Tell Mayor de Blasio we want the landmarked old P.S. 64/former CHARAS-El Bohio restored and returned to a community and cultural center, not turned into a fake dorm.
Dear Mayor de Blasio:
I strongly urge you to ensure the restoration of the landmarked old P.S. 64/CHARAS-El Bohio Community Center at 605 East 9th Street, and see it returned to a community and cultural center, not turned into a fake dorm.
This historic building has lain fallow and been left open to the elements and allowed to deteriorate for more than a decade and a half by the current owner. He has repeatedly tried to place illegal uses in the building which violate both the spirit and the letter of the restrictive declaration which requires this building be reserved for a community facility. Most recently, he has repeatedly tried to gain approvals for facilities he has called a "dormitory," but which violate city rules regulating dormitories.
It is time for a change. The Landmarks Preservation Commission must take action to require that the building be protected from the elements and restored. And the City should work with community groups and local elected officials to see the building restored to a true community use that will benefit the entire community and be worthy of its proud history as a public school and a vibrant cultural and community center.
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