LI biz coalition takes first steps

In January, representatives of nine Long Island business and technology organizations got together and, for the first time, agreed to work on issues with a single voice.

So how's it working out?

So far, the group has issued three letters: one backing legislation to create the Recharge New York program, which would allow new business applicants for lower-cost power; another supporting the confirmation of Kenneth Adams as the new chief executive of the New Yo;rk State Empire State Development Corp., and the third arguing against the elimination of one congressional seat on Long Island, the result of lower population growth on the Island as opposed to other states.

Long Island Association president Kevin Law, who spearheaded the coalition of the nine organizations, said the letters were "first actions" of the group, which has so far met only two times and plans a third meeting in April.

"I'm interested in building bridges" to the other organizations, Law said. "They're either geographically based or sector based. They realize we're the 800-pound gorilla in the room. But we're not going to throw our weight around. We're going to treat everyone with respect."

The LIA, with about 5,000 members, is the Island's largest business and civic organization.

Peter Goldsmith, chairman of the Long Island Software and Technology Network, said so far, so good: "I think it's a great start. The fact that nine organizations can agree on these letters and do it so quickly says a lot. That hasn't happened before."

Island organizations have generally steered clear of one another, vying to build up their own membership and treasure chests. Times, Goldsmith said, have changed.

Aside from LIA and ListNet, the other members are the Hauppauge Industrial Association; the Nassau Chambers of Commerce; Long Island Metro Business Action; the Long Island Forum for Technology; the Long Island Builders Institute; the Association for a Better Long Island, and the Long Island Contractors Association. Earlier this week, Law said one other organization has been added, the Long Island Board of Realtors.