The League of Women Voters of Nassau County is a non-partisan organization, which encourages the informed and active participation of citizens in government.
We are greatly distressed by the actions of the presiding officer of the Nassau County Legislature on Monday, May 21, regarding the hearing and sub-sequent unexpected vote on Proposed Local Law No. 2012, “a local law authorizing the County Executive to take any and all actions he deems necessary to create forty-million-dollars saving for the County.”
To call a vote in late afternoon after stating earlier in the day that he would not call the item for a vote, at which point dozens of public speakers and union leaders left, gives the appearance, if not the reality, of manipulating the situation in arrogant disregard of the opinions and wishes of a substantial number of Nassau County residents.
This behavior is not in keeping with the goal of transparency in government. We trust that future controversial issues will be dealt with an open, fair manner, giving accurate information and adequate advance public notice regarding hearings and plans for a vote, as well as consideration of a broad range of opinions.
Rachael Krinsky, President
League of Women Voters of Nassau County
