Comprised of 15 Block Associations and 4 Tenant Associations covering 79 blocks, the Council of Chelsea Block Associations (CCBA) works, they note, “to improve the quality of life for those who live in Chelsea, for those who work in Chelsea, and for those who visit Chelsea.” Bringing its individual members together to achieve common goals that advance the greater good is a buck that stops at the literal and figurative desk of its President–a position to which longtime Chelsea resident Susan Palmer Marshall was recently elected. Chelsea Community News was quick to engage with CCBA’s new leader, yielding the following Q&A.

Scott Stiffler, for Chelsea Community News (CCNews): What past experiences with your career, your own block association, and the CCBA itself might inform the leadership style you’ll bring to the Presidency?

Susan Palmer Marshall (Susan): I’m a woman of action. In my professional life, as Chief Administrative Officer & Partner, I manage operations at LUMA Partners, a leading investment bank for digital media and marketing—and produce high-profile events from the West Coast all the way to France. I’ve learned that it takes a village to excel, and so I foster collaboration to drive meaningful results.

In Chelsea, I serve as Treasurer of my Co-op and Secretary of my Block Association. My experience with my own block association has shown me firsthand the power of grassroots advocacy and the importance of mindful action. Whether it’s pushing for better sanitation, improving pedestrian safety, opposing an unsuitable business opening nearby, addressing a contentious neighbor’s buildout, or tackling other quality-of-life issues, I’ve learned firsthand how a strong, informed, and consistent voice makes a real impact.

My involvement with CCBA has reinforced that lesson—when block associations unite, our collective voice becomes even more powerful. As CCBA’s leader, I will emphasize cooperation and clear communication, to ensure all voices are heard as we work toward common goals. While bringing my own vision and determination to the role, I will also work closely with my fellow Executive Committee members—Vice President Brian Mattlin, Treasurer Thuy Pham, and Secretary Phyllis Waisman—who have already been serving in key leadership positions.

CCNews: What do you hope to accomplish, and what are the priorities?

Susan: As President, my primary focus is ensuring CCBA remains a respected leader, while strengthening its influence within our community and our city. Chelsea is a unique blend of old and new. Traditions like the annual Chelsea Community Church Candlelight Carol Service connect us to our roots, while landmarks like the High Line show how we evolve and grow. We’ll continue to preserve Chelsea’s historic character while striving to keep Meatpacking in Meatpacking. Key priorities include:

—Proactive Advocacy: CCBA must set the agenda on pressing neighborhood issues close to home.

—Tackling Chelsea-Centric Issues: Affordable housing, homelessness, empty storefronts, sanitation, and graffiti (which seems to be everywhere now) are pressing concerns. We will not only raise these issues, but push for concrete solutions with city agencies and elected officials.

—Growing CCBA’s Membership: Encouraging more block and tenant associations to form and join will strengthen our coalition and collective impact.

—Maintaining a Seat at the Table: As a 501(c)(3), CCBA cannot endorse candidates—but we must remain an influential voice for Chelsea. By engaging with elected officials and policymakers, we ensure that community concerns are addressed and hold decision-makers accountable.

—Expanding Public Engagement: In addition to attending Community Board meetings and City Council hearings, we will have a presence at community events. For example, CCBA will have a table at the 6th Avenue Street Fair on May 10th, providing an opportunity for neighbors to connect with us, learn about our initiatives, and get involved.

—Protecting the Underserved: In the current political climate, with equal rights under increasing threat, it’s crucial that our gay and trans neighbors—as well as other underserved groups—know they have our support. We have a trans bar in our neighborhood and I am so fearful of them being ostracized.

—Leveraging Media and Digital Outreach: While CCBA is not currently on social media, I aim to establish a presence to better connect with Chelsea residents, share updates, and rally public support. In the future, I also aim to modernize our website, making it a more effective tool for advocacy and engagement.

Change rarely happens overnight—it requires patience, determination, and meaningful action. Through steady engagement and strategic pressure, we can achieve real results and ensure that Chelsea remains a vibrant, livable, and community-driven neighborhood.

CCNews: Your predecessor (Sally Greenspan, 2022–2024) made the CCBA’s position known on two major local concerns: The proposed Western Rail Yards rezoning that would create office space, housing, and possibly a casino; and a public/private partnership that could demolish every building at NYCHA’s Fulton and Elliott-Chelsea Houses in favor of building anew (market-rate units included). Do you endorse the recent stances CCBA took? What do you see as CCBA’s role in both of these years-long projects?

Susan: Absolutely. Sally Greenspan championed these issues with passion and determination. I fully support CCBA’s continued stance on these and all quality of life concerns. The proposed Western Rail Yards rezoning, particularly the inclusion of a casino, is deeply concerning due to its potential to alter the character of north Chelsea, hinder the High Line, increase congestion, and divert resources from more pressing community needs.

Similarly, while the redevelopment of NYCHA housing must address serious structural issues, we cannot support a plan that demolishes timeworn buildings and replaces them with high-rise steel-and-glass constructs. Tenants deserve safe, modernized homes that respect Chelsea’s character and minimize displacement.

CCBA’s role is to be a persistent and influential advocate for change. We must remain vigilant, ensure transparency, and hold developers and policymakers accountable. Through strategic advocacy and public pressure, we can influence outcomes that align with the best interests of Chelsea residents and beyond. The upcoming WRY public hearing with the City Planning Commission on February 19 is a critical moment for the community to come together, and we must show up in force.

CCNews: When the CCBA takes a public position, how is such a consensus reached, and what might the group as a whole as well as individual block associations do to be more vocal and effective advocates on consensus issues?

Susan: CCBA is a coalition, and reaching a public position involves discussions among our member associations through their delegates who attend our monthly meetings. When a major issue arises, we gather input and determine whether a unified stance can be taken. To be more vocal and effective, we must:

—Strengthen Communication: Every block and tenant association should be fully informed on key issues and have a direct line to share concerns.

—Expand Public Engagement: A stronger presence at Community Board meetings, City Council hearings, and town halls will amplify our voice.

—Leverage Media and Digital Outreach: As we expand our digital presence, we’ll use these platforms to amplify CCBA’s positions and rally public support.

—Encourage Direct Advocacy: Individual block associations and residents should have the tools—talking points, letter templates, and direct contacts—to engage effectively on important issues.

This is also an exciting time for CCBA as we prepare for a rebrand that reflects our commitment to progress and community strength. Together, we can honor Chelsea’s past and shape its future.

What we do matters. Our work extends beyond us, touching the lives of people we may never know. I believe the strength of CCBA lies in its collective vision—a vision I am committed to leading as the new President of the Council of Chelsea Block Associations. My husband, Sandy Marshall (a Broadway Producer and 51-year Chelsea resident), is already gearing up for his role as First Gentleman.

To contact the CCBA via email, click here.

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