June 15 , 2009
Re-stricting E-Cigarettes
Cooper Seeks to Keep High-Tech, Unregulated Smoking Devices Out of the Hands of Young Smokers
As home to one of the nation’s first public smoking bans, and one of the first localities in the country to raise the legal age to purchase cigarettes to 19, Suffolk County has been at the vanguard of national efforts to break America’s addiction to smoking. But now a new, high-tech smoking threat has emerged in the form of "electronic cigarettes." (more)

June 10 , 2009
No Lag in Solidarity
Legislature Approves Cooper’s Proposal Allowing Elected Officials to Lag Their Pay to Reduce Deficit
Everybody knows that the global recession has had a local impact right here in Suffolk County. Besides plummeting property values, and escalating home foreclosures, county government has also had to tighten its belt in the face of a $110 million budget deficit. One of the cost-saving measures enacted by the County Legislature was a lag payroll for county workers to avoid large-scale layoffs and a resulting drastic cutback in essential services. (more)

May 12, 2009
"Celling" the Vanderbilt
Cooper Plan to Place Cell Tower at Vanderbilt Is Public Safety Boost for Centerport Residents & Financial Boon for Museum
When the Wisconisan Glacier finally receded to Connecticut approximately 18,000 years ago, in its wake it created the quaint, hilly coastline that today is the defining physical feature of Long Island’s north shore. But for anyone trying to get cell phone service in the midst of those rolling, beachfront hills in the hamlet of Centerport, the glacier has created a serious safety hazard. That’s because cellular band radio waves do not effectively penetrate earth. It also explains why, at today’s meeting of the Suffolk County Legislature, lawmakers unanimously voted to approve a plan by Majority Leader Jon Cooper (D-Lloyd Harbor) to place a cell phone tower in the heart of Centerport, at Suffolk County’s Vanderbilt Museum. (more)

December 11, 2008
Four for Four
Cooper Re-Elected as Legislature's Majority Leader for a Fourth Consecutive Term
On the verge of defending their majority in the 18-member Suffolk County Legislature in the 2009 elections, the 10-member Democratic/Working Families/Independence Party caucus rewarded Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Lloyd Harbor) for his leadership skills by coming together at an organizational meeting yesterday to unanimously re-elect him as their Majority Leader for a fourth consecutive term. (more)

August 22, 2008
FIGHT THE BLIGHT
Cooper Coordinates Effort between County and Town on Columbia Street "Take Back the Block" Project
Combating both the national housing crisis and local quality of life concerns, Suffolk Legislative Majority Leader Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has been actively working with County Executive Steve Levy and the Town of Huntington to turn a blighted corner in Huntington Station into a model of affordable housing. This effort is called the Columbia Street "Take Back the Block" Project. (more)

August 20, 2008
Not So Wide Open Spaces
Cooper’s Plan Ensures Western Towns Will Get Their Fair Share of Open Space Preservation
Suffolk County has long been recognized as a national leader in the effort to protect open space. Last year, voters overwhelmingly voted to support continued open space preservation by approving a measure put on the ballot by Legislative Majority Leader Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that extended the existing Quarter Cent Drinking Water Protection Program until 2030. But did you know that the East End far outpaces western Suffolk when it comes to the acreage preserved for open space? That's why Cooper recently championed a proposal to ensure the future preservation of more open space in the densely populated western towns. (more)

July 23, 2008
Greener Greens
Legislature Backs Cooper Plan to Make County Golf Courses More Environmentally Friendly
The Suffolk County Legislature recently approved a resolution sponsored by Majority Leader Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) to make the County's four public golf courses more environmentally friendly by participating in the globally recognized Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses (ACSP-not affiliated with the National Audubon Society). (more)

July 23, 2008
Beach Blanket Butt Out
Legislature Backs Cooper Plan to Require Cigarette Butt Receptacles at All County Parks and Beaches.
Summertime at any of Suffolk County's 46,000 acres of parkland and public beaches is great way to enjoy your day. Cool ocean breezes blowing on your face, the sun warming your back, the cigarette butts stuck between your toes in the sand?! (more)

April 10, 2008
Bye, Bye Broadwater!
Cooper Hails Paterson's Decision Not to Approve Broadwater LNG Barge
Suffolk County Legislative Majority Leader Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) was a special invited guest at an event on the boardwalk here, where New York State Governor David A. Paterson made public his decision to direct state agencies under his charge to deny Broadwater the permits necessary to place a liquefied natural gas barge in the middle of the Long Island Sound. Cooper hailed Paterson's announcement as a positive early omen for the future of his administration. (more)

March 20, 2008
Feds Full of Hot Air on Broadwater
Cooper Expresses Dismay about Federal Approval for Broadwater LNG Barge
Suffolk County Legislative Majority Leader Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) today expressed his anger and frustration today in response to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's (FERC) decision to approve anchoring of the controversial Broadwater Energy gas barge in the Long Island Sound. Since authoring legislation that made Suffolk County the first governmental body to oppose the LNG barge in 2005, Cooper has been a leading figure in the fight to block Broadwater. (more)

December 14, 2007
Third Time Is a Charm
Cooper Re-Elected as Legislature's Majority Leader for a Third Consecutive Term
Coming off the heels of their successful bid to increase their majority on the 18-member Suffolk County Legislature, the now 11-member Democratic/Working Families caucus rewarded Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) for his leadership skills by coming together at an organizational meeting yesterday to unanimously re-elect him as their Majority Leader for a third consecutive term. (more)

September 19, 2007
SMART WHEN WET
Cooper Champions Public Education Campaign to Promote Pool Safety
At its meeting tomorrow, the Suffolk County Legislature will vote on a resolution sponsored by Majority Leader Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that would create an annual "Be Pool Smart" public education campaign to promote pool safety. The vote follows the tragic drowning death of a three-year-old boy on September 7th, the sixth child to die in a pool accident this summer in Suffolk County. (more)

August 16, 2007
Legislature Approves Cooper’s Historic Environmental Initiative
Referendum to Appear on Ballot this November
At the August 7th meeting of the Suffolk County Legislature, lawmakers came together to support a historic environmental protection initiative sponsored by Legislative Majority Leader Jon Cooper (D-Huntington). The measure will allow voters in November to cast their votes in favor of protecting much of Suffolk's available open space, preserve critical habitats, save local farms, protect Long Island's aquifer, improve the county's tourism-based economy and safeguard our unique quality of life. (more)

August 6, 2007
Lights, Cameras, Action!
Cooper's "Safe Communities Initiative" Security Camera Pilot Program Starts Rolling
After more than a year in the making, Suffolk County has finally launched a 10-camera pilot program to determine how effective security cameras are in reducing crime and apprehending criminals. The "Safe Communities Initiative", which began recording on July 1 in Huntington Station, is the result of a task force created by Legislative Majority Leader Jon Cooper (D-Huntington). If the pilot program's findings prove as promising as Cooper believes they will, security cameras on public streets in high-crime areas could become another weapon in the Suffolk County Police Department's crime-fighting arsenal. (more)

June 8, 2007
Suffolk Legislature Cuts Capital Spending for 2nd Straight Year
Will Vote on Fiscally Responsible Plan for Capital Investment, Environmental Protection and Borrowing Reduction at Tuesday's Meeting
Suffolk County Legislative Majority Leader Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) today joined Presiding Officer William J. Lindsay (D-Holbrook) and Minority Leader Daniel P. Losquadro (R-Shoreham) to announce a bi-partisan capital budget proposal which exercises tremendous fiscal restraint, coming in less than last year's Capital Program. The Legislature will vote this Tuesday on the proposed capital budget at its June 12th General Meeting at 9:30 a.m. in Hauppauge. (more)

May 24, 2007
Cooper Honored for Fight Against Sex Offenders
On Friday, May 4th, Suffolk County Majority Leader Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) was honored as the 2007 Legislator of the Year at the Parents for Megan's Law "Champion for Children Awards." The not-for-profit organization is dedicated to the prevention and treatment of child sexual abuse through the provision of education, advocacy, counseling, victims services policy and legislative support services. (more)

May 22, 2007
Military Care Package
Legislature Approves Cooper's Veterans Assistance Measures
Just in time for Memorial Day, the Suffolk County Legislature (at their May 15th General Session) unanimously approved two resolutions sponsored by Majority Leader Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that will help the brave men and women of Suffolk who have served in our military. Along with a measure Cooper sponsored earlier this year that provides veterans with discounts to county parks, armed service members are applauding his "Military Care Package." (more)

May 15, 2007
Cooper Unveils Historic Environmental Protection Initiative"
Measure Would Generate Nearly Half a Billion Dollars to Preserve
Open Space & Farmland, Protect Drinkig Water and Safeguard Our Quality of Life
With Indian Island County Park's scenic Peconic River as a backdrop, leading environmentalists, lawmakers and community activists came together as Legislative Majority Leader Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) announced his plans to champion an historic initiative that will put Suffolk County in the vanguard of the national movement to preserve our natural environment. If approved by the voters in a ballot referendum this November, Cooper's measure will protect the last of Suffolk's available open space, preserve critical habitats, save local farms, protect Long Island's aquifer, improve the county's tourism-based economy and safeguard our unique quality of life. (more)

