If there is one thing that Nassau County Executive Tom Suozzi took away from his economic development meeting at the Clara H. Carlson School in Elmont, it's that residents of Elmont are concerned with illegal housing.

"Illegal housing is a very serious problem in this community," said Suozzi.

Illegal housing contributes to overcrowding of a community and hurts taxpayers in their pockets by putting an additional burden on the school systems.

At Suozzi's economic development meeting, several residents identified illegal housing as a chief concern. According to Suozzi, most illegal apartments are rented out by absentee landlords who are taking advantage of the community.

In order to more effectively enforce building code violations, the Town of Hempstead has amended its building code. In addition to increasing penalties for violations of local laws as they relate to illegal rental apartments in single family homes, the town has also made it easier for inspectors to issue violations.

The vote to strengthen code enforcement provisions was a unanimous vote for the Hempstead Town Board on the motion by Councilman Joe Kearney.

As a result, the fine will be $500 for the first offense, $750 for the second violation and $1,500 for the third. Code enforcement officials can now issue summonses without actually gaining access to the premises. Code enforcement officials will be looking for characteristics of a possible illegal dwelling such as multiple utility meters, doorbells and mail boxes. The town can also look for advertisements in newspapers for illegal rentals.

Many civic leaders spoke out in favor of stricter penalties and more flexibility to the municipality in order to crack down on illegal housing. "I feel the Town of Hempstead is moving in the right direction," said West Hempstead Civic Association President Bob Rabey.