Concerning reader Ed Warch's recent criticisms of me, and my choice of employment I would like to clear up a few of his misconceptions.

My decision to accept a job as part of the Democratic staff for the Town of Hempstead was not an easy decision to make - as my family and good friends are well aware. I left a job where I had a great deal of security, flexibility and seniority. I left a workplace that was full of very good friends. We were like a family. I left for an opportunity to contribute to the successes of the Democratic minority in the Town of Hempstead and for the establishment of a viable two party system there. After a century-long one party domination of town government this was an opportunity that I just could not pass up.

I took this position at town hall knowing that there would be no job security. I made this decision knowing that a special election would take place in the near future which could possibly result in Democratic losses and the elimination of my position.

It is apparent that Mr. Warch only has a problem with Levittown Democrats working in Town Hall. He fails to mention the very long list of Levittown Republican committee people and executive leaders working for all levels of government - Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, OTB, New York state and the management of NCMC Public Benefit Corporation. All on the public payroll, and all politically active. Although the names, positions, and salaries of these individuals are available to the public I feel it would be inappropriate to invade the privacy of these individuals by listing them in this letter.

Mr. Warch tries to divert attention from the very real fiscal problems facing Nassau County. Nassau has a junk bond rating, a $3 billion debt and a looming deficit well over $100 million. These problems have been caused by Tom Gulotta's mismanagement coupled with a lack of leadership and lack of oversight by Legislator Dennis Dunne.

It is reassuring to know that at least the Town of Hempstead is on sound financial footing. I have never stated otherwise in any of my correspondence. As a matter of fact, Supervisor Guardino, at the Feb. 29 town board meeting took a no tax increase pledge for the year 2001. I have no doubt that he will keep his promise. And, since our excellent bond rating is, in part, dependent on maintaining a surplus I am hoping that he will be able to maintain the surplus at the current level of $50 million while holding the line on taxes.

As far as having a hidden agenda, there's nothing hidden about it. I just call it the way I see it.