County Races

    With Suffolk Executive Steve Levy’s exit from county government under circumstances that have not been entirely explained, two candidates relatively new to South Fork voters are poised to take his job. They are Steve Bellone, Bablyon Town supervisor, and Angie Carpenter, county treasurer.

    Neither has spent much time campaigning here, but Mr. Bellone seems more attuned to local issues. He supports an  East End alternative to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority and is a full-fledged fan of open space preservation. He touts a record of tax cuts, although Ms. Carpenter disputes the claim. Mr. Bellone is thinking big at a time when the region needs new ideas. The Star endorses Steve Bellone.

    As for the County Legislature, there is a refreshing quality to Cornelius Kelly’s run to unseat the incumbent, Jay Schneiderman. Mr. Kelly is tough and well informed and has gotten Mr. Schneiderman on the defensive about several issues key to the South Fork, notably Sunday bus service and land preservation.

    Since becoming East Hampton Town supervisor in 2000, Mr. Schneiderman, who hails from Montauk, appears on his way to becoming a career politician. This may disturb some voters, but in and of itself is not a reason to turn him out of office. He has amassed a string of achievements despite a bitter relationship with the county executive, while Mr. Kelly has no record at all. We endorse Mr. Schneiderman.