At the monthly meeting of the board of trustees, there were two items on the agenda that brought a large number of attendees to Flower Hill Village Hall. The final discussions regarding the expansion plans for St. Francis Hospital were held and a motion to close the application for the site plan was conditionally approved. It is expected that the two-stage construction will take about four years to complete. If all documentation is satisfied, the project will be accepted and work will begin shortly.

The other item that caused a lengthy discussion was the special exemption permit sought by the owner of the Landmark Diner located at the intersection of Northern Blvd. and Port Washington Blvd. The proposed site plan shows a new facade, a second story, increased walkways and lighting, and an easier traffic flow. Although there will be another floor added, the number of seats and parking spots will not change. Rather, the restrooms will be relocated upstairs, with elevator access, and the upper floor will be used only for overflow crowds. The new configuration will provide larger kitchen and service areas. There are more details that need to be addressed before any final permits are granted and further action will be taken as soon as documentation is provided.

Other matters presented were: Actions to be taken on "For Sale" signs posted by real estate agencies which may violate the village code, a proposed local law to regulate any security companies patrolling village streets, and an update on the road repaving which is still unfinished.

Finally, there are many ways of protecting yourself during the upcoming flu season: wash your hands frequently, stay away from sneezers, and get a flu shot. Nassau County residents 60 years of age and older can come to the Village Hall on Tuesday, November 30 from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and receive a free vaccination. There are no out-of-pocket expenses, Nassau County Medical Center has waived the co-payment. You will have to take the other precautions on your own. As the date draws closer, if you are interested, call the village hall at 627-2253 for exact details.