The Incorporated Village of Farmingdale has taken its first steps toward its Smart Growth endeavors. This administration has been hands-on in its commitment to enriching the quality of life in our village. Recently, Vision Long Island, a nonprofit organization that specializes in working with municipalities to develop smart growth initiatives, was invited to give an informative presentation at a recent trustee's meeting. They discussed programs designed to engage neighbors and together, work to redevelop blighted areas in their communities.

The village is committed to Smart Growth initiatives. A shining example of our commitment is the new parking lot at Daleview Nursing Home. For many years, a non-conforming boarding house stood on that property. Over the past few years, it had become the recipient of numerous housing and property maintenance violations. The lack of parking resulted in spill over onto the streets causing additional concerns for neighbors. We took the initiative and put the owner of the boarding house in contact with Daleview. By bringing the two parties to the table, we were able to produce a beneficial and desirable outcome. The overflow parking on the side streets has been eliminated and Daleview residents now have an expanded patio area to enjoy.

As for the boarding house situation, that leaves only one left in the village. My administration and I have been in close contact with the owner, who is in the process of converting it into a legal two family residence. The house is scheduled for a major facelift including windows, roofing, siding and fences. But, the owner insists on maintaining the old world charm of the house with scallops and arches. This conversion will help eliminate parking and other problems associated with the transient nature of boarding house residents.

Please be assured, that we will continue to aggressively pursue smart growth for all the blighted areas in our village. We invite and welcome all village residents to be part of our smart growth plans.