Polling for Dollars

Port residents joined Nassau County voters Monday in deciding whether a new coliseum and minor league ballpark should be built within the Mitchel Field complex. The polls are expected to close at 9 p.m.

At , many senior voters expressed a deep suspicion of the entire process because they believe the county government pushed the concept through too quickly due to political pressure. However, they were joined by 19 year-old Rachel Lifson who followed the lead of her family and voted no.

An overriding sentiment among voters who voted yes was the idea that a new sports complex will stimulate the local economy and provide new jobs. Cindy Perdikakis, a 25-year resident of Soundview, enthusiastically endorses the measure because "it will bring in new concerts and events and so increase county revenue." 

Sharri Bosswick said, "It's a win-win for county residents because not only will it create jobs but it's important to keep sports teams here."

Lee House agreed and said, "I'm voting yes and giving it a chance because it might work in spite of a similiar project in Glendale, Arizona, which some people might consider a catastrophe."

Although turnout was relatively light in the morning, the afternoon picked up steam. Ben Yaron, an Elections Chairperson, said "It's been very busy. I voted yes so that jobs are created."