Lynbrook Residents Have Mixed Views on Hockey Arena Bond

Lynbrook residents voting on the $400-million bond referendum for a new hockey arena and minor league ballpark expressed mixed views when asked their opinions outside of Lynbrook Village Hall this afternoon.

Village resident Matt Steikovski, a New York Islanders fan, said he voted in favor of the new arena because he grew up as a fan and doesn't want to see the team pack its bags when its lease at the Nassau Coliseum expires in 2015.

"I really think [the Islanders are] going to leave if they don't get a new stadium," Steikovski said. "It kind of reminds me of what happened with the Hartford Whalers — they had a really junky stadium, it was in a mall … and they decided against building [a new one] and they left."

Resident Rich Morin said he voted "yes" for the new arena, with the hope that it would be an economic boost for Nassau County. "Just with the revenue that could come through all the different events that could be there," he said. "If they close down the Coliseum, it will be an empty lot and you never know what building is gonna be there."

And while most would agree that the Islanders, if they were to stay in Nassau beyond 2015, would benefit from a more modern building, many residents felt that the check should not be given to taxpayers.

"I voted 'no' because I really feel that this should be privately funded, that the taxpayers, in this economy, shouldn't have to fund a project like this," said Michelle, a Lynbrook resident. "Even though it will create jobs — and I do understand that and I think it's important — I think that there are people out there that could have done this maybe privately, maybe not asking for the money that they're asking for."

Another resident, who identified himself as "Rocco," had a similar opinion. "I voted 'no' because if the Islanders want to play hockey, let them pay for the Coliseum themselves," he said. "Why should citizens have to pick up the tab — again — for all these people with all of this money? I mean, there's an owner there with millions of dollars — let him take it out of his pocket and knock himself out. But leave my pocket alone — stop reaching for my wallet … we got enough problems."

Polls are open at Lynbrook Village Hall (1 Columbus Avenue, Lynbrook) until 9 p.m. Check back on Lynbrook Patch later tonight or tomorrow morning for results of the vote.