March 21, 2007
Suffolk Legislature Designates
"Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis Awareness Week"
Today, Majority Leader Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) of the Suffolk County Legislature joined with numerous other elected officials and health advocates from across Long Island to announce the passage of his legislation that designates the week of April 22nd as "Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis Awareness Week." The goal is to increase awareness about these devastating diseases, which have been diagnosed in an estimated 30,000 patients in Suffolk and Nassau Counties. (more)

March 21, 2007
Book 'Em!
Suffolk Legislature Designates "Librarian Appreciation Day"
Yesterday the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously approved a resolution sponsored by Majority Leader Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) designating the third Monday of April as "Librarian Appreciation Day". The goal is to recognize the vital services that librarians perform in our communities and schools each and every day. (more)

March 7 , 2007
Suffolk Legislature Designates "Traumatic Brain Injury Awareness Week"
Yesterday the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously approved a resolution sponsored by Majority Leader Jon Cooper designating the second week of March "Traumatic Brain Injury Awareness Week". The goal is to increase awareness about this life-changing and often irreversible condition. (more)

February 16, 2007
From "Fields of Glory" to "Fields of Green"
Legislature Approves Cooper's Plan to Give Veterans a Break on Park Fees
At last week's general session, the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously approved a resolution sponsored by Majority Leader Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that would give veterans a discount to county parks. (more)

February 9, 2007
Cooper Supports "Computer Cop" Internet Safety Initiative
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) recently joined forces with the Suffolk County Sheriff’s office to offer new internet monitoring software that enables parents to protect their children against online sexual predators and cyber bullies. (more)

January 2, 2007
By Unanimous Consent
Cooper Re-Elected to Legislature's Majority Leader Post for Second Term
At an organizational meeting today, the 10-member Democratic Caucus of the Suffolk County Legislature rewarded Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) for the leadership skills he displayed last year by coming together to unanimously re-elect him as their Majority Leader for a second term. (more)

December 4, 2006
Lewd Loitering
Cooper Law Would Make Suffolk the First County in New York State to Prohibit Sex Offenders from Lurking Where Children Gather
At tomorrow's General Meeting of the Suffolk County Legislature, lawmakers from both sides of the aisle are expected to come together and vote unanimously to approve a law authored by Majority Leader Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that would prohibit the most dangerous sex offenders from lurking where children gather. This would make Suffolk the first County in the state to protect children by passing an anti-loitering law that specifically targets child sexual predators. (more)

November 22, 2006
Revitalizing Huntington's Downtowns
Cooper Co-Sponsors Resolution to Improve Main Street Areas
Yesterday, the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously approved a resolution co-sponsored by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that will allocate $500,000 in funding to revitalize downtown business districts across Suffolk County. A large portion of the funds ($136, 475) will be used for revitalization projects in Cold Spring Harbor, Huntington Village, Huntington Station and East Northport. (more)

November 20 , 2006
Lifeguard On Duty
Proposed Law Would Require Lifesavers at Hotel and Motel Pools
Disturbed by the death of a 9-year-old girl at a Cutchogue motel swimming pool this past summer, Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) recently introduced legislation that would create a safer environment by requiring supervision by lifeguards at all larger pools at hotels and motels throughout Suffolk County. (more)

November 13 , 2006
TOW TRICK
Cooper Curbs Predatory Towing
Few things are as exasperating as finding an empty parking space where your car used to be. It's only slightly less irritating when you finally see the undersized sign detailing the terms of the tow company's warning notice and you begin to realize your car hasn't been stolen, but instead has been kidnapped and is being held for ransom. (more)

October 19, 2006
Domestic Partner Registry Now Open
Legislator Cooper and His Partner Are First in Line to Register
On September 14, Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) attended the opening of Suffolk County's domestic partner registry at the County Clerk's office in Riverhead. Cooper, Long Island's highest-ranking openly gay elected official, was the first in line to register, along with his partner of nearly 26 years, Rob. The two have raised five children together. (more)

September 5, 2006
E-WASTE NOT, WANT NOT
Cooper Champions Environmentally Sensitive Disposal of Electronics
This morning, the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously approved a resolution sponsored by Majority Leader Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that will establish an environmentally sound electronic waste policy for the County. (more)

August 28, 2006
Can You Give A Can?
Legislator Cooper Sponsors Food Drive for People and Pets
Donning bright blue shirts emblazoned with the logo “Cooper’s Troopers”, teams of volunteers from the office of Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) fanned out to local supermarkets on August 23rd and 24th passing out flyers promoting Cooper's "Can You Give A Can?" campaign. (more)

July 31, 2006
Sunflowers to Soccer Fields
Legislature Approves Resolution to Acquire Mohlenhoff Property
Surrounded by officials from the County, the Town of Huntington and a variety of land preservationists and supporters of youth athletics, Suffolk County Legislative Majority Leader Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) announced the final agreement to acquire the 11-acre Mohlenhoff property in Huntington for use as active parkland. (more)

June 30, 2006
HOLD THAT LINE!
Democrats Deliver on Pledge to Hold the Line on County Spending
At this week’s general meeting of the County Legislature, majority Democrats delivered on their pledge to hold the line on County spending and reversed a three-year Republican trend of running up County costs at taxpayers’ expense. (more)

April 18, 2006
Patients Given Options for Community Living
Legislator Jon Cooper visits local group residence
For over 20 years, Options for Community Living, Inc. has operated a community residence in the Huntington area for adults recovering from mental illness. On Wednesday, April 12, a bright spring day, Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) paid a visit to the group home. Met by Options’ staff, the legislator had an opportunity to meet the residents as they prepared to head off to their daily activities. "Our residents participate in a variety of daytime activities as part of their recovery," says Diane Mendolia, Program Director. (more)

April 6 2006
What a Drag!
Cooper’s Law Permits Seizure and Auction of Illegal Drag Racing Vehicles to Protect Public Safety
Disturbed by the alarming increase in injuries and fatalities resulting from illegal street or “drag” racing on Suffolk roads, the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously approved a bill authored by Majority Leader Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that is designed to make foolhardy, pedal to the metal-heads pay dearly for their reckless sprints. (more)

April 5, 2006
LICENSE AND REGISTRATION, PLEASE
Legislature Approves Cooper’s Domestic Partner Registry
Yesterday was the culmination of a great political and personal victory for Suffolk County Majority Leader Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) as he led the successful and long-overdue battle to create a domestic partner registry for County residents. Cooper, Long Island’s only openly gay elected official, has been in a committed relationship with his partner, Rob, for nearly 26 years. The two have raised five children together. (more)

March 30, 2006
CAST of Thousands
Legislator Cooper Secures $43,500 for Youth Anti-Gang Program
Suffolk County Majority Leader Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has secured $43,500 in the 2006 County Budget for an innovative program aimed at protecting high-risk youths from joining illegal street gangs. This is in addition to a $100,000 start-up grant he provided for this program in 2005. The Community and Schools Together (CAST) program provides intense outreach and case management to youngsters in grades 5 to 9 and their families from the Huntington area. (more)

March 24, 2006
PARK IT!
Legislature Approves Cooper Initiative to Create Renewable Energy Park
At last week’s general meeting, the Suffolk County Legislature approved a resolution championed by Majority Leader Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that may, one day, help solve Long Island’s energy crisis. (more)

March 15, 2006
Park of the Future
Legislator Cooper Establishes New “Eco-Tech” Park
Yesterday, Suffolk County Majority Leader Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) and his colleagues overwhelmingly approved his resolution to establish an Ecology and Technology Park in Suffolk County. (more)

March 15, 2006
Stopping Inhumane Trapping Dead in Its Tracks
Cooper Takes Action to Ban Canine-Killing Steel Animal Traps
This morning, Suffolk County Majority Leader Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) gathered with animal activists and pet owners from across Long Island to announce yesterday’s unanimous passage of his resolution that seeks to ban inhumane trapping methods throughout Suffolk County. Outraged by the tragic death in December of a beloved, 3-year-old mixed breed dog named Zephyr —who was crushed by the jaws of a steel animal trap while hiking with his owner in a local nature preserve — Cooper and other county legislators took action to help ensure that other family pets and wildlife don’t befall the same horrific fate. (more)

February 16 , 2006
Social Insecurity
Social Security Numbers Viewable Online Inspires Cooper to Terminate Identity Theft Crimes
Putting personal privacy concerns over partisan politics, today Suffolk County Majority Leader Jon Cooper (D-Huntington), along with Legislator Ed Romaine (R-Center Moriches), Acting Suffolk County Clerk Judith Pascale and Nassau County Clerk Maureen O’Connell, held a press conference this morning to propose new measures to prevent identity theft after it was discovered earlier this week that personal information, such as social security numbers, were inadvertently viewable on the County Clerk’s website. (more)

