Build the Block , by Brian Abate

11 people showed up for last month’s Gowanus “Build the Block” meeting.

It began with neighborhood coordination officers Davaughn Clinton and Jerry Antoine introducing themselves and providing updates. Antoine said that there has been an increase in major crimes. Clinton said that there have been a few recent shootings.

“We have also been taking a more aggressive approach to removing abandoned vehicles from the streets,” Antoine said. “We know how tough it is to find parking around here.”

There was an intense discussion about noise. The majority of people in attendance either lived near or worked at Public Records, a hi-fi record bar with food & drink including an intimate performance. The biggest complaint was loud music. Other complaints were about parties and littering.

Officers will continue to monitor the situation closely. Public Records said they cared about their neighbors’ concerns and wanted to be good neighbors. After the meeting, both sides sat down and met with each other to work things out.

Brian Abate