Let me first express my sincere thanks to the voters of the 14th Legislative District for returning me to office. I am deeply gratified by the confidence which the voters have expressed in me.

The next two years are sure to be a challenge for county government. Faced with a deepening fiscal crisis, we will need to continue taking bold, tough steps to end wasteful government spending. You have my commitment to work with all of our legislators, as well as our new county executive, to address those concerns.

As part of that effort, I will continue to work for fair, balanced labor contracts that will provide county workers with a decent, cost-of-living increase without breaking the backs of our taxpayers. Since labor contracts account for over 45 percent of our total budget, this is the only way we can dig Nassau County government out of its fiscal mess.

At the same time, I will never turn my back on the needs of our local community. Whatever your concern is, be assured that my door will always be open to you. I have always placed top priority in providing quick, courteous and efficient service to my constituents, and that policy will continue in the next two years, even as we address the county's fiscal problems.

I also wish to convey a special thanks to my business friends who were kind enough to support our efforts during the recent campaign. I urge our residents to patronize these merchants, who comprise a significant presence in our local downtown.

Since September 11, life on Long Island, and indeed throughout the world, has changed dramatically. Our freedom has been threatened and our community, our county and our country have been confronted with difficult challenges. Now more than ever before, we must work together in a bipartisan fashion so we can successfully address those challenges.

Again, thank you for your support. May you and your family enjoy a blessed Thanksgiving and a Happy Holiday season.

Legislator Sal Pontillo