In a recent government meeting, discussions surrounding the proposal for the National Register listing of the Washington Heights Dominican Cultural Historic District revealed a significant divide within the community. As of the morning of the meeting, officials reported receiving 27 objections and 37 public comments opposing the district's nomination, alongside 45 letters of support. The volume of public feedback has prompted a thorough categorization and response effort from the survey and National Register staff.

Key concerns raised by opponents include allegations of inadequate community outreach, flaws in the public information process, and a perceived failure to acknowledge the district's diversity. Additionally, some comments expressed apprehension regarding the politicization of the district's name, which has led to misinformation and confusion about the initiative and previous political efforts to rename the Washington Heights neighborhood.

The board emphasized that the notification process for historic districts adheres to established protocols, extending to property owners within the proposed boundaries and supplemented by outreach from the nomination's sponsors. Efforts to clarify misinformation have included distributing the nomination document to those who commented and posting it online.

Supporters of the nomination highlighted the contributions of the Dominican community in Washington Heights, with letters of endorsement coming from a diverse array of community members, politicians, and civic organizations. The meeting concluded with a call for public comment, allowing community members to voice their opinions within a structured timeframe, underscoring the ongoing dialogue surrounding this culturally significant initiative.