NEIGHBORHOOD CHAT TRANSCRIPT
Thursday, June 21, 2001
Speaker: Councilman James Darcy
Thu Jun 21, 2001 07:51:40 PM> MODMSG MODERATOR: Good Evening! We will begin the chat in five minutes. Thanks for joining us tonight
Thu Jun 21, 2001 07:59:19 PM> MODMSG Walter: Of the several political positions that you have held, which has given you the greatest satisfaction and why?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:00:07 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: I would say to this point being the mayor of valley stream because I had direct control...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:00:27 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: over making changes in the community.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:00:30 PM> MODMSG sunshine: I heard that you are helping holocaust survivors get releif for their suffering. why did you get involed with this and how can i find out more information?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:01:01 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: Well, I think that it is important for us to get word out...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:01:19 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: on programs that are available for victims of the holocaust...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:01:37 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: for general information call 1-888-635-5483
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:01:56 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: or 1-800-957-3203.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:02:01 PM> MODMSG Suzanne: my sister and her husband just bought a house in harbor isle and they seem to have an insect problem. would the town be able to spray to the are to get rid of the bugs?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:02:18 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: It is possible...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:02:26 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: I would need more details...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:02:52 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: They could call my office at 489-4000, ext.3200 and ask for Andrew.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:02:55 PM> MODMSG Suzanne: what do you think your next political move might be?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:03:17 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: I don't have any plans right now other than doing the best I can at the town council level.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:03:23 PM> MODMSG Suzanne: do you have to be jewish to receive holocaust relief? or just be a survivor?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:03:49 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: You do not have to be Jewish, it applies to all survivors.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:04:00 PM> MODMSG Joe M.:Councilman, a question regarding the Town's facilities? Are there any plans to have them upgraded?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:04:10 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: Yes, most definitely...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:04:29 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: We have recently passed resolutions to do major road work, parking lot work, and park work throughout the town.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:04:42 PM> MODMSG sunshine: do you think that having a law degree is valuable to someone who is in politics?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:04:51 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: Yes I do..
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:03:05 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: I think it gives you a unique perspective on the issues that come before you...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:03:17 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: I don't think it is absolutely necessary to have a law degree...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:03:26 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: but I do think it gives me an advantage.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:03:30 PM> MODMSG Julie: Does your office offer any internship opportunities for college students?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:03:40 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: Yes...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:03:57 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: for details call 489-500, ext. 3200 and ask for Andrew.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:03:01 PM> MODMSG eagle: Councilman, I live in an incorporated village within your district. can you tell me what you can do for me as a Town Councialman.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:03:12 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: First off...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:03:18 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: I see my role as a town Councilman...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:03:33 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: serving an area with a lot of incorporated villages as two-fold..
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:03:36 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: First...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:03:01 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: I believe I serve as an ombudsman helping people interface with the various levels of government...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:03:04 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: Secondly...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:03:27 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: I am trying to work on cooperative agreements between the towns and the villages in effort to save tax dollars.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:03:32 PM> MODMSG marigold: what future plans does the town have to add new parks?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:03:43 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: Well..
