Hempstead board ratifies deputy supervisor's compensation; Dorothy Goosby recuses from vote

The Town of Hempstead Town Board voted to ratify a resolution confirming the deputy supervisor's compensation during an administrative portion of its Oct. 16 meeting. Deputy Supervisor Dorothy Goosby recused herself from debate and the vote on the item and rejoined the meeting after the board's action.

Procedure and comments: The board suspended the rules to take Item 1 early; Councilman Dunne moved the suspension and Laura Bridal seconded. The deputy supervisor announced a recusal before Item 1 was called. Multiple members of the public spoke on the item. Pearl Jacobs (Uniondale) asked how many hours the deputy works to justify a "six-figure" salary; Lynn Krug (Garden City) questioned why the compensation matter was being addressed so close to an election.

Clerk and staff responses: Officials stated the deputy supervisor's responsibilities are set out in town code and that no additional salary increase for the deputy position was being proposed for 2026. The clerk confirmed the recorded compensation figures, stating $35,916 for 2025 and the same for 2026, and public commenters referenced a $1,675 longevity amount.

Vote and outcome: After public comment the board moved to pass the resolution; roll call votes recorded ayes from Supervisor Ferretti, Councilman Dunne, Councilwoman Miller, Councilman Muscarella, Councilwoman Ryder and Councilman Schneider. The deputy, having been recused for the discussion and vote, returned to the chamber after the motion passed.

What to watch: Residents at the hearing asked for clearer line-item reporting and more accessible explanations of elected officials's compensation and duties. The board's vote ratified the compensation as stated in the resolution; the budget hearing and additional items were then taken up later in the afternoon session.