Deputy Mayor Lynn Pombonyo
Police Department
In our Oct. 10th E-Village Items, an important chart entitled “Electric Bicycles & More” is featured, along with our Mayor’s comments about the rules of the road for these vehicles and police enforcement of the related laws.
This month, two of our FPPD Officers will join area law enforcement officials at a targeted program, “E-Bike and E-Scooters: VTL Laws & Safety Issues.” Topics will include relevant laws, equipment/helmet requirements, safety, and school and community collaboration. As always, our FPPD participants will bring back the new information, turnkey train their colleagues, and share with our Board and community.
This September, our Floral Park Police Department was engaged in law enforcement training and education. There were 811 incidents involving FPPD recorded in September. Of this number, 207 were traffic stops, 82 were aided cases also involving our ambulance service and Rescue Company, 62 were suspicious person reports, 27 were responses to alarms, 25 were for traffic accidents with damage or injuries, 35 were for citizens needing assistance, eight for domestic incidents, and six welfare checks on those who are alone and may be experiencing problems.
Throughout September, our Police issued 145 traffic and 968 parking summonses. Some of the most frequent violations included: failure to stop at stop signs and disobeying traffic control devices, improper U-turns, unlicensed operators, and others.
Our Detectives continue to collaborate with the Nassau County Police Department and other agencies. They have investigated September crimes, including four petit and grand larcenies, as well as other serious situations. There have been 35 arrests this year to date.
Our FPPD Motor Carrier Detail continued its truck inspections on Plainfield Avenue and Jericho Turnpike, conducting eight during patrols in September. Fourteen summonses were issued for Vehicle and Traffic Law violations, and two drivers were taken out of service for failure to hold the required USDOT medical certification.
Saturday, Oct. 25, the FPPD sponsors the DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. Between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., you are encouraged to drop off your unused and expired prescription drugs in the boxes at FPPD Headquarters (at the corner of Village Hall). The boxes will be located just outside or inside the front door. A Police Officer and Floral Park Lions Club representatives will be there to assist you and distribute helpful wellness materials. It is dangerous to keep unused prescription drugs in your home.
To all Police and Halloween fans, you’re invited to our Halloween Roll Call on Saturday, Nov. 1, from noon to 2:00 p.m.. Kid Police Officers, ages two to twelve, are invited to report in their best police costumes for light refreshments, safety tips and fun. Again, check out the Department’s Facebook page for the exciting details of both upcoming FPPD events, and be sure to thank our Officers for their service.
The Library
Our public library is more than just a library. It’s a fascinating place to be, filled with limitless opportunities for all. For example, in the Oct. 17 issue of the Floral Park Villager newspaper, you’ll find a feature story about our FPPL’s very own Made with Love Knitting and Crocheting group. Meeting twice weekly at the Library, this dedicated group donates their handmade blankets and baby items to hospitals, care facilities and nonprofit organizations. They also collect the pop tops from soda and other cans, donating large containers of pop tops to the Ronald McDonald House, securing revenue for the metal. All who knit and crochet are welcome to join Made with Love.
Speaking of the Ronald McDonald House which provides “a home away from home” for seriously ill and injured children while they are being treated in local hospitals, all are invited to join FPPL’s Great Giveback. Donate new children’s pajamas at the bin in the Library lobby through October 31st, and be part of our FPPL’s important community service initiative.
Our daily FPPL events also provide endless opportunities for Library enjoyment. Coming up this Thursday evening, the 23rd is Our Library’s Telescope: Training and Stargazing. Enjoy learning about and exploring the night sky with your family. A week later, on the afternoon of October 30th, our kindergartners to third graders are invited to Build It! , a Long Island Children’s Museum program, funded by Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages. Children will learn how bridges and towers are built to last, then construct their own to take home. Monthly Game Nites for Grownups are gaining in popularity. Try out some of our Library’s board games, or bring your own to the next Game Nite for Grownups on Tuesday, November 4th. And, for our honored Veterans, there’s Home Health Care and Understanding Your VA Benefits on Friday afternoon, November 7th. Learn about your eligibility for these important benefits.
You may check out our FPPL Events details at floralparklibrary.org , and discover what new opportunities are right here in Floral Park.
Chambers of Commerce and Our Businesses
Again, this year, the Floral Park Chamber of Commerce is partnering with the Floral Park Memorial High School Virtual Enterprises “mock start-up” program. “Virtual Enterprises International (VE) is a high school program that teaches students about business through hands-on coursework and experience. VE students create and manage a virtual company, and conduct business with other virtual companies nationally and internationally. The program enables students to learn about careers, develop interpersonal and organizational skills, and use technology.” Floral Park Chamber members act as Business Mentors; visit the high school class; guide the students in selecting their company’s officers and making other important decisions; and share valuable expertise. Congratulations to Floral Park Memorial High School student and virtual company CEO Saj Singh, who spoke eloquently at the October Chamber meeting.