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:03:54 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: As far as new parks, I am not aware of any set plans...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:03:10 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: We just opened the new Senator Levy Park in Merrick...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:03:52 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: Supervisor Guardino is very committed to preserving open space and to improving the facilities that we currently have.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:03:45 PM> MODMSG Enrique: Considering the rising gas prices in our area, do you have any plans in the near future to combat this?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:03:15 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: Well, the town really doesn't have jurisdiction over this issue...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:03:35 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: I am aware that the state legislators are trying to come up with plans to lower gasoline prices...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:10:01 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: As a town council person, I lobby our state legislators and state officials to try to give relief to our citizens.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:10:15 PM> MODMSG duke: I heard that you mailed out a "do not call mailing" how can I sign up?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:10:37 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: To sign up for the "do not call" registry...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:11:16 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: either contact my office, 489-5000, ext. 3200 or call the New York State Consumer Protection Board at 1-800-NYS-1220.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:11:18 PM> MODMSG marigold: does the town have any jursdiction over jones beach?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:11:25 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: No...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:11:52 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: Jones Beach is a state park, for issues concerning Jones Beach, I would suggest contacting the state park department.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:11:54 PM> MODMSG DCfan: I know your experience as an elected official has been as a tax cutter, can you tell me what Town residents may come to expect from next year's budget?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:12:32 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: Once again, Supervisor Guardino has presented a budget holding the line on taxes...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:13:02 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: zero increase in the general tax levy and he has indicated that he is committed to do so again next year.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:13:08 PM> MODMSG marigold: would your office be able to provide a list of reputable gas stations with the best prices?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:13:19 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: No...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:13:43 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: if anybody were able to do so I would think the Nassau County of Consumer Affairs in Mineola might be able to do so.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:13:48 PM> MODMSG LannyU: Does the town remove dead branches from trees that pose a hazard of falling onto the sidewalk if the tree is in zione between the street and the sidewalk?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:14:16 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: I would need more details...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:14:34 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: Please call my office, 489-5000, ext. 3200 and speak to Andrew.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:14:38 PM> MODMSG marigold: what is your next most pressing issue?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:15:05 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: I would say the most pressing issue at the town level...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:15:14 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: is building off of fiscal success...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:15:42 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: that Supervisor Guardino had by making improvements through our town facilities.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:15:45 PM> MODMSG Julie: Do you feel the local food service industry is being properly monitored for health conditions, and if not, what do you recommend?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:16:14 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: I do think that they are being properly monitored as evidence by the...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:16:53 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: recent situation with the five restaurants in Nassau County and the quick response of Nassau County in that situation.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:16:57 PM> MODMSG MODERATOR: The next question has two parts.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:17:00 PM> MODMSG duke: What is a bond rating?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:17:02 PM> MODMSG JOE I:WHY IS THE TOH BOND RATING BETTER THAN OTHER TOWNS IN THE COUNTY????
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:17:14 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: First part...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:17:27 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: bond rating is the rating given to a municipality when they go out to sell their bonds...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:17:50 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: the better the bond rating, the lower the interest the town has to pay...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:17:55 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: for the second part...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:18:17 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: I believe it is because of the prudent fiscal policies put in by Supervisor Guardino...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:18:35 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: he is a gifted administrator who is always watching the bottom line.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:18:38 PM> MODMSG marigold: you did so well with the budget for valley stream. how do you think you can help Nassau County in this current crisis?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:19:05 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: As a town councilman I don't have any control over the county situation...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:19:19 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: I have expressed my willingness to assistant in whatever way I can...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:19:29 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: while in Albany, I had introduced several bills...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:19:42 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: which would have helped the county with their revenue stream...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:19:57 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: unfortunately, the bills died in committee.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:19:59 PM> MODMSG Evan: What can a citizen do to get a traffic light installed at a dangerous street intersection?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:20:16 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: They would have to first contact...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:20:24 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: the municipality in charge of the intersection...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:20:33 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: if he has a particular intersection in mind...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:20:51 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: please call my office, 489-5000, ext. 3200 and provide the details to Andrew..
