By:Jerry Burke
Prior to being elected to the Assembly in a special election in February 1996, Alfano served as counsel to New York State Senate Deputy Majority Leader Dean G. Skelos from 1988 to 1996. He was the chairman of the Town of Hempstead Public Employees Relations Board from 1990 to 1996. He is a longtime Republican committeeman in his hometown of North Valley Stream, and the ranking Republican member of the Judiciary Committee. He also is a member of the Insurance, Codes and Labor committees.
Bassias, a private-practice attorney who has been active in the Democratic Party since switching parties five years ago, ran a surprisingly strong race against Town of Hempstead Councilman Ed Ambrosino last November. Although he entered the race late and eventually lost, he decided to run for the Assembly this year after being asked by the Democratic Party earlier this year. "I know it's an uphill race, but I think it's important for the voters to have choice," said Bassias.
The trouble with Albany
Bassias's main issue is simple: The state Legislature, as a recent series of independent studies points out, isn't working hard enough for the people. "The fact that few of us can even remember the last time we had a balanced budget on time says a lot," said Bassias. "Our state constitution doesn't even require a properly balanced budget."
Bassias believes that Albany must police itself better and be held accountable by the people. "We live in a technology age," said the challenger. "There is no reason why all of the information and votes shouldn't be accessible via the Internet." Bassias also believes that assemblymen, not the heads of the political factions, should make hiring decisions for their staffs.
Alfano acknowledges the problems involved in making laws for a state with an economy larger than most countries. "It needs to be reformed," he said. "There's no doubt about that. But it would be irresponsible to radically change things, especially if we end up throwing out what works."
Alfano prides himself on his personal accessibility. "I'm always here," he said. "My office fields calls all day, and we make it a point to respond quickly."
Education
Both candidates agree that the effects of Albany's budget woes seep first and foremost into schools and the taxes that support them. Alfano believes his positive record on school funding is second only to the dedication of residents in explaining why test scores have been on the rise. "I bring a lot to the school, but they help themselves by asking for and using that money wisely," he said.
Alfano's pride and joy, the Mentors and Leaders Program, continues to bring speakers to school districts and to take students to Albany to see how the capital works. "A big part of their education is to show them what their government does and how they are a big part of its future," he said.
Bassias agrees that schools have improved over the last few years, but points out that his own hometown, West Hempstead, is facing a crossroads. "The elementary and middle school scores are great, but the high school needs as much help as Elmont Memorial needed a few years ago," he said.
Bassias and Alfano both want to stimulate business in the district to lower the school tax burden on homeowners.
Housing
Both men realize that what the 21st District does today will have far-reaching effects on the future of life in Nassau County. "Things are changing quickly," said Alfano. "But communities like Elmont and Floral Park have shown that diversity works on Long Island. Over 70 languages are spoken in my district, and the people are working together for a better future."
Bassias also likes what he sees. "It's a great place to live," he said. "But people need to be able to afford it.
Both candidates support an increase in affordable housing, but acknowledge that illegal housing will be an issue for many years to come. "Illegal two-family residents present safety and tax problems," said Alfano. "My office gets a lot of calls on this issue, and we try to help, even though it's a Town of Hempstead issue."
Bassias agrees the town needs to do more, but he also supports Nassau County Assessor Harvey Levinson's push to make illegal apartments commercial property, thereby raising their taxes.
Terrorism
With New York State as a top target for terror, both candidates believe more must be done to ensure safety. "I think the state has to do more," said Bassias. "There is no way an area the size, density and proximity to New York City should be receiving such low amounts." He was referring to the fact that New Yorkers receive far less per capita then almost every other state.
Alfano agrees. "We need to lobby harder for those funds," he said. "We need to continue to help first-responder organizations in our neighborhoods apply for and receive available grant money."
"The situation is being handled," Alfano continued. "Our water supply and power plants need to be guarded. There's always more to be done, but there is already so much more in place than before 9/11."
Looking ahead
Bassias understands the mountain he must climb in the election, but is more than happy to provide an alternative to voters. "I'm not part of the 'machine,'" he said. "As a lawyer and active member of my community, I'm more than happy to serve as a watchdog for taxpayers."
Alfano, who has enjoyed bipartisan support in all of his previous elections, believes the future is bright for his district. "This community is so diverse, and at the same time so strong," he said. "With Nassau County changing, people will look to this district to figure out how to do it right."
Comments about this story? JBurke@liherald.com or (516) 569-4000 ext. 234.
