Richard Nicolello for Nassau Legislative District 9

Nassau adopted a county legislature system 26 years ago, and Republican Richard J. Nicolello, 61, of New Hyde Park, has been in that body throughout, serving as presiding officer the past four years. His longevity does him credit, as does his well-mannered and well-intentioned leadership. He's no flamethrower, a huge plus during crises like COVID-19. And when he does battle Democrats and County Executive Laura Curran, her initiatives often get better.

But there is room to improve. Take his push to cut fees on real estate paperwork and red-light camera tickets: Ending the fees is correct, but introducing the costly idea two days before Curran's budget was due is not.

Republicans are bucking Curran's fiscal caution, but Nicolello must be poised to pull back on spending and increase revenue when tough times return and federal stimulus runs out. His opponent, Salju K. Thomas, is not actively campaigning.

Newsday endorses Nicolello.

Nassau Legislative District 9 covers Plandomes, Munsey Park, Roslyn Estates, New Hyde Park to Mineola, Albertson.