I can't help but wonder if Newsday is the one trying to apply "pressure" when it comes to special district reform while at the same time presumably denouncing it from others.

In its recent editorial in March, it openly criticizes two elected officials who disagree with their opinion and are willing to look at the issue of reform within a greater context, weighing the long-term effects it will have on our communities. It makes me question why exactly should the issue of special district reform be in the governor's budget in the first place?

Despite Newsday's best attempts, opinion isn't fact. For example, water district tax rates are less than 2 percent of the average tax bill in Nassau County, the lowest of all tax rates. Most importantly, Long Island has the lowest water rates in the nation.

Perhaps Newsday needs to look at the whole picture before they start denouncing our elected officials who have chosen to look at the issue of special district reform responsibly. Or they can continue to apply "pressure" in attacking those individuals who choose to disagree with them.

Richard Tobin

Superintendent, Plainview Water District