Legislator Dennis Dunne's characterization of Levittown residents as being "clueless" is an insult. This insult was printed in Newsday edition Sunday, October 3. As the Democratic candidate for County Legislator in the 15 LD, I have been meeting and speaking with many of Levittown's residents. I find that they are familiar with the problems facing Nassau County government and have serious concerns about what will be done to correct these problems.

Homeowners are upset with the addition of the 1 percent house sales tax. People are upset with a county deficit of $300 million in these times of economic growth. Many are upset with the general fiscal instability that permeates our county government. For sure there are varying degrees of awareness regarding our problems. I have started many of my conversations with the residents with the following question "Are you aware of what is happening in Nassau County today?" This question has in most cases brought out a response concerning the budget problems. I have had long conversations with many residents on topics ranging from the deficit, spending cuts, the hospital sale and ways to save money at the District Attorney's office. Dunne's so called "clueless" residents have offered many solutions and ideas during my conversations with them.

As a homeowner and a 10 year resident of Levittown, I find Dennis Dunne's remarks personally insulting and belittling to Levittown's residents. Levittown is full of wonderful, articulate, and generous people. We are certainly not clueless. We may be busy working, and taking care of our families and homes, but we also find time to keep up with current events. We do what is necessary to maintain a decent standard of living in this high tax area, while trying to stay informed, especially with news that directly affects our pocketbooks.

If anyone is clueless, it is Dennis Dunne. Given that he is a lifelong Levittown resident, he has certainly lost touch with what the average Levittown resident is thinking. I suggest that he start answering his own phones at the office, or asking the right questions when talking to people. The people of the 15th legislative district deserve a legislator who knows what is going on and is willing to take a stand to improve the lives of those that live in this district. We deserve better than what we have right now.