Legislator Richard J. Nicolello (R-New Hyde Park) provided the vote necessary to approve bonding for a compromise $161 million dollar Capital Projects Plan Wednesday morning. This agreement, which will fund necessary Public Works programs in Nassau County, was reached only after substantial compromise. County Executive Suozzi's original plan called for the approval of a $232 million bond ordinance. "The Republican Delegation refused to authorize a blank check for the County Executive. The Legislature demands to be a equal partner in all Public Works projects in Nassau County and that has been guaranteed through this compromise," said Legislator Nicolello.

In the compromised agreement, the integrity of individual projects will be insured and shifting of funds between projects will not be permitted. The Legislature will insure its oversight role with respect to the projects contained in the Capital Plan. Financial costs of the projects will be reviewed by the Legislature, and yearly reviews of the projects in the overall plan will insure responsible spending throughout. "This is a major victory for the people of Nassau County, each individual Legislator will now be better able to track the progress of Capital Projects in their districts and report to their constituents. Prior to the compromise, the Legislature saw an erosion of our oversight of the projects after approving the initial bonding. We as a delegation would not support such a plan and thankfully for the people of Nassau, a fair compromise was reached," added Legislator Nicolello.