Commitment to Long Island and the Islanders

When you see the Channel 7 Eyewitness News van, you know it’s big. It was. And as usual, I was late and had to park further than I wanted to knowing I’d be running in heels. I made it with about a minute to spare before the dignitaries took the stage. I’d like to thank my good friend, Brad Kurtzberg from InsideHockey.com for once again getting there early enough to save me a seat in the second row.

The floor of the Coliseum where the ice usually sits was set up again as it was for those Town Hall meetings we attended what seems like a life-time ago. But this time, the folding chairs were filled with politicians in suits on one side and the media throng on the other. In the stands were the Union workers who have attended every one of these meetings since Charles Wang presented the Lighthouse project to the public. The Union message is clear -- and loud. JOBS: NOW and their reprise of what they chanted for two years, “Build it NOW!”

Rob Walker introduced Ed Mangano with a rousing and spirited introduction and then Ed Mangano took the podium. I was a little surprised that Charles Wang received not only hardy applause but also a standing ovation from the floor. I was NOT surprised that Kate Murray received a spattering of Boos. For over a year, Kate Murray was the enemy of Islanders and their fans. Yesterday she stood on the podium saying “Hey! I’m not a Rangers fan.”

I will have to try to put my contempt in my back pocket during this process as it seems that Kate has finally found a proposal for the Coliseum property that she will endorse. (It will not be easy to do so, but I will try.)

While the press conference was live web streamed, it is also now available on their main website. Watch it so that you do not just take the excerpts from written reports. You’ll also be able to see how Murray relates to Mr. Wang and the change in her body language.

The Islanders new season campaign stressed “commitment.” Mr. Wang explained the concept. “This simple word is enormously strong in so many ways. Our organization has been intentionally quiet in our approach to obtaining our goal. But our commitment to Long Island has never wavered. Long Island is our home and the New York Islanders is our team.”

After that announcement, he shared a jovial moment with Ms. Murray who seemed very supportive. She is so supportive that Mr. Mangano actually introduced her as “our partner to make sure that this vision comes to fruition.”

Murray thanked the County Executive and Mr. Wang for “putting forth an agenda that gives Nassau County residents a voice in the future of the Nassau County Veterans Memorial Coliseum.” That name was stressed as it is a sticky point with the Veteran’s organization who had representatives present yesterday.

She continued to say how eager; “Very, very eager to work with the County Executive and Mr. Wang, the Islanders, Senators Dean Skellos and Jack Martins and all our residents to revitalize our communities, create jobs and to stimulate our local economy.”

I’m not quite sure where they were when the Lighthouse project presented all those options as well. But, no looking in the rear view mirror. This is where we are.

Murray told Randi Marshall from Newsday that through the Town’s exhaustive environmental review process they feel they have come up with a flexible zone for the property plan that is “absolutely compatible with the goals and desires of the Sterling Business Advisory council...” Remember that name. You’ll probably hear it a lot. And the fact that the Town feels their new “zone” is “flexible” for the 77 acres that surround the Coliseum and “the hub” indicates wiggle room. (Crossing my fingers.)

During the post-announcement media scrum, Mr. Mangano mentioned that now is the best time to borrow money as the interest rates are at their lowest and competition among builders is at its greatest. “So you get the best value for the taxpayer NOW." The other choice is an empty building with no tax revenue stream for the County or the Town. No brainer here!

“We’re ASKING the people of Nassau County, ‘Do you want to invest?’ Obviously there will be debt service paid until the arena is open.” he said as he was surrounded by cameras and microphones.

AH HA! And that’s probably where NIFA has their problem that caused them to announce "Not So Fast!" before any of us even left the Coliseum yesterday. But that would be short sighted of them to not see the bigger picture that the debt would be paid in the long run by the operators of the venues which would also be paying taxes and generating jobs.

What we need to do now is basically “Promote The Vote.” Can NIFA object if it seems that the bulk of the Nassau County residents are willing to approve this idea? Mr. Mangano is hoping that the media does its job by not just reporting what happened yesterday, but also educating the residents and getting the message out about this first vote on August 1st, which will give the County the ability to enter into the transaction, and then a second vote to ask residents if they want to proceed with the transaction. (Watch the video. It may make more sense.)

So this is a multi-step process, but every journey starts with a single step. Yesterday Nassau County and the Town of Hempstead put their walking shoes on.


Next Up “On the Hockey Front” and the impact yesterday will have on the Islanders as an NHL franchise.

Kate Murray: "Let's Go Halfsies"

I have not seen anything official, but at 11:15 pm last night, Islanders Pointblank has an extensive entry on what the Town of Hempstead should be unveiling as their "pushback" to the Lighthouse Project.

As expected, it is said the proposal will be a 50% reduction of certain portions such as the retail space square footage. However, Mr. Botta says the reduction to the residential portion will be 75%.

While Charles Wang has remained quiet all this time, looking back at the clips of Mr. Wang from past public appearances, I can't imagine he is going to be open to such a drastic reduction in his plan. Nor can I imagine him investing just to renovate the Coliseum.

However, the surprising item in Mr. Botta's article is the suggestion that current County Executive Ed Mangano is in Charles Wang's corner in this debate. Does that mean that his desire for a casino on the property was just a smoke screen? Or is he looking for the Casino AND the Islanders to reside on the property? As I previously wondered, is there now a Republican party rift between the Town and the County? Who knows.

This morning I scoured the pages of Newsday looking for some sort of information out of the Town of Hempstead, but it was not there. I, like every other fan, eagerly await the proposal from Kate Murray. Previously she said it would have been unveiled in June. I suppose she hasn't turned over her calendar page as of yet.

Tick Tock, Kate. Hmmm... Maybe Ed Mangano will drop the ceremonial puck at tonight's Blue & Orange scrimmage. Wouldn't that be interesting!

SCF: Finish Line is Now Best of 3

For my thoughts on the SCF Game 5, please check HockeyBuzz.
(Thank you Adrien Dater (@adater) for the use of your photo)

I have some very good links to my Tweeps there for their coverage of the games.

