Anger over Port Washington housing plan
North Hempstead council members were confronted early Wednesday by more than 120 people mostly opposed to a proposed Port Washington complex for moderate-income seniors.
A vote on the issue was put off until the next meeting March 8. More than 40 people spoke by midnight.
The North Hempstead Housing Authority proposed the three-story complex with 48 one-bedroom apartments and underground parking near Port Washington Boulevard and Harbor Road. It would sit on land owned by the authority near the Harbor Homes affordable-housing complex. A basketball court, long fenced off because of crime, is on the site now.
"It's like any other housing that's ever proposed," authority executive director Sean T. Rainey said. "There's always people who come out in great numbers to oppose."
Resident Joseph DiBenedetto said taking a park from underprivileged children was unfair and asked the town to deny the request.
"I'm sorry if people feel angered by that, but the housing authority cannot maintain park land," Rainey said. "We don't have the resources."
Residents 55 and older who make 50 to 60 percent of the area's median income of $103,000 would be eligible to rent the 680-square-foot units, he said.
Opponents say the complex would add traffic to a congested area and reduce open space.
The meeting had tense moments. Town Supervisor Jon Kaiman spoke about an obligation to fulfill the housing authority's mission while finding a balance for the community.
Many of those against the complex live at Harbor Homes and spoke fondly of growing up there. "It was our place and we would like it to remain our place," said Ray Ross, 55. "For you to take it away from us, it would be a shame."
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