Nassau Notebook: Democrats Make History With New Leader, NUMC Layoffs

Legis. Abrahams Named Leader of Democratic Caucus

On Monday evening, the Nassau Democrats unanimously elected Kevan Abrahams (LD1) as the leader of the Democratic Caucus in the Nassau Legislature.

Abrahams served the areas of Uniondale, Roosevelt, Hempstead and Baldwin for nearly a decade, and will be the first African American leader from either party in Nassau County. 

When first elected through a special election in 2002, Abrahams became the youngest legislator ever elected in Nassau County.

"I am humbled by my colleagues' unanimous support," said Abrahams after last nights caucus meeting. "I pledge to be a strong voice for county residents who struggle to survive a poor economy, higher taxes and a decreasing level of quality services." 

In 2000, Abrahams joined the legislature staff as deputy finance director, eventually moving up to the position of finance director. He has also served as a legislative assistant and deputy district director for Congressman Floyd H. Flake and as a district representative for Carolyn McCarthy.

Auxiliary Police Looking for Volunteers

The Nassau County Auxiliary Police are seeking motivated people between the ages of 18 and 65 interested in volunteering one night a week in the new Auxiliary Police Communications Unit now located within the new Nassau County Public Safety Center (9-1-1 center) in Westbury.

To apply, you must be a United States citizen, a Nassau County resident, in good health and willing to submit to a background investigation. No experience is necessary. All training will be provided.

For more information, qualified persons can contact Sgt. Philip L. Franckel at (516) 522-5375.

$7.5 Million Saved With Gas Contract

Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano announced Tuesday that taxpayers have saved approximately $7.5 million in natural gas costs due to an agreement signed last year with energy service company (ESCO) Hess Corporation.

The agreement, entered into in August 2010, ended a long-standing service agreement with National Grid. This is the first time the county has not received its natural gas service from any company other than National Grid.

NUMC Announces 175 Layoffs

Due to a projected $50 million budget gap, 175 employees at Nassau University Medical Center will be issued layoff notices Wednesday.

Arthur Gianelli, president and CEO of Nassau Health Care Corporation (NHCC), also known as NuHealth, announced Monday that due to a $25 million employee pension cost increase, $15 million reductions in Medicaid Disproportionate Share hospital reimbursements and a $10 million increase in costs for health insurance, pharmaceuticals and supplies, he has made the decision to initiate a "workforce reduction" of 175 employees.