February 8, 2006
Environmental History Lesson
Learning From Their Predecessors’ Mistakes, New Legislature Approves Cooper Bill Ensuring Environmentalists and Historical Preservationists Voice on Council of Environmental Quality.
Yesterday, at its General Session, the Suffolk County Legislature came together and righted a wrong committed by last year’s Republican Majority. Lawmakers overwhelmingly approved a bill championed by Majority Leader Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that ensures environmentalists and historical preservationists will always have a voice on the all-important Council of Environmental Quality (CEQ). (more)

February 8 , 2006
CAMERA CREW
“Safe Communities Initiative” Surveillance Camera Program Finally Gets Green Light
When most people go to the movies they expect their action and drama to stay on the screen. But a stabbing at a movie theater in Huntington Village last year was all the proof the Democratic Majority Leader Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) needed to be convinced that cameras (outside the projection booth) could help keep the peace and maybe even save lives. Yesterday, Cooper’s colleagues joined him in unanimously approving his legislation (I.R.1024) establishing the ”Safe Communities Initiative” task force to explore the best technology and most appropriate safeguards for the use of surveillance cameras to deter and solve crimes in Suffolk County. It will lead to a pilot program later this year in high-crime areas of the Town of Huntington. (more)

February 7 , 2006
PLAY GROUNDS, NOT PREY GROUNDS
Cooper Law Prohibits Sex Offenders from Residing Near Schools, Day Care Centers and Playgrounds
With almost a quarter million of Suffolk County schoolchildren halfway through another year of reading, writing and arithmetic, Suffolk County Majority Leader Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has taken a major step forward in preventing them from being preyed upon by society’s most dangerous criminals. With Parents for Megan’s Law Executive Director Laura Ahearn at his side, Cooper commended his colleagues on both sides of the aisle for agreeing to prohibit all registered sex offenders from taking up residence near places where large numbers of children learn or play. (more)

January 25, 2006
Going Double-Barreled Against Inhumane Traps
Outraged By Canine-Killing Steel Animal Traps, Cooper Takes Action
Outraged by the tragic crushing death last month of a Sag Harbor canine companion (a beloved 3-year-old mixed breed named Zephyr) by a steel animal trap while hiking with his owner in Long Pond Green Belt nature preserve in Southampton, Suffolk County Majority Leader Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) today gathered with outraged animal activists, pet owners and concerned citizens as he demonstrated how dangerous and cruel these traps are and outlined his double-barreled approach to ensure that other animals—and even humans—don’t befall the same horrific fate. (more)

January 3, 2006
For The Times They Are A Changing
Cooper Voted First Democratic Majority Leader in Suffolk County History
At an organizational meeting today of the newly sworn in 10-member Democratic Suffolk County legislative majority, incumbents and freshmen lawmakers came together to unanimously elect Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) as their Majority Leader. (more)

December 20, 2005
FILL’ER UP? NOT SO FAST!
Cooper Law Protects Drivers from Getting Ripped Off at the Pump
At the final 2005 meeting of the Suffolk County Legislature yesterday, lawmakers voted unanimously to approve a resolution championed by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that will prevent drivers in Suffolk County from being ripped off when they stop at a gas station to "fill ’er up." (more)

December 12, 2005
CLEAN UP YOUR ACT!
Cooper Leads Call for Repowering of North Shore Power Plants to Burn Leaner, Meaner and Cleaner
On the eve of this week’s LIPA Board of Trustees meeting, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) led a large and diverse group of concerned citizens and public officials who called on LIPA to sit down with KeySpan in order to devise a plan to "repower" the Northport and Port Jefferson Power Stations. (more)

October 3, 2005
PLAY GROUNDS, NOT PREY GROUNDS
Cooper Law Would Prohibit Sex Offenders from Residing Near Playgrounds, Schools and Day Care Centers
As almost a quarter million Suffolk County school children head back for another year of reading, writing and arithmetic, Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) wants to prevent them from being preyed upon by society’s most dangerous criminals. That’s why he has introduced a bill that would ban all registered sex offenders from taking up residence near facilities where large numbers of children play or learn. (more)

September 29, 2005
Suffolk Legislature Urges Cleanup of Northport Power Station
On Tuesday, September 27, the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously approved Legislator Cooper’s resolution calling for repowering or rebuilding of the Northport Power Station, which is the largest oil-fired electric generating station on the East Coast. (more)

August 30, 2005
What a Drag!
Cooper Calls for Seizure of Illegal Street Racers’ Vehicles to Protect Public Safety
Disturbed by the alarming increase in injuries and fatalities resulting from illegal street or "drag" racing on Suffolk roads, County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has introduced a bill designed to make foolhardy, pedal to the metal-heads pay dearly for their reckless sprints. (more)

July 25, 2005
Huntington Business Leaders Call for Use of Police Surveillance Cameras to Fight Crime
Support Comes in Wake of Recent Terrorist Attacks in London
In the wake of the identification of the terrorist bombers in London through the use of surveillance cameras, Huntington business leaders and local elected officials gathered today at the Huntington Station Branch of the Huntington Public Library to voice their support for Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper’s proposed "Safe Communities Initiative." This innovative program would install police surveillance cameras on public streets in high-crime areas of the Town of Huntington as a 12-month pilot program. Proponents claim that this technology can be used successfully to deter crime and help apprehend criminals. (more)

June 29, 2005
Hail to the Chief
Cooper Legislation Saves Heroic Canine from the Auction Block
At yesterday’s General Meeting of the Suffolk County Legislature in Riverhead, lawmakers unanimously agreed to support a measure championed by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that will save a decorated veteran of the Suffolk County Police Department’s K-9 Unit from being offered up to the highest bidder on the auction block. (more)

June 14, 2005
Preserving Huntington’s Past by Strengthening Our Future
Cooper Secures Funding for Coindre Hall Boathouse and Creates Citizens Advisory Committee for Historic Site
Surrounded by rowers, dog lovers, historic preservationists, local residents, and county and town officials, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) announced several new initiatives important to the preservation and continued enjoyment of the Coindre Hall boathouse on Huntington Harbor. (more)

May 27, 2005
What to Do When Your Career Goes to the Dogs
Cooper Authors Legislation to Ensure Burned-Out Canine Gets Early Retirement
After learning that a decorated veteran of the Suffolk County Police Department’s K-9 Unit was facing forced early retirement—and perhaps even being treated like a used car by being offered up to the highest bidder on the auction block—County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) came to the rescue of "Chief", a 6-1/2 year old German Shepherd. (more)

May 18, 2005
But How Will You Figure Out the Tip?
Cooper Calls on State Legislature to Enact Restaurant Tax-Free Weeks
Surrounded by hopeful restaurateurs and leaders of the Long Island business community, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) stood inside Huntington’s Indigo Restaurant and called on state lawmakers in Albany to enact two tax-free weeks for restaurants, similar to what is already done for clothing and footwear. (more)

May 17, 2005
Suffolk County Says "No" to Broadwater
Legislature Comes Together to Oppose Natural Gas Barge in Sound
Today the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously adopted a resolution introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) formally opposing Broadwater Energy’s plan to anchor a massive liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal in the middle of the Long Island Sound. Suffolk County is now the highest level of government to come out in opposition to the plan that would store 8 billion cubic feet of natural gas in a floating barge off the Island’s north shore. (more)

April 11, 2005
Green Power Gets the Green Light
Legislature Adopts Cooper’s Renewable Energy Plan
HAUPPAUGE, LI—Environmentalists cheered on Tuesday, April 5, when the Suffolk County Legislature gave the green light to a plan that is expected to help the County start to kick its fossil fuel habit. After a month-long battle to convince his colleagues, the 18-member body unanimously approved a renewable energy proposal championed by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington). (more)

March 3, 2005
Cooper Proposes "Safe Communities Initiative":
Police Security Cameras Would Be Used to Fight Crime
When most people go to the movies they expect their action and drama to stay on the screen. But a recent stabbing at a movie theater in Huntington Village is just the latest proof for County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that cameras (outside the projection booth) could help keep the peace and maybe even save lives. Today, Cooper announced he has introduced legislation to establish a pilot program – called the "Safe Communities Initiative" – that would expand the use of security cameras by the Suffolk County police to combat crime. (more)

February 28, 2005
The New Math
Cooper Wants Suffolk to Use 25% Renewable Energy by 2010
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) is championing a resolution that would dramatically change the county’s energy consumption habits. Alarmed by the serious, long-term health hazards associated with Long Island’s high levels of air pollution, Cooper has authored a resolution (I.R.1092) that would set a goal for county government to purchase at least 25% of its energy from non-polluting, renewable sources within the next five years. A financial cap would be imposed to ensure that the additional cost of the energy from such “green” technologies will not exceed $500,000 per year. (more)

