Written by Christina Mink
On the evening of January 18, 2024, two members of AYLUS Oyster Bay were invited to attend a special event hosted by the Town of Hempstead, witnessing a significant public hearing related to community development. The event took place at the Long Island Marriott Hotel in Hempstead, where a large-scale public hearing was held. The agenda focused on Sands NY’s plan to invest ten billion dollars in the surrounding area of Nassau Coliseum, constructing a large-scale project including hotels, a casino, dining, shopping, entertainment, and cultural facilities. However, the project needed to go through various legal procedures, including a public hearing, to obtain permits. Government officials from different towns in Long Island and mainstream media were present, and the vast banquet hall was filled with local representatives and residents.
Initially, government officials and Sands executives presented detailed information about the project. Experts read the assessment report, primarily addressing the environmental impact on Long Island, such as air, water quality, climate, energy, soil, and more. Subsequently, representatives from various organizations and citizens voluntarily spoke, expressing their viewpoints. Supporters believed the project’s substantial investment would profoundly impact the local economy and employment rates. They also highlighted the potential to attract global tourists, fostering the development of the industry chain—an unparalleled opportunity. Opponents argued that the casino economy would corrupt social values, take away local business, and bring about environmental pollution and traffic congestion. The debate between the two sides was intense, eliciting strong reactions from the audience.
Through this event, we not only gained valuable practical experience but also realized the far-reaching impact of community development on the environment. Particularly in my IB Environmental Science Study (IB ESS) course, I successfully found research material meeting the requirements of my science teacher, integrating theoretical knowledge into real-life cases. As members of AYLUS Oyster Bay, we will continue to monitor the progress of community development, paying special attention to the potential environmental impacts of various projects, with the aim of promoting sustainable development and a healthier community life.
Christina Mink 2.5 hrs, Wanying Yu 2 hrs
