Edward Mangano Brings Government to Hillside Library

On Nov. 29 residents popped in and out of the to share their concerns and have their questions answered by representatives from Nassau County Executive Edward Mangano’s .

Representatives in attendance were: The County Executive’s Office, The Department of Public Works, The Department of Assessment, The Department of Social Services and The Department of Health.  

Jill (who preferred not to use her last name) from The County Executive’s Office said the goal of the day was to bring the community information through dialogue with the representatives and through the over 30 brochures laid out on the table.

“Taxes and assessment are our biggest hit,” Jill said, making it a busy day for the county assessor.

New Hyde Park resident Aaron Wizel, who is originally from Guatemala, said he thinks the cuts made by Mangano are needed.

“Some of us believe that we live in an area where you cannot reduce or cut down any of your expenses,” Wizel said, who lost his job three years ago and had no choice but to cut back. “We all have to sacrifice and I think Long Island needs to learn how to sacrifice.”

Wizel was happy to learn from the county assessor that the property tax assessment was reduced and that he can apply for it again.

“We have less revenue coming into our house and we have to find ways to reduce our expenses,” Wizel said. “We could save a lot of money by consolidating, but [The Town of North Hempstead] is legally bound, so that’s not going to change for a while. It’s the way Long Island was structured and I think we’re paying for it now.”

The Traveling Mobile Office has been assisting residents since September and will pick up again in the spring.

“[We get] a decent crowd,” Jill said. “[We’re] really happy to address the residents’ concerns.”