The North Hempstead Town Board passed a new local law prohibiting the intentional release of helium or lighter-than-air balloons at a meeting Tuesday.
“This legislation will prohibit the intentional release of balloons within the Town of North Hempstead. It’s part of a continuing effort to improve the quality of life for our residents and protect our environment, including wildlife and animals,” Town Supervisor Judi Bosworth said.
Violations could result in a fine up to $500 or up to 15 days in jail, the resolution reads.
The town is following the neighboring Town of Hempstead, which passed a similar local law at a Nov. 12 meeting.
North Hempstead resident and environmental activist Jordan Christensen thanked Bosworth and the Town Board for passing the resolution.
“I know that balloons seem like a very small thing, but they actually create a huge outsized problem for our oceans, our beaches and our wildlife,” Christensen said.
Balloons released intentionally can get “hundreds of miles” out into the ocean and can wind up being inngested by wildlife like whales, dolphins and seals.
The board also passed a resolution prohibiting covering or coating automobile license plates. Bosworth said this resolution is needed because the town uses license plate recorders for parking enforcement.
Councilwoman Dina De Giorgio said after speaking with CSEA 7555 President Tom McDonough she offered resolutions changing dangerous traffic locations at North Bayles Parking Field and Shore Road Parking Field in Port Washington.
De Giorgio said that the first is to establish a full stop eastbound at the northernmost driveway of North Bayles Parking Field (Area #2), at its intersection with North Bayles Avenue, and a full stop eastbound at the southernmost driveway of North Bayles Parking Field at its intersection with North Bayles Avenue.
The second will establish a full stop eastbound on Shore Road Parking Field (Area #6) at its intersection with Shore Road, and a full stop northbound on Shore Road Parking Field (Area #6) Parcel A, at its intersection with Shore Road Parking Field driveway egress, De Giorgio said.
