Incumbent faces school board trustee for L.D. 2

Incumbent Robert Troiano (D-Westbury) is seeking another term as the 2nd Legislative District representative. Troiano is completing his first term as a county legislator this year. His Republican challenger, Karin Campbell, is a Westbury resident who serves on the Westbury school board. Campbell did not respond to the Herald’s questions as of press time.

Q: Why are you running for re-election and what have you accomplished in your past term?
During my first term I believe I have been a strong advocate for the community I serve in both the Legislature and in other forums. I have advocated for homeowners by testifying against PILOT Agreements which have the effect of increasing property taxes paid by residents of the town including those in Lakeview. I have also advocated for tenants by appearing before the Rent Guidelines Board to successfully argue for the first rent freeze ordered by the board in its 30-year history. And, I have acted on behalf of all of my constituents by going to court to contest an ill-conceived redistricting plan that would have disenfranchised voters in my legislative district. I am seeking another term so I can continue fighting for my constituents.

Q: What issues are important to you in this campaign?
The central issue is the state of the County’s finances and I am most concerned that [Nassau] County Executive [Edward Mangano] will try to fix the County’s financial position on the backs of poor and working-class people. I am concerned that we will see a repetition of cuts in the amounts distributed to the agencies that provide much-need services to our youth. I am especially concerned that there will again be, as we witnessed last year, a disproportionate level of cuts to programs located in minority communities. The county executive is also recommending personnel cuts which may affect residents of Lakeview as well as the local economy.

Q: What are your thoughts on redistricting and the maps proposed earlier this year?