New Dem Committee Chair Calls For Transparency In Town Government

SOUTHOLD, NY — New Southold Town Democratic Committee Chair Kathryn Casey Quigley came before the Southold town board Tuesday night, asking for transparency in town government.

She began by introducing herself and thanking the town board for its service.

"While there are probably many issues about which we disagree, there is undoubtedly also much that unites us. One of those unifying aspects is likely that the foundation of our democracy depends on an engaged citizenry," Casey Quigley said.

She then called on all residents in town, "especially given that our town is led by one party rule," to continue to participate in the process of shared accountability by continuing to attend town board meetings, continuing to engage with officials, continuing to be attentive to decisions and process, and continuing to voice concerns if and when they arise.

Then she called for change.

"The ability of residents to stand before you this evening is an admirable example of open democracy, but there is still much about the operation of town government that remains opaque. I believe we can do better," she said.

Casey Quigley said she believed the public depends on local government to provide information "in the most accessible, transparent and efficient ways possible."

To that end, she asked the town board if they have evaluated the mechanisms by which they communicate with residents, and if they have thought about how to best engage with constituents to keep them informed.

"This is relevant in myriad circumstances: from emergencies and storm announcements, to town meeting agendas, meetings themselves, minutes and vacancies for committees," she said.

Suggestions to help improve transparency and communication, she said, might include webcasting of work sessions, planning board and zoning board meetings, as well as the currently broadcast town board meetings.

A second example is the posting of committee vacancies, she said.

"Recently, it appears that certain vacancies," specifically, planning board and for the housing advisory commission, "have been first posted through a town councilman’s personal Facebook page rather than through some formal town outlets," she said. "Is there policy and procedure on how vacancies are announced?"

Casey Quigley said she has not been able to find the vacancies even posted on the town's website.

After the meeting, Southold Town Supervisor Scott Russell responded via email, and said one of the issues the new chair raised was transparency in appointments to committees.

"The truth is that we generally have a very difficult time finding people to fill vacancies on many committees. We advertise often but still have difficulty," he said.

Russell added: "The town board never considers someone’s political background in appointing people. Our criteria is simple — we look for innovative thinkers who are willing to work hard."

Casey Quigley, he said, specifically referenced the HAC. "Actually, one of our most recent appointments to that committee was Debbie O’Kane, Democratic Party candidate and committee person," he said. "We appointed Ms. O’Kane because we believe she brings good insight and a commitment to the issues that group addresses. Politics should be left at the door at Town Hall, whether its to serve on one of the committees or political stumping at board meetings."

Added Southold Town Councilman Jim Dinizio: "The HAC consist mostly of Democrats. The latest is Gail Horton. Pat Lutsky, Debbie O'Kane," he said, adding another resume had come in from another Dem. The HAC, he said, is a great group of people, "very concerned about housing."

Patch courtesy photo.