RSS 2.0 FeedAugust 26, 2010, Weekly editorial
Response to the "Be Prepared" editorial
In response to last week's editorial.
Clarifying the August 18 editorial
To Bellmore Life:
I have been in contact with Mr. Varon, director of emergency service at the American Red Cross, who has been very helpful. In 2004, we sent a letter to the American Red Cross stating that due to a Board of Education policy that directs the superintendent of schools to make school facilities available to Nassau County, the Town of Hempstead or their respective emergency preparedness agencies for use of mass care shelters under certain terms and conditions, the district cannot directly contract with the American Red Cross.
It also stated that the American Red Cross can gain access through one of the aforementioned government entities, provided all stipulations are met regarding the use of the buildings. The letter also stated that if the American Red Cross wishes to pursue having a contract directly with the Bellmore-Merrick CHSD, they would have to direct their request in writing to the President of the Board of Education. To date, the board has not received any such request. A letter from Mr. Varon (August 11) addressed to our deputy superintendent, (first communication since 2004), again requested that an agreement directly with the American Red Cross be approved.
I spoke to Mr. Varon and advised him that they must submit their request to the Board of Education for review, as they are the only ones that can revise the existing policy. I gave all the contact information to Mr. Varon, and he will be sending a letter to the board. The community should be reassured that when the terms and conditions outlined in the policy are met, the Bellmore-Merrick CHSD does make school facilities available for mass care shelters for emergency services.
I hope this information is helpful.
Michelle GagnonAdministrative AssistantBellmore-Merrick CHSD
