Dear Neighbors,
We realize that our Autumn Newsletter is a bit delayed, but then so too is the season. While we are enjoying the beautiful Indian summer, we know the falling leaves and colder temperatures are not too far ahead. It has been a busy summer, though.
Of course, we had a great Street Fair. I’d like to thank the team who was responsible for the planning and execution. Particular thanks go to Janet Bevers for her outstanding coordination of the entire event. Trustee Rich Pallisco was also a key to the fair’s success. Tom Gannon and the DPW crew were on hand to execute the plan and do the amazing job of cleaning up Jericho Turnpike at the end of the day. I would also like to thank Northwell Health for partnering with us once again. It was great to see so many neighbors at New Hyde Park’s annual block party.
We also had a great season in the parks. In addition to the concerts and shows, I was delighted to see so many residents using our parks. We revised the rules for use of the tennis and basketball courts to make sure the facilities are used in a way that is safe and harmonious. As a result, Nuzzi Park has seen a return of young children using the kiddie park accompanied by parents and grandparents. The Village Board is considering different options for repurposing the basketball court at Nuzzi Park for a use that is more conducive to the playground and sensitive to the neighboring homes.
This summer we have also stepped up enforcement of property maintenance with a full-time resource in the Building Department. I think there is a notable difference in residential area
s and along Jericho Turnpike. This is an ongoing effort that we will continue to manage. The additional resource will also allow us to devote more attention to pursuing suspected illegal rentals. We recently passed a local law that prohibits short term rentals such as those advertised on sites like Airbnb. Residents are reminded that all long-term home rentals must be registered with the Village.
The external auditors also completed their audit of the year end financials. I am happy to report that we finished the year (ending May 31, 2017) with a slight surplus of 2.3%. This resulted from a reduction in budgeted spending. The surplus will add to our fund balance; our insurance against emergency expenses.
Our overall fiscal condition will be further helped by accessing some of the funds I negotiated from the State during talks about the third track. We will be using the first installment of th
e $800,000 promised for roads for this year’s program. These state funds will allow us to redirect approximately $350,000 we had earmarked for the road program to finance other needed projects that will continue to make New Hyde Park a great place to live.
Of course it would not be a great place if not for the courageous service of our veterans. We are humbled to honor our veterans on Veterans Day and every day.
Lastly, I wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving and a very pleasant Fall – if it ever comes.
Sincerely,
Mayor Lawrence Montreuil