So, here’s to a Sunday night filled with Hockey on NBC, starting with a pre-game show at 5 pm with Anthony Curatolo from The Hockey Guys on www.blogtalkradio.com/thehockeyguys, a Live Chat with XM’s Shawn (Big Country) Lagivnestarting at 7pm, some interesting TwitBits from those covering the game live in Chicago all night long and hopefully a Hawks win.

Yeah! I said it! I’m still rooting for the Blackhawks!

Isles Aside: In this morning’s Newsday, Jim Baumbach has a brief article under the title “Islanders: Former owner still believes in Hartford” Sadly, the title (as usual) is misleading. If you don’t actually READ the article, you immediately assume there’s a link between Hartford and the Islanders. The good thing is that within the first paragraph that connection is broken by reading that Howard Baldwin “…does not see relocating the Islanders as an option right now.” The wording “right now” does leave the idea open ended. Perhaps Mr. Baumbach wrote the story just to include the second half of the article news that Charles Wang is STILL waiting to hear from the Town of Hempstead as to what they deem acceptable in the Uniondale parcel. He did note that Kate Murray said she expected to present the ToH’s plans as early as June. Turn the page on your calendar Kate, it IS June.

I suppose any mention of the continuing plight of the Islanders is a good thing. Anything that can light a fire under the local government is appreciated by the fans. Even Gary Bettman on his weekly radio show on Thursday had to take 3 minutes to answer a concerned fan’s questions regarding the Lighthouse project and the Islanders. Even with the attention placed on the impending draft and the possibility of a future star, Islander fans are most concerned with where their team will be after 2015.

Time flies. The question has been pending for years. The only constant has been – Kate Murray.

The Next Move? With or Without a U-Haul

I'll make this relatively quick, for me that is. I became involved in a political race I couldn't vote in full well knowing what the outcome would be. I'm not surprised that Kate Murray was re-elected as Town Supervisor by a margin of 65% - 35% as the Democrats fell surprisingly short campaigning.

However I am also surprised that at 7 am, I can't find out if Tom Suozzi has been re-elected yet. "Too close to call" at 1:13 am when the last time News 12 updated their results. And now at 7 am I'm not sure if we have lost both friends of the Lighthouse project or not.

There's nothing to do now but go forward on and see who makes the next move. Will it be Wang or Murray? Who knows.

But if anyone sees a string of U-Hauls pulling up along Hempstead Turnpike, I suggest we panic.

And if you're not watching the World Series tonight, the Isles vs. Buffalo at 7pm on MSG Plus plus plus as there's basketball on MSG and the Devils are on MSGPlus. Can we make it FIVE?? Can we? Please?

Kate Murray, Meet your Opponent

**11/2/09: It's only been a month since I first introduced Democrat candidate Kristen McElroy to my core group of readers. That wasn't very long to campaign for Town of Hempstead Supervisor. Especially when Kate Murray is now going for her what? fourth term as ToH Supervisor. Because, you know, she's done such a MIRACULOUS job at for the last THREE terms. That Welcome to Roosevelt sign has done wonders for the residents for sure.

The knock on Kristen is that she doesn't have any past experience with budgets. But the woman runs a household and maybe she'll have a better handle on how and where to spend what the town DOES have without going into debt. I know there's a woman that runs a province in Canada that didn't come with much experience and hers is the only province that isn't in the RED.

The Republicans have had 100 years of running Hempstead town. Maybe it's time to shake things up a little.

I can't vote, but if you can in this election, you should.

While I won't say "A Vote for Kate is a Vote to send the Islanders packing," I will say that the chances of them leaving Uniondale will be greater under Kate's fourth term. Kate wants to scale down the project to who-knows-what because she refused to even look at the plans until the final hours. Now she will wait until after the election when she can once again be judge and possibly executioner of the Lighthouse project.

That's all there is to say. And here's what I said only one month ago.


*10/2/09 Attention Islander fans! Meet Kristen McElroy at tomorrow's Islanders home opener at 6 pm. She will be addressing the public somewhere near the ticket booth, as weather may be a concern. (Why does it have to rain every home opener!)

So come meet Kate Murray's Democrat opponent, Kristen McElroy tomorrow and don't forget Nassau residents, ROCK THE VOTE!




A lawyer, a mother of three and someone who has no ties to old school politics. She doesn't owe anyone any favors like a few other career politicians.





Can she give Republican Supervisor Kate Murray a run for her money? (okay, it's actually like YOUR money, because you know she's going to be spending big on her reelection campaign. Those Banjo Rascals don't come cheap you know.)

Garden City News Gets an Earful

If you haven't checked out the Lightpost blog today, please do so. It seems that the Garden City Online News, the place where much of the information regarding the feelings of the RESIDENTS of Garden City is published, has included numerous Letters to the Editor they have received regarding the Lighthouse Project.

Of course there are those that are against it, have questions, or are just misinformed. But also included are those actual residents of Garden City that are in FAVOR of the project being done as quickly as possible.

If you are a Garden City resident, if you are a Town of Hempstead resident, if you are simply emotionally involved with this project; you too should let the Garden City News know. You can write them at editor@ gcnews.com.

Remember that Election Day is right around the corner and Kate Murray's only opponent, Kristen McElroy, will be at the Coliseum on Saturday. Come out and meet her, ask her questions or just be supportive.

We're fast approaching the end-game here. Let's see if we can get the result we're looking for.

Back to the Table - but NOT the Drawing board!

As there will indeed be a meeting between the Town of Hempstead Supervisor and the developers of the Lighthouse Project as reported by both credible and suspect sources, the where and WHEN of the meeting should not be more important than the WHY of the meeting.



If, at this stage of the game, Kate Murray is looking for COMPROMISES from the developer then I foresee additional delays and the lease breaking loophole with the County getting far LARGER.



Every compromise or change that the Town may suggest will only increase the process of approving the rezoning. If the rezoning is not approved, then the legislature cannot approve the lease. So basically, there are various government departments that are basically in a holding pattern waiting on -- Kate Murray. That sounds productive, doesn't it?



Compromise is a typical part of the development process when you are dealing with a developer and public funding. However, this is a private project and the scope has been developed to not only benefit the area but also the developers.