February 22, 2005
Growing Opposition to Broadwater Energy Project
Legislators from Both Sides of the Aisle Oppose Natural Gas Barge in Sound
In the few weeks since Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) introduced a sense resolution opposing Broadwater Energy’s plan to anchor a massive liquefied natural gas terminal in the middle of the Long Island Sound, four of his legislative colleagues have joined his effort to derail this project. (more)

February 14 , 2005
No One Under 18 Admitted (to Make a Call)
Cooper Champions Teenage Automotive Cell Phone Ban
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has introduced legislation (I.R. 1127) designed to make roads safer by further diminishing the dangerous impact cell phones have on driving. Cooper’s bill would prohibit anyone under the age of eighteen from using a cellular phone while behind the wheel, even if it is used with a hands-free device. (more)

February 10 , 2005
Cooper Acts to Strengthen County’s "Crack House Law"
Violent Crimes Would Be Added to Prohibited Offenses
Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has introduced legislation that would strengthen Suffolk County’s existing nuisance abatement law, commonly known as the “Crack House Law.” The bill, which has broad bi-partisan support in the Legislature, would build upon an existing law that allows the county to punish landlords, owners and tenants of properties where drug use, gambling and/or prostitution has been allowed to take place. Under Cooper’s proposed amendment, sanctions would also be triggered in response to a broad range of violent crimes and crimes with weapons. (more)

January 11 , 2005
Legislator Cooper Named One of the 100 Most Influential Long Islanders
On January 7th, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) was honored by Long Island Business News as one of the "100 Most Influential Long Islanders." LIBN recognized a diverse group of people, including elected officials, business people, and leaders in the not-for-profit sector and civic arenas. Their objective was “to provide a snapshot of who wielded the real power in 2004.” (more)

January 10 , 2005
Legislator Cooper Appointed to Four Key Committees
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper’s 2005 committee schedule was just announced, and it will prove to be intense. Legislator Cooper is pleased to report that he has been appointed to four key legislative committees: Economic Development, Higher Education & Energy; Consumer Protection; Parks & Cultural Affairs; and Veterans & Seniors. Legislator Cooper’s participation on these four committees demonstrates his commitment to doing the hard work necessary to help improve the quality of life for all Suffolk residents. (more)

January 4 , 2005
Legislator Cooper Mounts New Effort to Preserve Hogan Estate
Planning Steps Resolution Approved by Legislature
On Tuesday, December 21, the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously approved a planning steps resolution introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that will allow the county to assist in a renewed effort to preserve the Hogan Estate in Eaton's Neck. Cooper hopes that a partnership between Suffolk County, the Town of Huntington and New York State will be able to prevent the loss of this significant parcel of open space. (more)

November 15, 2004
County and Town Partner to Create Community Resource Center at One Tower Street, Huntington Station
Today Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper and Huntington Town Supervisor Frank Petrone announced their joint plan to acquire blighted One Tower Street in Huntington Station for transformation into a neighborhood asset — a community resource center. (more)

September 29, 2004
Suffolk Enacts Landmark Ban on Alcohol Without Liquid (AWOL) Machines
Concern that Vaporized Alcohol Could Lead to Higher Rates of Alcohol Addiction, Cause Brain Damage and Increase Drunk Driving
On Tuesday, September 28, the Suffolk County Legislature approved a resolution introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) prohibiting the sale, purchase and use of Alcohol Without Liquid (AWOL) machines, which recently hit the U.S. market. (more)

September 21, 2004
Cooper: Task Force Should Review Procedure for Confiscation of Tax Delinquent Properties
Bill Was Approved Today by Ways & Means Committee
On Tuesday, September 28, the Suffolk County Legislature will vote on a bill introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) creating a task force to review Suffolk County’s procedure for confiscating and auctioning delinquent tax properties. Currently, foreclosed properties are auctioned off and all profits are remitted to Suffolk County, resulting in the homeowners’ loss of their equity. (more)

August 26, 2004
Legislature Approves Cooper’s Anti-Corruption Bill
Law Will Ensure Integrity of County Contracts
At its August 24th meeting in Hauppauge, the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously approved a resolution introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that will prohibit any company or individual that has been found guilty of corruption from doing business with the county. (more)

August 13, 2004
Legislature Enacts Cooper’s Adopt-A-Shoreline Program
Innovative Program Will Help Protect Suffolk’s Waterways
On Tuesday, August 10, the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously approved a bill sponsored by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) creating an Adopt-A-Shoreline program that will raise money, through corporate sponsorships, to protect our local waterways. The Suffolk County Department of Public Works will issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) to enter into an agreement with a qualified organization to implement the program, which is modeled after the successful Adopt-A-Highway program currently in place. (more)

August 12, 2004
Suffolk Legislature Approves Cooper’s Ban on MIRT Devices that Control Traffic Lights
Law Is First of Its Type in New York State
On Tuesday, August 10th, the Suffolk County Legislature approved a bill introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that would ban the purchase, sale and use of Mobile Infrared Transmitter (MIRT) devices in Suffolk County. MIRTs can change traffic light signals from red to green within seconds at the push of a button. (more)

July 22, 2004
Cooper Slams the Brakes on Vaporized Alcohol Machines
Addiction Experts and MADD Advocates Raise Serious Concerns
At a press conference held today at the Long Island chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) in Huntington Station, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) announced his introduction of legislation to halt the marketing of a device known as the “AWOL” (Alcohol Without Liquid) machine. This device vaporizes a selected alcoholic spirit, such as vodka or rum, along with pure oxygen. (more)

July 14, 2004
Cooper Opens His Doors to SCORE
When the local chapter of SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives) found out that it would no longer be able to occupy its existing office in Huntington Village, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) was quick to offer a solution. A little over a month ago, Legislator Cooper offered space within his legislative district office to the organization so that they could continue business as usual. (more)

July 1, 2004
Legislature Approves Cooper’s Bill Instituting
E-mail Bid Announcement System for Suffolk County
On June 28th, the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously approved a bill authored by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that will establish an E-mail Bid Announcement System for county bid offerings. The system will allow Suffolk County to notify all registered potential bidders of any bid announcements or RFP opportunities through e-mail. (more)

June 21, 2004
Cooper Acts to Ban MIRT Devices that Control Traffic Lights
Law Would Be First of Its Kind in New York State
In response to a growing need to protect motorists, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper
(D-Huntington) has introduced legislation that would ban the purchase, sale and use of Mobile Infrared Transmitter (MIRT) devices in Suffolk County. MIRTs can change traffic lights from red to green within seconds at the push of a button. (more)

June 7, 2004
Legislator Cooper Cracks Down On Unlicensed Home Contractors
County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has introduced legislation to protect consumers in Suffolk County by increasing the maximum allowable fines levied on home improvement contractors who operate without a license. (more)

May 24, 2004
Legislator Cooper Seeks to Preserve Williams Property in Cold Spring Harbor
Embarks on Effort to Protect Pristine Open Space from Development
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) is spearheading an effort to preserve the environmentally significant Williams property in Cold Spring Harbor. This pristine parcel is comprised of more than 38 acres of heavily wooded hillside, sloping downwards to Shore Road. It has several well-maintained trails and is home to a wide variety of birds, animals, trees, plants and wildflowers. (more)

May 10, 2004
Cooper Pens Anti-Corruption Bill to Ensure Integrity of County Contracts
County Executive Levy Backs Legislator's Effort
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) today announced proposed legislation that would prohibit any company or individual that has been found guilty of bribery or corruption from doing business with the county. (more)

April 2 , 2004
Legislator Cooper Named One of 50 Most Influential Long Islanders
For the second year in a row, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) was honored by the Long Island Press as one of the "50 Most Influential Long Islanders." At a reception held on March 29th, the weekly newspaper announced their second annual "Power List." They recognized a diverse group of people, ranging from elected officials and business leaders to environmentalists and community advocates. (more)

April 1 , 2004
Cooper Calls for Full Restoration of EPA Funding
to Protect Long Island Sound
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has introduced a resolution that calls for the United States Congress to fully restore much-needed funding for the Environmental Protection Agency's Long Island Sound Program for 2005. (more)

March 9, 2004
Cooper Introduces Resolution Supporting Effort to
Raise Minimum Wage in New York
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has introduced legislation in support of a state Assembly bill, approved on March 1, 2004, which would change the minimum hourly wage in New York State. Cooper's resolution calls for the state to raise the minimum wage from its current level of $5.15 per hour to $7.10 by January 1, 2006. (more)

March 8, 2004
Cooper Calls for Income Tax Check-Off
for Public Financing of Election Campaigns
Public Funding Will Reduce the Influence of Special Interests
County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) announced today that he has introduced a resolution requesting the State of New York to allow an income tax check-off system for partial public financing of Suffolk County election campaigns. This would enable Suffolk taxpayers to voluntarily contribute up to five dollars ($5.00) per year for the public financing of campaigns for the offices of the County Executive, County Legislator, County Comptroller, County Treasurer and/or County District Attorney. (more)