The November Floral Park Chamber meeting is scheduled for Thursday, the 6 at 6:00 p.m. Join us at the BC Bistro Restaurant on Jericho Turnpike.
Meeting registration at: floralparkchamber.org
The Covert Avenue Chamber of Commerce meets next on Tuesday, October 28th at 7:00 PM. Join us to plan upcoming events at Trinity Restaurant on Jericho Turnpike. For meeting registration and membership details, visit: covertavenuechamber.org
Trustee Frank Chiara
Department of Public Works
The Highway Department crews prepared and cleaned up debris after last weekend’s storm. We were glad the storm wasn’t as bad as predicted, but we’re happy to know that the DPW was prepared and ready to respond as needed. Landau Avenue has been sealed to help preserve the road’s condition during the cold weather. Additionally, all of our roads and parking lots have been swept, and potholes have been filled as needed.
The Parks Department crews have planted fall mums in various areas throughout the Village; the colorful mums look amazing. Additionally, all other plants have been watered, and all of our parks and building grounds have been maintained. They have also been decorated with corn stalks and pumpkins for the season.
The village mechanics have been maintaining and repairing various DPW trucks and equipment, along with maintaining our Police Department fleet.
Our Tree Department has been working hard this season, trimming trees throughout our Village. Fall tree planting will take place at the end of November. If you would like a tree planted or trimmed near your home, please call Public Works.
Sanitation crews have collected 60 tons of household waste, five tons of paper, three and a half tons of plastics, and 10 tons of bulk rubbish.
As a reminder, please note that as leaves begin to fall from the trees, residents are advised to pick up and properly dispose of leaves that have fallen on their property. Leaves should not be blown into the street.
Conservation Society and Centennial Gardens
The fall season is a wonderful time of year to take a stroll, enjoy nature, and experience all the peace that our Centennial Gardens have to offer. The gardens remain open daily from noon to 5 p.m..
The next Weed Out is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 1, at 9 a.m.. All are welcome to join and help keep Centennial Gardens a beautiful place for the entire community to enjoy!
4VS
Four Village Studio (4VS) is a student-driven, government-access television studio dedicated to creating and maintaining a real-world educational environment for local students interested in media-related careers through an established mentorship and training program. The studio has built a respected reputation as an industry leader in developing entry-level broadcast professionals.
Recently, one of our longtime 4VS staff members, Jamie, was hired by NBC, a major network. Congratulations to Jamie, and best of luck in your new position! Luckily, she will remain with us as an active member of the 4VS team. This is a great reason for anyone interested in this field to consider joining the Four Village Studio family.
For details on weekly programming, visit the 4VS website at www.4vs.org. Various programs always discuss interesting topics. As a reminder, you can view real-time weather readings from our weather station, which is located on top of Village Hall, by visiting the 4VS website for updates.
Trustee Jennifer Stewart
MTA/LIRR
The MTA continues intermittent work along its right-of-way on Atlantic Avenue. Please be aware that there may be road closures on Atlantic Avenue between Rose Avenue and Carnation Avenue.
Fire Department
The all-volunteer Floral Park Fire Department protects the lives and property of more than 16,000 residents who live in our Village, as well as anyone who visits. On average, our department responds to over 1,400 calls for service each year, both within the Village of Floral Park and in surrounding communities.
In recent weeks, the FPFD responded to two house fires, one on Daisy Avenue and another on Charles Street. In both incidents, all residents were unharmed. The FPPD played a key role in the Daisy Avenue fire by using a neighbor’s ladder to evacuate residents and escort them to safety. As always, the FPFD and FPPD work together to ensure the safety of our residents.
October is Fire Safety Month, and residents are reminded to have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors on every floor of their homes, to create a family evacuation plan, and to practice it regularly.
The Fire Department is hosting its annual Comedy Night from 7 to 10 p.m. on Nov. 1. We invite you to come and laugh with the greatest group of volunteers.
Cultural Arts Committee
Please mark your calendar for June 20, 2026, when the Village will celebrate America’s 250th birthday with fireworks at the Recreation Center.
Trustee Michael Longobardi
Building Department
The Building Department has been working with the Historical Society to find a new home for this wonderful archive of records and the preservation of Village history. After much research and planning, what better place for our history than a building with a long history of its own?
Work will begin shortly to update and prepare the Shelter House at the Village Recreation Center to become the new home of the Village Historical Society. The Shelter House will continue to house park offices and a general meeting room, but half of the space will be renovated to accommodate the Historical Society. More details to come.
- After my board report was delivered at the Tuesday Board of Trustees meeting, the following update was received: The first public hearing for the Stella mixed-use development project is tentatively scheduled for Tuesday, December 2, at 8:00 PM at Village Hall. The purpose of this required hearing is specifically to request approval for the underground parking. This hearing will not result in any approval of the overall project. While aspects of the full project will be presented, zoning items, such as building height and the number of parking spaces, will be reviewed and decided separately by the Board of Zoning Appeals at a later date.
