Thanks for clearing Maloney sidewalk

THE EDITOR: I must congratulate the National Housing Authority for finally taking action against the illegal vendors in Maloney who have claimed the sidewalk as their own. The demolition of these structures was long overdue and is a welcome change to the landscape of the community. For years, pedestrians have been forced to use the roadway because of the limited space left after the construction of these large “buildings.” Not only is it a hazard to the walking public, including school children, but to the drivers whose view is sometimes obscured by these massive parlours and stalls.

While I am not against members of the community trying to “make a dollar,” this must not cause inconvenience to others. Citizens should be willing to make use of government agencies such as NEDCO that are available to provide sound business advice and financial assistance to those desirous of becoming entrepreneurs. Surely funding would not be granted for illegal structures such as those that were demolished in Maloney and this would have saved the owners the financial losses they have now incurred. I say hats off to the NHA for this move and I sincerely hope that this will deter other residents who are considering using illegal means to support themselves.

LYNETTE ELDER
Maloney