I felt compelled to respond to the article "Action Party Announces 2009 Village Election Slate" that was printed in the Jan. 1, 2009 edition of The Westbury Times.

The Action Party announced that it "will be running on a platform that emphasizes the experience of its candidates, as well as their record of maintaining the village's strong financial health." However, it should be pointed out that this year, Village of Westbury residents experienced the largest tax increase in the history of the village, placing into questions its actual financial health.

In addition, Trustee Peter Cavallaro stated the importance of maintaining "the quality of life in our village, and the character of our neighborhoods." However, it should also be pointed out that Trustee Cavallaro was in favor of the feasibility study for a garbage transfer station in Westbury. In fact, he voted in favor of this study twice.

That transfer station would have been potentially hazardous to the community and it was only after the residents of Westbury had their say that the transfer station [proposal] was tabled.

Frank J. Telese

(Editor's Note: Frank J. Telese is writing this letter as a resident of Westbury and not in his capacity as vice president of the Westbury Business Improvement District.)