MOHAMED FARGHALY
mfarghaly@queensledger.com
Residents of Middle Village gathered at Trinity Lutheran Church on November 20 for the monthly meeting of the Middle Village Residents Association, discussing local concerns ranging from flood mitigation to proposed IBX transit stops in the area.
Paul Pogozelski, president of the association, opened the meeting by welcoming residents and updating the community on proposed improvements to Juniper Valley Park. He introduced plans for new pickleball courts, explaining that the additions would provide more recreational opportunities for residents of all ages while ensuring the park’s summer concert series remains intact. Pogozelski emphasized the community-focused approach, saying the courts would complement, not replace, existing activities. He also encouraged residents to participate in ongoing discussions about park development and other local initiatives.
Councilman Robert Holden followed with remarks on the IBX transit project and its potential impact on Middle Village. He expressed strong concerns about the expedited land use process, which he said relies on a three-person board making housing decisions without broader community input. “We’re like a small town in a big city,” Holden said. “The process is bypassing us, and the neighborhood doesn’t get a real voice in these decisions.” He warned that the IBX stop could strain local infrastructure, increase traffic, and fundamentally alter the character of the area. Holden called for more careful planning and greater resident involvement before any project moves forward.
Newly elected Councilman Phil Wong took the stage later in the meeting, thanking residents who supported his campaign and pledging continuity in city services. Wong invited current council office staff members to remain on board and said training for council staff would begin soon.
Adam, a representative from Congresswoman Grace Meng’s office, updated residents on upcoming events and congressional work in Washington. He addressed community concerns about flood mitigation, noise pollution, and aircraft noise. Meng’s office plans to send a letter to the IBX team requesting attention to environmental and safety concerns.
John, from the office of Senator Joseph Addabbo, discussed the state’s ongoing IBX survey, encouraging residents to submit responses online or in person. “If Everyone’s against it, let them know, and hopefully that will carry some weight,” John said.
Pogozelski emphasized that residents needed to complete the survey and reach out to their elected officials, warning that about 250 homes could theoretically be removed from Maspeth under the current IBX proposal. John also highlighted available rain barrels at Addabbo’s office for residents seeking flood mitigation assistance and reminded the community about the Self Help service, which provides medical transportation for those in need at 718-429-3636.
During the meeting, a community member raised concerns about ongoing fraud affecting elderly residents in the neighborhood, particularly involving stolen or “washed” checks from local post office mailboxes. The issue, which has persisted for years, includes mail being intercepted and altered before reaching recipients, leaving victims without their expected funds. A representative from Congresswoman Grace Meng’s office was mentioned as having limited involvement, often referring complaints to other agencies, leaving residents feeling the issue is largely unaddressed. Meeting participants highlighted that the problem extends beyond the elderly, affecting residents broadly, and stressed the need for federal action and accountability to prevent further financial harm.
The meeting also touched on staffing changes in the council office. Pogozelski asked whether Alicia Vaichunas, a former council opponent, would join Wong’s team, though Vaichunas said the decision would be announced soon.
Closing the meeting, Walter Sanchez, chairman of Community Board 5, announced that applications for board membership would be available in the first week of December. Sanchez encouraged residents to get involved in local decision-making, noting the importance of community participation in shaping neighborhood priorities.
