Once again, National Park Service leaders have proven that they do not believe that they are accountable to the U.S. public, the rightful owners of our national parks.

Twice I have written to Barry Sullivan, general superintendent of Gateway National Recreation Area. I asked why Sandy Hook Partners was given, without justification, the use of the Fort Hancock chapel, theater, and 26 Hudson St. for the excessively long lease period of 56 years, given that Sandy Hook Partners has never shown that it had the financial capacity to operate these buildings.

Other than citing regulations which said a lease was possible, the National Park Service never attempted to defend its decision to enter into this lease with Sandy Hook Partners, an entity that has never been found to possess the capability and the financial capacity necessary to carry out the lease requirements successfully. To substantiate this point, I cite the National Park Service's own determination that Sandy Hook Partners did not possess sufficient funding, causing Sandy Hook Partners to be eliminated from further consideration for award of 33 of the RFP's original 36 Fort Hancock buildings in August.

In addition, I asked Mr. Sullivan for specific information concerning how much rent and associated fees the National Park Service had received from Sandy Hook Partners as a result of the separate, three-building lease which has been in effect since July 6, 2007. I also asked if appropriate property insurance had been obtained by Sandy Hook Partners and in what amount and from what company. This request also has been ignored and remains unanswered.

The "stonewalling" continues.

If I hear from Mr. Sullivan, I will let you know what his response is.

The public deserves better treatment from the National Park Service. Please write your elected federal representatives, express your displeasure, and request their involvement and intervention.

Peter P. O'Such Jr.

Fair Haven