Dear Commissioner Donoghue,

I am writing to express my deep concern about the potential impact of Executive Order 43, which directs city agencies, including NYC Parks, to review city-owned land for potential housing development. 

As a community gardener who has given of my time, labor, and generosity to the city of New York through stewarding our public lands, I am urgently requesting that you issue a clear and immediate public statement with assurance that community gardens will not be considered in this review or jeopardized as a result. 

Community gardens are not vacant lots—they are vital spaces providing critical benefits to New Yorkers, from food security and climate resilience to community health. These gardens have survived previous attempts at development due to the tireless efforts of gardeners and advocates. They cannot afford to face yet another threat.

I look forward to your prompt response.

In community,