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By Newsday Readers - January 16, 2024
Hub environmental review is crucial
The Town of Hempstead’s environmental review hearings for the proposed development at the Nassau Hub are a critical component of any major development project [“Casino review halt sought,” News, Jan. 10].
These public hearings are necessary for transparency, oversight and ensuring protection of our water, energy and air. Attempts to halt public environmental hearings jeopardize our community.
These hearings aren’t as much for Las Vegas Sands casino as they are about having ample time to hear community concerns so a project can proceed with a comprehensive environmental plan.
Environmental protection should not be weaponized in any siting process. Public hearings, as part of the State Environmental Quality Review Act, resulted from battles by environmental advocates who recall when such discussions were nonexistent.
The town’s tremendous effort ensures that everyone is aware of these meetings with a chance to contribute. Any attempt to delay or stop them is dangerous and shortsighted by those placing their agenda before our communities’ environmental health and welfare.
Let’s not play politics with this vital step in environmental review.
— Adrienne Esposito, Patchogue
The writer is executive director of Citizens Campaign for the Environment.