AI 2018 Business Excellence Awards

Acquisition International - 2018 Business Excellence Awards 25 BE180070 Best Socio-Economic Community Development Program 2018 FlatbushNostrand Junction BID A Business Improvement District, or BID, enables local property owners, businesses and residents to finance supplemental services and improvements beyond those already provided by the City of New York. It is defined by the property owners and businesses and depends on local community support. BIDs are funded by special assessments levied against properties within the district. BIDs are voted in by property owners and businesses, and fund services and projects beneficial to the district’s properties, businesses, employees and customers. Kenneth explores his role as Executive Director of the Flatbush Nostrand Junction BID. “Personally, I am responsible for maintaining the vibrancy and visual appeal of Brooklyn’s Flatbush Junction commercial district. To accomplish this goal, I work tirelessly to build and maintain partnerships with businesses, organizations, and the community of residents / students. Also by tapping on their strengths and creative talents I am able to help them drive success in our region. “Over the years, we have been able to create a vibrant commercial district, attract and maintain diverse retail and professional interests and keep vacancy low i.e. below 3%, in spite of the challenging retail environment. These impressive achievements have been the result of our collaborative approach and commitment to excellence for our community. Success is about fostering human relationships in private and public spaces and maintaining a sustainable business environment. I attribute my own personal success to being an avid listener and surrounding myself with people with diverse disciplines and cultures.” The BID’s mantra covers real estate, economic and community development, and working with various interests the public and private sectors to create economic value. Kenneth explores how the BID works to ensure that these areas all receive the support they need to achieve growth and success. “Our strategy involves applying non-traditional initiatives in addressing economic development challenges. We are recognized for applying art + design as a platform to initiate discussion and solve problems. It is a less intimidating route to get our clients comfortable with thinking outside the box and embracing new approaches. In a commercial district with history that goes back to the 1650’s, played a key role in the American Revolution and with a diverse immigrant population, it is important to be flexible in one’s approach to problem solving.” Moving forward, there is much still to come for Flatbush Nostrand Junction, as Kenneth is excited to conclude. “Looking ahead, I see a future where the community dictates the types of retail businesses they want in their commercial districts. Through more efficient communication methods with real estate interests and crowdfunding opportunities, they would be able to invest in and support the businesses, as they would have a financial and personal stake in the creation of sustainable business environments. This is an exciting prospect which I look forward to facilitating over the years to come.” Brooklyn’s Flatbush Nostrand Junction is a vibrant and exciting region boasting many invigorating developments. We invited Kenneth Mbonu, the Executive Director of the Flatbush Nostrand Junction BID, to share a fascinating insight into his work and how it impacts on the local community. Company: Flatbush Nostrand Junction BID Contact: Kenneth Mbonu Address: Boylan Hall Rm 1407 2900 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn, New York, 11210, USA Phone: 001718 951-5000 x1449 Website: www.exploreflatbush.com