SCCA Meeting Disappointed By Guest’s Absence
By Dara Mormile

The South Canarsie Civic Associa-tion gathered at the Hebrew Educational Society on Monday night for a board meeting hosted by President Mary Anne Sallustro. Community concerns were voiced, but some were disappointed by the absence of the scheduled guest, a representative from the governor’s office.

Pataki representative Nicole Mallio-takis rescheduled her appearance for Monday from 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. She was invited to listen to concerns from the civic group’s members and others from the community.

Nonetheless, the meeting proceeded with several topics brushed upon as Sallustro posted headlines, articles and maps from local newspapers spotlighting some current community problems.

Two major concerns were Canarsie Park restoration plans and the Canarsie ‘L’ subway line, which is set to begin operation by computers next spring.

Sallustro said she does not like the idea of the wrought iron fencing being planned for placement around Canarsie Park along Seaview Avenue.

She also expressed apprehension about the music pavilion that will face Seaview Avenue. Sallustro says it might be "a disturbance to the houses adjacent to the park."

"We only need half the things proposed and an open park for people to enjoy," she added.

SCCA Vice President Steven Kaye also said the fencing plan is unattractive. "We do not want this park fenced in like a prison," he said.

Councilman Lew Fidler made an appearance and told the SCCA that they had the opportunity to oppose ideas presented at the April 19 meeting, then added, "The Park’s Department told us their plans and most people seemed pretty happy," he said.

The meeting then shifted to ‘L’ train transformation with complaints about service testing that has caused disruptions on the line and other worries.

"Think about people who need jobs. It’s costing them so much money to put in this technology – it’s a scary thing. And not every kid goes to college," said Kaye. "Transit jobs and service jobs are great for people."

Kaye also feels strongly about the safety issue and referred to a recent accident on the ‘L’ line when a train derailed and hit a wall at the last stop.

"When something goes wrong, you need human beings!" he proclaimed.

The transit authority has said there will be an operator on every computerized train who can override the system in case of an emergency.

The community members agreed these issues must be addressed to other politicians who were not present, such as Congressman Ed Towns and Bo-rough President Marty Markowitz.

Items also discussed included traffic light placement at certain intersections, the removal of flyers ads stapled to utility poles, and the lack of pay phones in parts of the community.

Hopefully, next Monday’s meeting will once again give community mem-bers a chance to express their growing concerns for Canarsie’s future to some-one who is close to the governor.

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