I have been a resident of Manhasset for 65 years. I graduated from Manhasset High School as did my three children. I served as the first President of the Manhasset Youth counsel and was active in the Manhasset school community, having served as the chairperson to the committee to select school board candidates. I have deep roots in Manhasset.

My wife and I have lived in our present home in Strathmore Vanderbilt for 44 years. We do not want to move from Manhasset but will have to in that our home has become too large for just two people and the maintenance has become overwhelming.

The Heritage would be ideal for us, and many of our friends and neighbors who are similarly situated.

The church property has been for sale for some time and is exempt from real estate taxes. The property was rejected by the Manhasset Library as well as the Manhasset Park District and it will remain a parking lot if the Heritage project is rejected.

The contiguous property owners will be against any development of this property, good or bad, based upon shortsighted self-interest.

The Heritage would be a plus for all Manhasset. It would create a tax base, add value to all existing property owners, and will offer a residence to the senior citizens who have contributed so much to Manhasset and call it home.

Robert Roberto, Jr,