Lindenhurst mayor says state should repair Sandy-destroyed lots

<p>Nearly six years after Superstorm Sandy hit Long Island, the battle for who should foot the bill for damages it still ongoing in Lindenhurst.</p>

News 12 Staff

Jun 17, 2018, 9:15 PM

Updated 2,308 days ago

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Nearly six years after Superstorm Sandy hit Long Island, the battle for who should foot the bill for damages it still ongoing in Lindenhurst.
Lindenhurst Village Mayor Mike Lavorata says a previous administration agreed to take over ownership of about 40 lots, and the deeds are expected to be transferred in the coming weeks.
But after a closer look at the lots, all of which were destroyed by Sandy, Lavorata says the state should repair them, including paying for bulk-heading, which can cost more than $1,000 per foot.
"If you can clear the bulk-heading, I can get the concrete removed or some other things done to turn the property into green space," says Lavorata. "I just cannot afford to spend taxpayer money in the order of $300,000 and that's just one property." 
The Governor's Office of Storm Recovery said in a statement, "GOSR remains open to discussing which of these properties the town wishes to take over and how to ensure the town's needs are met."
Lavorata says he is working with an attorney to determine what the village's next steps should be. He says there is also a meeting of village trustees next week to discuss moving forward.