In a recent government meeting, community members voiced strong opposition to proposed developments that threaten local recreational facilities, particularly the Carmine Street Gym and Dapolito Recreation Center. Concerns were raised about the potential destruction of soccer fields and bocce courts, with one resident emphasizing the need for legal action to protect these vital community spaces.

Jason Cone Williams, a long-time resident and educator, passionately recounted how the gym played a crucial role in his upbringing and the lives of many others, providing a safe haven for youth in a rapidly gentrifying neighborhood. He urged the community to engage local businesses in supporting recreational programs, highlighting the gym's role as a nexus for diverse community interactions.

Alex Bandon, a resident and project manager, echoed sentiments about the architectural significance of the gym, describing it as a living piece of the village's history that serves all demographics. He stressed the importance of preserving such spaces that foster community connections.

Further criticism was directed at the Parks Department, with accusations of neglect and mismanagement regarding the Dapolito Recreation Center's renovations. A resident called for independent inspections of the facility, arguing that the department's oversight has led to its deterioration.

Shelley Warwick, representing a local community organization, emphasized the need for a multi-faceted approach to combat the proposed developments, including lawsuits and petitions. She and others underscored the gym's historical and social importance, advocating for its preservation as a community center.

The meeting concluded with a call for board members to engage in discussions about the future of these facilities, as community members remain determined to protect their neighborhood's recreational spaces from encroaching development.