Jane Devine, who has been the Suffolk Legislature's minority leader, Democratic county lawmaker, and consumer affairs commissioner, is likely to be tapped next month as a Suffolk Water Authority board member, giving Democrats control of the board for the first time since the mid-1970s.
The former Huntington lawmaker will join on the board former Suffolk County Executive Patrick Halpin and Michael Deering, a former Levy environmental aide and now chief lobbyist for the Long Island Association. Devine, who will get a five year term, will replace George Proios.
“We’re fortunate that Jane wants to get back into public service," said Richard Schaffer, Suffoilk Democratic chairman. “Her hallmark was reforming parts of county government like the authority long befotre it became popular.”
Legis. Edward Romaine (R-Center Moriches) questioned the choice of Devine.
Rick Brand
“I think highly of Jane as a person, but I don’t know if it's the right fit for her," he said. "I know people with greater knowledge of the water authority and the environment.”
Several times, Republicans have tried to return Republican James Tripp, counsel to the Environmental Defense Council and a part-time Bellport resident, to a seat on the authority board. However, Romaine said he will keep “an open mind” on her name.
Comments (3)
FRANKLY, WHO CARES WHAT ROMAINE THINKS. He is a self promoting, self righteous non-enity. The voters in his district should remove him from office. While he was County Clerk money was missing.
Isn't it great? When a Dem is appointed to a plum patronage job it's because they're supremely qualified. But when a Republican is appointed, he's (or she's) a "political hack." The double standard by Democrats is laughable.
How come the Republicans can nominate board members and when they were the majority the Dems couldn't. Romaine is a mouth piece who does nothing but grandstand. Connections? Towle, Crane, who else has been indicted?