Kopel seeks ninth term, citing safety and costs in 7th District
The incumbent legislator says public safety, cost of living and preserving the Five Towns' character remain his priorities.
Nassau County Legislator Howard Kopel is seeking a ninth term representing the 7th Legislative District, according to the Nassau Herald. Kopel, 75, has lived in Lawrence since 1987 and has represented the district since 2010. He now serves as the Legislature's presiding officer.
Asked what he is focused on, Kopel said public safety and costs. He said county sales tax revenue, which he tied to economic growth, can help avoid direct property tax increases, and he praised Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder and local precinct officers. He also cited county funding for local ambulance services and marine rescue operations.
Kopel said congestion and overbuilding are straining infrastructure that he described as roughly 100 years old with no room to expand, and he said he wants to keep pushing back on development. He also criticized the Peninsula Public Library board of trustees and said he believes the library needs state attention.
The Herald reported that Kopel said he will keep running as long as he can help people effectively.