Letter: N. Hempstead plan was done responsibly
North Hempstead Town Hall is seen in this undated photo. Credit: Town of North Hempstead
The Aug. 8 article “$186G redo for office,” about the Town of North Hempstead borrowing to renovate the town attorney’s offices, did not give the full story.
The renovations support modern technology in a functional work space that will last for generations; the layout and furniture that were replaced dated to the 1950s.
Long-term renovations and furniture are appropriately paid through borrowing. The renovations came in under the $210,000 budget, which was presented in two subsequent capital plans unanimously approved by the town board.
The article states that the town has a positive outlook for its bond rating, which is accurate, but omits that we have a AA1 rating, highest of the three towns in Nassau County. Moody’s Investors Service praised the town’s strong fiscal management and debt-reduction strategy. Our budgets have stayed under the tax cap since 2014, and the town has reduced its debt by $30 million since then.
This is the bottom line: The town gutted and rebuilt its space to create and outfit 10 offices, six support cubicles and two conference rooms, using the low bidder chosen from a state list of qualified bidders for furniture, carpet tiles and ceiling tiles.
Carole Trottere, North Hempstead
Editor’s note: The writer is the town director of communications.
