Hannon Hosts Mobile Office in Levittown

Most politicians hold events for their constituents, but New York State Senator Kemp Hannon has been able to truly connect with residents with an innovative, yet simple, idea.

Hannon hosted a stop on his “mobile office” tour on Tuesday evening at the Levittown Public Library. This event provides a platform for residents within Hannon’s district to speak with him in person about questions, issues or comments, in addition to obtaining information about services and other happenings in the community.

The Senator’s office started this event a few years ago to distribute informational items such as pamphlets, tour guides and books of interest. When guests started raising specific issue related questions and other pleas for help, Hannon knew it was time to change the direction of the event.

“I decided, let’s just make it a rule that when we have the mobile office I’ll be here to chat with folks if they have a specific problem,” he said. “If they want some opinions or just want to let me know the benefit of their thoughts, I do that, too.”

The mobile office travels to locations throughout the district, oftentimes local libraries. Current issues and topics that are usually discussed during the sessions include healthcare, caring for elderly parents, STAR, taxes, college savings, senior citizens issues and housing.

“This morning we had folks asking me about federal energy policy,” Hannon said.

Mary Frances Armellino, a receptionist in Hannon’s office, added that they also bring along a variety of information pertaining to New York State and services available to residents.

“We are coming out here to try to get to the people if they have questions or any issues,” she said. “So far we have had a really good turnout.”

Levittown resident and retired New York City police officer Ed McKay came to the mobile office to personally thank Hannon for interceding a proposal that would end the current variable supplement – a benefit for those retired from the force.

“I came today to find out information on the program that the Senator is offering to the community,” said Yeury Sanchez, 27, of Levittown. “I do real estate and people come to me all of the time with questions that I don’t know how to answer.” 

Sanchez explained that she wanted to get pertinent information that she could pass on to people when they were looking for assistance on a certain issue or topic.

“It is getting a chance to get out of the capital and getting a chance to chat with folks  - it is just so much more pleasant,” Hannon said. “It is not ceremonial – we are not on a stage or behind a podium. The whole idea is people coming by to say hello.”

Senator Kemp Hannon's mobile office will be at the Island Trees Public Library on Wednesday from 7 to 9 p.m.