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:21:03 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: a study would then be done by the traffic department and a determination made.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:21:05 PM> MODMSG Dianna: How can a mother check on the reputaion of a day care center in Hempstead for her child?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:21:29 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: Childcare centers have to be licensed by New York state...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:21:53 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: the mother could check with her local state legislator who could point her to the appropriate state office.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:21:55 PM> MODMSG Suzanne: how do the towns of glen cove and long beach fit in to the town of hempstead? is there any connection or are they 3 separate units?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:22:21 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: They are three separate units...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:22:40 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: the cities of Glen Cove and Long Beach are completely separate from the town of Hempstead...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:23:09 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: and there really is no interaction between the two.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:23:31 PM> MODMSG Stan Lee: Even if we lower gas prices our comsumption of gas is still on the rise. Are you promoting any future plans for better public transportation?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:23:52 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: I think we as a society have to...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:24:08 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: get our vision back on trying to cut down on the consumption...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:24:18 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: One thing that I would love to see for Long Island...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:24:38 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: would be a maglev train line, the entire length of the island.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:24:41 PM> MODMSG duke: what are the local levels of government?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:25:22 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: The smallest unit would be the incorporated village, which would be part of the town, which would be part of the county...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:25:28 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: and the county is part of the state.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:25:33 PM> MODMSG Walter: What steps will Hempstead take this year to combat the ongoing West Nile virus problem?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:25:52 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: Unless I am mistaken...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:26:03 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: this is not an issue the town has jurisdiction over...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:26:25 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: this is an issue that the county level has control over, through the department of health.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:26:30 PM> MODMSG marigold: do you practice law at all at this time?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:26:37 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: Yes I do.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:26:53 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: The town position is a part time position and I am very much involved with the practice of law.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:26:56 PM> MODMSG Chris: What is the town of Hempstead doing to help the ensuing garbage crisis. Are you creating any programs for better recycling?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:27:33 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: Our sanitation department and the various sanitation departments in the town...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:27:54 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: are always looking at ways to improve our very successful recycling program...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:28:08 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: if you look at the number of tons of recycling that the town handles...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:28:21 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: we are dramatically ahead of other municipalities.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:28:23 PM> MODMSG Julie: Is your office involved in the beautification of Hempstead? and if so what are your next projects?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:29:09 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: Ok, if they are talking about the village of Hempstead, that would be handled through the village administration... as far as the town of Hempstead goes, the town is very involved with the beautification of our downtown areas...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:29:30 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: there is a major improvement project being worked on in the Levittown area.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:29:32 PM> MODMSG Evan: Do you accept speaking engagements at schools within your area and how does one go about scheduling you to speak?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:29:51 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: I am always happy to speak at the schools...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:30:00 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: this is one of the more fun aspects of my job...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:30:15 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: to schedule, contact my office, 489-5000, ext. 3200 and speak to Andrew.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:30:22 PM> MODMSG Julie: Considering the electricity crisis in California, new york is getting closer to this problem as well, do you have any plans to start conservation of energy in the TOH?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:30:58 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: We have plans to continue the conservation of energy in the town...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:31:12 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: we are looking at various programs offered by the utilities and the state...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:31:18 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: in an effort to conserve energy.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:31:21 PM> MODMSG Evan: What are your feelings on having all non emergency roadwork being done at night? We have enough traffic as it is and roadwork only hinders our daily commutes.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:31:41 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: I think on major highways, that is a great program..
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:32:00 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: unfortunately when you start doing roadwork on town roads, which is in residential areas...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:32:19 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: at nighttime, the residents would string us up by our necks.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:32:28 PM> MODMSG Dianna: Can we expect any property tax relief anytime in the future in the town of Hempstead?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:32:43 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: Property tax relief...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:33:18 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: Supervisor Guardino has delivered budgets with no tax increase in them in the last several years, the town in general...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:33:31 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: has held the line on taxes in 9 of the last 10 years...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:33:42 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: and we are committed to continue with this trend.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:33:45 PM> MODMSG marigold: I heard something about offshore energy producing windmils, who would regulate the use of the ocean for this purpose and is this something that is being considered?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:34:08 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: I have read articles where they talk about energy alternatives like you speak of...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:34:17 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: they would be regulated at the federal level...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:34:35 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: which has jurisdiction over all Maritime issues.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:34:37 PM> MODMSG eagletwo: Mr. Darcy, does the Town currently have any programs to assist lower income families and seniors in obtaining or retaining homes within the community.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:34:50 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: Yes...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:34:55 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: there are several programs...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:35:14 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: dealing primarily with maintaining our current household stock...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:35:31 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: for more information contact my office at 489-500, ext. 3200.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:35:36 PM> MODMSG DCfan: Considering the difficulties in passing a State budget, is it a relief to be part of a Town which has such an efficient budgetary process?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:35:51 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: Yes it is...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:36:05 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: the situation in Albany with budgets being late in each of the last 17 years...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:36:11 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: is an incredible waste...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:36:32 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: oweing strictly to people playing political games, to the detriment of the citizens of New York.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:36:34 PM> MODMSG Stan Lee: Are you involved with any publicity campaign for Hempstead or Long Island in general to increase awareness and tourism in the area?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:37:04 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: I am not personally involved in any PR campaigns...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:37:09 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: other than to the extent of....
