Community Boards... How to use them?

I found Kensington's local community boards on www.NYC.gov the question is... how to use them? I think some garbage cans on Caton and McDonald as well as other larger improvements (new lampposts and benches at the bus stop) would give the area a first step in the right direction but can they help with things like that? I'll write to them and start exploring it but in the meantime if you have any information on how these things work please write to me directly or in the comments section.

Brooklyn Community Board 12
5910 13th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11219
Phone: 718.851.0800 Fax: 718.851.4140
Email: bklcb12@optonline.net

Chair: Mr. Alan J. Dubrow District Manager: Mr. Wolf Sender
Board Meeting: Fourth Tuesday Cabinet Meeting: Third Tuesday (every other month)

Brooklyn Community Board 14
810 East 16th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11230-3010
Phone: 718.859.6357 Fax: 718.421.6077
Email: bklcb14@optonline.net

Chair: Mr. Alvin M. Berk District Manager: Ms. Terry Rodie
Board Meeting: Second Monday Cabinet Meeting: First Wednesday (every other month)