Valley Stream's top news stories of 2010

These are summaries of some of the top news stories in Valley Stream in 2010, as chosen by Herald staff.

Mayor Cahill dies

Valley Stream lost its mayor of 11 years when Ed Cahill died at home on July 31 from complications from a brain tumor. He was 82.

Cahill was first elected to the village board as a trustee in 1995, and was appointed mayor in 1999 when Jim Darcy left for the state Assembly. Cahill won re-election in 1999, 2003 and 2007.

He and his wife, Mary Ann, were fixtures at events throughout the community including ribbon-cutting ceremonies, baseball opening days, Chamber of Commerce lunches and more. They were married for 49 years and spent 45 years living in Valley Stream on Ivy Place.

Cahill was a retired New York City police officer, served two stints in the Navy, and was a member of the Knights of Columbus and American Legion.

His death saddened other elected officials, as well as the entire community. “It’s a big loss for all of Valley Stream,” said Town Councilman Jim Darcy, “but particularly those of us who were lucky enough to call him a friend.”

“This is a really rough one,” said Village Justice Bob Bogle of Cahill’s passing. The two ran together on the United Community Party ticket four times.

Many remembered Cahill for his calm demeanor, sense of humor, generosity and love for his community and his wife.

During Cahill’s tenure as mayor, the village spent more than $10 million on road repairs, upgraded the swimming pool and shopping districts, and kept finances in check. He was also named an honorary chief of the Valley Stream Fire Department for his support of the volunteer organization.

Hundreds turned out for Cahill’s wake, which was held at the Lieber Funeral Home on Central Avenue, and for his funeral mass at Holy Name of Mary Church on Aug. 4. He was buried with final military honors at Holy Rood Cemetery in Westbury.

Residents fight flood map changes

Outraged at new flood insurance premiums upwards of $2,000, Valley Stream residents began to fight back against the Federal Emergency Management Agency, which put much of the community into the high-risk flood zone.