- Construction for the proposed restaurant at 99 Covert Avenue is ongoing and expected to be completed by the end of the year.
- Covert Avenue (Fire Property): Second-floor framing is in progress, and roof construction will begin next. Completion is expected by April 2026.
- At 50 Carnation Avenue, the Storage Post has submitted a zoning application to expand its storage buildings. The application has been approved with conditions by the Board of Zoning Appeals, the Board of Trustees, and the Architectural Review Board. The Building Department will now review the project for permitting. Construction start dates will be announced once confirmed.
- Construction of two new homes at the 32 Orchid subdivision, and one at 116 Miller Avenue, is expected to begin shortly.
- Renovation of 212 Jericho Turnpike (formerly Firestone) is ongoing. Once completed, the site will include three new storefronts, one of which will house a new auto repair shop.
As a reminder, all front walkways, stoops, and driveways require permits to ensure compliance with Village Code. Please review the requirements on the Village website or contact the Building Department for assistance. All businesses, new and existing, are reminded that all signage, including temporary vinyl signs, must comply with building code regulations. Please contact the Building Department for information and guidance before installing any signage on commercial property.
Recreation and Pool
Fall sports and activity programs are ongoing at the Recreation Center. Repairs and upgrades to the Fuller Avenue entrance were completed today. On Wednesday, October 22, there will be limited access to the pool building and limited parking in the pool lot, as it will be used as a staging area for a film shoot taking place on Aspen Street that day. The ARB meeting scheduled for Wednesday night has been moved to the Shelter House. The Wednesday Mothers Club’s annual Trunk or Treat event will take place this Saturday, October 25, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM in the parking lot across from the park’s front entrance. The rain date is Sunday, October 26. The event will feature decorated trunks for trick-or-treating, a “Best Trunk” competition, face painting, ambulance and fire truck tours, and, of course, plenty of candy. This fun afternoon raises funds to benefit local families in need during the holiday season. Early voting for the November elections begins this Saturday at the pool building and continues through November 2. The lights at the Recreation Center will be turned off as of November 10, and the park will begin closing at 4:30 PM or at dusk, whichever comes first.
Town-Village Aircraft Safety & Noise Abatement Committee (TVASNAC)
The next TVASNAC meeting will be held on Monday, October 27, 2025, at Town Hall, One Washington Street, Hempstead. If you wish to make a noise complaint regarding air traffic, you can call 1-800-225-1071. You may also visit the Village website, where links to TVASNAC noise complaint resources can be found on the homepage under the TVASNAC contact information section.
Mayor Kevin Fitzgerald
It’s always exciting when these productions come to our Village, to film on our streets. We typically see a handful of filming events each year. Tonight, we approved a TV show called The Hunting Party that will be filming at a house on Aspen Street, starting tomorrow.
I’d like to remind residents that if you are approached by a production company for permission to film on your property, please ensure that as soon as filming is confirmed, the company contacts Village Hall and speaks with the Village Clerk. There’s a lot of planning and logistics involved on our end to make sure these events go smoothly. The more notice we have, the better we can manage it.
Last week this Board, Administrator Bambrick, and I had the pleasure of attending the topping-off ceremony at Belmont Park, where the final steel beam was raised into place. The progress over the last three months has been impressive, the building has grown enormously, and it’s looking great. A number of dignitaries attended the event, including the Governor.
I’d like to thank NYRA, not only for the invitation, but for their continued cooperation over the past few years, especially their responsiveness and support in all the work being done along the fence line and related areas. As I’ve said many times, whenever we call them, they return our calls right away and provide assistance.
As Deputy Mayor Pombonyo mentioned, our next Board Meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 5, instead of Tuesday, as Election Day falls on that Tuesday.
NY Forward Revitalization and Beautification
Deputy Mayor Lynn Pombonyo reported on the State’s NY Forward grant application. This is a highly competitive $4.5 million grant for which NYS villages and small municipalities can apply to revitalize a business district in their communities.
The Village of Floral Park will target revitalization and beautification in Jericho Turnpike and the business areas along Tulip and South Tyson Avenues to the LIRR Station in this year’s grant application. Proposed projects will include, but are not limited to, enhanced streetscape designs, trees, plantings, facade enhancements, wayfinding signage, sidewalk and crosswalk improvements, parking meter upgrades, and others.
The Village’s 2024 NY Forward application rose to the higher levels of consideration as Deputy Mayor Pombonyo and Building Superintendent Renee Marcus, along with Mayor Fitzgerald and Village Administrator Gerry Bambrick, were invited to make a presentation for the judges, representatives of the Long Island Regional Economic Development Council and Empire State Development. It was well-received.
There will be one NY Forward winner from all of Long Island, and the Village of Floral Park is optimistic. More to follow.
