May 21, 2008

Schmitt – Environmental Bond Act Improvements Begin

Nassau County Legislator Peter J. Schmitt has announced the start of a new project in our area under the county’s $100 million Environmental Bond Act Program.  The $100 million Environmental Bond Act Program was created in September 2006 to enable the county to purchase and protect open space, improve parks, improve storm water quality and clean up brown field properties throughout Nassau County.  The Bond Act was voted upon by referendum and overwhelmingly approved by 77% of Nassau County voters.

The Program is geared towards protecting and preserving our environment for our use and for generations to come.   Under the Bond Act Program, properties were nominated for preservation and selected by an advisory committee of environmentalists and conservationists.  The first project in our area will be implemented in the Village of Massapequa Park.  Legislator Schmitt and the Nassau County Legislature voted unanimously to approve a contract for the installation of 300 catch basin inserts throughout Massapequa Park.  The catch basins will improve our water quality as they collect storm water runoff from the streets.  The basins trap contaminants, oil and other debris and prevent the rubbish from entering the underground water system. 

“It is very gratifying to fund a joint program with the Village of Massapequa Park.  Our drinking water is a precious natural resource, and many people do not realize how easily it can be contaminated.  The Environmental Bond Act Program is being put to great use to help keep our water fresh and pure,” said Legislator Schmitt.