Candidate Profile: Grady Farnan

Grady Farnan has become well-acquainted with the issue of public disclosure in his last year on the Glen Cove Board of Education.

The Board vice-president cited his work in insurance as a guide to how to behave during an investigation, having patience and making sure the process adheres to proper due diligence.

"We live in a world where everything is answered instantaneously," said Farnan. He said the Board shares the public's lack of information more than many people realize. "To discuss anything before the case is done is counterproductive. We don't want to know anything until the case is done."

Farnan said that while emotions can get heated, things like personnel privacy rules and even individuals' character must not be lost to the passion of the moment.

"A person like Dr. Laria would give the shirt off his back to a student," he said of the former superintendent.

Farnan said passage of the budget is his priority as a trustee. He called the proposed budget fiscally sound, remaining well within the legally allowed tax levy cap, without cutting a single program. He noted that the tax levy increase is one of the lowest among Nassau school districts.

A lifelong resident of Glen Cove, Farnan said he represents the community as a Board member who can make decisions and look his public in the eye, always telling the truth and never crossing the line regarding executive session.

Having raised three daughters in Glen Cove, Farnan said he believes in the city and its people. That faith extends to its public schools, despite the unflattering attention received as of late.

"We need to stem the tide of negative publicity to our city, and I would like to continue with that work," said Farnan.

The school board election and budget vote is Tuesday. Farnan is vying for two open seats along with candidates Eric Bailey, an attorney, and former board president Richard Maccarone.