By Laura Lane
"Merrick is a great town, and we want to keep it that way," said Baker who is a retired court officer and county marshal. "I have extra time on my hands, and I've observed things that need improvement."
Baker declined to offer details about what needs improvement, saying a civic group should be formed regardless. "There's a lot of good in Merrick, but the people of south Merrick haven't had any place to be heard," said Baker. "I want to help keep home values up and the streets clean."
Baker, the father of two grown children, said Sen. Charles Fuschillo Jr., Assemblyman David Denenberg and Hempstead Town Councilwoman Angie Cullen have helped Merrick tremendously. "I just want to help keep it that way," said Baker. "And the organization can be a place to also recognize public officials."
Howard Sideman, who has lived in south Merrick for six years, plans to be involved too. "Joe lives on the corner of my block, and we've talked over the years," said Sideman, 39. "He asked me if I'd be interested in meeting with Barry Fox [who is president of the Merrick Park Home Owners Association] and the other civic leaders to become involved in a civic group for our area."
Sideman, the father of two children who attend Levy-Lakeside Elementary School, said he loves Merrick. "I want to establish roots here, so I wanted to get involved," said Sideman. "I hope we can do something good for our neighborhood."
Baker and Sideman will hold a public meeting soon to elect an executive board and hear suggestions from other south Merrick residents. "The civic group will cover everywhere south of Merrick Road," said Baker. "We want to become a charter and incorporate, but we're at the very early stages right now. But people in south Merrick are very excited about it."
Comments about this story? Llane@liherald.com or (516) 569-4000 ext. 236.
