(transcribed)

 (Ed: this was written during the Gaffney Administration)

Dr. William L. Palmer
Oakdale, NY

December 9, 2002

Suffolk County Dredging Committee

Dear Committee Members:

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the members of your committee for their time, devotion and effort in bringing about the dredging project.  It is my belief that such dredging will enhance the community in a number of ways.  In terms of the natural wildlife, having a greater water flow through the canals will likely create a more nourishing environment for fish and fowl alike by creating a cleansing and through the addition of greater nutrients contained within the tidal flow.  With greater flow, I believe that the sanctuaries will also become better purified through the reduction of stagnant pools leading to a reduced population of mosquitoes.  Finally, with deeper water, the access through the waterways will be enhanced by permitting larger crafts to enjoy the recreational benefits of the canal.

I'm writing this letter so that I may have some voice in this process.  It is unfortunate that the meeting was scheduled at a time when many community members are unable to attend.  For future meetings, please try to arrange a meeting time so that working members of the community can participate.  I have spoken to many of my neighbors who revealed that they were unaware of either the project and/or the meeting.  Greater outreach appears to be indicated.

Should any member of the committee wish to contact me, please feel free to call me at the above number.

Thank You,

Dr.  William Palmer