Two familiar names in Merrick running for school board seats

Butch Yamali

Age: 51

Merrick resident for: 14 years

Family: Wife, Linda; children Danielle, Celeste, Abe

Education: High school diploma

Career: President of the Dover Group, a company he founded, which owns and manages several local facilities and businesses, including the Coral House, The Sands on Lido Beach, Hudsons On The Mile, MaliBlue Oyster Bar, Dream Event Planning, Dover Caterers, Malibu Shore Club, Malibu Beach Camp, and Quick Snack Vending.

Involvement in school district: Merrick School District Board of Education member since 2008; Participant in PTA events, graduation ceremonies, annual guest book-readings at Chatterton School

Other: Past president, Merrick Little League; board member, American Red Cross on Long Island; board member, Pronto of Long Island, a Suffolk County food bank; winner of 2014 “Man of the Year” award from Center for Developmental Disabilities, Inc., a Woodbury non-profit organization

1. What are your qualifications to serve on the Board of Education?

I have served as a school board trustee for the past six years. While on the board, I have assisted in every aspect of operations within my district. I also own and operate numerous businesses in the community and have decades of experience in operations, training, management and fiscal responsibilities, which is very helpful as a trustee.

2. If you are elected, what will be your top goals for your term? In what areas will you focus?

My main goal and focus is the education of the students within my district while being fiscally responsible for our community. There is no compromise in education.

3. The Board of Education controls an annual budget of tens of millions of dollars. How will you approach dealing with the school district’s finances?

As in the past, I personally review each and every line item in the annual proposed budget to make sure there is no waste and to ensure the community that every dollar spent is spent wisely. I am not afraid to ask questions and request information. My business experience in this area is also very helpful.

4. What, if anything, do you think the board could do a better job of?