Bosworth: After 22 Years, I'm Not a Career Politician

In our weekly question series for Town of North Hempstead candidates Judi Bosworth and Dina DeGirgio, Patch asked whether or not the candidates support or opposed term limits for the North Hempstead's supervisor position.

Two women are vying for the position of town supervisor in the November election.

Patch asked:

Could you please describe your definition of a career politician? Do you favor term limits for elected officials, namely the town supervisor position? Why or why not? 

Bosworth's complete response:

It has been a privilege to serve our community in two elected offices over the past 22 years.

For 16 years, I was a member of the Great Neck Board of Education, helping to continue a proud tradition of first-rate public education, with strong community consensus and support. The position of school board trustee is unsalaried and, as one who has long been committed to education and children, a true labor of love.

Then, beginning in 2007, I was elected to three terms as a member of the Nassau County Legislature, representing Great Neck, Manhasset, Herricks, Manhasset Hills, North New Hyde Park and North Hills. The salary for this position is $39,500, as fixed by the Nassau County Charter 18 years ago. Even though it is a part-time position, I have made it point to work full-time as a legislator, serving my constituents and responding to their concerns on a daily basis.

In summary, whatever someone’s definition of a “career politician” might be, it would not apply to me. I have a passion for serving the community and a strong track record of commitment to all our residents. I look forward to bringing that passion and commitment to our North Hempstead government as your next Town Supervisor.

As far as term limits, I can appreciate the question from both points of view. I do believe it is essential that the next Town Supervisor be free of any conflicts of interest, or perceived conflicts, in connection with family members, business and professional activities. To me, that is a more immediate concern than term limits which would, by the very importance and complexity of the subject, involve an extensive community dialogue in order to move forward.

Read DeGiorgio's complete response here