Town of Hempstead's Induction Production Kicks Off New Year

On this cold but bright January day, the Town of Hempstead inducted its elected officials with a poignant ceremony that highlighted both optimism about Long Island's future and conservatism about its spending.

Kate Murray, the first woman elected to supervisor, was inducted into her fourth term by Edward P. Mangano, who after weeks of ballot counting took over the helm as Nassau County executive.

Murray spoke of "simple, honest budgeting," which will include freezing taxes for 2010, more earth-friendly initiatives and a "vision of our collective family," such as inclusionary programs that will encourage both the young and elderly to stay on Long Island.

"I will continue to work tirelessly to justify that confidence," says Murray of being elected.  

Others sworn in Tuesday included Senior Councilman Anthony J. Santino, Councilwoman Dorothy Goosby, Councilman Gary Hudes and Town Clerk Mark Bonilla. 

The event was not all politics as usual. Also during the nearly two-hour ceremony East Meadow veteran Richard Farquharson, a specialist in the National Guard, was honored with the Town of Hempstead's Veteran's Medal for his duty. Trent Kowalik, who is featured in the Broadway production of Billy Elliot, sung the National Anthem and Greater Voices of Praise from the Greater Second Baptist Church in Freeport also performed.

Hudes, who lives in Levittown, runs a jewelry store and represents the 6th Council District, spoke of his constituents as customers and got a chuckle from the audience when he told of personally delivering 10,000 green bins to residents in a bid to encourage recycling,  a common theme.

Familiar faces in the crowded room at Town Hall Plaza in the Nathan LH Bennett Pavilion included former Nassau County Executive Thomas Gulotta,  former Hempstead Supervisor Richard Guardino and  Rep. Peter King.

Fellow Hempstead Town Council members Ed Ambrosino (2nd Council District), James Darcy (3rd Council District) and Angie Cullin (5th Council District), along with Town Receiver of Taxes Don Clavin, were also on hand for the ceremony. 

While margins of victory and percentages were mentioned in remarks, Supervisor Murray emphasized the importance of "putting people ahead of politics."

"The men and women who are being sworn into office today, along with the rest of the town board, have as their common goal a prosperous future for all residents of the town," Supervisor Murray said. "We have opened the door on a bright future and we are proud to proclaim 'Welcome Home- Welcome to Hempstead Town.'"