In a recent community board meeting, members expressed strong opposition to the potential demolition of the D'Apolito Center, clarifying that there has been a misunderstanding regarding their stance. Several board members emphasized the need to communicate clearly with the city to ensure that it is understood they have not approved any plans for demolition.

The discussion arose after concerns were raised that the Parks Department mistakenly believed the community board had sanctioned the demolition of the center. Board members unanimously agreed that they support the preservation of the building and expect a verified engineering report from the city to confirm that it cannot be feasibly saved.

The meeting highlighted the importance of maintaining focus on the landmark status of the D'Apolito Center, with members cautioning against allowing discussions about new building proposals to overshadow the preservation efforts. They reiterated that any previous discussions about a recreation center were not linked to a proposal for demolishing the existing structure.

Members also noted that the Parks Department had first introduced the term \"demolition\" during a joint meeting, which led to public misconceptions about the board's position. They clarified that their advocacy was solely for the inclusion of a recreation facility in a new affordable housing development, not for the destruction of the D'Apolito Center.

As the board prepares for a meeting on September 30, they aim to solidify their position and ensure that the community's voice is heard in the preservation of the historic building.