Lavine: Securing Grant an Act of ‘Political Science’
By Hank Russell
The City of Glen Cove recently received a $250,000 from the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY) for a well project on Seaman Road. The project, which follows the opening of other wells in recent years, is part of a larger effort by the city to remain as an independent water source.
In 2010, the well shut down due to freon contamination. However, between the existing infrastructure and the funding, it is anticipated that the water is decontaminated and the city will eliminate the need to purchase water from other sources.
New York State Assemblyman Charles Lavine (D-Glen Cove), who secured the grant for the city, noted that the mayor, Pamela Panzenbeck, is a Republican, but when his constituents are in need, political parties don’t matter.
“I believe that there is such a thing as political science,” Lavine said. “The philosophy being that we must do the most to benefit our people. It makes absolutely no difference to me whether they live in municipalities with elected Democrats or Republicans. However, I find it very troubling that some of my political colleagues believe in demagoguery, putting their own private interests above the public good.”
Panzenbeck said she is “very grateful” for the funding and hopes to receive additional monies to help get the well back online.
“While this grant is a great step forward, we recognize that we need millions more dollars to fully upgrade our water system here in Glen Cove,” Panzenbeck said. “We appreciate all the support we can get to ensure our residents have access to clean, safe water.”
“We must meet the real-life challenges that are always presenting themselves,” Lavine added. “We all need to believe in political science and that is the reason why I have directed millions of dollars to governments that are not controlled by my political party. Losing control politically doesn’t matter. All that truly matters is that we serve the people.”