"The next bill before me is Introductory Number 585, sponsored at the request of the Administration by Council Members Weprin, Gentile, Gioia, Sears and the Public Advocate, Betsy Gotbaum.  This bill establishes the Sunnyside Business Improvement District in the Borough of Queens.

"This new Business Improvement District will serve 92 properties within the boundaries of all properties fronting Queens Boulevard from 38th Street to 50th Street; Greenpoint Avenue from 42nd Street to 48th Street; and South Roosevelt Avenue from 48th Street to 50th Street.  The budget for the first year of operation is $300,000.

"Business Improvement Districts, also known as "BIDs," are voluntarily formed community organizations that promote business development and improve the quality of life in neighborhoods across the City.  Established by local law, BIDs are self-funded by local property owners and are overseen by the City's Department of Small Business Services.

"The Sunnyside BID, the 13th established under our Administration, will provide maintenance and sanitation services, security services, marketing and promotion of local businesses, holiday lighting, economic development, beautification and landscaping.  The services provided to the community are essential to ensuring that small businesses, and the neighborhoods in which they operate, are given every opportunity to succeed.

"I would like to thank Small Business Services Commissioner Rob Walsh and his staff for their role in establishing this BID.  I also want to acknowledge the important contributions of the members of the Sunnyside BID Steering Committee and the City Council."