I, along with a number of Farmingdale residents, have been attending Farmingdale Village Board meetings steadily over the past eight years. During that time we have seen firsthand two groups of board members administer the business of our village. There have been a number of issues that have been high on my list for all of that time. I would consider those top five as follows; #1 unplanned overdevelopment, #2 traffic and safety, #3 sustainable business, #4 governing to and for the people and #5 water rates.

All of the above had been concerns eight years ago and today my top four concerns still exist. During the past two years we have seen four residents attempt, in their own way and in their words to 'bring local government back to the people'. The cornerstone of the current administration's campaign was to promote smart growth and stop overdevelopment and unfortunately during the past two years overdevelopment has skyrocketed. Where once stood 11 homes there are now over 46 - eight $1 million McMansions on the former Hueppe property, 20 new homes off Conklin Street and Dale Drive, a number of one-two homes shoe-horned in due to weak zoning codes and a new hi-end 10-home development starting off Fulton Street. That is over four new homes for every one taken down. Would you call that planned growth or is it planned overdevelopment?

Since the visioning event last month hopes of controlling growth were high; however, plans are now coming forth for five homes that could replace one if the future plans are accepted. There are also rumors of another million dollar McMansion project brewing that would replace one house with many new houses!

The Vision Long Island event did much to facilitate a vibrant discussion of residents' interests and concerns. Hopes were high that planned growth through a new village master plan would now prevail. The only true method of controlling overdevelopment is to create and revise the zoning codes and development policies. We are long overdue for a time out - a moratorium on any pending and future development in the village is needed now, until such time as we have a consensus on a revised master plan.

This election is critical; there are seven candidates for two spots. During the past four years I have only seen one of these candidates participate on a regular basis and she has always been positive and constructive. The other position should also be filled by an independent thinker willing to represent the majority of the village residents. So please take time to read, talk to your friends and decide based on facts. Then cast your vote, March 21 at Farmingdale Village Hall, to support the future of our village.

Chuck Gosline