocked down?

Mr. Hollander: asked where they were located (ie sidewalk or on the
property) but couldn't say yay or nay.

Tom Gray asked : Has Clarett sought LEAD certification?

Mr. Hollaner: Yes, they will seek it at its lowest level, but there is a whole long list to follow to get this (which they already have), such as
:
closeness to transportation
use of certain building materials

Assemblywoman Millman: Notes that 70 parking spaces for 42 units will leave a surplus.

Mr. Hollander acknowledges, and says unused spaces could be sold by Clarett.

Assemblywoman Millman notes some other Clarett project, including one not well-received in Chelsea. Tom Gray asks if Clarett has secured funding yet?

Mr. Hollander: No, they're on bridge loan in pre-construction phase but lender (Prudential) is expected to come in when all parties are ready to start building.

When building starts, how will damage be minimized? How will you document current status of properties?

Assemblywoman Millman: notes need to expand this to much larger groups of affected homeowners.

Mr. Hollander declined a request from Gian Trotta to provide a copy of the massing diagram to posts online for other residents to see, on grounds that they feel the design is not finalized enough. Noted that building by committee makes ugly buildings such as those at Columbia University built in last two decades which are less-than-desirable results of architecture by committee.

Gian detailed for Mr Hollander and Mr. Lowin how the Union-Sackett Block Association's communication means (blogs, wikis and telephone
hotline) can be used for notifications of meetings and news and dissemination of information.

Notes from Meeting with Clarett Group

2007-12-26T13:07:00.001-05:00

Clarett has secured Roger's Marvel Architects, the same group who designed the townhouses on State Street. Clarett plans to build a five-story building with a 15 ft. setback leading to an additional two stories on Court St., which will wrap around to Union. There will be a few units on Union with separate entrances. In total, there will be 32 3-bedroom apartments, with an average square footage of 1,900 ft., plus 10 homes with 3,000+ square feet.

The townhouses will be lined-up at the lot line to fit in with the existing houses on Sackett and Union. The houses will be 20-feet wide and 50-feet deep, with 40 yards in total.
In addition, there will be one level of underground parking.

Rendition of Rogers Marvel's State St. Property

The first level of the building is reserved for retail space. It is unclear how Clarett will lease this space, but suggestions were clearly a food market.

Clarett says that they will begin demolition in January, construction in March and will finish in an estimated fifteen months.

In the meeting Clarett responded to construction concerns by assuring that they only work between 7 AM and 6 PM.

The New York Department of Building’s website is very useful to keep track of violations and complaints issued about construction sites. Since an address of the location is required for the search, you can use the Clarett Group's site to view the addresses of their past and current projects.

The most common complaints concerned noisy and after-hours work, shaking in the neighboring residences, and falling debris, sometimes causing damage to cars, sometimes injuring pedestrians. I suggest checking out the 230 Ashland Place property (the Forte in Fort Greene) as it's their only BK property. There were 15 complaints issued so far and 7 violations. A Clarett building on 29th st. in Manhattan has received 30 complaints and 24 violations and currently a stop work order exists.

Even if these violations and complaints are typical for any construction site, it's still a concern if debris is falling on the block, work is being done at 5 AM (despite Clarett’s commitment to 7 AM – 6 PM work), and shaking from construction is damaging neighboring buildings.

As you can see from the site, your 311 calls are recorded by the Department of Building and are a part of public record. Use it!

Clarett Group Meeting Announcement

2007-12-19T12:09:00.000-05:00

A meeting with Clarett Group, councilman Bill Di Blasio, and 3-4 neighborhood representatives from the Union-Sackett Block Association and the Carroll Gardens Neighborhood Association has been scheduled for Thursday, Dececember 20th. We hope that this small meeting will eventually be followed by a larger meeting, during which Clarett will present their plans to the whole community.

The meeting with Clarett Group, along with other topics, will be discussed at tonight's Union-Sackett Block Association meeting, which meets at 6:30 PM in the library's meeting room.

Meeting Tomorrow!

2007-12-18T12:41:00.000-05:00

REMINDER: THIS WEEK'S MEETING WILL BE HELD ON WEDNESDAY AT 6:30 PM IN THE LIBRARY'S DOWNSTAIRS MEETING ROOM

Preserve the Integrity of Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn, New York, U.S.A.

Carroll Gardens is one of the last charming neighborhoods in New York Metro Area. You walk down tree-lined streets, pass by beautiful brownstones with gorgeous gardens, and meet many great people and families sitting on their stoops enjoying the fresh clean air of small town living.

Our neighborhood has been threatened by big time developers who want to develop without regards to the delicate nature of our existence in a community we call HOME. What are we going to do about this? We must fight together as one to save our neighborhood.

The voice of our community is strong. Ask yourself…can our infrastructure handle big city development?

The answer is obviously….NO!

-Sewage backup
-Electric outages
-Congested subway
-Air pollution
-Increase crime
-Increase garbage
-No local fire department
-And so much more

Your calls, letters, emails, text message blasts can make a difference. Hit the developers and elected officials with a bombardment of continuous calls, letters, emails and text message blasts. Be relentless!