OH FOR SHAME!!! You mean they expect to make this a profit center for themselves?? Those wretched scoundrels!



Hey! People! How much do you think your county and town taxes would go up if the public had to foot the bill to renovate that arena into ANYTHING? Do any of you have an idea how much it would cost to just get the building up to CODE let alone make it what the developers envision it as? I know the word "oodles" isn't usually attached to dollar figures, but let's just use that.



So not only do the Developers want to invest oodles of money into giving the public a place to be proud of, they are also prepared to invest millions into infrastructure, all on their own dime.



Compromises were made years ago with the change to the original design. Compromises now will result in more wasted time and more money flowing into researchers pockets.



The time for talk has a very narrow window before it closes. The time for change at hand. The only way to jump start this "process" is to change the one in charge of it.



Election day in fast approaching. I'm pretty certain that is the reason why Newsday has been Kate Murray's platform while the developers are sticking to their guns about not playing this saga out in the media. Just remember there IS another candidate running for Town of Hempstead Supervisor and her name is KRISTEN McELROY. If you haven't met her or heard of her you can do so at the Coliseum at both the Saturday and following Wednesday Islanders' games.



The more support the Democrat candidate receives in this race.... the faster this "process" of the towns may start to move. Let's see if we can get it to the speed of Mark Streit's slap shot. Because we sure as hell need a win off the ice just as much as we do ON!

"Words" & Music

I took a break last night from hockey and the Islanders real estate drama and headed to the Boulton Center in Bay Shore to see my favorite blues guitarist, Mato Nanji of Indigenous. I was so close to the stage, I could smell the amplifiers. I was told that's called "Tubey goodness." It was two hours of me sitting in the front row in complete awe is what it was.





If you ever loved Hendrix, Stevie Ray or Johnny Lang, then you have to check this guy out. He's a gift from the heavens. Check him out at indigenousmusic.net or myspace.com/indigenousrocks There are also some great YouTube videos of him and his band. I did a video with my camera last night, but I was SO damn close to the speaker that the sound quality is poor.





The "words" this morning come from the Garden City News, and thanks to @isleschick for always finding these things so early in the morning. This article relates to a recent meeting of the Garden City Eastern Property's Owners Association and their discussions and feelings on the Lighthouse project. You may find some of it interesting. I thought it bounced around a little, but it gave me some insight and unknown details into their thoughts.





Did anyone know that this owners association has control over the Omni property? I didn't.





It also discusses the Water consultant issue that makes it unclear who can be trusted. It's just interesting to see information and misinformation all in the same article.





Newsday's article today regarding Kate's request to Charles Wang, "Let's Talk" flies in the face of his request to keep communications out of the papers. Sorry, but I have to laugh at that. Asking a politican to keep things out of the paper so close to the election is like asking a five year old not to eat the last chocolate chip cookie. You know damn well when you turn your back on him it's gone.





So what do we do? Well, if you're a Town of Hempstead resident, you come out and vote for Town Supervisor. Kate Murray has had the position for a few years now. Perhaps it's time to give someone else a shot that can work better with the County Executive.





Kristen McElroy's website is up and running. You can check it out here. As every other socially connected person is, she's also on facebook and Twitter.



We have an Islanders vs. Sabres match-up on this rainy, cold Friday. I'm not going to hold my hopes too high for this evening. Whatever they can do with this game, fine. But at least I get to wear my colors to work today just to be supportive.

Later all.

The Lease Loop Hole & Hempstead Town's new Plan

This morning's newspaper was in the driveway soaking wet. I didn't read it, but my husband managed to. In it he found two interesting articles that he decided to show me.

The first was page A24 blip by Newsday's reporter Eden Laikin describing the provision in the Nassau County 2007 agreement with the developer that states if the County legislature doesn't vote on the lease within 120 days of being submitted, Wang can walk away from the lease without penalty. As Kate Murray has refused to rule on the rezoning requirements of the project, the lease has not been submitted yet.

However, from the press conference that Thursday afternoon in Mineola, I took away that the planning board was actually holding onto the lease to be be presented at their next scheduled meeting which should be mid October. (It was slated to be voted on the first week of October. But thanks to Kate, that didn't happen.)

So when does the clock start? How long can they hold onto the lease before submitting it to the legislature? Do we know? But it does give the Islanders an out. Not that they have anywhere to go right now.

Brooklyn and Queens, while painting a very pretty picture, are far from being ready for anything. So they really aren't a CURRENT option. They are a FUTURE option. (Perhaps a really DISTANT future option.)

On the other page he found an interesting article on pg A36 by Laura Rivera regarding the Village of Hempstead's vote to revive their downtown area. Wow! A mixed use development plan that takes up 3.7 square miles that will generate $7.1 million in revenue.

Hey Garden City! Isn't THAT on your doorstep too???

The move to ease zoning restrictions was approved by a vote of 4 - 1. The dissenting vote coming from the lone board Republican. Sound familiar?

Sigh. This is a fight that will not be without battle scars for sure.

For the video version of my NYHockeyTalk radio interview (if you can stand seeing me fidget and looking like Yoko Ono) here's the link.

Has The Miracle Been Put on Ice?

That was one of the best statements that came out of yesterdays’ press conference called by Tom Suozzi and the Lighthouse developers. It was followed closely by Suozzi’s very passionate please to the Town of Hempstead of “Stop playing games!”

I will admit, I enjoy listening to Tom Suozzi speak. No one is more passionate about this project than he is. Every time I listen to him address a crowd, it makes me wish I was a Democrat, or at least a Nassau County resident. He is articulate, engaging and sincere.

The other Nassau County officials in the room yesterday, all of whom also believe in the Lighthouse project, punctuated Suozzi’s insinuated condemnation of the ToH board every chance they could. Basically, this lease agreement presented to the Nassau County Legislature puts all the pressure squarely on Kate Murray’s shoulders. There is nothing left for any other agency to do until the zoning has been decided. Yes or No is all the developers are waiting to hear and the October 3rd date still stands.

The lack of cooperation between the Town Supervisor and other branches of local government was reiterated and detailed by Suozzi. The list of stumbling blocks thrown up by the Town of Hempstead is disheartening to any Long Island resident in favor of the plan.

