Earlier this month my Democratic colleagues and I approved a four-year financial plan that will serve as a beacon in Nassau County's quest for fiscal well-being and continue the process of building a new and better Nassau County.

Since taking the majority in 2000, the Democrats have fought an uphill battle to repair the problems associated with decades of mismanagement under Republican one-party rule. In 2000 and 2001 we risked public backlash in crafting responsible and realistic budgets that would have brought a credit rating upgrade and put us on the road to recovery. Unfortunately, the rebuilding of Nassau County would have to wait because the "old guard" was intent on preserving its crumbling and dysfunctional system of government. But the waiting is over and it is time to continue what the public demanded when they elected us to the majority in 2000.

Our new county executive, Thomas Suozzi, has developed a financial plan that recognizes the mandate of the people and promises a better tomorrow for everyone. In looking to close a projected $428 million deficit in 2005, three-quarters of the four-year financial plan is comprised of savings and cuts. Among the initiatives proposed are a $101 million savings through a 12.5 percent reduction of the county work force; $73 million savings through managerial initiatives; $65 million in labor union concessions; and $75 million from refinancing the County debt. The remainder of the deficit will be eliminated through an average tax increase of approximately $226 per household.

The financial plan, which has been endorsed by three credit rating agencies, does not have any fiscal gimmickry, one-shot revenues or flawed economic projections. Instead, it is grounded in a balanced approach that shares the burden and pain of fiscal recovery across the board. And it is that shared pain that will bind us together as we work through these difficult times.

Nassau is still a great place to live and raise a family. Its parks and facilities, although diminished, are still a great source of recreation. Its schools are without equal, and its outlets to culturally enriching activities are limitless. And once we work through these difficult times, Nassau County government will be a model of efficiency and something of which its residents are proud.

Judith Jacobs

Presiding Officer, Legislator, 16th district