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Friday, January 11, 2019
Vol. 68, No. 2
SCHOOLS & EDUCATION
CUOMO SWEARS IN KAPLAN
REASSESSMENT DEADLINE EXTENDED
PAGES 29-36
PAGE 2
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Recreational marijuana sales banned in town
AT A L O S S F O R W O R D S
North Hempstead board unanimously passes third in trio of local laws BY JA N E LL E CL AUSEN North Hempstead Town council members voted unanimously to bar the sale of recreational marijuana at a board meeting on Tuesday night, ahead of the state likely deciding to legalize the drug. New York’s Association of Towns does not know of any other towns that have yet done so, said the association’s counsel, Lori Mithen-DeMasi. Town of North Hempstead officials described the move as one that’s responsive to legitimate concerns from the community, as well as a way to send a message to Albany to not rush to legalize recreational marijuana. “I think you could hear from the comments of all the members of this board that we understand very well the responsibility of the board, the responsibility to advocate for what’s important to our constituents and to represent all
your interests and values,” Town Supervisor Judi Bosworth said. “Protecting your children – your children are our children, so we take that very, very seriously, and it’s always something we strive to do,” Bosworth added. “And with that I vote aye.” Town Councilwoman Dina De Giorgio said the decriminalization and legalization of marijuana are “important subjects to be discussed,” especially since lives have been ruined by mere possession. But, De Giorgio cautioned, marijuana and cannabis are “a big business” and elected officials need to guard against companies “that want to profit from the sale of an intoxicant that” she views as “not safe.” “I also hope that other towns and municipalities in the state follow our lead and they send a message to Albany that we want them to do this right,” De Giorgio, who represents Port Washington and Continued on Page 50
PHOTO BY JED HENDRIXSON
Students viewing Christian Melendez’s funeral procession down Armstrong Road last Thursday. See story on page 2.
E.W. Mayor Tanner to not seek re-election BY J E D HENDRIXSON
Tanner, who was appointed to a trustee position following the retirement of his predecessor and East Williston Mayor David has served the last eight years as Tanner is not running for re-elec- mayor, told Blank Slate Media last tion after 21 years on the village’s Wednesday that he will not run for the position again in March. Board of Trustees.
In retiring from his position, Tanner said he hopes younger residents will get involved in the community, both by running for office and committing to volunteer work. Continued on Page 51
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