Most new sports arena complexes are built with public funding, this one is not. Besides, Nassau County can’t afford to pay for any portion of it. Suozzi claims the new lease will give the Lighthouse Group the entire responsibility of a new Coliseum as well as keep them there until 2030. It also gives the County a positive cash flow and will create over 100,000 jobs in the county.

“It will create a destination in Nassau County that will tell people in the entire country that Nassau County is on the move. This is a place where things are happening. This will be the most exciting catalyst of what we call “New Suburbia.” (If they can ever get it built!)

His idea is to keep 90% of Nassau County the way it is now with 10% completely re-imagined. And the Lighthouse Project is a beautiful dream from the imagination of Charles Wang that could bring the County and Long Island into the future.

“This will be a sign, especially to the private sector, that Nassau County is open for business…We now need the Town of Hempstead to move forward with what they need to do to make this project become a reality. It would be horrible if after all this hard work, after all this time, after all this money invested by the developer, after all the effort that has been put in by the people in the county and the people who LIVE here in the county if this project were not to go forward. Imagine what it would be like if a month from now or three months from now the developers decided it’s not working any more. We got a better offer somewhere else. Let’s not do this project in Nassau County. The Islanders would leave after 2015 and they wouldn’t make this massive investment into the heart of our county – SHAME ON THOSE FOLKS WHO WOULD STOP THIS PROJECT FROM GETTING DONE.”

That statement made my eyes wide, he was adamant. “By working together we can achieve a first-class, world-class arena that befitting the people of Long Island. We deserve a world class facility.”

“My ideas and my talk mean nothing unless a developer is willing to put their money where their mouth is.” And with that, Suozzi asked Charles Wang, the man who has already put $15,000,000 where his mouth is, to the podium.

He thanked everyone who has worked so diligently on this project. “I am proud to announce that the Islanders look forward to decades of success right here in their rightful home in Nassau County. And when the new Coliseum is complete, finally Islander fans will have a home arena they can be proud of and have wanted for so long.”

Mr. Wang reiterated his desire to hear a decision by October 3rd and explained that further changes to the project would only incur further delays. Scott Rechler had a better explanation “To now come out at this stage of the game and say well here are the adjustments is disingenuous. It’s basically a ‘No’ when it wasn’t done throughout the entire process when it typically IS done.” And he should know the process as he is one of Long Islanders most successful developers.

In all seriousness, the time for compromise and changes has long passed and had the Town of Hempstead spent less time procrastinating and more time reviewing, no one would be in this position. I can’t understand why it has taken so long when it’s a proven fact that Long Islanders are overwhelming in support of the project. Neither can anyone else.

The News12 anchor was the first to ask the question about possible tax breaks for the developers. Mr. Suozzi explained the lease itself contains no tax benefits, “But this project should be eligible for tax benefits. This property was specifically included in the Empire zone so we could get tax benefits to encourage development at this property. With the Empire zone arrangement, the developer gets the tax benefit and the State picks up the tax burden.” He continued saying that the project could also be eligible for other breaks that are routinely given by the County and the Town to other developments all the time.

“This property will be a NET-PLUS in tax revenues to the people of Nassau County. The County will make money, and the town and the school districts.” He said emphatically. So then what’s the question and what’s the holdup? “The town has refused to discuss throughout the entire process what they want. It’s not fair to the developers to change it now.”

Mr. Wang did say that he would take silence from Kate Murray on the 3rd as an assumption her answer is a “NO” and will open the door to new options come Monday but he was emphatic “I am committed to Long Island. I love Long Island. This is the place where the Islanders belong and we want to do something to make this great. I’ve said this over and over again, here it is. Tell me yes or no.”

After the cameras turned off and the reporters converged on the speakers, I waited to speak to Mr. Wang. Throughout this entire ordeal, he hasn’t lost his sense of humor. I asked him if he felt the NHL or Commissioner Bettman could do anything additional to help him in this fight, “Yeah, he could make sure that all the refs make the right calls so we could win the Stanley Cup.” He smiled at my reaction of surprise and those around him broke into laughter.

I asked if there were any suitors for the project already lining up at the door waiting for Monday to come, he said it wasn’t for him to comment but “We WANT to stay on Long Island. YOU know that. We just want to get this thing done. Its eight years now. It’s enough. Two years ago I asked them tell me what you want and I will tell you yes or no. It’s not so complicated!” His frustration is evident, so I went back to hockey and asked who was going to drop the puck on Saturday for the Home Opener.

“Kate I think is coming.” My mouth dropped. “Well, I invited her. I did. I swear!”

Well, Kate more than likely won’t be there but her Democrat opponent for Town Supervisor, Kristen McElroy, will be! It may already be the first week of October, but it isn’t too late to show Kate Murray that her elected position is etched in stone. There is certainly time to Rock The Vote and bring in someone new that may share Tom Suozzi’s vision of New Suburbia.

Damn! I wish I could vote in Nassau County!

*For additional information on potential tax benefits, please check Isles Official Doug's website!

It's all up to KATE!

As per an exclusive report by NYI PointBlank Nassau County Executive Tom Suozzi will hold a press conference regarding a finalized lease between the County and Charles Wang.

On Friday, I had heard rumblings that the developers would leave no loose ends to tie. I guess this was what they were talking about. In doing so the fate of the Lighthouse Project will lie solely with Kate Murray and her Hempstead board.

Did anyone else just shudder? So very long ago she warned that she would be judge and jury of this project. I didn't like that idea then, I don't like it now. I would so very much like this project to have to be voted on by the general public. Wouldn't that be awesome?

Wait... it was voted on by the general public. News12 and Newsday both had polls that indicated overwhelming support for the project.

Let's see what happens now. Does Kate go with the NIMBY minority in the decision or with the majority of supporters?

Tick Tock Queen Kate. Tick Tock.

ToH Looking for a "Do Over"?

Yeah, I was "Angry Dee" last night and wrote a typo filled tirade regarding the Lighthouse project on my HockeyBuzz page. I probably shouldn't do that, but it's still pre-season. Hopefully, I can get away with it.

