Michael J. Fitzpatrick for New York State Assembly 8th District
Republican Assemb. Michael Fitzpatrick is running for reelection in New York State Assembly District 8. Credit: James Escher
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Michael J. Fitzpatrick continues to champion fiscal discipline and causes in which he's long believed, including pension and collective bargaining reform. That voice of reason stood out even more as his colleagues in both parties juiced Tier 6 pension benefits that increased employer contributions, putting more pressure on taxpayers.
Fitzpatrick argues that "Tier 6 is not broken." There is little doubt he will continue to be a strong voice against further efforts to increase or expand pension benefits. His fellow Assembly members would be wise to listen.
The St. James Republican also has a thoughtful take on Metropolitan Transportation Authority funding. He suggests that a lower congestion pricing fee, or one focused on trucks during peak hours, could be a better way to start. And Fitzpatrick, 67, rightly says that changes to MTA work rules must be part of rethinking the authority's broader budgeting issues.
Fitzpatrick reflects, in detail, on the needs of his district's communities, and has secured funding to address them, despite being in the minority conference. He's ready to continue that effort, particularly when it comes to helping his district secure sewer infrastructure funds so additional housing and other development can emerge. And he continues to press for changing the name of the State University of New York to the University of New York to improve its standing nationally.
St. James Democrat Steven J. Basileo focuses his argument on the notion that as a member of the Assembly's majority, he could have more success than Fitzpatrick. He advocates repurposing strip malls into multifamily housing using state incentives. He would support a state mandate for accessory dwelling units, but only in municipalities that meet certain criteria. Basileo, 24, has a public policy background and understands the data and research behind many of the Island's concerns, but lacks the practical ideas and approach for how to address them. Basileo is right, however, to note the importance of providing voters with a choice — and his presence as a newcomer in the race is welcome.
Newsday's editorial board endorses Fitzpatrick.
ENDORSEMENTS ARE DETERMINED solely by the Newsday editorial board, a team of opinion journalists focused on issues of public policy and governance. Newsday’s news division has no role in this process.
