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Read the press release here.

Want to Be a Community Board Member in Manhattan? Apply Now

By Irene Plagianos | December 22, 2014 3:17pm
 Former Community Board 2 Chairman David Gruber at a press conference in Greenwich Village.
Former Community Board 2 Chairman David Gruber at a press conference in Greenwich Village.
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DNAinfo/Danielle Tcholakian

MANHATTAN — If your New Year’s resolution is to get more involved in the community, this may be for you.

The Manhattan Borough President’s Office is now accepting applications for community board membership. The deadline to apply for the volunteer position is Jan. 30.

There are 12 community boards throughout Manhattan, made up of 50 members who each serve a two-year term. Applicants, who must be at least 16-years-old, need to live or work in the neighborhood where they are applying.

“A community board is really the bedrock of city democracy,” said CB1 chairwoman Catherine McVay Hughes. “It’s where the public can engage in important things that affect and shape their community.”

Information about how to apply can be found on Borough President Gale Brewer’s website.

Last year, 550 people applied for 311 spots in Manhattan, including those who were reapplying for their seats. Board members are chosen by Brewer and local City Council members.

Community boards have an advisory role in liquor license approvals, land-use matters and other city issues.

McVay Hughes recommends attending community board meetings before applying.

“Get active in your community board, become involved, and you’ll see what the process is like,” she said. “It’s a lot of work, but it's very, very rewarding.”