Adams Responds to Gas Explosion
In the wake of this weekends deadly explosion at 4206 13th Avenue in Borough Park, in which at least one person, a woman who lived in the building, was killed and three passersby were injured, Brooklyn Borough President Eric L. Adams proposed new efforts regarding gas safety.
Initial reports have indicated that a tenant of the building may have caused the blast by not turning off the gas while disconnecting a stove. While stressing the importance of a full investigation to determine the cause of this particular blast, Adams said it is important to proactively educate the public and explore potential legislative solutions to advance gas safety citywide, especially as New Yorkers transition to the winter months and prepare to use gas more regularly to heat their homes.
Photo Credit: Joel Eisdorfer/Brooklyn BP’s Office
“As we mourn those lost and pray for those injured in yesterday’s explosion at Borough Park, we cannot be too hasty in examining how we can prevent any tragedies related to such a scenario from occurring going forward,” said Adams. “Safety around the use of gas in our homes is something we must treat very seriously. In the coming days, I will pursue a dialogue with the City Council to explore this issue and possible policies that would put safety first. I will work with our community leaders to advance important information around gas safety for Brooklynites, centered on the most important rule: if someone thinks they smell gas in a building, they should immediately call 911 and leave the building.”
Adams noted that he is working with Flatlands City Council Member Jumaane D. Williams on a larger investigation of this matter, including a legislative proposal, submitted to the City Council on his request, which would require licensure or certification in order to disconnect, replace, or modify gas line connections between the source and a home appliance such as a hot water heater or stove.
Borough President Adams indicated that he will be placing robocalls this week to Brooklynites in order to remind them about basic gas safety information. Additionally, he will be furthering his ongoing fire safety education outreach around the borough in conjunction with National Fire Prevention Week, which began today, and renewing his call for the creation of the first-ever burn center in Brooklyn.
Lastly, Adams thanked Borough Park community leaders Council Members Brad Lander and David Greenfield, Brooklyn Community Board 12, and local civic organizations, for their partnership in educating the public.
Golden Brings Flanagan To Gerritsen Beach
Bay Ridge State Senator Martin J. Golden will host a walking tour and media availability with New York State Senate Majority John Flanagan in Gerritsen Beach starting at 10:15 a.m. in front of 3078 Gerritsen Avenue.
Golden and Flanagan will be joined by community members representing the Gerritsen Beach Property Owners Association, the Volunteer Fire Department and Gerritsen Beach Cares. The officials and neighborhood leaders will discuss the New York Rising Community Reconstruction Program, the New York City Build It Back Program, overall waterfront resiliency and future storm preparedness.
Gerritsen Beach, which is part of Golden’s district, suffered extensive damage during Super Storm Sandy. Senator Golden has continued to work with homeowners, businesses and all those effected throughout the rebuilding process.
Walker Opens District Office
Brownsville Assembly Member Latrice Walker opened the doors to her district office Saturday to great fanfare. Joining the hard-working lawmakers to cut the ribbon or stop by were Congress Members Yvette Clarke and Hakeem Jeffries, City Comptroller Scott Stringer, Flatbush State Sen. Jesse Hamilton and Assemblywoman Diana Richardson.
“Today I had the opportunity to officially open the doors of the 55th Assembly District Office. As a Junior Assembly Member, it took some time to find the perfect space and I’m glad we are now located in the middle of the district at the heart of our historic business district off Pitkin Avenue. I look forward to meeting, greeting and serving my constituent without obstacles and challenge. And I invite everyone to stop by and check us out,” said Walker.
Harris Gets PBA Endorsement
Pamela Harris, candidate for the 46th Assembly District and a former corrections officer, has been endorsed by the New York City Patrolmen’s Benevolent Association (PBA), representing nearly 50,000 active and retired NYC police officers, is dedicated to public safety.
In announcing the endorsement, PBA President Patrick Lynch said that Harris’ “proven track record and commitment to law enforcement are well recognized.” Additionally, Mr. Lynch stated that “As police officers who face, every day, the chance that we might be called upon to make the ultimate sacrifice, the members of the PBA will be honored to have you representing our members.”
“Thank you to the brave men and women of the NYPD,” said Harris. “To have the support of those who work day in and day out to keep us safe, at a risk to their own safety and well-being, is an honor I take seriously and if elected, I look forward to working with them to make our community better.”
Harris said one of her top priorities is to keep families safe and noted there is too much crime and drugs in the district and families and local businesses deserve someone who will fight to make the streets safer.
The district includes Bay Ridge, Coney Island, Dyker Heights and small slicers of Bensonhurst, Brighton Beach and Bath Beach.
Harris faces Republican Lucretia Regina-Potter in a special election for the open seat on Nov. 3.
Bay Democrats Meeting This Wednesday
Ari Kagan and Margarita Kagan, the 45th Democratic Assembly District Leaders, invite community members to Bay Democrats’ next meeting, at 7 p.m., this Wednesday, October 7 at 2508 Coney Island Avenue, 2nd floor (corner of Avenue V).
In addition to updates from elected officials, judicial candidates and community leaders, Rabbi Moshe Wiener, Executive Director of the Jewish Community Council of Greater Coney Island, and Assemblywoman Roxanne Persaud, the Democratic nominee for the State Senate in the 19th District, will be on the agenda.
The 45th Assembly District includes all or parts of the following communities: Brighton Beach, Manhattan Beach, Sheepshead Bay, Homecrest, Midwood, Gravesend and Marlboro.
For further information call (646) 797-6552.
The 45th Assembly District includes all or parts of the following communities: Brighton Beach, Manhattan Beach, Sheepshead Bay, Homecrest, Midwood, Gravesend and Marlboro.
