Friday, October 11, 2024
Vol. 1, No. 7
THE GATEWAY TO NASSAU COUNTY SERVING FLORAL PARK, BELLEROSE AND STEWART MANOR AN EDITION OF THE GARDEN CITY NEWS
Schools propose bond to modernize aging HVAC system
SCHOOL BOARD APPRECIATION
BY KASSARA MCELROY During the October 10th meeting of the Floral Park - Bellerose Board of Education, the board heard a presentation on a proposed $28 million bond referendum for infrastructure improvements. The presentation by Campbell Cassetta Architects, Energia Engineering, and district auditors focused on issues with the district’s aging steam heating and cooling systems nearing 100 years old. The district has spent heavily on repairs, a strategy that is “simply not sustainable,” according to administrators. The proposed heating system conversion and potential air conditioning upgrades aim to “enhance comfort, safety, and efficiency” for students and educators, pending community support through the bond referendum. Evaluations of current steam systems were unsatisfactory, and the recommendation is for new hydronic heating systems, which are more energy-efficient, have a longer lifespan, distribute heat evenly, and require lower maintenance. The project is planned over multiple years, with critical work set for the summer to minimize disruptions. The work will be separated into four phases beginning August 2026-June 2028. The estimated project cost is $16 million for FP-B and
The Floral Park-Bellerose Union Free School District Board of Education was honored by students during a recent meeting. See page 2.
Following complaints, Village Board steps in BY RIKKI MASSAND At recent meetings, the Floral Park Village Board of Trustees was approached by residents concerned about unsanitary conditions and lack of property maintenance at a home in the village. Neighbors reported that the situation has worsened significantly this year, leading to public safe-
ty risks, health hazards, and a decline in neighborhood aesthetics, which they say is impacting property values. One family expressed concern about exposing their children to obscene or unsanitary public acts during their daily walk to school. Additionally, residents complained about foul odors from the property, citing it as a public
health risk. Upon hearing these concerns, Mayor Kevin Fitzgerald and the trustees immediately directed village staff, including the Building Department, Police Department, and the Village Administrator’s office, to inspect the property and document any visible violations. At the October 1st Village See page 4
See page 4
Free Sample We'd like to introduce you to Floral Park's newest newspaper! Over the next few weeks we will be mailing free copies of our print edition to homes in town. We hope you like it! To learn how to subscribe, or to contribute material, please see page 8
FISH celebrates 53 years of service PAGE 3 Urban Explorers visit historic tavern PAGE 11