Brooklyn is divided into 18 community districts, each represented by a community board made up of up to 50 unsalaried members appointed by the borough president, with recommendations from City Council members. Board members reflect the diversity of their neighborhoods and serve two-year terms. Community boards act as an official advisory link between residents, City Hall, and municipal agencies. While they do not pass laws, their recommendations carry significant weight in decisions affecting land use, zoning, public safety, transportation, housing, parks, sanitation and economic development.