By Esther Davis McKenna
Sandberg, a Baldwin resident for more than 50 years, is a risk-management consultant who has earned several designations in the insurance industry, including NYS General Adjuster and NYS Life Agent. He worked at the American International Group and College of Insurance, which is now part of St. John's University, from 1968 until 1991.
A retiree with decades of experience in business finances, Sandberg feels he has the time and talent required of a library trustee. "I believe my experience and dedication will show that I can make a contribution to the library and the Baldwin community," said Sandberg.
As soon as Lalli made it known to the board that he would be stepping down, Sandberg was invited by a member of the board to interview for the seat. "[Sandberg] brings with him a wealth of experience, and [the board] believes he will be a welcome addition," said board President Kevin Kamen.
Sandberg moved to Baldwin in 1954 with his wife, Margaret. They raised five children in Baldwin, three in the Baldwin Union Free School District and two in diocesan schools.
Sandberg is an active member of the diocese, serving as a deacon at the Queen of the Most Holy Rosary Church in Roosevelt, a teacher of English as a Second Language at Saint Brigid's School in Westbury and a volunteer in the church's outreach program. He was also involved in the Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts while his four sons were growing up.
There are five trustee seats on the library board. Each board member holds a seat for five years, and one seat is up for re-election each year.
In addition to Kamen, who has been a board member for 27 years, the board includes Tony Tarantino, Joan Zeitlin and Joseph Carroll.
Residents of the Baldwin Union Free School District who are interested in becoming candidates for trustee can pick up petition forms Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Office of the District Clerk, Baldwin Union Free School District, 960 Hastings St. Petitions must be returned by Monday, April 18, at 5 p.m.
Sandberg's petition was signed by 75 residents, well over the required 31 names. As of last week, no other residents' names were listed as running for the open seat.
The Baldwin PTA is sponsoring a forum, at which residents can meet candidates for the board, on May 4 at the district office, 960 Hastings St., at 8 p.m. Candidates will speak, and residents will have the opportunity to participate in a question-and-answer period.
Residents are also invited to the annual district meeting and budget hearing at the district office on Tuesday, May 3, at 8 p.m. This will be residents' last chance to ask questions or discuss issues concerning the budget before the May 17 vote, which will be held at the high school, 841 Ethel Kloberg Drive. The high school will be the only polling place in the community, but will be open from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m.
Comments about this story? Baldwineditor@liherald.com or (516) 569-4000 ext. 207.
