District Issues Permissive Referendum to Donate Vehicle to New Orleans

Last week, in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, the Hicksville Fire District Board of Commissioners called an emergency meeting and unanimously voted to issue a permissive referendum to allow the district to donate a 1999 Chevrolet Suburban on behalf of the fire department and Hicksville residents to the emergency relief efforts in New Orleans, LA.

"Although the members of this department are strongly dedicated to helping those in need, under the circumstances, we are all feeling completely helpless at this time," said Commissioner Robert Dwyer, who proposed the idea to the board. "Having lived through September 11, nobody knows those emotions first-hand better than us. This is the least we can do to help the people of New Orleans in the face of this incredible natural catastrophe."

Unless the public responds negatively within 30 days of the referendum, which will be issued on Friday, Sept. 9, the district will be authorized to set its plan in motion through guidelines set by the New York State Office of Emergency Management. Meanwhile, Hicksville Fire District officials are seeking a corporation or individual to donate the necessary time and resources to transport the truck to New Orleans. Additionally, the district is gathering any extra fire and rescue gear available to include with the vehicle.

"Although it may not seem like much in the scheme of things, this truck can be used to save lives as well as rebuild the city," said Anthony Wigdzinski, chairman of Hicksville Board of Fire Commissioners. "More importantly, it is a gift from the heart of the Hicksville community to the good people of New Orleans. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this time of great suffering."