"It is what it is," so goes a phrase that is currently in vogue. I would add "except when it can be changed." I refer to the mammoth bonded indebtedness that all of Mineola's real estate taxpayers have been saddled with over the past 10 years.

No, we can't change the fact that the money is owed, that fact is irrefutable. What can be changed, though, is the interest that is an integral part of the debt. Given the current economic situation in our country, interest rates are now at an all-time low. Some people I work with have already taken advantage of that fact and refinanced their home mortgages.

I was one of the few taxpayers who turned out for the special Village Board meeting on the 22nd of July to hear the bold steps being taken by the new administration in Village Hall: a plan to restructure our debt so as to lessen the interest burden on the taxpayers. Those in attendance were given handouts outlining the vision of our elected officials for the management and control of debt, both now and in the future.

Indeed, the mayor and the entire board are to be commended for pursuing this course of action. I recommend to my fellow village residents to take more of an interest in what direction the "new sheriff in town" is leading us. Attend board meetings when you can; you'll see a refreshing change from past years and administrations.

From what I have seen thus far, this administration is living up to its campaign platform. I'm glad they are in charge.

Carl J. Marchese