Water commissioners from across Long Island recently received a special training session focused on Town Law Nassau County Civil Division and Statutory Guidance for Water Commissioners that was led by Joseph Frank, principal of Sapienza & Frank Attorneys at Law of Massapequa. Frank’s discussion included the history of town law, as well as the relationship, powers and duties of elected commissioners. This included limitations and what constitutes a conflict of interest.
The comprehensive training session included town law article 13, which covers voting eligibility, annual elections, and other matters governing commissioner-run districts, along with general municipal law article 18, which defines important concepts such as the terms “contract” and “interest” as well as setting conflicts of interest rules for government officers and employees. In addition, Frank explained The Nassau County Civil Divisions Act, which became law in 1939, and established provisions regarding the operations of water districts in Nassau County. The presentation was followed up an open vigorous question and answer period.
“Mr. Frank’s extensive water industry background brought simplicity and clarity to many issues that can be cloudy and confusing. Thanks to knowledgeable speakers like Joseph Frank, NSWCA’s Continuing Education and Training Series has been highly effective,” said Hand. “The information and expert presentation he provided was greatly welcomed and appreciated by all attendees.”
A graduate of Manhattan College where he received his bachelor’s degree in government, Frank earned his law degree from Hofstra University School of Law. He is one of the founding partners of Sapienza and Frank established in 1989 that specializes in Municipal Law.
