Legislator Norma L. Gonsalves (R-East Meadow) and the members of the Republican Delegation of the Nassau County Legislature filed legislation on March 30, 2004, aimed at reducing County fees for military reservists and members of the National Guard. Currently, National Guard and Reserve Units must pay fees to Nassau County for use of county parks. Many units stationed on Long Island use Nassau County parks and pools for training exercises and ceremonies. “Since September 11, 2001, thousands of men and women on Long Island have been mobilized to fight the war against terrorism. We have the privilege of calling these brave people our neighbors and friends. Nassau County needs to offer these units every means of training possible to better prepare them to serve our nation,” said Legislator Gonsalves.

Currently, numerous military units such as the 2nd Battalion, 25th Marines uses the Eisenhower Aquatics Center for swim qualifications and other open fields for training exercises and family day. “This legislation will ease the financial burden that Nassau County places on our military personnel, it is without question something that the Republican Delegation supports fully,” added Legislator Gonsalves. This legislation has been filed in the Clerk of the Legislature’s office and can only be put on the Legislative calendar for a vote by the Democrat Majority of the Legislature.