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July 7, 2026 Hempstead Town Board Meeting
Published: Jul 7, 2026
South Merrick Residents Advocate for Open Access and Removal of 'No Dogs Allowed' Signs at Local Green Space
Residents of South Merrick voiced concerns about the 'no dogs allowed' signs and locked gates at a local green space, arguing it hinders community use and creates safety issues. Barbara Porus and Lori Tand highlighted that the open space, maintained by the parks department, is valuable for community connection, socialization, and dog exercise. They reported that gates are being chained open, contradicting their purpose of ensuring safety, and that 'no dogs allowed' signs are present. They requested the removal of these signs and proper gate operation to allow safe community use. Linda Gotautle also commented on the state of the field, noting its lack of amenities and the problematic practice of chaining gates open, which she interprets as a message of hostility. She requested that the town allow residents to use the green space, which is maintained with taxpayer dollars, and suggested improved gate operation. The Supervisor clarified the meaning of 'chaining the gates open,' and residents explained it involves securing the gates in an open position with a chain, making it impossible to close them. This practice is seen as unsafe, especially for children and dogs, due to proximity to a busy street.
Concerns raised about Hempstead Town Shelter operations, staffing, and consultant qualifications
Christine Fanty, former trainer at Hempstead Town Shelter, discussed her lawsuit against the town's contracted shelter consultant, Diane Madden, where the court found Madden made false statements about Fanty's certifications and credentials. Fanty emphasized the importance of credibility, honesty, and expertise in animal welfare advisors. She expressed concerns about current shelter practices and a recent transfer, citing potential violations of New York Agriculture and Markets Law. Fanty offered to provide information to the board for review and suggested connecting them with a colleague for guidance on modern, evidence-based practices. Lisa Gasparini criticized the Supervisor's response at a previous meeting and addressed issues at the shelter, including concerns about cleanliness, clogged drains, and understaffing, particularly regarding dog handling. She also questioned the qualifications of the town's consultant, Diane Madden, highlighting her lack of formal training and expertise, while praising the current trainer, Julia. Hillary Flanigan also stressed the critical need for adequate staffing at the shelter, stating that current staff are overworked and at risk of burnout, which impacts their ability to provide basic care. She emphasized that volunteers are a support system, not a dependency. Residents are concerned about the well-being of animals and the effectiveness of shelter operations.
Property variance and school dormitory proposal dominate zoning discussions
Christine D'Angelus presented her case regarding a temporary variance for her property at 7 Columbus Avenue in Oceanside, which has been in process for over 15 years. She stated that after navigating the zoning and building departments and completing necessary changes, a temporary variance was finalized in 2023 and sent to the legal department for board presentation. D'Angelus expressed concern as her one-year extension is nearing expiration, and she has been unable to get her item on the calendar for final resolution. Supervisor John Marcone acknowledged the situation, which has been ongoing since at least 2012, and stated he would investigate the remaining issues with her plans in the coming week. Meanwhile, residents Ricky Aarino and Harris Brandt, along with Mindy Frink, are opposing a proposed school with dormitory facilities at 136 Lynen Street and 763 Cedar Lane in Woodmere. They argue that a 24/7 dormitory housing teenage boys is incompatible with their quiet, exclusively residential neighborhood, raising concerns about increased traffic, noise, parking, and safety, especially on narrow streets like Cedar Lane. Brandt commended town employees for issuing summonses and stop work orders for violations but stressed the need for continued enforcement and denial of any variances. Frink echoed these concerns, clarifying that the objection is specifically to the dormitory use, not the religious institution itself, and requested vigilance, transparency, and adherence to zoning laws.
Town Board Reviews Parking, Traffic, and Rezoning Proposals
The Town Board heard public comment regarding a proposed local law to regulate parking in various hamlets, including Baldwin, Belmore, Seafford, and Wanto, and another local law addressing parking or standing prohibitions in several other hamlets. They also discussed proposed local laws regarding arterial stops in specific areas, prohibition of left turns in Baldwin and Woodmere, and bus stops in Merrick. Additionally, a local law concerning gross weight restrictions in Baldwin was mentioned. The board also considered a proposed local law regarding handicap parking on public streets in Belmore, Elmont, and West Hempstead. Separately, a resolution was introduced to call a public hearing on an application by Beachwood 829 Merrick LLC to rezone property in Westbury to a Planned Unit Development (PUD) district, which includes enacting provisions for permitted uses and condominium hotel use within the PUD, and a PUD master plan review and approval.
Residents voice concerns over alleged violations at Islam Center of Nassau
Resident Veronica Petrella raised concerns about the Islam Center of Nassau, alleging violations of building laws, illegal parking, and infringement on residents' rights. She stated that the congregation's overflow parking obstructs residential parking, police have been called without resolution, and the center has cut down trees, built a driveway without a permit, and is using porta-potties and serving food after 11:00 PM. Petrella also mentioned a fire caused by a fallen wire and damage to the church's interior, with code enforcement unable to access the property due to restrictions. Commissioner Danny Leo stated that citations have been issued and further investigations will occur if new violations are alleged. Residents Ruth Miklo and Linda Gotautle followed up on these issues, noting a lack of response to their communications with Commissioner Leo and expressing frustration over the town's handling of alleged violations and enforcement of codes. Saunders also raised concerns about the Islam Center of Nassau, referencing a Board of Appeals decision that commercial HVAC equipment and a trailer were not permitted uses in the residential district, yet these items remain on the property. She noted that an email from the Town of Hempstead Landmark Preservation Society indicated the removal of AC units and a ban on storing materials or parking vehicles, yet photographs show ongoing non-compliance since 2022, including vehicles driving around cement blocks and parking porta-potties.
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The Garden City News archive
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