On behalf of the Manhasset Park District Commissioners, I would like to thank all who attended the Manhasset Park District last Wednesday regarding the possibility of acquiring 7.2 acres of land for parkland. This property is located behind the Macy's department store.

We realize attending a meeting like this is not high on everyone's summer agenda, but we appreciate all who showed and voiced their opinions - both positive and negative. It was great to see so many concerned residents of all ages attend. It is this spirit and passion that makes our community so special. This meeting proved Manhasset is alive and vibrant.

We would like to thank all the young athletes and residents of the community, boys and girls, who came to the meeting to eloquently express their concerns. We would also like to thank the more seasoned members and community leaders for their opinions and concerns. The commissioners understand the issues. How we come to resolution is the difficult task that lies ahead. The challenge is to not just point fingers and stamp feet "yes" or "no," the challenge is to offer a solution that works.

The meeting was intended to be an information gathering session for both residents and the commissioners. We hoped to provide a platform for people to express their opinions and concerns. I believe we achieved this goal.

To set the record straight, we have not made up our minds on the course of action the Park District should take on this matter. We were elected to serve based on the will of the people and will continue to do what is right for the community, the 6000 families that make up this community. Although the Public Record of the hearing has been closed, the time to ask questions, express your opinions or provide valuable information has not closed. The commissioners encourage all of you to do this especially those who were unable to attend the meeting.

What was clear at this meeting was that the town of Manhasset lacks athletic fields and community parkland. This community needs parks and fields. We are woefully inadequate-even based on the surrounding communities-in the amount of space our community dedicates to parkland.

The acquisition to acquire/condemn the 7.2 acres is not an easy decision. There are financial, environmental and quality of life issues that must and will be addressed.

What is clear is that the Manhasset Park District is entering into a new age. We will no longer be just a parking district. And in accordance with our charter, we will investigate the possibility of acquiring any piece of property that becomes available for parkland use by our community. We understand all the risks involved, but the biggest risk may be taking no risk at all.

We pledge to make an informed and fair decision. Our decision will be based on the information available and our duty as your elected representatives to do what is just for the entire community of Manhasset. Please contact us and get involved if you feel you have information that can help us make the right decision for the entire community.

Once again, we would like to thank each of you that participated in our hearing and we urge all of you to become part of the solution and not part of the problem.

Mark Sauvigne

Commissioner/Secretary

Manhasset Park District