We're about more than just flood maps

To the Editor:

I have no idea where your publication got the notion referred to in the editorial “Village, Community Association should work together” (Dec. 8-14). When the Valley Stream Community Association states that the organization is all-inclusive, it means exactly that. We have no animosity towards anyone, including the current village administration. This does not mean that we are in agreement with all of their policies, past or present. We are all individuals with our own opinions. (I for one do not agree with using eminent domain to seize the property on Rockaway Avenue, and would consider the use of eminent domain only in extreme circumstances.)

The premise of the meeting was not “what else — the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s flood maps.” The meeting was about lowering property taxes. The reason why Valley Stream’s inclusion in the flood zone, right or wrong, was mentioned is because it is relevant. It is relevant because there is a direct correlation between inclusion in a flood zone and property value. If our property is now worth less, then our property taxes should be less. This affects everyone in Valley Stream. Once any section of a community is devalued, it has a direct effect on every property in the community, whether you are included in the flood zone or not.