Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the County Attorney Removal topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Putnam County Legislature Overrides Veto to Let Legislature Remove County Attorney
Summary
On Nov. 25, 2024, the Putnam County Legislature voted to override a veto on Local Law 215 of 2024, amending the county charter to allow the Legislature to remove the county attorney; debate centered on separation of powers, a delayed effective date (2027) and alleged conflict with state law.
PUTNAM COUNTY, N.Y. — The Putnam County Legislature voted on Nov. 25, 2024, to override the county executive’s veto of Local Law 215 of 2024, a charter amendment that would permit the Legislature to remove the county attorney.
Supporters said the change is a safeguard when conflicts arise between the county attorney and the legislative body; opponents warned it could erode the balance of power and might conflict with New York State law. "This law I believe is flawed because it conflicts with the New York State Municipal Home Rule Law," said Legislator Goldman during debate.
The measure was drafted to take effect in 2027, a point supporters highlighted repeatedly. Legislator Nassarino said the delayed effective date undercut claims of retaliation and that earlier procedural votes were lawful, calling much of the veto message "based on conjecture and speculation." She told colleagues she would support the override because the law had been properly considered and would not immediately affect the incumbent county attorney.
During discussion, proponents argued the Legislature needs the authority to secure representation and oversight when a conflict with the county executive or county attorney arises. The chair framed the change as adding legislative authority rather than stripping executive power and asked for a roll-call vote.
The clerk recorded individual votes (see actions[]). After the tally, the clerk announced, "Motion carries." No immediate administrative personnel action followed during the Nov. 25 session; the law’s effective date was stated in the measure as January 2027.
Why it matters: the vote changes how the legislative branch can respond when it perceives the county attorney is not representing the Legislature’s interests. Supporters say it ensures the Legislature can obtain independent counsel in conflicts; opponents worry it blurs separation-of-powers norms and could create governance friction.
The Legislature moved on to other items after the vote; the local law’s implementation date remains as written in the measure.
