Hempstead · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Town of Hempstead public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Sale of town-owned properties, including former Capri Motor Inn site
The budget counts on revenue from selling town land, including the blighted former Capri Motor Inn in West Hempstead and parcels in Elmont and Wantagh. Residents asked who the buyers are and what will be built — officials declined to detail pending negotiations.
Proposed Westbury Condominium Hotel Rezoning
The board evaluated an application to rezone a vacant restaurant site in Westbury for a 92-unit luxury condominium hotel, sparking discussion about residential density and school district impacts.
Proposed Boy's High School Dormitory in Woodmere
Residents voiced strong opposition to an unapproved student dormitory and school project on Linden and Cedar Lane in Woodmere, citing zoning violations and neighborhood impacts.
Historic St. Matthias Church Landmark and Development Pressures in North Bellmore
Residents and preservationists raised concerns over potential construction and relocation plans impacting the landmarked St. Matthias Church on Jerusalem Avenue in North Bellmore.
Spark Car Wash Development in East Meadow
Spark Car Wash plans to build a modern express car wash on a long-vacant lot at 1640 Hempstead Turnpike. Neighbors and board members discussed traffic, landscaping, and operational hours.
Nassau Coliseum Hub Stagnation and Gambling
Residents questioned town leadership about future development plans for the 72-acre Nassau Coliseum hub property, expressing strong opposition to any potential casino or VLT slot facility.
Whaleneck Marina Marine Fueling Station
Whaleneck Marina in Merrick received approval to install double-walled underground gasoline storage tanks and fueling pumps, providing local boaters with much-needed access to fuel before the summer season.
Town-Wide Overdevelopment and Regional Housing Pressures
Residents voiced broader concerns over high-density apartment projects and commercial development across Hempstead, drawing connections between local zoning fights and state housing mandates like the Revive Act. Speakers debated whether suburban growth harms infrastructure or provides necessary housing for seniors and young families.
Redevelopment Lawsuit
Locals are suing the Village of New Hempstead to stop a huge redevelopment project at the old New York Country Club golf course. If you live around there, get ready for potential headaches with traffic, the loss of open green space, and shifting property values.