I have been a village resident for over 35 years, an active community volunteer, a member of the Village Planning Board, a civic leader and I have regularly attended village board meetings now for over 10 years.

My interest in being involved is to try to be an active participant in the dialogue, try to contribute ideas and viewpoints toward improving the Village of Farmingdale now and for future generations. I also see our 1.1 square mile village in the broader context of our entire community and in the bigger scope of the Long Island region.

Long Island is a great place to live; we have a taste of all four seasons, sandy beaches on both shores, a good business environment, suburban neighborhoods and a close proximity to the greatest city in the world. Living in a village like Farmingdale also offers residents a sense of that old small town feeling.

During both of the recent forum and candidates debates many claims and statements were made. There was a very good turnout at both of these events; however the monthly turnout at village board meetings is sparse. Having regularly attended village board meetings, taken notes, asked questions, made suggestions, written letters and continue to follow the many issues the village encounters, I am not alone, as there are some dozen other concerned village residents that also have regularly attended and try to participate at the village board meetings.

In my humble opinion, our small town feeling in the Village of Farmingdale has taken a detour over the past four years. It is more than just one thing, there are a number of issues that need to be better addressed as we go forward. The challenges for Farmingdale and the Long Island region demand a true partnership between the residents and our leadership. So, for me, it is time for a change. It is time we take a new path with new leadership. That is why I will be voting for Butch Starkie for mayor.

Chuck Gosline