New York, NY – Today, Congressman Charles B. Rangel praised the creation of a taskforce charged with examining the best practices, policies and procedures with regards to important issues faced by all 12 Bronx community boards. The new taskforce was announced by Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

“I extend heartfelt appreciation and congratulations to Bronx Borough President Diaz on this new initiative. Community boards represent local engagement that is critical to improving the lives of families within the Bronx and New Yorkers at large,” said Rangel. “I am always working hard in Washington to help the people of my city through federal policies, but it takes the entire community to come together and help implement those policies to truly make a difference."

The Bronx is home to 1.4 million residents. The Taskforce will facilitate and streamline communication between community boards and the Borough President. Each month, Community Board District Managers will meet with Borough President Diaz on a monthly basis to streamline policies, discuss and present ideas that directly affect their respective community board, and develop common strategies on issues that concern each board and the borough as a whole.

"It takes true leadership to inspire others to make a difference. The grassroots motivation of President Diaz, community board district managers, and Bronx residents to take charge of their community and make it a better place to live, should serve as a model for all of the boroughs in New York City," Rangel said. "I will continue to do my part in ensuring the success of the taskforce."

The Taskforce will be chaired by Community Board #4 District Manager Jose Rodriguez. A full report on its progress will be released next year.