The County of Nassau has unveiled an expansive Economic Development Plan. As part of this plan, the County Executive has proposed initiatives that would, among other things, revitalize our "downtowns." The Town of Hempstead, through its Façade and Streetscape Improvement Program, professes similar objectives. Wouldn't it be wonderful if the town and the county could get together - meeting in the middle of "Main Street," perhaps - comparing notes, sharing plans, implementing joint designs, acting in concert as the architects of community resurgence?

Along similar lines, the county has proposed affordable work force and senior housing, centrally located in or near the business districts of local communities. The Town of Hempstead, at least as the talk on the street has it, shares the same vision of giving a much needed shot in the arm to the local economy, while providing truly affordable housing options for both our young college grads and our retired senior citizens. Imagine the accomplishments, not to mention the tax savings, if town and county were to lay aside their differences, political and otherwise, and work together as the harbingers of community renewal.

There is no magic to working together for the common good. Sure, there is resistance along the way. An uneasiness in having to cede at least some authority to the collective throng. This can be particularly sticky where partisan politics is at play. And yet, this hesitation invariably gives way to a certain serenity, as the benefits begin to unfold, and the perceived risks and suspected downsides fade from view. Just look how far we've come -- I'll cite the new library as a single instance of what we are capable of doing -- simply by working together. Imagine - and I propose that it is not that difficult to do, if we, as a community, insist upon it - if town, county, and even state officials were to work together, building community as one. Why, the avenue might actually get repaved, the Courtesy conceivably converted to affordable housing, and, who knows, we may even bear witness to a roll-back in taxes by dint of such unprecedented cooperation.

The cause of community is, and must always be viewed as, a collaborative undertaking. Together, we are building community. A partnership of residents, businesses, local associations, and, yes, even government. Now, more than ever, we need the commitment and hands-on participation of everyone, including those whom we have empowered to represent us.

Seth D. Bykofsky

(The writer is former president of the West Hempstead Civic Association, and currently serves as co-chair of the Tri-Community Alliance of Elmont, Franklin Square and West Hempstead.)