January 26, 2004
Legislator Cooper Appointed to Four Key Committees
New Rules Committee Among 2004 Assignments
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper's 2004 committee schedule will prove to be very intense. Legislator Cooper is pleased to announce that he has been appointed to four significant legislative committees for the 2004 session. He has been named to the Economic Development, Higher Education & Energy Committee, the Veterans & Seniors Committee, the Parks & Cultural Affairs Committee and was one of only two Democrats appointed to the new Rules Committee. (more)

January 12, 2004
Cooper Secures Anti-Gang Funding
for Huntington Station
Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) announced today that he has secured $35,000 in county funding for the Police Department's Gang Suppression Initiative. This much-needed funding will be used in the Second Precinct to maintain aggressive and proactive gang suppression efforts in Huntington Station. (more)

December 30, 2003
Statement of Suffolk Legislator Jon Cooper
On Federal Ephedra Ban
As the author of the nation's first ban on the sale of the dietary supplement ephedra, Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) said he was thrilled to hear today's news that the FDA and the Health and Human Services Department are taking steps to ban this deadly herbal product. "The federal government—and by extension the entire country—now understands what we've been saying here in Suffolk County for the past year. And that is, 'Ephedra kills, period,'" Cooper stated. (more)

December 18, 2003
Suffolk Legislature Approves Bill Opposing Huntington Rail Yard
Legislator Cooper's Bill Approved Unanimously
On Tuesday, December 16, the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously approved a bill authored by County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) calling on the Metropolitan Transit Authority to abandon its plans to build a 24-hour, 16-track railroad maintenance and storage facility in a residential neighborhood in Huntington Station. (more)

December 17, 2003
Legislature Unanimously Agrees Dumping in LI Sound
Is a Bad Idea
Cooper Bill Strikes a Nerve with Colleagues
Yesterday, the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously approved a bill authored by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) urging the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to abandon its plan to designate a long-term site for dumping dredge spoils in the Long Island Sound off the Huntington shoreline. (more)

December 11, 2003
Suffolk Legislature Gives Unanimous Support to KeySpan/ANP Joint Power Plant Project
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) announced today that the County Legislature is in full support of the KeySpan/American National Power (ANP) joint power plant proposal slated for Suffolk County. Cooper, who is the Chairman of the Energy Committee, sponsored a sense resolution supporting the construction of two, natural gas-fueled generating plants at the Spagnoli Road site in Melville and at the Yaphank site in Brookhaven. This resolution was unanimously approved at last week's meeting of the full Legislature. (more)

November 25, 2003
Cooper to EPA: Don't Use LI Sound as a Dredge Spoils Dumping Ground
Legislator Urges Agency to Find More Appropriate Disposal Site
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) introduced legislation last week with a very simple and direct message to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: dumping dredge spoils in the Long Island Sound off the Huntington shoreline is a bad idea. (more)

November 11, 2003
Cooper Praises Legislature's Prudence In Eliminating Property Tax Increase
Says Huntington Taxpayers Will See Slight Tax Cut in 2004
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) today hailed the work of the Legislature in cutting County Executive Robert Gaffney's proposed property tax increase included in his 2004 county budget. (more)

October 21 , 2003
Cooper Introduces Legislation Opposing Huntington Rail Yard
Legislator Calls MTA Plan "Preposterous"
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has introduced legislation calling on the Metropolitan Transit Authority to abandon its proposal to build a 24-hour, 16-track railroad maintenance, storage and cleaning facility in either of two residential neighborhoods in the Town of Huntington. (more)

October 16 , 2003
Cooper Slams the Lid on County Land Acquisition Scandals
Legislator Jon Cooper Seeks to Restore Faith in County Open Space
Purchase Program with Introduction of New Disclosure Bill
Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) announced today the latest in a series of bills that he has drafted in response to the spate of scandals which rocked county government earlier this year. The newest resolution, when enacted, will shed the light of day on Suffolk County’s open space land preservation program by requiring tougher and more stringent financial reporting requirements for individuals who wish to sell land to the county. (more)

September 22 , 2003
Cooper Obtains Funding for Family Service League
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) announced today that he obtained $67,500 in funding for the Family Service League. With these much-needed funds, the Family Service League will now be able to preserve numerous important programs that help thousands of Suffolk residents.(more)

August 4, 2003
Cooper Sponsors Law to Expose Campaign Finance Violations
Would Require Board of Elections to Audit Campaign Finance
Reports and Refer Election Law Violations to District Attorney
Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) announced today that he has introduced a resolution that would require the Suffolk County Board of Elections (BOE) to audit the campaign finance reports of candidates for county office and refer any violations of New York Election Law to the District Attorney. (more)

July 3, 2003
Jon Cooper Called for Jury Duty
"It's been nearly 800 years since the Magna Carta established the concept of a trial before the people, without the interference of government. So who am I to ignore that many years of civic tradition?", said Cooper.
County Legislator Jon Cooper's history of civic advocacy and social duty is evidenced by his legislative accomplishments. From the nation's first ban on using hand-held cell phones while driving to his most recent victory prohibiting the sale of the dangerous dietary supplement ephedra, Cooper has long been on the side of the people. This week, he went to the Federal Courthouse in Central Islip to serve as one of the PEOPLE on a JURY. (more)

June 10, 2003
Cooper Calls for Public Campaign Finance Referendum
Public Vote on Amendment to Approve Partial Public Funding of County Election Campaigns
Today, at a press conference outside the Legislative Chamber in Smithtown, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) called for a public referendum to reform Suffolk’s Campaign Finance Laws. Prompted by the recent campaign finance scandal in Brookhaven, Cooper, a strong advocate of campaign finance reform, has sponsored legislation authorizing a referendum for this November. If passed, this public referendum would approve a change in the County Charter that would provide for partial public funding of County election campaigns – at an approximate annual cost of only 50 cents per resident. (more)

May 16, 2003
Cooper "Wags the Tail!"
Suffolk Legislature Passes Jon Cooper's Family-Friendly Dog Run Bill
It has always been noted that dogs wear their emotions on their tails. Now, thanks to a bill introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington), joyful, free-running pooches will be wagging their tails more often in Suffolk County. Earlier this week, the Suffolk County Legislature passed Legislator Cooper's family-friendly dog run bill by a vote of 16-2, allowing pet owners greater use of County parkland and giving County canines a place to run and exercise, free from harm. (more)

May 14, 2003
Legislature Approves Bill to Levy Fines
for Illegal Pine Barrens Clearing
Measure Will Protect Precious Environmental Region
On May 13th, the County Legislature approved a bill sponsored by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) authorizing the county to levy fines for illegal building or clearing of trees in the Suffolk County Pine Barrens. (more)

April 24, 2003
Legislator Cooper Helps Fund Sea Stars Marine Camp in Centerport
Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) announced today that he has obtained a $13,500 county grant for Cornell Cooperative Extension's Marine Program at the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum in Centerport to help fund their Sea Stars Marine Summer Camp. The grant money was used to purchase equipment and supplies, and it also provided enough resources for the camp to lower the registration costs and to offer ten full scholarships to underprivileged children in our district. (more)

April 8, 2003
Cooper, Postal Call for Crackdown on
Out-of-County Medicaid Recipients
Proposal to Require DSS to Report Number of
Non-Residents Receiving Services in Suffolk
The Suffolk County Legislature's Presiding Officer Maxine Postal (D-Amityville) today joined Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) to bring attention to the problem that Suffolk County is facing from an influx of social service clients whose permanent residence is New York City or its surrounding counties. (more)

April 4, 2003
Cooper Bill Would Regulate Indoor Fireworks Displays
Responding to the devastating fire that killed more than 100 concert-goers in Rhode Island, Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has filed legislation that would regulate indoor fireworks displays in Suffolk County. (more)

March 12, 2003
Legislature Approves Bill to Give Tax Relief
to Emergency Workers
Firefighters, EMS Volunteers Will Receive 10% Property
Exemption
On March 11th, the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously approved legislation granting a 10% property tax exemption to volunteer firefighters and emergency medical service technicians in Suffolk. (more)

March 5, 2003
Nation's First Ephedra Ban Is Signed Into Law
Landmark Legislation Enacted in Suffolk
On March 5th, Suffolk County Executive Robert Gaffney signed into law a bill authored by County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) banning the sale of all dietary supplements containing ephedra. It is the first such ban at any level of government in the country. (more)

February 11, 2003
Legislature Approves Ephedra Ban
Landmark Measure Is First Total Ban in Nation
On Tuesday, February 11th, the Suffolk County Legislature approved a total ban on the sale of dietary supplements containing the controversial herb ephedra, the first such ban in the nation. (more)

