Ridge, NY - May 27, 2016 - On Saturday, May 21st, Leisure Knoll hosted their first annual Senior Benefits Day, with special guest speaker Suffolk County Legislator Sarah Anker. The event was held at the community clubhouse and included representatives from the Department of Public Service (DPS), PSEG-LI, and the Ridge Volunteer Fire Department.
Legislator Anker spoke about the many programs and services available to Suffolk County’s senior citizens including nutrition and assistance programs, as well as special discounts and recreational programs.
Legislator Anker informed the community about her ongoing 2016 initiatives, including her advocacy for a senior representative to be an advisor for the New York State Department of Public Service (DPS). The DPS regulates and monitors electric and utility rates for the state. The Senior Energy Advocate would advise the DPS on the issues most concerning to seniors across Long Island and New York State.
Legislator Anker is also advocating for a special senior rate for residents paying all-electric rates. Residents with all-electric rates don’t have the ability to use oil or gas to supplement their electric usage and may pay up to $1,000 per month.
“I’m determined to find a better rate for all-electric rate payers. It is unacceptable for seniors, who are on a fixed income, to pay the exorbitant all-electric rate. I look forward to working with the Leisure Knoll community and AARP, as we advocate for a fair rate”, said Legislator Anker.
Legislator Anker also spoke about her plans to build a park on the old Kmart property in Middle Island on Route 25. The property has been an eye soar for over 15 years, and working with the Suffolk County’s Planning Department, the Town of Brookhaven, Longwood Youth Sports Association and the Middle Island Civic Association, she will move forward to take the initial step of acquiring the property through the county’s open space acquisition program.
Having worked to create the North Shore Heritage Park in Mt. Sinai as a Civic Association board member, she is looking forward to creating the Middle Island park, which will be a community jewel that overlooks Artist Lake.
“I was most pleased with the speakers, including Legislator Anker. They were prepared with an overwhelming amount of information that was great for the seniors that attended,” said Bill Kane, President of the Leisure Knoll Homeowners Association. “After word got out about the Senior Benefits Day event, the residents that did not attend were most disappointed and were certain that they will attend next year. I hope to host this event again in the fall. Overall it was a grand event.”
“I thank the Leisure Knoll community for their generous invitation to attend the inaugural Senior Benefits Day” said Legislator Anker. “I had the opportunity to speak with residents about their priority issues, and I’m looking forward to our continued conversations focused on improving the quality of life for our residents.”
For more information about Legislator Anker’s initiatives, please visit her government webpage or call her office at 631-854-1600.