March 2025 is shaping up to be a dynamic month filled with events ranging from local community activities on Sanibel Island to significant geopolitical discussions surrounding Ukraine and housing issues.
At the forefront of local happenings, the New York City Housing Calendar is spotlighting various key events and hearings related to housing and land use. On Monday, March 3, at 1 p.m., the City Planning Commission will convene for review sessions on several land use applications, including the rezoning of sites at 1946 East 7th Street and 2201-2227 Neptune Avenue among others.
Simultaneously, the New York State Senate’s Committee on Housing, Construction and Community Development is set to meet for discussions on housing-related bills on the same day at 11 a.m. Later, on March 4, advocacy groups including Citizen Action and Community Voices Heard will travel to Albany to push for increased resources for public housing as part of this year’s state budget.
Following this, important meetings will continue through March 5, with the City Planning Commission holding public meetings, and the Department of Housing, Preservation and Development offering online workshops for property owners focused on pest management. Also scheduled is the NYC Council’s Subcommittee on Zoning and Franchises meeting on March 6, where discussions will be held about the proposed Metropolitan Park development.
Meanwhile, those seeking affordable housing should be aware of several lotteries closing soon, including the 2605 Snyder Avenue Apartments and the 1615 Cedar Street Apartments, with income eligibility ranging widely for potential applicants.
Across the ocean, the geopolitical stage is equally active with events surrounding Ukraine. On March 6, European Union leaders will gather at what is anticipated to be an transformative summit focusing on Ukraine’s integration within Europe and the shared security of the region. The recent tensions highlighted by the controversial Trump-Zelensky meeting have signified not only strained relations but also the necessity for Europe to step up and take charge of its defense and humanitarian responsibilities with Ukraine finding itself less dependent on the United States.
Coinciding with this, on March 4, webinars will focus on Ukraine's energy sector aimed at rebuilding resilience, organized by the U.S.-Ukraine Business Council. The Luxembourg-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce will hold its 3rd Business Forum titled "Ukraine Resilience" on March 5, emphasizing the need for policymakers and businesses to come together to fortify support for Ukraine amid the challenges posed by the conflict.
Switching gears, the Santiva Islanders community on Sanibel Island has scheduled numerous events throughout the month. A walking group is slated to meet on March 5 for exploration of the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, with breakfast following at Over Easy Cafe. Fitness enthusiasts can partake in the Cardio & Strength sessions offered throughout the week as well. Other regular gatherings such as Social Bridge and Social Mahjong will also be held on March 6, providing community members with opportunities to connect and engage with one another.
This week, Board meetings and public discussions on Sanibel are taking place, with social hours and events scheduled mostly throughout the week at various local venues. Notably, Saturday Brunch is set for March 8 at The Dunes Clubhouse, marking another fine opportunity for residents and visitors alike to come together and enjoy the community ambiance.
Lastly, historical sites are also welcoming visitors, with Mount Vernon hosting specialty tours and engaging programming for those eager to learn more about American history. Tickets for these tours are available at the Ford Orientation Center. With the programming subject to change, guests are encouraged to check regularly for updates.
This amalgamation of events throughout the month showcases the communal, humanitarian, and diplomatic commitments occurring at various levels. Whether you are housing advocate, concerned with the global scene, or just wanting to engage with your local community on Sanibel Island, March promises to offer meaningful opportunities for all involved to partake and contribute.