The study group looked at New Hartford, Conn., and Manhattan, which have had community court systems for several years and both cities claim to have experienced marked quality of life improvements in neighborhoods. Defendants charged with crimes such as prostitution, minor drug possession offenses, loud music, loitering or littering are immediately adjudicated in Community Court where most defendants perform community service activities in the neighborhoods a visible symbol of change to residents. Equally essential is the reestablishment of neighborhood elementary schools, the anchors of neighborhood identity and cohesion, offering services and after-school programs to families who are often removed from their children s schools because of time conflicts and transportation problems. Diversity in all forms is important to the strength of the city, including socio-economic heterogeneity. Ultimately, these proposals will only be realized if the crucial vision is based on the collaboration of the public and private sectors with nonprofit organizations and residents.
Membership is open to all citizens in Central New York.