Tuesday, November 11, 2025
I am honored to have recently been elected president of the Nassau County Village Officials Association. Founded in 1925 and celebrating its 100th anniversary, this nonprofit organization represents all 64 villages in Nassau County — home to nearly 475,000 residents. It was formed for the purpose of encouraging cooperation among member villages for the mutual benefit of all.
While each village is unique, we share the same goals and challenges when it comes to services and quality of life. The NCVOA provides a forum for village officials to exchange ideas; learn from one another; develop educational programs; aid local officials in implementing programs; study and discuss activities and actions that will benefit villages’ safety, health and welfare; investigate and discuss the most efficient methods of village government; and collectively advocate for our communities. The organization advocates for village issues at the local, state and federal levels. Together, the voices of 64 villages are stronger when the needs of our residents are presented to policymakers in Mineola, Albany and Washington with a singular voice.
While politics at the county, state and federal levels can often be divisive, local government is different. There is no Republican or Democratic way to pave a street, open a park, collect garbage, issue a permit or respond to an emergency. Regardless of political leanings, we all want safe streets, clean neighborhoods, beautiful green spaces and vibrant communities for our children. Disagreement is natural. It doesn’t make one side right or wrong — it simply reflects different perspectives on how to reach the same shared goal. Dialogue is healthy, and often results in new and better ways to address an issue or solve a problem.
When I speak with my fellow mayors, we realize that there is a commonality to the challenges facing all 64 villages. Village government is the most local form of government — the one closest to residents. We all strive to deliver the highest level of service at the most economical price point. Mayors are residents as well, and we feel the pressure of increased taxes or a reduction in services the same as other residents.
At the local level, government is most economical and effective when residents and officials work in partnership — when we talk, maybe disagree and ultimately come to a common solution. Sea Cliff, like all villages, thrives when residents participate in civic life, and depends on residents for participation.
Most of the 64 mayors of Nassau County, while they are elected officials, draw little or no salary and do not have support staff. They rely on village staff and residents to get things accomplished. We’re always seeking qualified volunteers to serve on the Zoning Board of Appeals, the Planning Board, the Architectural Review Board, the Landmarks Commission, the Tree Preservation Commission and the Environmental Conservation Commission. If you are interested but unsure of your qualifications, I encourage you to reach out to your mayor or trustees, attend a meeting or review the village code online to learn more. Training and support are available, and your contributions would be welcomed.
Unfortunately, in today’s world, misinformation and rumors spread quickly, often sparked by frustration with rules that apply to everyone. Before accepting the latest negative claim about a local government or its officials, I urge you to pause and consider the source. Your local officials are not distant bureaucrats; we are your neighbors, committed to serving the greater good. Let’s not allow negativity or a small handful of gadflies to dominate the conversation. Instead, let’s focus on working together toward the common good. That is the true spirit of community, it was the foundation of the formation of the NCVOA, and it is what will continue to make all 64 Nassau County villages special places to live.
Elena Villafane is the mayor of Sea Cliff.
