Suffolk deputy's pay hike is criticized

Vanessa Pugh, who was deputy commissioner in Suffolk's economic development department under Democratic County Executive Steve Bellone, moved up to chief deputy in the merged office of Labor, Licensing and Consumer Affairs, where she's paid $26,000 a year more than her predecessor.

Her current salary is $131,658 and due to rise to $137,124 July 1 when county managers get step increases. Robert Meguin, fired in April, was getting $105,653.

Republicans protested that the merger was supposed to garner savings, with Legis. John Kennedy (R-Nesconset) saying: "We have a $170 million shortfall and we're spending like a drunken sailor."-- Rick Brand