In response to Ms. DeGiorgio's and Mr. Tu's opinion piece, the Housing Authority would like to clear up several inaccurate claims.

First, it should be noted that the development is proposed by the North Hempstead Housing Authority (“NHHA”). NHHA is an independent entity created by state statute legally separate and distinct from the Town of North Hempstead. The Housing Authority is like any other applicant seeking planning approval from the Town. It must abide by all of the rules regarding planning submission and has done so. The NHHA believes that this proposed development is the best use of the Housing Authority’s limited land.

Below is an outline of the facts surrounding the proposed, senior, 48-unit developments at Harbor Homes:

• The North Hempstead Housing Authorities “NHHA” mission is to develop and preserve affordable housing in the Town of North Hempstead. 

• Sixty years ago, the NHHA acquired the 5.71 acres at Harbor Homes from private landowners. Furthermore no town funds were used to acquire the property and no town funds will be used for this development. 

• In 2004, with Town and State approval, the NHHA privatized Harbor Homes, which was dilapidated and in dire need of rehabilitation.

• The Harbor Homes project was rehabilitated, and the NHHA transferred title of the property to a limited partnership, of which a housing development fund company ("HDFC"), Harbor Homes Housing Development Fund Corp. became the sole general partner. As required by this legislation, the board members of the HDFC are the commissioners of the NHHA.  The property is entailed for affordable housing.   

• The land of which the proposed senior affordable housing development is to be built is owned by Harbor Homes L.P.  Therefore the property in question is privately owned and by statute can only be used for affordable housing.

• The NHHA is aware that this land was used at one time, more than ten years ago, as an area for its residents to play basketball.  The NHHA believes the highest and best use of this land is for its senior residents in need of safe, decent affordable housing.  The NHHA is working on this project in support of its older residents, who are on fixed incomes and desire to continue to live in the community in which they have always been a part.  The NHHA would be irresponsible to ignore this land as a suitable option for developing senior affordable housing.

• Furthermore, due to the higher elevation of this land, the management and safety to the Harbor Homes residents and neighboring community was a serious threat.  The additional recreational area was unmanageable and consequently led to mischief, vandalism and crime, which was occurring there.  Therefore, for the protection of the community, input from the neighbors and local police, the site was closed off. Currently the acre and half of land is in a state of disrepair. 

• Should you need any additional information, please let me know.  Thank you for your willingness to hear the facts surrounding this much needed proposed senior development.

Sincerely,

Sean T. Rainey

Editor's Note: Sean T. Rainey is executive director of the North Hempstead Housing Authority.