Horsley contrite after IDA nomination flap

A chastened Legis. Wayne Horsley (D-Babylon) admits he may have gone too far carrying water for the Bellone administration in appointing former Presiding Officer Paul Tonna to the Suffolk Industrial Development Agency board.

IDA members are a legislative prerogative. Tonna was County Executive Steve Bellone's choice, though Horsley sponsored his resolution. Legis. Kate Browning (WFP-Shirley) said she was offended, arguing lawmakers should have conducted an open process with interviews.

Horsley, deputy presiding officer, acknowledged the issue had come up in the Democratic caucus and said Browning was "absolutely right." Horsley added: "In the future, that will not happen." -- Rick Brand