Smithtown Today sent our reporters out to follow each meet the candidate/debate, so we could provide our readers with the most unbiased information and views of all four candidates before heading to the polls. Since newcomer Lisa Inzerillo only attended the first meet the candidate event, held by the League of Women Voters and declined to return the interview questions we emailed her, we are only able to provide our readers with her responses from the first debate. These are direct quotes based on the questions asked by the League of Women Voters.
Name one specific challenge if elected you can accomplish?
One specific challenge would be our main streets obviously we all know there’s a lot that could be done from our roads to our sidewalks curb appeal . I’m on a board of the civic association in kings park and we’ve been involved greatly in that issue. So my challenge would be to make that happen and I know I can make that happen.
Campaign repoire and fundraising disclosure
It was quite a shock when I entered in this campaign and saw how it all works. I do support reform. we’ve been trying so hard to make sure we done everything right. I have a team that’s grassroots, we’re all new at this. we respectfully have worked very hard to do everything right, following the book to a T. we call albany everyday. But I do support campaign reform.
What is your understanding of the open meetings law and its effectiveness
This is not as easy for me to answer but I will say as a resident, it can sometimes get very frustrating and I truly feel a lot of those talks do not have to be behind closed doors
What’s your opinion of term limits and on diversity?
I do believe in term limits. I certainly agree that some limits have gone way too far in this town. I’m not privy to the second part of this question. I will say that I have intent and goal to look into it if elected.
What is your opinion of Illegal apartments and should there be some plan to create legal apartments?
I know there are illegal apts in Kings Park. I come to Smithtown a lot and I know there are illegal apartments there from the residents I’ve spoken to while walking door to door. I don’t think they should be there. Yes, there should be some sort of Smart Growth where we could possibly have legal apartments and I would definitely look into.
How would you vote for a zone change of the pristine 50 acres in Kings Park owned by St. Johnland?
I’ve been involved with the uplands issue at St. Johnland for some time now. I just want to say that I fully support the land swap and I hope that goes through.
How would rectify the flooding in the Village of the Branch?
I wish I was more familiar with this concern. I do know that with respect from the residents, I would do everything to resolve the issue.
What measures would you take to work with others on the council to ensure good government by addressing issues of concern without regard to politics?
I don’t think it can be measured. This campaign has been very hard… but I’m gonna go through whatever to win. But, It’s a job and I’m going to get to town hall and I’m gonna walk in with a smile and I’m gonna get the job done with the people and get along with everyone. It will be fine.
How would you fund initiatives to improve our sewers and revitalize downtown?
For downtown to have the opportunity to thrive, we need county and state funding.