Contact for Change
Daniel Panico
Brookhaven Town Supervisor
Jane Bonner
Brookhaven Town Council
District 2
Shopping cart blight has increasingly impacted the Coram community, detracting from its appearance and contributing to local nuisances. The Coram Civic Association has been at the forefront of addressing this issue, tirelessly working to engage local businesses and government officials in finding effective solutions. Despite their efforts, which include proposing the implementation of anti-theft devices, establishing a "shopping cart jail" for abandoned carts, and advocating for fines against businesses that neglect to retrieve their shopping carts, progress has been stymied. These proposed measures, aimed at holding businesses accountable and fostering a sense of corporate responsibility, have unfortunately been met with indifference. This lack of action persists despite ongoing complaints that date back to 2017 and clear evidence from nearby townships like Riverhead, Hempstead, and Babylon, where the enforcement of shopping cart laws has successfully mitigated similar issues. The New York State §399-Q shopping cart law exemplifies legislative efforts to combat this problem, yet the Town of Brookhaven remains conspicuously inactive on this front. The Coram community's struggle against shopping cart blight underscores a broader challenge in securing effective local governance and corporate cooperation in urban maintenance and community welfare.
In Coram, the issue of misused shopping carts affects community members across various demographics, subtly altering their sense of security and community integrity. For children, these carts pose physical dangers and contribute to an atmosphere of neglect. The elderly face mobility hazards, turning simple walks into challenging tasks. Families, particularly from religious minorities and communities of color, might perceive these carts as symbols of communal disregard, exacerbating feelings of exclusion and marginalization. This situation not only impacts the physical landscape but also sends a message about the value and respect afforded to these communities. The collective responsibility to maintain communal spaces becomes crucial in fostering a sense of belonging and pride for all Coram residents, highlighting the importance of environmental justice and community care.
Brookhaven Town Supervisor
Brookhaven Town Council
District 2