LI needs housing, not more shopping malls

Regarding declining school enrollment on Long Island and subsequent school closings, the problem seems clear ["Special report: Student enrollment falling fast," News, Jan. 5].

Our parents came to Long Island with nothing in the 1950s and were able to buy affordable housing. Taxes were low, families were able to settle here and raise their own children.

These baby boomers stayed because they wanted to give their own children the same wonderful experience. This new generation of children went to the best schools here and came out with an incredible education that helped get them into the finest universities.

Now they have graduated with professional degrees and very high student loans that will not afford them the same opportunities to live here. The price of housing on Long Island and high taxes are pushing our young professionals out.

Think of the possibilities if these wonderful young professionals stayed, and what they could do for our communities. If we want to keep Long Island thriving, we don't need another super shopping mall ["Envisioning a destination center for LI," Business, Jan. 3]. The developers and politicians should meet and help build affordable housing for our new professionals.

Let them settle here, send their children to school here and keep Long Island the incredible place that it is.

Judy Neuman

Plainview