After the Western Property Owners' Association's Nominating Committee met and voted unanimously to not renominate Trustee Donald Jenkins, but to nominate Brian Murray for the term beginning in April, rumors began to abound as to the possible ramifications of this decision. Jenkins' future on the Board was apparently seen as uncertain by some vocal residents, following a letter writing and verbal battle with former Trustee Eileen Collins, who currently sits on the WPOA Nominating Committee. Jenkins spoke to Village officials expressing his desire to resign from his post as soon as the Murray nomination was made. Trustees at the Dec. 16 Board Meeting expressed their regret at the departure and offered testimonials to the dedication of this now former trustee.

The official letter of resignation was received by the mayor late last week and Mayor Hal Hecken began the meeting by noting that Jenkins was not present, nor was his name plate, and explained that it "certainly is with regret that I had to accept his resignation." Rumors that former Mayor Frank Tauches would fill the vacancy became official word at the meeting when Hecken announced his decision to appoint Tauches to the Board, a decision made after Hecken spoke with WPOA President John Watras, his fellow trustees, and Tauches. Hecken noted that he believes Tauches' experience with issues facing the Village from St. Paul's to the LIRR moratorium expiration will keep the Village operating solidly.

Hecken also made a point of saying, "Anyone who takes over from him [Tauches] would benefit from his tutoring." He noted that with capital and operational budget planning approaching, Tauches' experience would be of great benefit to the Village. He also said that Tauches had been appointed to be the liaison to the business community and this would only add to the many elements Tauches could bring to the Board.

Jenkins served as the Recreation Commissioner and Fire Commissioner and so these positions will need to be filled. Deputy Mayor Robert Lewis was appointed by Hecken to serve as Recreation Commissioner in the interim. Hecken noted of Jenkins' past service as the Recreation Commissioner, "Garden City is a better place because of his service." Trustee Bee commented that Jenkins "agonized over decisions" and "researched" issues before making a decision. Trustee Torino added that Jenkins' efforts in recreation would be "sorely missed" and Trustee Asselta commended Jenkins on his "diligence" and "professionalism." Jenkins was not present at the meeting.

The resident nominated by the WPOA, who will be up for election in the General Village Election this spring, is Brian Murray, who, ironically, was once engaged in a letter writing and verbal disagreement of sorts with former Mayor Frank Tauches over the issue of the employment of Village Counsel Gary Fishberg. Murray had argued several years ago in letters published and sent to the Village for the public record that he believed the Village should not employ an attorney or a legal firm located outside of the Incorporated Village of Garden City. Then Mayor Brian Deveney appointed a special committee to investigate the subject. The committee found that Cullen and Dykman was the best choice for the Village and the Village has continued their employ. Tauches argued in favor of Fishberg and Cullen and Dykman in letters and at public meetings, contesting Murray's points.

Brian Murray, according to the biography supplied by the WPOA, is currently employed by Rabin & Peckel, LLP of New York, where he is now a "member" after having served as an associate from 1992-1997. According to the biography, "The firm deals with securities, anti-trust and commercial litigation. His work entails all aspects of litigation from inception through appeal, including motions to dismiss, class certification, defending and taking depositions, discovery, summary judgment, trial and post-trial motions." He was an associate at Willkie Farr & Gallagher from 1990-1992 and worked in the litigation department, drafting pleadings, motions, and memoranda of law for bankruptcy, products liability, securities, and commercial litigation.

The biography states, "Murray received a BA in Philosophy and Government from the University of Notre Dame in 1983. He obtained his MA in Government in 1986, also at Notre Dame. He was graduated cum laude in 1990 with a JD degree from St. John's University Law School in the top 3 percent of his class. He was articles editor of St. John's Law Review and was also on the Dean's List from 1987-1990. He has had articles published in St. John's Law Review as well as New York Law Journal, University of Dayton Law Review and The Maryland Journal of International Trade. He has also reported decisions in several law cases."

Murray lives with his wife, Tracy, described by the WPOA as a "lifelong resident" of Garden City, although her maiden name was not provided, and they have three children -- Alexandra (5); James (2); and Liam (6 months). The WPOA explains, "Murray's name will be presented to the Resident Board of Electors at the next WPOA meeting, which is scheduled for Tuesday evening, Jan. 18 at 8 p.m. in the Homestead School."