February 10, 2003
Cooper: County Will Protect Pine Barrens
If State and Local Municipalities Won't
Bill Would Authorize County to Levy Fines and Impose Jail Time
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) joined Richard Amper, Executive Director of the Long Island Pine Barrens Society, at a press conference in Hauppauge today to announce legislation that would allow the county to issue fines to anyone who illegally clears trees or builds in the Suffolk County Pine Barrens region. (more)

February 7, 2003
Cooper Reintroduces Bill to Give
Tax Relief to Emergency Workers
Firefighters, EMS Volunteers Would Get 10% Property Tax Exemption
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has reintroduced legislation he authored last year that would grant a 10% property tax exemption to volunteer firefighters and emergency medical service workers in Suffolk. (more)

January 21, 2003
Legislator Cooper Named One of Long Island's 50 Most Influential People
On Thursday, January 16th, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) was honored by the Long Island Press as one of the "50 Most Powerful Long Islanders." At a reception held at the Garden City Hotel, the weekly newspaper recognized a diverse group of people, ranging from politicians and business leaders to environmentalists and community activists. (more)

January 8, 2003
Cooper: Keep Electric and Gas Bills Together
Blasts Plan to Separate LIPA and KeySpan Bills
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) filed a sense resolution today blasting a plan announced recently by the Long Island Power Authority to separate its electricity bills from the natural gas bills of KeySpan Corporation, saying that doing so would be an enormous waste of hard-earned ratepayer money. (more)

January 7, 2003
Legislature Approves Rule Change
Ensuring Fairness to Public Speakers
Government Officials Will No Longer Receive Preference
Over Suffolk Residents
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has successfully lobbied for a change to the rules of the Suffolk Legislature that will eliminate a provision that allowed department heads and other public officials to jump ahead of other speakers during the public portion of legislative meetings. (more)

December 23, 2002
Cooper Initiative Doubles Environmental Fines In Order to Restore Funding to Health Centers
Polluters to Bear the Brunt, Worthy Programs to Benefit
The recently adopted Suffolk County operating budget for 2003 includes a "stand alone" resolution sponsored by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that will essentially double county environmental fines and use the proceeds to restore funding to county health clinics and hospitals targeted for budget cuts. (more)

December 6, 2002
Legislature Approves Cooper's Bill to Enforce Prohibition on Video Voyeurism
The Suffolk County Legislature unanimously approved a resolution sponsored by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that will implement enforcement in Suffolk County of a ban on video voyeurism in public fitting rooms, bathrooms and dressing rooms. (more)

November 26, 2002
Cooper Implements Hunger Outreach Program
Helps Local Seniors and Others Obtain Aid
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has implemented a hunger outreach program for the 18th Legislative District, modeled after a successful pilot program developed last year. In an effort to expedite the process for obtaining food stamps, his district office is sending out fliers and lead cards as well as doing preliminary screening to find out who is eligible to receive assistance. Those who are believed to be eligible are referred to Suffolk County's Department of Social Services for a final screening, and those not eligible are connected to local programs that will help provide food for them. (more)

November 20, 2002
Legislature Approves Cooper Bill Banning Sale of Blunt Wrappers to Minors
The Suffolk County Legislature on Tuesday approved a bill authored by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) prohibiting the sale to minors of "blunt wrappers," which are rolled tobacco leaves used for rolling tobacco products. Blunt wrappers are flavored with vanilla, honey, chocolate, strawberry, cognac and other flavors similar to candy, and are designed to lessen the harsh taste of tobacco. (more)

October 24, 2002
Cooper: Hand-Held Cell Phone Use by Drivers Down 52% Since Ban Went into Effect
The use of hand-held cell phones by drivers is down 52% since a new statewide law prohibiting the dangerous practice went into effect last December, according to a recent study, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) announced today. (more)

September 30, 2002
Cooper Seeks Comprehensive Ban
on Sale of Ephedrine Products
Landmark Measure Would Be Most Far-Reaching in Nation
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has introduced legislation that would ban the sale of all dietary supplements that contain ephedrine alkaloids, the dangerous compound that has led to the death of dozens – and perhaps hundreds – of people nationwide. These products are commonly sold over the counter at nutrition centers in various forms. (more)

September 19, 2002
At the 11th Hour, Legislature Approves Cooper's Campaign Finance Disclosure Bill
Approved with Only Two Days Left in the Life of the Bill
On Tuesday, September 17, the Suffolk County Legislature approved a bill sponsored by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that will reform the current laws on campaign finance disclosure. With only two days left in the six-month life of the resolution, the Legislature approved the bill that will pave the way for the general public to have much easier access to information about how elected officials raise their political contributions and how they spend the funds. (more)

September 12, 2002
Bill Would Grant Health Benefits to
Same-Sex Domestic Partners of County Employees
 Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has taken a step towards fighting discrimination in Suffolk County with a new bill that would extend health, dental and prescription drug benefits to same-sex domestic partners of Suffolk County employees. Such benefits are already provided to domestic partners of New York State and New York City employees, as well as employees of various counties and cities throughout New York and most major private employers. (more)

August 29, 2002
Cooper Proposes Fenced Dog Runs at Coindre Hall
and Other County Parks
 Suffolk Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has introduced legislation seeking the creation of fenced-in dog runs at Coindre Hall in Huntington and other county parks for use by families with pets. The bill was laid on the table at the meeting of the County Legislature on Tuesday, August 27. (more)

August 15, 2002
Cooper Seeks Relief for Volunteer Firefighters and
EMS Workers Through 10% Property Tax Exemption
 Suffolk Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has introduced legislation that would grant eligible volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers a 10% reduction in the county portion of their real property taxes. The bill was filed by Cooper on July 9th and will be the subject of a public hearing at 7:00 pm on August 27th at the next meeting of the County Legislature in Riverhead. (more)

August 7, 2002
Organ Donors Granted Paid Leave
 The Suffolk County Legislature voted on August 6th to grant paid sick leave to county employees who donate organs or bone marrow, under a bill introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington). (more)

July 18, 2002
Second-Grade Politicos Lobby Legislator Cooper
 Huntington, NY – While the voting age is still 18, it's never to early for some to involve themselves in government. County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) recently visited Maureen Ryan's second-grade class at Lloyd Harbor Elementary School to distribute Certificates of Appreciation congratulating the 7- and 8-year-olds, among them Cooper's son Christopher, on dozens of legislative ideas he received from them. After an earlier visit to the class to explain exactly what a county legislator does, illustrated thank-you cards filled with innovative suggestions for new bills inundated Cooper. (more)

June 25, 2002
Local Student Wins Norma Weber Achievement Award
 On June 14th, the Huntington Chapter of Self Help for Hard of Hearing People, Inc. (SHHH) presented their 2002 Norma Weber Achievement Award to Lisbeth Fernandez. This award is presented annually to a Suffolk County high school senior who will go on to college. Lisbeth plans to study computer programming at St. Joseph's College. Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) was on hand at the Harborfields Public Library to present Lisbeth with a Suffolk County proclamation in recognition of her outstanding achievement. (more)

June 20, 2002
Summer Interns Learn the Ropes at Legislator Cooper's Office
Huntington, NY — This summer, four college students will be putting down their books and trying their hands at politics. Ian McGullam, Sarah Marx, Sarah Protz and Josh Bancroft have signed on for the summer to intern at the district office of County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington). As other returning students work as camp counselors or waiters, these four young people will be learning the ins and outs of local government, drafting press releases, researching legislation and responding to constituents' queries and problems. (more)

June 12, 2002
Legislature Approves Landmark Bill Requiring Universal Reporting of Child Sexual Abuse
Law Will Be Most Comprehensive in Nation
 The Suffolk Legislature today approved a landmark bill authored by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) which will require all companies and organizations – including religious institutions – under contract with the county to file a report with the proper authorities if they suspect that an employee has committed child sexual abuse. (more)

June 12, 2002
Legislature Agrees to Allow Voters to Decide on 4-Year Term Proposal
The Suffolk County Legislature today approved a bill introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) which will allow Suffolk voters to decide whether or not to extend the terms of county legislators from two to four years. Cooper's resolution will put the issue on the ballot in November as a referendum, so the final decision will rest in the hands of the residents of Suffolk County. (more)

June 10, 2002
Legislator Cooper Honors "Mother Nature" as Volunteer of the Year
Huntington, NY — Although Earth Day has come and gone, Suffolk County's own "Mother Nature" recently had a day in the sun all to herself. On April 30, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) presented a proclamation to Joy Squires honoring her as the 18th Legislative District's Volunteer of the Year. For many years, Ms. Squires has dedicated herself to protecting the environment, working on countless boards, committees and organizations at both the local and state level. She has served as Chairperson of the Huntington Conservation Board, President of the New York State Association of Conservation Commissions, Chairperson of the Huntington Environmental Open Space and Park Advisory Committee, and Originator/Coordinator of Huntington's Park Stewardship Program. (more)

