Don't sell the people's properties
The bleachers inside Nassau Aquatic Center afford a view of the structure's interior. Credit: James Escher
In the ongoing effort to fill budget holes, the latest trick in the government's hat is to sell or use "surplus" properties ["Public land, private pool," News, May 31]. It doesn't matter which administration. Each government seeks the same quick fix, which ultimately is a long-term loss for the people.
Nassau County Executive Edward Mangano seeks to sell long-term leases for county property at Mitchel Field. Suffolk County is selling off the John J. Foley nursing home and has discussed selling the county's H. Lee Dennison Building ["Plans for Suffolk savings," News, April 27].
As they say in the real estate business, they are not making any more property. The property is the people's property. Other administrations have been able to get by without selling long-term leases or the property itself. The present administrations should consider alternatives, including leasing.
Many governments pass bond acts to acquire properties for open space. Why should we bond acquisitions on one hand, while selling parcels on the other? Substantial parcels of the people's property should only be sold by the people through a public referendum.
Kevin J. O'Brien, Huntington
Out East with Doug Geed: Wine harvests, a fish market, baked treats and poinsettias NewsdayTV's Doug Geed visits two wineries and a fish market, and then it's time for holiday cheer, with a visit to a bakery and poinsettia greenhouses.
