Michael O'Neill: This spring, do the right thing

As we shake off the memory of one of the harshest winters in recent years, signs of rejuvenation are everywhere throughout Amityville. Landscapers are preparing lawns and gardens, homeowners are beginning long-awaited improvements, and the continued revitalization of our downtown is gaining momentum.

Our administrative staff and code enforcement officers ensure that the character and safety of the village are maintained and strengthened. We achieve that through comprehensive village codes, consistent enforcement, and cooperation from residents and business owners.

Professional licensing is one of our most important safeguards for public health, safety and quality of life. We require all landscapers operating in our community to obtain a valid license, and this requirement plays a critical role in protecting our residents and environment.

Licensed landscapers must demonstrate that they are properly trained and qualified to apply fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides safely and responsibly. These substances, while beneficial when used correctly, can pose serious risks to people, pets and local waterways if mishandled. By ensuring that only licensed professionals do this work, we significantly reduce the likelihood of improper application, environmental harm and potential health hazards.

In addition to proper training, landscapers are required to carry appropriate insurance. This provides essential protection for homeowners and the public in the event of accidents or property damage. Hiring a licensed professional means that there is accountability, oversight, and recourse if something goes wrong, protections that are often absent when unlicensed operators are used.

There’s also an important community-wide benefit. Licensed landscapers are held to consistent standards of professionalism as they maintain the appearance of our neighborhoods. They understand and follow local regulations, and operate equipment responsibly.

Choosing a landscaper isn’t just about compliance; it’s about making a responsible investment in your property and your community. While unlicensed services may be less expensive, they often come with hidden risks, including substandard work, potential fines, liability issues, and long-term damage that can be far more costly to correct.

Visit our website, Amityville.gov, for a list of licensed landscape businesses. (And note that we do not endorse or recommend any business listed.) 

Finally, I want to emphasize the importance of code enforcement in maintaining the character of the village. Our community is defined not just by its location, but by the pride we take in our homes, our neighborhoods and our public spaces. Code enforcement helps preserve that character by addressing issues such as property maintenance, illegal uses and unapproved alterations. These efforts ensure that our neighborhoods remain safe, attractive and consistent with the standards that make the village such a special place to live.

Code enforcement is about fairness and consistency. It ensures that all property owners are held to the same standards, preventing situations in which neglect or non-compliance by a few can impact the quality of life for many. It also helps protect property values, and reinforces the sense of community that we all value.

Our Action Line on the village website is another tool that makes it possible for community members to report concerns or make helpful suggestions.

I encourage all residents, business owners and contractors to work responsibly and in accordance with village requirements. Whether you’re hiring a landscaper or maintaining your property, please take the time to ensure that proper licenses are in place and that you’re familiar with the village codes — including yard waste and grass clipping collection rules to prevent debris from scattering in the streets, storm drains or waterways. 

I also ask everyone to be mindful of our impact on others and take simple steps as good neighbors. We can all contribute to beautifying the village by adhering to commonly overlooked codes — such as no overnight parking on village streets or parking of commercial vehicles overnight in residential areas, and no parking on lawns or any rights-of-way — along with following Town of Babylon waste disposal regulations (visit townofbabylonny.gov) and basic property maintenance standards.

With your help and consistent enforcement, we can continue to preserve the character, safety and charm of our village for years to come. Visit the Codes section of Amityville.gov if you have any questions about village regulations. We will continue to keep you informed of any updates, and thank you for doing your part.

I wish everyone a happy and healthy spring season.

Michael O’Neill is the mayor of Amityville.