Members spruce up the Village of Hempstead

VILLAGE OF HEMPSTEAD — Spring has sprung and our members in the Village of Hempstead are doing their part to ensure the village is in pristine condition for the new season.

In the Sanitation Department, members are working with village civic associations to arrange garbage pickup days with residents. The designated “neighborhood cleanup day” gives residents the chance to clean up their property and have sanitation dispose of items like mattresses, tree limbs and yard furniture.

“We give a list of items to the Hempstead Coordinating Council of Civic Associations that are safe for the department to clear out,” said Ron Martin, the village’s general sanitation supervisor. “It feels good to be able to provide an important service for the entire village.”

The Village of Hempstead Street Department also provides many services, including pothole repairs, street sweeping and cleaning out vacant houses and lots.

While satisfying their work duties, members can potentially be exposed to hazardous materials.
“We run into dead animals, human feces and hypodermic needles,” said Edwin McDowell, road supervisor of the village’s Street Department. “It’s the reason why we have a lot of safety equipment.”
Despite the uncomfortable realities of their work responsibilities, members are very proud of themselves and the work that they do.

“Having a high work standard is a positive reflection on us and the village,” said McDowell.

— Wendi Bowie