ACT NOW!

Down-zone Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn, New York, U.S.A. NOW!

Work WITH the community NOT AGAINST it!

Modify plans and maintain the homogeneity of Carroll Gardens NOW!

Say NO to high-rises in our neighborhood. NOW!

The Clarett Group (Developing ten town houses and thirty to forty condominium units on at 340 Court Street, the former Longshoremen's medical center and LICH School of Nursing)

New York-
79 Madison Ave
17th Floor
New York, NY 10016
Phone: 212-399-2400
Fax: 212-664-0580
email: info@clarett.com

Los Angeles-
1901 Avenue of the Stars,
2nd Floor
Los Angeles, CA 90067
Phone: 310-461-1470
Fax: 310-461-1304
email: info@clarett.com

Washington DC
1201 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Ste 300
Washington DC 20004
Phone: 202-661-4618
Fax: 202-661-4619
email: info@clarett.com

Prudential Real Estate Investors Group

Main Office Headquarters
Prudential Real Estate Investors
8 Campus Drive
4th Floor
Parsippany, NJ 07054
Phone: (973) 734-1300 U.S. Regional Offices

Prudential Real Estate Investors
4 Embarcadero Center
Suite 2700
San Francisco, CA 94111-4180
Phone: (415) 398-7310
Fax: (415) 398-1025

Prudential Real Estate Investors
Two Prudential Plaza
180 N. Stetson Street
Suite 3275
Chicago, IL 60601-6217
Phone: (312) 861-4359
Fax: (312) 861-4957

Prudential Real Estate Investors
Two Ravinia Drive
Suite 400
Atlanta, GA 30346-2110
Phone: (770) 481-3000
Fax: (770) 481-3550

Letter to the Clarett Group's Development Director

2007-12-14T16:39:00.000-05:00

Click to enlarge.

Meeting Announcement for 12/19

2007-12-14T13:47:00.000-05:00

Next week's meeting is scheduled to be held on Wednesday, December 19th from 6:30 to 7:45 PM in the library's meeting room at 396 Clinton St. There is a possibility to start earlier if there is an interest to do so. An agenda will be posted once it's complied.

Donald and Mildred Othmer LICH Donation

2007-12-13T17:19:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I contacted a professor at UPenn who wrote a book about the Othmers, hoping to learn more about the terms of their donation to Long Island College Hospital. Here is the email I sent. Does anyone have any ideas on this matter?

Dear Dr. Thackray,

I am a intern at the New York Historical Society as well as a life-long Brooklyn resident, who is interested in neighborhood preservation and protection. I am currently doing some research on Donald and Mildred Othmer, specifically in relation to their financial donations to Long Island College Hospital. Much of their $130 million donation helped to renovate the former Brooklyn Longshoremen’s Medical Center, which later housed LICH’s School of Nursing. In the last year, developers have bought the location at 340 Court St. in order to build ten town houses and thirty to forty condominium units. The local neighborhood association and neighboring residents have expressed much opposition to the development plans, viewing the construction as a threat to Carroll Garden’s historic preservation.

In recent neighborhood association meetings the topic of the Othmer donation has come up. One member suggested that a part of the donation’s conditions assured that the donated money would be used towards education (hence the nursing school). I see that you wrote a book on the Othmer’s and would greatly appreciate any information you have on the topic. If you don’t have information on the specific terms of the donation, perhaps you can point me in the right direction. Thank you for your help.

Sincerely,

Anne Joseph

Summary of the 12/10/07 Community Meeting

2007-12-13T16:30:00.000-05:00

1. The 340 Court (ILA) site was sold by Beth Israel Hospital (for LICH, one of 5 members of this consortium) to the Clarett Group this fall for $23.5M

2. No public announcement by Clarett to indicate what they will build on the site to date. Lots of conjecture based articles in Crains, local papers, blogs,etc. on their recent projects in downtown Brooklyn, etc.

3. Clarett activity: Anticipating the community's need to know, local electeds met with Clarett reps. Although the private meetings were acknowledged, the info released indicated only that Clarett was going to apply for "quality housing" under current zoning, which means a squat construction on the whole site rather than a needle. Demands for public exchange of info with electeds and Clarett yet unresolved.Steady site prep by sub contractors has included clearing the surface, borings, jackhammering,use of heavy equipment, late night work (etc.-add on here). These actions have produced rat sightings in neighboring yards, water pressure problems, vibrations and resulting cracks in walls and foundations of adjacent homes.

4. Actions taken by residents: calls to the Clarett Group, complaints to 311, calls to local elected officials, appeals to local civic groups for support, networking within the surrounding blocks, forming block associations and presenting issues to the media. Photos of site activity posted on local blogs.

5. Responses: Clarett has responded to the complaints of one neighbor demanding redress for property damage due to site activity. Local electeds have continued the dialogue with Clarett and residents, promising a public meeting. Neighbors have built a network of information and support within the community and are planning actions.