Queens Community Board 11 (CB 11) held its monthly meeting on Feb. 3, where members of the local community and elected officials gathered to discuss pressing updates, concerns, and initiatives within the district.
CB 11 represents neighborhoods in northeastern Queens, including Bayside, Bay Terrace, Douglaston, Flushing, Little Neck, and the surrounding areas.
The virtual Zoom session provided an opportunity for community members to engage directly with board members and city representatives on various issues, including property taxes, local campaigns, and upcoming events.
The meeting was led by CB 11 Chairman Paul DiBenedetto and District Manager Joseph Marziliano, who began the session by inviting community members to voice their concerns or suggestions for the board’s consideration. Following this, announcements from elected officials highlighted ongoing community initiatives, including Council Member Edward Braunstein’s Valentine’s for Vets campaign, which runs through Feb. 7, and Council Member Vickie Paladino’s sponsorship of a mobile animal adoption event at the Bay Terrace Shopping Center in Bayside on Feb. 15.
The main presentation of the evening was delivered by Kiernan Mahoney, the Department of Finance’s Director of Outreach, who provided valuable information for homeowners preparing for the upcoming tax year. Mahoney reviewed the details of the annual property value notice, which will be mailed to homeowners in the coming weeks. He explained that while this document informs property owners of the city’s assessment for the tax season, it can often be confusing, and his team works to clarify any questions residents may have.
Mahoney outlined the contents of the notice, how homeowners should fill out the forms, and how the city calculates property values for tax purposes. He also offered guidance on how homeowners can request a reassessment if they disagree with the city’s evaluation. Mahoney encouraged residents to participate in outreach events with local elected officials, including one scheduled for Feb. 10 with Senator John Liu at the Hillcrest Jewish Center, where homeowners can meet in person with representatives from the NYC Department of Finance.
“Even if you don’t come to the events, I would still strongly encourage you to go online, apply for these exemptions, and take advantage of them,” said Mahoney. “If you don’t qualify yourself, get your neighbors to take advantage of these exemptions too.”
The next Queens Community Board 11 meeting will take place on Monday, March 3, 2025.