Hoey
GREAT NECK — Public service workers are the cornerstone of New York state. Without these very important individuals, our communities would not run smoothly. This is why long-term civil service workers like Great Neck Park District worker Aloysius Hoey deserve to be celebrated.
Hoey is set to retire after more than 38 years as a civil service worker. He spent his first five years working in the Town of North Hempstead’s Highway Department before switching to the Great Neck Park District.
“I really like working in the parks,” said Hoey. “Every day, you’re doing something different and you’re not stuck inside.”
Hoey felt that union membership was so important that he remained an active member for the entirety of his employment.
“I have two sons, and I needed the added security of having our union behind me to fight for fare wages,” said Hoey. “I also like the discounts that CSEA negotiates for [our members].”
It is his love for the Town of Great Neck that gave Hoey the drive to work at the park for more than three decades.
“I grew up in this town and I love it here,” said Hoey. “I’m also a volunteer firefighter, so I try to help out the community as much as I can.”
The relationships that Hoey has built with his fellow unit members has made his time at Great Neck Park District that much better.
“I’ve met a lot of really great people over the years,” said Hoey. “Members in this unit are always willing to help and pitch in where they are needed.”
Hoey says he will undoubtedly maintain the friendships that he has developed with his fellow unit members after he retires.
“We have a bond,” said Hoey. “I can’t say enough great things about them.”
The almost four decades Hoey has been a union member has only strengthened his resolve to stay union strong.
“You are foolish if you don’t see the importance of union membership,” said Hoey. “You should feel happy if you’ve never had to turn to CSEA for help and also happy that CSEA is there if you ever need them.”
As for the future, Hoey doesn’t seem to be slowing down. He is thinking of using his CDL license to get a job as a school bus driver or maybe becoming a security guard.
“I’ve enjoyed my years as a CSEA member,” said Hoey. “I have no regrets.”
