Last Day To Direct $1M in City Funds to Sunset Park Middle Schools

Charles O. Dewey middle school in Sunset Park. Image via Google Maps

SUNSET PARK, BROOKLYN — As we near the end of 2016’s participatory budgeting vote week, Sunset Park residents only have until April 3 to vote to fund a variety of neighborhood projects.

The list of projects you can vote for depends on your City Council representative. If you live in Sunset Park, you’re probably represented by 38th District Councilman Carlos Menchaca. (But if you’re not sure who your council member is, you can use this online tool to figure it out.)

All of the projects up for a vote in Menchaca’s district, as well as all of the places where you can cast your ballot, are available on this website. Some of the projects especially relevant to Sunset Park include:

• $1,000,000 to upgrade two science labs at the Sunset Park Prep and Charles O. Dewey I.S. 136 middle schools, projects that will help with math and science instruction

• $500,000 for new benches, fencing and picnic tables at Sunset Park

• $375,000 to upgrade several school auditoriums, including those at Sunset Park Prep and Charles O. Dewey I.S. 136

• $450,000 to get new technology installed in school libraries, including the media center in Sunset Park High School’s library

• $120,000 for wiring that is needed for new school air conditioners, including at Public School 1

You do not have to be a registered voter to participate, and anyone 14 and up can cast a ballot. Just bring your ID, a utility bill or some other form of documentation that states your address with you to the polls.

All residents can also vote at Brooklyn Borough Hall, located at 209 Joralemon Street, until April 1. Polls will be open there from 10 a.m. to 5:00 p.m on weekdays.