NIFA approves $60,000 contract with twice-rejected Albany lobbyist

Nassau's financial control board, with a new chairman and majority appointed by Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo, has approved a $60,000 contract with Albany lobbyist Robert Bishop after the former NIFA board twice rejected hiring Bishop as unnecessary.

Jon Kaiman, Nassau Interim Finance Authority chairman, said that when he served as North Hempstead Town supervisor, he found lobbyists provide a valuable service. NIFA member John Buran said, "Given the amount of money that flows between the county and the state, this is a de minimis expense."

But NIFA member Chris Wright, who opposes the contract, said, "I don't think it's possible for the county to get more favorable treatment from Albany" -- a reference to the close relationship between Democrat Cuomo and GOP County Executive Edward Mangano. -- Celeste Hadrick