Letter: Professionalism, philanthropy and a focus on families will be assets to the Village
Northport Village is an incredible place to live and raise a family. Our harbor, the amazing restaurants and businesses, galleries and theater, and most importantly, our residents and sense of community, are second to none. For that reason and more, it is of utmost importance that the Village is stewarded by competent, professional and representative leadership.
If elected as Trustee, I will be an asset to this Village. My background as a litigator in both the public and private sectors has not only prepared me for the substance of this job, but provided me the professionalism that this job, and Village residents, deserve.
I began my career in public service when I was appointed an Assistant District Attorney for Nassau County, handling cases ranging from misdemeanor DWIs to felony home invasions. During that time, I worked in partnership with the Nassau County Police Department. In private practice, I have represented Long Island municipalities and their police departments, in state and federal courts, on matters ranging from zoning and premises liability to civil rights claims and employment suits.
As a trial attorney, I am accustomed to paying close attention to documents, records and bills, interpreting and enforcing codes and statutes, zealously advocating for a position within the bounds of professionalism and common decency, and working with people from all walks of life. I will not shy away from holding people accountable, speaking up when needed, or advocating for what is best for the Village, our residents, and our small businesses. These are all qualities that Northport residents deserve in their Trustees.
My family’s adoration of the Village brings me great joy and I will use my role as Village Trustee to help benefit all families. I would be the only Trustee with school-aged children – as a current member of the Ocean Avenue PTA and class parent, and youth soccer coach here in the Village, it is important to me that I represent families and organize engaging activities and programs for our youth. Creating connections and showcasing the joy and vibrancy our young people bring to this community is as important as preserving the wonderful quaintness our Village has maintained throughout the years. I will dedicate myself to both of these endeavors.
I will also work hard to ensure our environment and infrastructure are safe and intact for generations to come. We must keep our harbor clean and sustainable, which will only happen if we begin fixing drainage issues, address pollution and run-off into the harbor, add more native plantings and trees in public spaces, and continue to support existing and new aquaculture programs.
One way I have already worked to nurture Northport’s true spirit of kindness and community is through philanthropy. As a co-founder of Not In Our Town (NIOT) Northport, I have worked with my fellow residents, our Village and school administration, and our police department to foster a sense of belonging and inclusion for everyone who lives and works here. Not only does NIOT stand up against hate and bigotry of any kind, we also spread kindness, empathy and a sense of togetherness to our neighbors. Our donation drives have raised thousands of dollars, money that has gone toward the purchase of fresh food at Thanksgiving, presents over the winter holidays, as well as school supplies, books and backpacks – all for local families who use Ramon’s Place, the Northport High School food pantry. In addition to other events, NIOT has supported local small businesses through our Gift Thy Neighbor initiative, purchased meals for local hospice workers, and invited authors to speak to the community. This work of bringing people together is what I am and have always been about. It reinforces the incredible sense of community I have seen firsthand in Northport Village – and it is what inspired me to enter this race. I look forward to continuing my work here in this new role, and to meeting and working together with many more of you.
Join me in showing up to VOTE DOLAN on Tuesday, March 15 at Village Hall.
Meghan Dolan
Candidate for Village Trustee