April 29, 2002
Cooper Seeks "Zero Tolerance" Child Sexual Abuse
Reporting Law for Suffolk
Policy Would Be Nation's Most Comprehensive and Far-Reaching
 Suffolk Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) held a press conference today in the lobby of the William H. Rogers Legislature Building in Hauppauge to announce his proposed legislation to require all companies and organizations — including the clergy — that do business with Suffolk County to immediately file a report with the police and Child Protective Services if they suspect that an employee has committed sexual abuse of a child or if a child they come in contact with has been the victim of sexual abuse. If enacted, this would be the most comprehensive and far-reaching — and the only universal — child sexual abuse reporting law in the nation. (more)

April 19, 2002
Bill Advocating Breast Cancer Prevention Is Approved Unanimously by Legislature
 The Suffolk County Legislature on Tuesday unanimously approved a bill authored by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) designating May 13 through May 19 as "Prevention Is the Cure Week" to increase awareness about steps that can be taken to prevent breast cancer and other diseases. (more)

April 9, 2002
Cooper Introduces Bill to Facilitate Full Public Disclosure of Campaign Finances
 Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has introduced a bill that would remove a bureaucratic step from the process of tracking financial donations given to political candidates in Suffolk County. A public hearing on the proposed measure will take place at the next Legislative meeting in Riverhead on April 16. (more)

March 21, 2002
Legislator Cooper Announces Staff Moves
 Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has announced several staff changes in his district office. Barbara LoMoriello has been promoted to Chief Legislative Aide and director of district office operations. Richard Lapsley was promoted to Legislative Aide and Christine Machtay has assumed the position of district office secretary. Cooper pointed out that these changes are required to fill a vacancy and do not increase personnel costs. (more)

March 20, 2002
Cooper: Organ Donors Should Be Granted Paid Leave
 Pointing to the acute shortage nationwide of willing organ donors, Suffolk Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) this week filed legislation which would grant Suffolk County employees paid leave to donate organs, organ parts, bone marrow or tissue. (more)

March 18, 2002
Bid to Purchase Hilaire Woods Is Approved in Committee
Legislature Will Vote on Bill Tomorrow
 A bid spearheaded by Suffolk Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) to preserve the Hilaire Woods property in Huntington took a huge leap forward last Tuesday when the Legislature's Environment, Land Acquisition and Planning Committee voted unanimously to put the bill on the agenda for tomorrow's meeting of the Legislature in Hauppauge. (more)

March 15, 2002
Downtown Revitalization Funding Approved in Committee
Full Legislature Will Vote on March 19
 The Suffolk Legislature's Economic Development & Energy Committee, Chaired by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington), on Monday unanimously approved a resolution authorizing funding for a new wave of downtown revitalization projects countywide. (more)

March 13, 2002
Legislator Cooper Secures Grant to Restore Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Building
 Huntington — Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has obtained a $5,000 grant to restore the roof of the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Building, which was recently acquired by the Huntington Historical Society. The Society hopes to use this building for more history exhibits and possibly turn it into a visitor's center. The Memorial Building was completed in 1892 as a memorial to Huntington residents who died in the Civil War. It was also the home of the first Huntington library. (more)

March 6, 2002
Legislator Cooper Funds Repairs at Inter-Media Art Center
 Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) announced today that he obtained a $10,000 grant for the Inter-Media Art Center, Inc., which is a non-profit performing arts center located in Huntington Village. IMAC presents live performances and video and visual arts exhibitions to the greater Long Island area. IMAC will use this grant to reupholster worn theater seats that have been in constant use for over half a century. (more)

February 11, 2002
Cooper: State Should Allocate More Funds to Long Island for Tourism Promotion, Transportation
Suffolk Taxpayers Pay Millions Annually, Get Little in Return
 Suffolk and Nassau residents pay roughly $80 million every year to support operation of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority. Visitors to Long Island generate millions more for state coffers. Yet Long Island does not receive its fair share of revenues from the state to promote tourism or improve its public transportation network. (more)

January 22, 2002
Cooper Retains Chairmanship of Economic Development & Energy
Invites Suffolk County Electrical Agency to First Meeting
 Suffolk Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has been reappointed as the Chairman of the Legislature's Economic Development & Energy Committee for 2002. As his first order of business, Cooper has invited Mitchell Pally, the Chairman of the Suffolk County Electrical Agency, to the committee's first meeting on Friday, January 25. (more)

January 14, 2002
Cooper Wants Suffolk County to Convert to Efficient LED Traffic Lights
 Suffolk Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has filed legislation seeking to direct the County Department of Public Works to convert standard bulb traffic lights to light emitting diodes, or LEDs, a move Cooper says will save both money and energy. (more)

January 10, 2002
Cooper Seeks Designation of
"Prevention Is the Cure Week" in Suffolk
 Suffolk Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has introduced legislation seeking to designate a week in May as "Prevention Is the Cure Week" in Suffolk to educate county residents on how to reduce the risk of getting breast cancer. (more)

December 20, 2001
Cooper Inundated by Requests for
"Hang Up And Drive" Bumper Stickers
 Over the past few days, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has received over two thousand e-mail requests for the "Hang Up And Drive" bumper sticker he created to promote his successful legislative drive to ban the use of hand-held cell phones by Suffolk drivers. (more)

December 18, 2001
Legislator Cooper Receives Sierra Club's
Environmentalist of the Year Award
First Time Award Is Given to an Elected Official
 Huntington, NY -- On the evening of Friday, December 14th, the Long Island Chapter of the Sierra Club honored Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) by presenting him with their 2001 Environmentalist of the Year Award. The ceremony took place at the Huntington Public Library before an audience of approximately 100 Sierra Club members. (more)

December 7, 2001
Cooper Helps Build House with Habitat for Humanity
Huntington, NY -- On Saturday, December 1, Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) volunteered with Habitat for Humanity of Suffolk to help "raise the walls" on two new affordable homes in a "Blitz Weekend" on East 4th Street in Huntington Station. (more)

November 29, 2001
Legislators Cooper and Fisher Challenge LIPA
to Eliminate Fuel Surcharge
Suffolk County Legislators Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) and Vivian Viloria-Fisher (D-East Setauket) have introduced legislation calling for LIPA to rescind the "temporary" 5.8% electric rate surcharge it added on March 7, 2001. (more)

November 26, 2001
Legislature Unanimously Approves Cooper's Bill
to Help Preserve the "Hogan Estate"
 On Tuesday, November 20th, the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously approved a planning steps resolution, introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D–Huntington), that will allow the county to assist in the effort to preserve the Hogan Estate in Eaton's Neck. (more)

November 14, 2001
Legislative Committee Approves Cooper's Bill
for Potential Purchase of "Hogan Estate"
 On Tuesday, November 13, the Suffolk County Legislature's Environment, Land Acquisition and Planning Committee approved a planning steps resolution, introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D--Huntington), that will allow the county to assist in the effort to preserve the Hogan Estate in Eaton's Neck. (more)

October 30, 2001
Cooper and Cuthbertson Announce
Contract Signing to Acquire "Hilaire Woods"
Huntington,NY -- County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) held a press conference today announcing the signing of a contract to acquire Hilaire Woods for preservation as parkland. Huntington Town Councilman Mark Cuthbertson joined Legislator Cooper at the announcement. (more)

October 24, 2001
Legislature Approves Cooper's Bill
to Purchase Key Vanderbilt Parcel
 Huntington, NY -- Yesterday, the Suffolk County Legislature approved a resolution introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that will allow the county to purchase "Normandy Manor," a 3.3 acre tract of land across from the entrance to the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum in Centerport. (more)

October 18, 2001
Legislator Cooper Funds Camp
for Children from Low-Income Families
 Huntington, NY -- Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) announced today that he has obtained a $2,000 county grant for the North Shore Holiday House. The Huntington non-profit organization will use the funding to provide enriching camping experiences in an environment of security and hope to local children in need. (more)

October 12, 2001
Legislator Cooper Funds Lloyd Harbor Historical Society
 Huntington, NY -- County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) announced today that he has obtained a $3,000 county grant for the Lloyd Harbor Historical Society. The funding will be used to purchase much-needed lighting for the Society's ongoing use of the George Weir Barn located on the grounds of Caumsett State Park. (more)

October 9, 2001
Cooper Co-Sponsors County Plans to Help
Seniors with Prescription Drug Expenses
Three Bills Signed by County Executive
 Huntington, NY -- This past Friday, October 5th, Suffolk County Executive Robert Gaffney signed into law three bills, all co-sponsored by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington), that are designed to help senior citizens pay for costly prescription drugs. (more)