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:37:19 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: expressing a willingness to participate in this...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:37:24 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: I think this is one area..
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:37:38 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: that Long Island in general needs to do a better job on ...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:37:48 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: we have some great opportunities for tourism...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:37:59 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: and we need to get the word out across the state and the country.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:38:01 PM> MODMSG DCfan: Approximately how many residents reside in the 3rd Councilmanic District?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:38:18 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: Approximately 125,000.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:38:24 PM> MODMSG Chris: I have been seeing a downward trend of our students academic quality in the past few years. What assurances do we have that our students will be getting better educations in the future as well as modernized facilities to help them jump into the working world.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:38:49 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: First off...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:38:55 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: We in Nassau County...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:39:07 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: for the most part are lucky to have excellent school districts...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:39:14 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: that are doing a very good job...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:39:24 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: at educating our youngsters...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:39:28 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: however, as with anything...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:39:37 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: there is always room for improvement...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:40:05 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: I think we need to see more interaction between our elementary and high schools and our high schools and the colleges that we have in the area...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:40:16 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: I think with the technological advances we have witnessed...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:40:20 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: things like the Internet...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:40:31 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: teleconferencing..
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:40:37 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: the opportunities are boundless.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:40:38 PM> MODMSG Walter: What is your position on increasing power generation capability within your area and specifically, how do you feel about nuclear generating plant?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:41:12 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: In speaking with officials from LIPA...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:41:23 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: and in viewing the events in California...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:41:40 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: and reading how the demands for electricity are increasing geometrically...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:41:55 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: we need to start looking at ways to increase power generation...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:42:10 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: I think the issues raised over the Shoreham Nuclear Plant...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:42:28 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: clearly demonstrated that nuclear power is not a viable alternative for Long Island.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:42:30 PM> MODMSG duke: What is the difference between an Assemblyman and a Councilman?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:42:52 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: An Assemblyman represents a section of the state...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:42:56 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: up in Albany...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:43:04 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: dealing with the passage of the state budget...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:43:08 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: and with state laws...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:43:21 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: A councilman is more local...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:43:37 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: dealing with the town budget and local town ordinances and town laws.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:43:42 PM> MODMSG Gus: Would you support bringing more sports teams to Long Island and would you support the construction of athletic arenas in Hempstead?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:44:09 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: I would certainly support bringing more sports teams to Long Island...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:44:27 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: I would support the construction of Athletic Arenas, but only if they were being paid for with private funds...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:44:55 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: with rare exceptions, I don't think local should be involved with building facilities for private concerns.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:44:57 PM> MODMSG Suzanne: the old garbage dump on the meadowbrook is now a park, are there any plans to do the same to the dump in oceanside and if not how can the community petition for one?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:45:19 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: To my knowledge, there are no plans at this point...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:45:48 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: quite honestly, I don't even know if it would be an option, given the strict guidelines that we applied in the capping of the Oceanside dump.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:45:50 PM> MODMSG duke: How much money is available for Holocause survivers?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:46:19 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: There are several plans...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:46:22 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: in place...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:46:32 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: totaling over 6 billion dollars...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:46:52 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: which have been set aside for Holocaust survivors.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:46:54 PM> MODMSG DCfan: I want to commend the Town for helping to improve Lido Golf Course, its truly a great place to play public golf. Will the greens fees remain affordable for the majority of Town residents?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:47:10 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: It is my understanding...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:47:42 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: that the contract privatizing...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:47:50 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: Lido Golf Course...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:48:01 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: set that the determined condition of the contract.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:48:04 PM> MODMSG Suzanne: how do people petition to have their roads fixed?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:48:19 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: Generally it is not a case of petitioning...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:48:28 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: with the new district system of the town council..
