By Connor Adams Sheets
Flushing Business Improvement District’s founding executive director Mabel Law resigned Thursday in an unexpected announcement at the group’s meeting.
One of the most visible faces in Flushing’s business community since the BID’s founding in 2003, she has served as an advocate and resource for business owners and residents, but said she feels that it is time for her to move on.
“We’ve come a long way. We’re a small BID with great responsibility, that’s how I’ve always seen it,” she said, before choking back tears to make the announcement. “I too will be moving on. I think that I served the district well for the last seven years.”
Even the BID’s chair, James Gerson, said he was surprised by the news, and a number of board members and business leaders implored her not to leave her directorship.
“We’ve had quite a shock from Mabel,” Gerson said. “She won’t be easily replaced at all.”
But Law rebuffed the pleas, saying that despite abdicating her post she will still work on behalf of Flushing residents. She did not give a reason for her departure.
Gerson said that due to the suddenness of the announcement, the group has not looked into a replacement for her yet.
“I will help our BID find the next director,” Law said. “It will be a smooth transition.”
Reach reporter Connor Adams Sheets by e-mail at csheets@cnglocal.com or by phone at 718-260-4538.
