vote
Michael cohn for east river coop board

For more than 20 years, I have proudly called the Lower East Side home. This neighborhood represents everything I value: authenticity, diversity, and a true sense of community. Before moving here, I often visited and cared for my grandmother, Rachel Birchman, one of the original Cooperators. Her deep commitment to this Co-op shaped how I see community as something we build and protect together.

Although I was born and raised in Bologna, Italy, I have spent most of my life here in the LES. For over 15 years, I have worked as a creative marketing director, bridging businesses, artists, and local organizations to strengthen the fabric of our community. My work has always centered on bringing people together and creating impact through efficiency, resourcefulness, and partnership. I know how to achieve meaningful results without unnecessary costs by identifying smarter solutions and maximizing existing resources.

When the pandemic hit, I shifted my focus to helping people on a more personal level as a health and fitness coach. That experience reinforced the importance of listening, empathy, and problem-solving, qualities I will bring to my role as a Board Member.

If elected, my goal is to build a more connected, transparent, and responsive Co-op by focusing on three key priorities:




  1. Transparency: Create more clarity around funding, decision-making, and Board priorities so every Cooperator understands how and why decisions are made.

  2. Quality of Life: Improve safety, cleanliness, and mail operations through smarter, more efficient use of resources to ensure residents feel secure and supported.

  3. Collaboration: Establish stronger communication and trust between Cooperators, Management, and the Board to make sure every voice is heard and valued.

I believe in the Golden Rule: treat others as you wish to be treated, and treat your building as you would your home. The stronger our connection as neighbors, the stronger our Co-op will be. Together, we can continue to build a community that reflects the pride, care, and respect we all share for this neighborhood while being thoughtful and efficient stewards of its resources.

Thank you for your consideration. I would be honored to represent our community and work together to make our Co-op the best it can be for everyone.

I look forward to hearing what makes your ER Coop experience great and how I can contribute to making it even better.
COHNMICHAEL@GMAIL.COM