Mobile passport unit pops up throughout the town

The Town of Hempstead Passport Service offered its mobile processing facility to Elmont residents on June 26.

A “Speedy Pass” mobile vehicle was parked in the lot in front of the Elmont Library to take passport photos and file proper paperwork for local community members. A public safety officer and Town of Hempstead workers helped organize tables, chairs and a tent. All such events take place “rain or shine.”

“It’s a great service and the community should take advantage of it,” said Susan Weiss marketing and PR specialist at the Elmont Library. “There’s no line and it’s right here.”

Elmont resident Ingrid Ruppe, 75, renewed her passport, which expires next January, in the parking lot of the library. While filling out the paperwork, Ruppe said that she is flying to Green Bay, Wisconsin, tomorrow and then visiting Mount Rushmore. In October, she has booked a trip to explore Canada.

People can renew and apply for passports at the Town Clerk’s office, post offices and at “Speedy Pass” Mobile Passport Units. The application forms for passports are available online or at the Hempstead Town Clerk’s Office. People must provide proof of identity and citizenship. Applicants must also bring a 2 x 2 inch photograph in color, or have the photo taken at the location for a $10 fee. Processing fees for the passports thmselves vary, depending on the type of passport and age of the applicant.

The mobile service has popped up at numerous locations throughout the Town of Hempstead. Town Clerk Sylvia Cabana aims to go as many places as possible with this service. From sharing passport information in the South Shore and at different events including festivals and libraries, it has helped spread government services.

“We have a great staff of people,” Cabana said. “Some speak French Creole and Spanish. If certain hours are inconvenient for people, I want to cover as many people as I can.”

The Town of Hempstead’s mobile service is open to anyone. Locations, times and dates can be found on the town’s Web site. At previous events, the RV helped anything from small groups of 10 to 20 people to longer lines of 40 to 50.

The town even offers a similar mobile service for community members to pay their taxes. During the months of February, May, August and November mobile tax locations will serve at the Elmont Memorial Library, Franklin Square Senior Center, Merrick Senior Center and Oceanside TOH Parking Lot O-3.

Groups and communities can call the Town Clerk’s office at (516) 812-3046 to arrange for the “Speedy Pass” Mobile Passport Service at their location or visit toh.li for more information.