It's just that October 3rd is looming large and I'm increasingly pessimistic that the Town of Hempstead Supervisor understands the magnitude of her actions and words in the press.

She says she won't give in to demands and idle threats. But these are not idle at all. To wait until now to begin to ask questions is basically a way of the Town saying "Start over."

After 8 years and $15,000,000 spent, why would the developers want to go back to the drawing board? With every change to the plans there would be additional delays and additional money spent. The only ones who stand to profit from that action is the consultants who are playing both sides of the fence. Is that truly fair to anyone?

Meanwhile, our Long Island economy is held in the balance. With so much unemployment in the construction industry these delays cause so much more than aggravation for the developers. It causes more homes lost to foreclosure and more lives disrupted.

At least Brian from Locust Valley seems to get it as his Letter to the Editor in today's Newsday entitled "Lighthouse is perfect for LI's Midlife Crisis" points out.

"The LIghthouse is just what the doctor ordered for our beloved Island...."

Yes, it is. Millions of dollars have been paid out to qualified consultants to make sure the plan WORKS. No one would invest in a project that is designed to FAIL. That is just a ridiculous and short sighted argument.

The project is designed to attract money and substantial benefits to the local economy, not to destroy what is around it. If the self-serving and unsubstantiated fears of the home owners association of Garden City is what halts this project, then shame on us Long Island.

We stand to move into the future, but we have too many clinging to the past. The possibility of losing our only professional sports team is the least of our problems. Losing our economic viability is the largest.

Nassau County is struggling to meet it's budget needs now. Wouldn't $71 million a year in tax revenue help?

Come on Kate! You are playing with political dynamite here! Don't wait until after the election to give the developers a Yes or No. By then, it will be too late!

Would anyone spend $3.8 Billion to FAIL?

I keep thinking about what went down on Tuesday at that rezoning meeting, or should I call it the Garden City "Just Say No" fest?

But you have to question, would Scott Rechler, who is well versed in developing Long Island, be involved in a project that would fail to meet his ideal of success?

Who would spend $15 million on developing plans, just to have them not work? Would the developers come up with a plan that would make those who spend $500,000 - $1,000,000 to live there angry about trying to get out of the area? Do Kate Murray and the Town of Hempstead really think the Lighthouse group hasn’t dotted their "i’s" and crossed their "t’s" (using her words)? How many more I’s and T’s can there be after spending $15,000,000 going over Traffic, Water, Garbage and sea turtles? YOU HAVE GOT TO BE KIDDING ME!!

If the News 12 poll showed that 72% (or more by now) residents of Long Island are in favor of this project in the current scope and scale and all the prior public hearings and meetings had overwhelming support, where did the opposition that was thrown about at the hearing and in the press since Monday come from?

Was there a sign-up sheet at Town Hall?

There has been overwhelming support for months, and now the Town Board decides to ask questions and reject the developers findings? Where the hell have you been? Those panel members on Tuesday asked questions as if they had never seen the plans before.

The only Democrat on the board repeatedly questioned the effect on a particular street. Wasn’t it perfectly clear in the studies that were delivered MONTHS ago what streets were reviewed? How come she didn’t ask THEN? The board continuously complained about the developer’s traffic findings, and yet the DOT and DPW said their findings were acceptable. Don’t you think they know a little bit about traffic? Also they are not being paid by anyone, so there is no political agenda at play.

And how can water be a questionable issue when the company that did the research and findings is being utilized by both parties? Do they have two separate reports, one based on each pay check they received? Shouldn’t there only be ONE set of findings?

This entire thing is NUTS! This is a war of words and of wills.

They questioned the density of the project simply because it’s the largest proposed development on Long Island, but if the board members would take off their blinders they would see that this type of mixed use development is happening all over the country. AND IT WORKS. You don’t spend $3.8 billion dollars on something that isn’t going to work.

The Town doesn’t want to deal with Charles’ Wang’s deadline -- the one that he hasn’t swayed from since he uttered it the first time. The Town Supervisor’s deadline seems to be the day after the election or perhaps the 12th of never.

Hey Kate! JUST SAY NO! OR JUST SAY YES! But have the backbone to make a decision and live with the consequences and not make statements that fit the audience every time you appear.

There will be plenty of towns that would love to have this sort of tax revenue and employment opportunity. Why the rest of the residents of Long Island have to wait on the edge of our chairs while Garden city throws a hissy fit is beyond me.

Oh, and PS, anyone else find it interesting that Tim Knight, Publisher of Newsday, has resigned? Maybe even he couldn’t stand what it has become.

Meeting with Murray, Suozzi & Wang Scheduled?

Well? Is it? Remember the list of "demands" Ms. Murray gave County Executive Tom Suozzi to be included in the lease between Nassau and the Lighthouse developers? (Yeah, that little political battle that also seemed to create a heated difference of opinion in the blogosphere as well.)

There is an interesting editorial in Newsday which questions Murray's recent strategy and motives concerning the Lighthouse. My question is far more blunt.

WHEN IS THE ACTUAL MEETING ABOUT THE LEASE, KATE?

There is too much time passing here without any word! Tom Suozzi wanted to meet and get it done. The lease was 99% finalized per the County. How long to finalize the remaining 1%? Is that going to be REAL time or Town of Hempstead time? How many weeks or months will it take to get past final negotiations? Because we no longer have 'years' available for decisions. Tick Tock!

I have heard of NO date for this meeting, have you? The only date that looms large is Sept. 22nd -- the date of the rezoning hearing. The next date of massive importance is Oct. 3rd. The date requested for "certainty." (Sort of like when American Idol asked Paula Abdul if she wanted to do another season with them, and she said, 'uh, let me think about that' and took so long they said, 'DAMN! We need another judge pronto! Call Ellen DeGeneres!') "Certainty" is not a dirty word, it's simply a request for a decision.

Did the Town meet with the County and the developers on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday of this week? Are they meeting TODAY? How about tomorrow? How about rolling up their sleeves and working on the weekend? How about an answer?

Is there really a lack of cooperation within these two bodies of local government that has made growth in Nassau County relatively impossible?

Too many questions. Hey! Town of Hempstead, how about some ANSWERS? And how about one before I see you on Tuesday along with a lot of other very concerned Long Islanders.

