BY BROOKE RUTMAN
Background: John Shehas grew up in Brooklyn Heights, New York. He lived in Brooklyn until he got married. He later moved to Astoria for two years, then moved to Hollis Hills in 1995. He has been residing in Hollis Hills for the past 20 years with his wife and two daughters.
Occupation: Shehas works for the International Brotherhood of Teamsters Local 813. This local union was created more than 50 years ago and is one of the most diverse locals in the country. Working for Local 813, Shehas is the business manager and helps people with their jobs. He has been working in the industry for the past 23 years.
Community Involvement: Shehas has been newly appointed to serve on Community Board 11. He is also a part of both the Safety Committee and Landmark Committee. Being on those committees, he helps to make decisions and give opinions to better the community.
Biggest Challenge: “To do my best to help the community get better and stronger,” Shehas said. “It’s a real great group of people we have, and we really do stick together. Community Board 11 gets it done.”
Greatest Achievement: “There had been a big rain sewer problem,” Shehas said. “There was never rain sewage installed in the area before, so when it rained it would flood. It took about 15 years, but they finally ended up putting sewers in to prevent flooding.”
Last summer there were several robberies that were taking place in the area. Six homes in town had reported that there had been a burglary or an attempted one. The community wanted more lights after these incidents, so with the help of Shehas and Councilman Mark Weprin, they helped the community get more lights in the back of homes.
Biggest Inspiration: “The community and the people,” Shehas said. Being involved with the local union helps him with political challenges. “Between my job and being on Community Board 11, it helps me make the right decisions politically and to better the community.”
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