Election 2011: 2nd Legislative District

Two Westbury residents will square off in the race for Nassau County’s 2nd Legislative District, which includes a portion of West Hempstead, mainly the Lakeview area, as well as parts of Hempstead, Westbury, East Meadow, East Garden City and Uniondale.

Incumbent Robert Troiano, a Democrat wrapping up his first term in office and the ranking member of the legislature’s Minority Affairs and  Villages, Town and Cities Committees, is running against newcomer Karin Campbell, a Republican and former president of the Westbury school board. 

While Campbell did not return Patch’s requests for an interview, Troiano fielded these questions about his plans if elected for a second term.

Patch: If re-elected, what will you focus on during your next term in office?

Troiano: The budget proposed by the County Executive and adopted by the Republican-controlled County Legislature calls for draconian levels of layoffs as well as cuts to funding for social programs such as those provided by youth service agencies. Less money will also be available for basic services like road repair and park maintenance. Over the coming year I will be fighting to ensure that a disproportionate share of those cuts don’t fall on the constituents of my district.

I will also be working to ensure that the redistricting of County legislative districts that will take place in 2012 doesn’t diminish the voting power of the residents in District 2. Earlier this year the Republican-controlled legislature passed a redistricting plan that would have diminished the influence my constituents have on county affairs. Fortunately, the NYS Court of Appeal, as a result of a lawsuit filed by the Democratic caucus, ruled that the plan was adopted prematurely. The court’s ruling does not prevent the plan from being re-enacted again next year. I expect to have to go to court again to fight this initiative next year.

I will also be focused on completing construction of the peace park that was started this summer. I will also be following up with the Department of Public Works to ensure that the work to repair the unsafe driving conditions that currently exist on Woodfield Road.

Patch: Crime continues to be an issue in the community although some groups oppose bringing ShotSpotter technology to the area. Where do you stand on this today?

Troiano: ShotSpotter is a proven technology that has been shown to reduce the level of criminal activity in numerous studies around the country. Closer to home, the Uniondale and Roosevelt communities have experienced a decline in the use of guns since the installation of the ShotSpotter equipment. Residents of Hempstead are clamoring for the expansion its use in the village and I plan on supporting that initiative.  I am hopeful that residents of Lakeview that stand opposed to ShotSpotter will re-consider the impact it could have on public safety in that community.

Patch: A number of local organizations in the Lakeview community have recognized the need for more mentors, especially for young men. How will you help support these youth programs?

Troiano: Having received training in conducting mentorship programs, I would be happy to help organize an effective mentoring program. My office could also be helpful in identifying adult participants to serve as mentors. I could also help to bring in speakers to talk to young men for periodic forums.

Patch: What would you tell residents who are finding it more difficult to afford to stay in Nassau County?

Troiano: Three major developments will make Nassau more affordable for its residents. The developments of the waterfront in Glen Cove,  downtown Hempstead and The Hub all have the potential to generate property tax revenues for the County, towns and villages. All three areas are underutilized. Development of these properties will increase their value and, as a result, the property taxes that are collected. In addition, sales tax collections will increase.  The additional revenues will allow the County, in particular, to put a cap on its property taxes.

The developments will also stimulate economic development. Temporary jobs will be created as the developments are being constructed. More permanent jobs will be created as employees will be needed to staff the stores and businesses which will be opening as a result of the developments.

Housing will also become more affordable given that all three developments will increase the supply of available housing through the addition of apartments, condos and co-ops to the marketplace.  The increase in supply will help stop the cost of homes from spiraling out of control as the economy improves.