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        April 5, 2001

Democrats' 2001 Legislative Agenda Builds On Record of Accomplishment

Part 2 - Continuing To Rebuild Nassau Responsibly
Part 3 - Comprehensive Report

Mineola, NY - Members of the Democratic majority of the Nassau County Legislature unveiled an ambitious agenda for government reforms in 2001 at a press conference today that will continue to build on the successful foundation that was established during 2000.

Standing on the steps of 1 West Street in Mineola, the ten member Democratic delegation proudly outlined their record of accomplishment during their first year as the majority in the legislature and the initiatives they will continue to implement in the year ahead.

"It is important to recognize that the goals outlined during the last campaign, which have been achieved during our time as the majority, are just the beginning," said Presiding Officer Judy Jacobs (D-Woodbury) on behalf of the Democratic caucus. "The problems with Nassau County government took decades of one party rule to develop and can't be erased in one year's time. Our 2001 initiatives continue to build on the foundation we began constructing when we took office," she said.

Among the majority's top initiatives are budget and charter reforms that will help the financially-strapped County regain its fiscal footing through smart budgeting practices and sensible planning.

Cost-saving measures will be implemented by streamlining government operations, identifying and eliminating inefficient bureaucracies and consolidation of duplicative services.

Recognizing the need to protect the health and welfare of all Nassau County residents, Democratic Legislators are prepared to adopt Open Space and Parks Advisory Committee legislation that will oversee preservation and ensure an overall strategy for the County's open space.

In addition, the Majority is recommending an eviction procedure be put in place that respects the property rights of landlords while protecting the belongings of those individuals who are evicted. And, they are encouraging ongoing monitoring and oversight of the Nassau University Medical Center and its community clinics to ensure that those individuals most in need receive the level of health care to which they are entitled.

The Majority is also calling for a phase-in employee contribution for health benefits beginning in the year 2002. The incorporation of this policy into the next round of labor agreements would bring Nassau into line with the practice of neighboring municipalities and help ease the County's fiscal pressures.

"Our 2001 agenda is a vision for the future based on the basic principles of integrity in budgeting, professional management of government, and humane delivery of social services," said members of the Democratic Majority. "It is our goal to continue to build upon our proven record of accomplishment and raise Nassau County to the status of excellence its residents deserve."

For a copy of the report, contact the Majority Press Office at 571-6226 or 571-6285.