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:48:40 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: your best bet would be to contact your town council person...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:48:58 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: make them aware of the particular road that needs to be fixed...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:49:13 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: and he or she would pass it along to the particular department...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:49:37 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: for specific needs call my office at 489-5000, ext 3200 and talk to Andrew.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:49:41 PM> MODMSG Enrique: I still see people with cell phones making calls in their cars while driving, is there anything a citizen can do to report cellphone use?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:50:02 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: I am not aware of anything that a private citizen can do...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:50:22 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: I think this is in large part due to the fact that cell phone legislation is being done piecemeal...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:50:30 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: and really needs to be addressed at the state level.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:50:33 PM> MODMSG duke: Who should I contact to find out if I or someone I know is eligable for the Holocaust Relief Fund?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:51:01 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: There are various parties that can be contacted depending on the type-claim that you might have...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:51:17 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: for general information call 1-888-635-5483.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:51:19 PM> MODMSG duke: How many districts are thre in the Town of Hempstead?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:51:27 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: 6.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:51:31 PM> MODMSG lifest26:can you tell me what services the town has for seniors and where I can get information?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:51:46 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: The town has a lot of great programs for our seniors...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:52:09 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: for more information, contact the department of Senior Enrichment, 489-5000.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:52:12 PM> MODMSG duke: How did you get involved in politics?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:52:22 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: Pretty much by default...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:52:35 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: I was living in Valley Stream where I have lived most of my life...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:52:42 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: we had a village administration...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:52:48 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: that many people believed...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:52:56 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: were not properly serving the village residents...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:53:08 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: and I was kind of drafted to run against them.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:53:11 PM> MODMSG Enrique: I realize that this is not a town issue, but what are your feelings on being able to be drafted when 18, but unable to drink before 21?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:53:39 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: Well, luckily we don't have a very active draft at this point...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:53:53 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: I believe that the 21-year-old restriction on drinking is an attempt of the state...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:54:02 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: to ensure the safety of our older teenagers.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:54:08 PM> MODMSG malkov: What do you most want to change about the Town?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:54:29 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: I would like to see more cooperation between the town..
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:54:37 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: and the other levels of government...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:54:45 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: particularly the villages...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:54:54 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: things like cooperative agreements on road work...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:55:03 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: so that the villages could save money...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:55:12 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: and all of our residents would benefit by the improved roads.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:55:15 PM> MODMSG Suzanne: if i sign up for the "do not call" list and I still get called what can i do?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:55:52 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: First you have to realize that there are several exemptions in the telemarketing law...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:55:56 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: and there are also...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:56:10 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: a good deal of lag time...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:56:22 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: for your name to appear on the registry...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:56:47 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: if you wish to file a complaint, you may do so by calling the Consumer Protection Board at 1-800-697-1220.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:56:51 PM> MODMSG MODERATOR: Here is the final question for the evening..........
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:56:54 PM> MODMSG duke: Is there a surplus of money at the Town of Hempstead?
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:57:04 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: Yes...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:57:18 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: the town currently has a surplus of approximately 50 million dollars...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:57:31 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: which helps ensure the fabulous bond rating that the town enjoys.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:58:09 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: I would like to thank Hofstra and Herald Community Newspapers for providing this forum, they should be congratulated for being on the cutting edge...
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:58:21 PM> SPEAKER James Darcy: and I thank them for allowing me this opportunity.
Thu Jun 21, 2001 08:58:37 PM> MODMSG MODERATOR: Thanks to everyone for joining us tonight for our monthly chat session sponsored by Hofstra University and the Herald Community. Thank you very much, Councilman Darcy, for joining us this evening and taking the time to share your views on politics. Thanks again and goodnight.