We're Close To Losing the Battle

Something smells in Uniondale, besides Kate Murray's grass eating goats. This entire political war of words being fought in the papers is really getting me. It brings to mind the adage from 1887 "Absolute Power corrupts Absolutely."

Kate Murray is the Town of Hempstead Supervisor, but she may as well be the Queen of Hempstead. Make no mistake, on that seven member Town Board, she reigns supreme. As Queen Kate votes, so votes the board of five Republicans and one single Democrat. She can dole out favors and paychecks at will to those that do her bidding. Until of course the public gets wind of it and starts to cry foul. Then she can back-peddle and cover up the news with something yet even more sensational.

The battle of the 150 acre parking lot has turned into a tragedy of epic proportions. It's a battle of semantics and of wills. It is Long Island politics pure and simple.

The latest attempt to stop the Lighthouse Project from ever being completed is these lease demands. Correct me if I'm wrong, but isn't the lease with the COUNTY OF NASSAU? And as had been reported for MONTHS (repeat MONTHS!!) it has already been negotiated. Does the Town of Hempstead even HAVE any legal rights to make demands on a lease between the County and a tenant?

Or is Kate Murray just saying "Hey! Tom! I don't think you're doing your job! So I'm going to make it look like ONLY I, Queen Kate, can adequately protect our subjects!" Yes, the Republican Town Supervisor once again subjecting the Democrat County Executive to criticism.

Our time of “certainty” looms large, so Queen Kate is pulling out all the stops to make sure this thing goes down the drain. Along with it will go thousands of jobs, millions in tax revenue and of course, our only major sports franchise. Thanks Kate. Great job.

Hey, by the way, has anyone mentioned that the FINAL environmental study is due to be filed by September 18th? Yeah, it seems that legally it needs to be filed no later than 45 days after the hearing. Wasn’t that hearing on August 4th? Yeah, I remember it well. Nice march. Well get your calendars out. And it’s the lead agency’s responsibility (that would be the Town of Hempstead as she has so CLEARLY stated for years.) to file. Now, maybe the date can be extended, but I’m sure it would have to be by mutual consent. HA! Yeah, let’s drag this out a little longer. The little invoice dispute saga with F.P. Clarke too was a nice touch in the papers. After speaking with sources yesterday, the dates that F.P. Clarke claim to have stopped wor

king after invoices were questioned is also questionable. Was it actually 8/4 or was it actually later? Did they actually STOP working?

Can I just throw in a side note here…. F.P. Clarke invoices go through the Town of Hempstead, not directly to the Lighthouse developers. They have been paid about $400,000 already. Since all invoices and payments filter through the lead agency (ToH the Kingdom of Kate), wouldn’t it be easy for the Town of Hempstead accounting department to make sure that normal invoice questions and debates are somehow held up a little?

Who is pulling the strings here? Don’t you think that if the Lighthouse group was non-responsive to invoices that Ms. Murray would have LOVED to make that a HUGE deal in the papers immediately AFTER the August 4th Love Fest? But no, it comes out a month later. Timing is everything, isn’t it?

We stand at the doorstep to the beginning of the Hockey Season. The September 22nd rezoning hearing was scheduled on the same day as the exhibition game in Kansas City. Kate Murray’s camp has publically stated she didn’t give a goat’s ass about the hockey schedule. Charles Wang’s date for “certainty” (which actually translates to “HEY! What the hell are you people going to let us build here?”) is October 3rd. The Town is now attempting to force the County to meeting their lease demands BEFORE they will move forward with the rezoning process. Nice touch.

October 3rd will come and go, and with it, so will our Islanders as they are courted off the Island. Even after spending $18 million on a project that is designed as a betterment of the community and its residents, you can only push someone so far before they throw their hands up and say “I’m done.”

And when that happens, Queen Kate can smile and look out over her Kingdom and claim victory as she will have absolute power over a 150 acre parking lot.

Kansas City or the Lighthouse?

Direct from The Lightpost Blog!

The Town of Hempstead contacted us yesterday with a date for the zoning hearing – Tuesday, September 22. There will be three sessions, 9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., 2 – 5, and 6 – 9. All three sessions will be held at the Adams Playhouse on the campus of Hofstra University.
This is good news. We have our date.

It took the Town 27 days to schedule this date.

Take from that what you will.

The Town Board is scheduled to vote to officially schedule the zoning hearing at the September 8 public meeting at Town Hall.

-Katrina

YEAH! I've asked for two damn weeks when this was going to happen and heard not so much as a peep! Good to see someone got an answer!

However, take a good look! Is that answer a direct "nah nah!!" from Kate Murray to Charles Wang and the Islanders? Notice the DATE of the hearing. Hmmm... Where have I seen that before?

Oh! Right! That's the date of the Pre-season game in .... KANSAS CITY!

Now, surely a man such as Charles Wang may be able to get from Uniondale to Kansas City without worrying about scheduling a domestic flight, but come on! Who is the Town of Hempstead kidding here? Yeah, tell me that was a coincidence!

Nice going. At this rate, Edmonton may get a new arena development before Uniondale does!

HEY! T o H! OCT 3RD IS LOOMING LARGE!

As I'm going through my calendar and trying to write in everything for the upcoming fall and hockey season, there's a date I still haven't been alerted to.

Hey! Town of Hempstead! WHERE IS THE DATE FOR THE REZONING HEARING FOR THE LIGHTHOUSE???

I'd like to put this on my calendar so I can attend! I know you better, you'll schedule it for a workday afternoon so that it will be difficult for us average worker-bees to attend. So I need a little lead time here!

This all started because of a certain Tweet today that made the ominous statement "Islanders' Oct. 3 deadline for Lighthouse "certainty" won't be met."

Why won't it be met? Things were going so well on August 4th! Don't you remember? The smiles! The photos! The march to the theater. Good times!

It's been 27 days? WHAT'S THE PROBLEM HERE??? What's with the political foot dragging? How close do you want to cut this fight Kate Murray? Where is the noise from the Nassau County Executive?

What? He can't get a rezoning hearing scheduled? What happened to the Governor's request to fast track this project? Is there a question about what constitutes "fast"?

