North Hempstead · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in North Hempstead public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Stray Cat Population and Shelter Services
Residents advocated for increased municipal support and funding for stray and feral cat rescue, trap-neuter-return (TNR) programs, and emergency veterinary care, arguing that current town allocations heavily favor dog shelters over feline welfare.
Front Yard Fencing and Traffic Safety in Manhasset
Homeowners requested variances for fences in secondary front yards to protect young children, balancing privacy and family safety against driver visibility on corner lots.
Legal Defense
North Hempstead just hired outside counsel to defend its okay of the Sbarro family development project, meaning your tax dollars are officially paying for a courtroom fight. Local leaders are doubling down on their decision, but residents are left footing the legal bill.
Town-Wide Master Plan Update
The town hired BFJ Planning to update its comprehensive master plan to guide future growth and land use.
Legal Fees
North Hempstead just dropped another cool $257,000 of your tax dollars to fight a mosque lawsuit, sending the town's legal tab even higher. You're the one footing the bill for this endless courtroom drama.
Legal Expenses
North Hempstead taxpayers are on the hook for over $257,000 in legal bills just to fight a lawsuit involving the Hillside Islamic Center. That's a massive chunk of the town's budget spent entirely on courtroom drama.
Social Media Policy
North Hempstead town leaders just rejected a push by Democrats to ban political stuff from official town social media and mailers. That means elected officials can keep using your tax-funded accounts and newsletters to share their political views.
Infrastructure and Utility Pole Removal
Residents complained about drainage issues on Lipton Lane and prolonged delays in removing double utility poles left behind by telecommunications and electric providers.
Free Speech Restrictions
North Hempstead Republicans just shut down a proposed bill that would have clamped down on what local officials can say in official communications. For now, the town's current communication rules are staying exactly where they are.