Politics & Government

Gov News: Deer Culling Controversy, Rep. McCarthy Not Seeking Re-Election

A look at some of the top government stories from around Long Island.

As a local news organization, Patch covers stories of all kinds, including news from Town Halls and about elected officials from across Long Island. Here are some of the top government headlines over the past week. 

McCarthy Will Not Seek Reelection

After nearly two decades in the United States Congress, Rep. Carolyn McCarthy, D-Mineola, announced Wednesday that she will not seek another term. Born in Brooklyn, the 70-year old Congresswoman had recently been undergoing treatment for lung cancer and cited ongoing health issues as one of the driving factors for her decision.

Schaffer: Cuomo Plan Exciting for Babylon

Babylon Town Supervisor Rich Schaffer was a fan of Gov. Andrew Cuomo's State of the State address delivered Wednesday.

In a statement released Thursday, Schaffer said his fellow Democrat's address contained several initiatives that would strengthen the Town of Babylon. 

Town of Hempstead Officials Sworn In for New Terms

Hempstead Town Supervisor Kate Murray and Town Clerk Nasrin Ahmad was administered the oath of office at the Town of Hempstead Induction of Officials Ceremony held at the Nathan L. H. Bennett Pavilion in Hempstead on Jan. 2. 

FEMA to Reimburse City $6.6M for Debris Removal 

The City of Long Beach will receive $6.6 million in federal funds to cover the costs to remove hazardous debris after Hurricane Sandy, U.S. Senators Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand announced Monday.

Kim Kaiman Rehired at Town Hall

The spouse of former North Hempstead Town Supervisor Jon Kaiman has been approved for the position of deputy commissioner of finance in North Hempstead.

Town Awards Solar Contract for Old Bethpage Solid Waste Facility 

The Town of Oyster Bay Board approved a contract with Salt Lake City-based sPower Tuesday to install a 2-megawatt solar power generating station at the Old Bethpage Solid Waste Disposal Complex.  

Village Parking Meters Now Operating, Hands On 

Patchogue Village's parking meters are now in operation on Main Street, South Ocean Avenue and Railroad Avenue, with parking lots to follow in the spring. 

Residents Weigh In On Ronkonkoma Hub at Town Hall 

Residents brought feedback on the Ronkonkoma Hub project to Thursday’s public hearing at Brookhaven Town Hall in Farmingville. 

Smithtown Board Replaces Town Attorney, Planning Board Chairman 

A new Smithtown town board is implementing a series of staffing changes to kick off 2014, that some described as "fallout" from the election. 

Budget: Lowest Percent Tax Rate Increase in 15 Years Still Pierces Cap 

Northport Village trustees presented the tentative budget for the 2014-15 year Tuesday, which represents the lowest tax increase in 15 years; however, the spending plan still pierces the tax levy cap. 

Westhampton Village To Address 'Hazardous' Private Property 

Village of Westhampton Beach Mayor Conrad Teller said the village will give a private property owner 30 days to repair downed fence sections along Oneck Lane or they will do it for him because of the safety hazards it causes. 

Town Board Initiates Recycling Program at Town Hall 

East Hampton Town Hall will be setting an example for the rest of the town on the recycling. Supervisor Larry Cantwell said this green initiative stems from the first work session the new town board held on Tuesday. 

Supervisor: Public 'Resoundingly Requested' Deer Culling Option 

As controversy continues to swirl over a proposed sharpshooter program to cull the deer herd on the East End, Southold Town Supervisor Scott Russell discussed a coming forum to address the plan.




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