In light of the fact that the Islanders' lease expires in 2015 and I am now wondering how long it will be before the NHL and the NHLPA are at odds again, I'd seriously like to see where the Lighthouse project is going. And like NOW!

Tomorrow is the first day of September. My Islanders hockey season has started on September 2nd for the last 10 years. So as an Islanders fan, a hockey fan and a native Long Islander, I'd like an answer... PRONTO!

WHEN IS THE REZONING HEARING FOR THE LIGHTHOUSE LI PROJECT?

WHEN?

CONVINCE ME KATE!

Okay, I've slept on it for two nights. I've given it some thought. I've discussed it with other people. I'm not convinced.

While the euphoria of Friday's love fest for the cameras between the politicians and the Lighthouse developers gave Islanders County a moment of joy, personally I'm not ready to buy season tickets for the 2012 season yet.

Previously, I have been called "cynical" by certain other prominent writers. In certain aspects I am. Politics falls into that "I ain't buying it" category.

Friday's meeting was important during the campaign season to show "good faith" to the voters who have been bombarding the Town of Hempstead regarding the lack of movement on the Lighthouse project. The Tuesday Long Island Planning Council's wrist slapping of the town was the cherry on the political cake. Couple that with Governor Patterson's meeting with the developers and you've got a campaign scrambling to look better in the eyes of the voters.

The Democrats have won so many offices lately that the Republicans cannot stand to lose the Town of Hempstead. They will do anything to keep Republican control over it. They will do anything to make sure Kate Murray is re-elected. Personally, I believe this is Step 1.

By giving the impression of being proactive on the Lighthouse LI project they have effectively taken a good portion of the wind out of Kristen McElroy's campaign sails. Certainly the Lighthouse is not her only platform, but it is the one that could garner her crossover support.

The July 7th meeting is strictly to VOTE on whether the DGIS is complete. Does Ms. Murray HAVE to be there? I'm not sure. Could she be on vacation at the time? Perhaps. But July 7th is the only meeting of the board in July. They have one in August as well, so the July 7th date was strictly the only date available on the town calendar and not necessarily a show of "I'm running as fast as I can."

With luck that date will then put an end to the consultant's pay checks. (Note: I believe it's cost the developers an estimated $54,000 to make changes to the DGEIS so far.)

But before we all jump on that "I Like Kate" bandwagon that is pulling up to the Coliseum, I'd like to bring up just a few things that LetThereBeLighthouse's Nick Giglia sent me. He received an e-mail from The Community Alliance entitled "Debunking the Murray Myth."

The stabilized town tax platform? Town taxes were raised by 6.6%.

The highest Wall Street credit rating for ToH? It seems that may be true, but that Ms. Murray was left by her predecessor with a $50 million surplus probably has a lot to do with that.

The restoration of eroded beaches was actually a federally funded project by the Army Corps of Engineers.

There are many, many holes in her political platform for this year's re-election. But I'm glad Nick forwarded me the email, I will certainly now be check on this blogsite that seems to follow the Town Supervisor very closely.

"If the wolf puts on a sheep mask and sits down with the Shepard for tea, is it not still a wolf?" Yes, it is. And it's motives are the same, only the perception has changed.

As Islanders fans and as Long Islanders we need to stay diligent in this cause. We cannot become complacent because Tom Suozzi brokered a photo op. I urge you to stay informed, stay involved, and stay concerned. I'd like to be 100% sure I'll know where our 2009 1st round draft pick will be playing in five years. I'd like to be 100% sure it will be in Uniondale, NY, Town of Hempstead, Long Island.

Until then... come on... Convince me Kate.

The Tom Suozzi "PEACE" Initiative

Today Kate Murray and Charles Wang will meet again in Mineola for a little sit down session brokered by Nassau County Executive Tom Suozzi. There will be fire trucks stationed outside the building. (Just kidding.) Why it has taken this long is beyond any one's comprehension, but as the calendar keeps turning, this needs to move quickly.

Mr. Wang has been exceptionally busy this week. Yesterday he met with NY Governor Patterson. Unlike the Town Supervisor, the Governor was well informed on the project. Perhaps he realizes how important this is and how other states and cities are doing exactly the same types of multi-use developments to increase their economic wellness.

The Mets bumped Mr. Wang off the FAN yesterday and I haven't received word of when it will be rescheduled. Lucky for Francesa.

Penguins make it a series with a brilliant game last night. The hockey faithful will hold on to our sport for as long as we can before we head into that dry spell called "the off season."

More later. I'm hoping.

LI Regional Planning Council Motions for the LighthouseLI Project

**(Note: It's late, I'm tired, I have no time to myself. I didn't really proof this and there are no links to my blogger buddies. I'm sorry. I wish I had nothing to do but write. NO, seriously, that's not sarcasm. I'm jealous as hell over those who do.)

I skipped out of work for four hours to be a tourist in Mineola. I hadn’t been down Franklin Avenue in years. It frightens me. Nothing but beautiful buildings and no one on the streets. But there are CARS everywhere. So many cars that I had to park three blocks away from the Legislative building.

I was panicking about what was in my purse. Could I bring the camera, the recorder, my Advil, 3 lbs of make-up I don’t wear and my deodorant into a government building? Did I still have that corkscrew in there too? Would they think it was a weapon? Crap.

No one even looked in my purse. I was safe.

My high heels made horrible noise down the quiet marble corridor. I tried walking on my tip toes to silence them. Left, right, through the door to a waiting room where Kate Murray was holding court in front of the cameras. I scanned the room for familiar faces.

I was formally introduced to Mr. Wang. We had meet at a draft party years ago when I asked him to sign my Yashin jersey. We didn’t have any contact when he chose my name as the winner of the 7th Man Competition in 2004. This was the first time we made conversation. Knowing I was there as a supporter, I was surprised at his first question. “So who do YOU want Garth to pick?” I blinked hard. “Do you really want me to answer that?” I realize he did. “I want Garth to surprise me as usual and walk away with TWO prospects with one pick.” He laughed.

