The Glen Cove Volunteer Fire Department still wonders why. Why does the mayor's office still insist that the roadway to the waterfront project has to be alternative #4? (Through Pratt Park, next to the firehouse) Why not the fire department's choice, alternative #3? (Around Pratt Park via Glen Cove Ave. to Charles St.)

The Sept. 19 letter in the local papers, From the Desk of the Mayor, stated, "Here are just a few of the benefits we will enjoy with a revitalized waterfront and a rehabilitated road to the transformed area: elimination of pollution, land value appreciation, tax savings, cultural and educational benefits, recreational opportunities.

Is it true if the city were to use roadway alternative #3, the fire department's choice, that we would not share the benefits? Are the benefits any less if they use alternative #3 or alternative #4?

My guess is no.

Also I quote the mayor: "Just think about 50 acres of waterfront property returned to the city and school district tax rolls." Is the mayor saying if we drive to the waterfront using alternative #3, the fire department's choice, we will not get the property back on the tax rolls?

The Glen Cove Volunteer Fire Department is fighting a cause that we feel is right for every person living, working or visiting in Glen Cove. We spoke to thousands of people in Glen Cove and they also wonder why. Why can't alternative #3 work? (Left in front of the firehouse onto Glen Cove Ave. and right onto Charles St. around Pratt Park.)

The construction of this roadway is a permanent structure and is clearly not in the best interests of the emergency services that respond to the daily needs of our city. We have served this city and its residents proudly for 167 years. We feel the impact of this roadway will be detrimental to our response, the safety of our community and membership, and to our overall effectiveness in serving the community. Mistakes have been made in the past, let us not make a mistake that will hurt our city and our emergency services in the future. Please contact the mayor's office with your concerns at 676-2006.

William E. Neice, Jr.

Department Chief