Nassau County Legislators Judy Jacobs and Diane Yatauro held a joint community meeting for the 16th and 18th Legislative Districts on Wednesday at the Jericho Public Library.

Approximately 50 residents attended the meeting where they had the chance to ask questions, voice concerns and hear some guest speakers.

Jacobs, whose area includes Plainview, Syosset, Woodbury, East Norwich, Oyster Bay Hamlet and Jericho, east of Route 106/107, started by telling everyone what an honor and privilege it is to serve the community. "We are here to be your spokespeople," said Jacobs.

Yatauro, who locally serves Upper Brookville and Jericho, west of Route 106/107, explained that she is holding these listening tours and community meetings to hear what concerns the community has so she can get to know the area better. "We are trying to bring Nassau County to you," she said.

POP Police Officer Rempel from the Second Precinct fielded questions from the audience. Questions were raised regarding recent burglaries in the Jericho and Plainview areas. Officer Rempel said the hits have occurred between 4 and 9 p.m., although they have slowed down over the last two months. He advised that residents leave some lights on in the home if they are not going to b e there and not to leave valuables in open view.

Other concerns were raised about homeless people and gangs in the area. Yatauro said that crime rates have dropped and Officer Rempel said that although there has been an increase in gang activity in Nassau County, he was not aware of it locally.

One resident suggested that police officers be stationed on roadways during emergency situations, such as accidents, when traffic is built up, to help direct everyone and keep things moving. This woman stated that this week there were two accidents on the Long Island Expressway and a traffic cop would have greatly helped the situation.

Another woman brought up a problem on Village Drive stating that there are large amounts of trash build-up on the road and she has tried many times to get someone to clean it up, but is having trouble finding out if it is a town, county or state road.

Jacobs and Yatauro said the purpose of the meeting was to listen to everyone, hear their concerns and then look into the matters discussed. The legislators took the names and numbers of everyone who spoke do ythy could further help them after the meeting.

Jim Reed, Deputy Commissioner for Nassau County's Department of Consumer Affiars also spoke and warned residents not to trust contractors. He suggested everyone call his office at 571-2600 before they hire someone to check and see if they are licensed.

"We are out there trying to protect you," said Reed. "Seniors seem to be the biggest target so you have to be careful."

The Office of Consumer Affairs has many resources available to the public, including information on the "Do Not Call" registry and how to remove named from certain mailing lists, both reducing the risk of identity theft.

For those who were unable to attend the meeting, but have questions and concerns, Jacobs can be reached at 571-6216 and Yatauro at 571-6218.