Zeldin's priorities at the EPA, clean water for Long Island breweries

Zeldin must choose LI over polluters

As spelled out by Eric Weltman [“Zeldin must choose LI over polluters,” Opinion, May 27], Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin — a native Long Islander — has a profound obligation to stand up for clean drinking water in our region and across the country.

A fragile and sensitive aquifer, Long Island’s water supply is remarkably vulnerable. Zeldin’s intention to rescind limits on “forever chemicals” in our water is only part of his declared plan to cut at least 65% from the overall EPA budget.

How gross for a native Long Islander to turn his back on our community’s vital, day-to-day needs.

— Steve Vitoff, Huntington

Zeldin’s enthusiastic acceptance speech made his fealty to the “president’s agenda” unambiguously clear. That agenda does not recognize pollution as a problem. Zeldin’s choice foreclosed all subsequent ones regarding Long Island pollution.

The remedy for Zeldin’s choice is slow-acting but begins with better choices being made by voters in November.

— Brian Kelly, Rockville Centre

Keep water clean for brewers

The article “Issues of PFAS in Beer Water” [News, June 2] highlights a concern that reaches far beyond beer. Whether it’s a deli making soup or a cafe pouring iced coffee, any business using our local groundwater is affected by PFAS contamination.

Because beer is more than 90% water, we don’t take chances and go to great lengths to protect water quality. Many of us invest in costly systems like carbon filtration and reverse osmosis — not because we have to, but because we care deeply about the product we serve and the people who drink it.

But this responsibility can’t fall on small businesses alone. We need strong oversight, clear communication, and real investment from our water providers. PFAS isn’t just a brewing issue — it’s a community issue that demands a community response.

— Nick Cimorelli, North Bellmore

The writer owns South Shore Craft Brewery.