After more than a quarter-century of public service, Queen’s Community Board 8 (CB 8) Chairman Alvin Warshaviak is stepping down from the advisory body at the end of next month.
Warshaviak, who spent 25 of his 35 years on the community board as its chairman, which represents the Queens neighborhoods of Briarwood, Flushing South, Fresh Meadows, Hillcrest, Holliswood, Jamaica Estates, Jamaica Hills, Kew Gardens Hills, Pomonok and Utopia, told Queens Borough President Melinda Katz in his resignation letter that he is relocating to Israel to spend more time with his family. In the letter provided to QNS, Warshaviak noted the decision to leave the board “was not an easy decision,” but that he looks forward to retirement.
“I have enjoyed the time spent working on behalf of our community and I sincerely appreciate all the support and respect I received from you, all our elected officials, all the board members and staff,” Warshaviak said. “Community Board 8’s accomplishments over that period of time are the direct result of 50 dedicated board members, staff and elected officials. It has been a true privilege and honor to have worked with an unbelievable group of dedicated members and staff.”
All community board members are unpaid volunteers appointed by the borough president on the advice of the local City Council member. Each board elects among their peers a chairperson as well as other ranking officers comprising the board’s Executive Committee.
Warshaviak’s resignation takes effect on April 30. The board will accept nominations for his successor in April, then hold an election in May.
In a statement, Councilman Rory Lancman hailed Warshaviak as “a friend and mentor” during Lancman’s 16 years on CB 8, adding that he’s had the chairman on “speed-dial to get his guidance on issues both big and small that impact our community.”
“Board 8 has been an effective voice for neighborhood concerns due in no small part to Alvin’s leadership, and his patient but firm hand at the helm these last 25 has helped the board navigate even the most contentious issues with civility and respect,” Lancman said. “Alvin leaves big shoes to fill.”
Marie Adam-Ovide, district manager of CB 8, remarked that Warshaviak was a very diplomatic leader of the board and a “very good boss” to work with.
