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CEC 28 calls for mandatory colocation agreements after reports of unequal access in colocated buildings; resolution passes unanimously
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Summary
Council members described problems in colocated buildings — including a photo shown of a water dispenser used by 500 students — and passed a resolution urging mandatory, collaboratively produced colocation agreements to guarantee equitable access to shared facilities for District 75 students.
Community Education Council 28 unanimously approved a resolution asking the New York City Department of Education to require mandatory colocation agreements that are collaboratively developed with District 75 administrators, parent leaders and staff to ensure equitable access to shared facilities, schedules and opportunities for colocated schools.
Quentin Mezzetine (council president) and other members described a recent example from PS 140 where, they said, the building’s water fountains were not in service and staff were using auxiliary jugs to supply water for roughly 500 students in the building. The sponsor said that the image shown during the meeting illustrated how colocated District 75 students can be provided fewer resources or limited access to shared spaces.
The resolution asks the DOE to make colocation agreements mandatory and collaboratively developed; it also calls for the resolution to be shared with the Panel for Education Policy, the DOE chancellor’s office, relevant elected officials and neighboring CECs. Members argued the change would promote dignity, safety and inclusion for District 75 students who occupy colocated space.
During public discussion, Adriana (a meeting participant who identified herself as a parent/advocate) asked whether the resolution was intended to supplement building‑level building utilization plans (BUPs). The sponsor and other members said the resolution is intended to ensure that BUPs and other planning tools are developed and enforced with District 75 administrators and stakeholders at the table and that the language can be clarified to reference existing BUP processes if necessary.
The council voted by roll call and recorded unanimous passage, 11–0. The resolution will be transmitted to the DOE and other named bodies for advocacy and follow‑up.