IslesOfficial Doug Davison and I made our way into the meeting room and sat in the back. Newsday’s Jim Baumbach and PointBlank’s Chris Botta were behind us. Soon Nick Giglia from Lettherebelighthouse sat behind us as well. We were a clump of bloggers in a room full of politicians, town and county employees and one 3rd Grade class from Plainview’s Hank Academy.

There were other bills before the board that they were discussing and needed to voted on before the LighthouseLI presentation. It was oddly sweltering in that room with about 200 people in a room that holds 251 (according to the C of O on the wall.)

It was 11:26 am by the time Charles Wang took the podium to begin his presentation. After he acknowledged the room full of consultants that are working for the Town but receiving checks signed by Charles Wang, the room watched an updated video presentation on the ten-year build out plan for the area.

After all this time I’ve been close to this project, this was the first time I noticed the theater and live stage venue. How did that happen?

Mr. Wang was passionate in his tone, “We’re dedicated to make the project work for all. WE have to do something on Long Island. This is not the panacea or miracle solution. It’s only a catalyst and a model of vision.”

Michael Picker went over the details of the properties. “This 150 acre project, the Coliseum is only 77 acres. This brings our other assets together.” The RXR Plaza, the Marriott and the Omni are all owned through a joint venture.

There are 2,300 proposed residential units in the application. It is not a gated community. There would be loft residences above the retail plaza and luxury condos in the tower. A 5-star hotel with 300 rooms would complement the existing Marriott and serve the proposed convention center. (Something this area desperately needs)

The proposed Sports Technology center would bring permanent jobs to those graduating from Hofstra and NCC where new curriculums are being developed for these fields. There would be 500,000 sq ft of complimentary retail space. There would be four sheets of ice, basketball courts and sports fitness facilities.

Long Island is the land of “Travel Sports” teams. We drag our kids up and down the coast and sometimes across the country to play in tournaments. Why can’t we make people come spend their money on Long Island instead of us having to go to elsewhere? The Lighthouse Project represents enormous opportunity for the town, the County and all of Long Island.

Kate Murray took the podium and made a joke about the upcoming NHL Draft. I’m certain that’s as far as her hockey knowledge goes. While her report was well presented, it was also well calculated in the accuracy of her words. “The Town Of Hempstead wholeheartedly supports that it is of regional significance and should be designated as such.”

Ms. Murray went on to explain how she feels she has been fast tracking the project, directing departments to work in conjunction with each other and how she was proud they were able to complete the Scoping document in only 9 months. The way they conveyed the issues to the developers during that process is the reason they could deliver the 6,500 page document within 15 minutes. “We have moved the process in an expeditious way.”

On May 29th, the Environmental experts (that Wang is paying) sent the developers a ten page memo outlining areas that need to be “filled in and supplemented” before they can get the DGEIS to be declared complete. “Then other county agencies will ultimately weigh in on the process.” She made a point of stating twice “We are neither a proponent nor an opponent. We are the judge; the seven members of the Town Board will make the decision. We’re hoping for a meeting sometime this summer and expect a high level of cooperation.”

While these words seemed in no way confrontational, they just weren’t enough. Once again it seemed like a kind stall tactic. Why should they rush? It took 18 months to approve a bus route; a project of this size may take a century. Her words weren’t enough for Mr. Wang either. Just as the panel was about to read a statement from Tom Suozzi, Mr. Wang stood up again and took the podium.

“At the risk of being told to shut up and leave the podium, I want say something. WE have a chance to do something here. I take issue with what was said. I want to DO something good for Long Island.” He went on to say that he doesn’t personally blame Supervisor Murray and he doesn’t expect to cut corners, but he is looking to find a new process. “Let’s get the consultants together. WE pay them -- since January. It’s now June. Just tell me Yes or No or tell me what
you want.”

As a person not in politics, wouldn’t you think that’s how it WOULD be done? Put all the brains in one room and let them hash it out until they come up with solutions. While they toss the idea of “completeness” and “solutions” back and forth, people are out of work. The labor representative told everyone to come to his office and take the calls from those construction workers who are out of work and don’t know how they are going to pay their mortgages. It’s heartbreaking.

Tom Suozzi’s statement began with “The future of Long Island is dependant on the Lighthouse Project.” Speaking of Democrats, although Tom was not present, Democratic candidate Kristen McElroy was in attendance.

It was time for the panel to ask questions of the developers and of Kate Murray. The flood gates opened. “Have you put more staff on? What has the town done? What can they do? What resources can we move?” Ms. Murray was asked.

“SEQR is a state process as we all know. It is what it is. When the application came in in ‘08, I multi-tasked the environmental process. We would have bi-weekly meetings with the developer and calls in between. I’m proud of the process we created for this project.”

Was that an answer? She was asked again. “Does the town have enough now?”
The point they were trying to drive home to her was they too knew what SEQR is. Everyone calls it a weapon or a tool. Ms. Murray said there would be another meeting on Friday. That was a surprise.

Again the panel asked “How do we make progress? How do we help?” The solution seemed to be simple. “We have to advocate and educate people and that requires voices. Not paid voices, but people in the community, council members and community leaders.”

Even Uniondale’s rep admitted that most residents don’t know what this project means. So, basically the word is not getting to the ears that need to hear it.

We need a grass roots effort of word of mouth. Even those countless community outreach meetings are not reaching enough people.

Mr. Wang expressed his frustration, “I don’t believe everyone is rowing in the same direction. This could move a lot faster.”

The council seemed to agree. They were adamant that they would work with other agencies and be available to facilitate other areas of government to move along. One member even suggested a spreadsheet be created to show where everyone is accountable. As it became apparent this panel agreed with the developers, Mr. Wang told them “I’m delighted we’re here. To hear that -- it’s nice to hear people recognize there’s an issue. We believe it can work.”

“If there is some part that labor can help, we commit ourselves to getting this project done!” Said the Union rep. We were about to have another Norma Rae moment. “I’ll have equipment there tomorrow morning. We’ll wait.”

I wish I could see the look on the Supervisor’s face as she was getting no help in keeping status quo. No, this motion was moving forward.

Granted, the motion was to declare the project of regional significance, but it’s a step in the right direction. And from the tone the panel members took, you could tell they mean business.