October 1, 2001
Legislator Cooper Takes Action to Preserve Hogan Estate
Pristine Parcel Is Threatened by Development
Huntington, NY -- Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has introduced four planning steps resolutions in the Suffolk Legislature that will allow the county to assist in the effort to preserve the Hogan Estate in Eaton's Neck. Cooper hopes that a partnership between Suffolk County, New York State and the Town of Huntington will prevent the loss of this significant parcel of open space. (more)

September 24, 2001
Legislator Cooper Requests Tax and Tuition Breaks
for Volunteer Firefighters and EMS Workers
At its meeting this past Thursday, September 20th, the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously approved three sense resolutions introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that would provide property tax and college tuition incentives to volunteer firefighters and EMS personnel. (more)

September 17, 2001
Cooper Moves to Buy Key Vanderbilt Parcel
"Normandy Manor" Has Been Targeted for Development
Huntington, NY -- Saying the county has a one-time opportunity to preserve a key parcel of land right at the entrance to the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum in Centerport, Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) is filing legislation this week that would allow the county to purchase "Normandy Manor." This 3.3 acre tract includes an architecturally and historically significant dwelling that served as the superintendent's residence of the original Vanderbilt estate and contains ornamental trees, gardens and landscaping. (more)

September 4, 2001
Cooper Is Prime Sponsor of Resolution
Allocating Downtown Revitalization Funds
Huntington, NY -- County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington), Chairman of the Legislature's Economic Development and Energy Committee, has introduced a resolution allocating the next round of Suffolk County's downtown revitalization funds for this year. A total of $550,778 is being distributed countywide to local chambers of commerce, business improvement districts, civic associations and historical/preservation societies. Projects within the Town of Huntington will receive grants totaling $75,825. (more)

August 30, 2001
Cooper Designates "Kawasaki Disease Awareness Week"
Devastating Illness Affects Mostly Children
At its meeting in Hauppauge on Tuesday, the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously approved a bill introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) designating the first week of October as "Kawasaki Disease Awareness Week" to increase awareness about this deadly disease. (more)

August 29, 2001
September Is "Fight Against Hunger Month"
Cooper's Bill Unanimously Approved
Yesterday morning, County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) held a press conference at the William H. Rogers Legislature Building regarding his resolution designating September as "Fight Against Hunger Month" in Suffolk County. Later in the day, the Legislature unanimously approved the bill. (more)

August 17, 2001
Legislator Cooper Funds
Cold Spring Harbor-Huntington Soccer
Huntington, NY-- Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) announced today that he has obtained a $2,500 county grant for the Cold Spring Harbor-Huntington Soccer Club. The club will use the funding to operate ongoing educational programs for children in our area. (more)

August 6, 2001
Cooper Coordinates Community Effort To Move
Elderly Center To New Home
Many Volunteers Make Move Swift and Successful
On Saturday morning, August 4, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) coordinated a community effort to help move Elderly Day Services on the Sound, Inc. to their new location. The group, which provides caring day care services for frail, elderly veterans, their spouses and members of the community, moved from its former location in the Veterans Administration Medical Center in Northport to a new office within the center. The move was due to a huge rent increase that Elderly Day Services on the Sound could not afford to pay. (more)

July 23, 2001
Legislator Cooper Holds Food Drive
Huntington, NY -- Determined to continue the fight against hunger on Long Island, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has initiated a food drive at the North Country Village Shopping Center, where his district office is located. (more)

July 2, 2001
Legislator Jon Cooper Requests Tax Break for
Volunteer Firefighters and EMS Workers
Today, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) announced that he has introduced a resolution in support of state legislation that would provide a tax exemption for volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers of up to 10% of the assessed value of their homes. Cooper made the announcement at a press conference held this morning in Central Islip with Assemblyman Steve Levy (D-Holbrook) and State Senator Caesar Trunzo (R-Brentwood), sponsors of the state legislation. (more)

June 28, 2001
Statement from Legislator Jon Cooper re Enactment of Statewide Ban on the Use of Hand-Held Cell Phones While Driving
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) was the author of Suffolk's landmark ban on the use of hand-held cell phones while driving, the first such law enacted in the nation at the county level. This past April, he testified before the chairmen and members of four separate committees of the New York State Assembly -- Transportation, Health, Codes, and Corporations, Authorities & Commissions -- in support of a statewide ban. (more)

June 27, 2001
Cooper Proposal to Reduce Greenhouse Gases Approved by Legislature
At its meeting in Hauppauge yesterday, the Suffolk County Legislature approved a bill introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that includes Suffolk in a popular international program utilizing graduate school interns to conduct analyses of the greenhouse gas emissions that cause global warming. Suffolk now becomes one of 17 Northeastern localities that have decided to participate in the Cities for Climate Protection (CCP) Campaign, which is operated under the non-profit organization International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI). (more)

June 27, 2001
Cooper Seeks Creation of Forestry Council to Prevent Waste of Cleared Lumber
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) yesterday introduced legislation that would create a Suffolk County Regional Forestry Council to formulate a comprehensive environmental plan to recycle timber in Suffolk and generate revenues for local governments. (more)

June 26, 2001
Legislature Approves Funding for Cooper's Post-Adoption Counseling Program
Two Local Agencies Will Provide Services
Huntington, NY -- Today Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) announced that the Suffolk County Legislature has award funding to Family Service League and Pedersen Krag to provide post-adoption counseling services to families in Suffolk who have adopted children. Both agencies have headquarters in Huntington. (more)

June 25, 2001
Cooper: State Should Roll Back Sales Tax on Gasoline
Legislator Says Only First Dollar of the Price of a Gallon Should Be Taxed
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has filed legislation asking the State to amend the New York Tax Law to limit its collection of sales tax from gasoline purchases to only the first dollar of the price of a gallon of gasoline. (more)

June 6, 2001
Cooper's Landmark "No Spray List" Bill Approved by Legislature
Program Will Be in Place for This Summer
At its meeting yesterday evening in Hauppauge, the Suffolk County Legislature overwhelmingly approved a landmark bill introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that will allow Suffolk residents to enter their names on a "No Spray List" to prevent their homes from being sprayed with chemical pesticides to control the adult mosquito population. The final vote was 15-3 in support of the measure. (more)

May 23, 2001
Legislator Cooper Funds Pal-O-Mine Equestrian
Teaches Therapeutic Horseback Riding to Individuals with Disabilities
Huntington, NY -- On May 23, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper announced that he has obtained a $5,000 grant for Pal-O-Mine Equestrian, Inc. This program, operating out of Willow Tree Farm on the grounds of Caumsett State Historic Park in Lloyd Harbor, is dedicated to teaching therapeutic horseback riding to individuals with disabilities. Started in 1995, Pal-O-Mine currently serves over two hundred students a week, ranging in age from three to sixty-eight. (more)

May 21, 2001
Legislature Approves Cooper Bid
to Keep DWI Ignition Interlock Device
Unanimous Vote at May 8th Meeting
The Suffolk County Legislature approved at its meeting on May 8 in Riverhead a sense resolution asking New York State to extend a law authorizing Suffolk judges to require convicted DWI offenders to install a device that prevents them from starting their cars if they are intoxicated. (more)

May 15, 2001
Cooper's Bill Directs Board of Elections
to Study Ways to Increase Voter Participation
On May 8, 2001, the Suffolk County Legislature approved a bill, sponsored by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington), directing the county's Board of Elections to research and report on ways to increase voter participation, including the possibility of voting via the Internet. (more)

May 10, 2001
Legislature Approves Cooper Ban on
Mercury Fever Thermometers
Law Is First in State at County Level
At its meeting this past Tuesday, the Suffolk County Legislature approved a bill authored by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) banning the sale of fever thermometers that use mercury, one of the most poisonous substances on earth. (more)

May 9, 2001
Legislature Approves Cooper's Bill to
Preserve "Fuchs Property" in Northport
Additional Funding Source Will Be Used for Parkland Acquisition
Huntington, NY -- Yesterday, the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously approved a planning steps resolution introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that expands the funding sources available for preservation of the Fuchs property in Northport. (more)

May 1, 2001
Legislative Committee Approves Resolution to
Preserve "Fuchs Property" in Northport
New Funding Sources Identified for Parkland Acquisition
Huntington, NY -- Yesterday, the Suffolk County Legislature's Environment, Land Acquisition and Planning Committee approved a planning steps resolution introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that expands the funding sources available for preservation of the Fuchs property in Northport. (more)

April 27, 2001
Cooper Testifies Before State Assembly
in Support of Proposed Statewide Cell Phone Ban
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) testified yesterday before the chairmen and members of four separate committees of the New York State Assembly -- Transportation, Health, Codes, and Corporations, Authorities & Commissions -- in support of statewide legislation that would prohibit the use of hand-held cell phones while driving. (more)

April 25, 2001
Legislator Cooper Provides Grant for Dolan Family Health Center
Today, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) announced that he obtained a $40,000 County grant for the Dolan Family Health Center, an arm of Huntington Hospital (more)

April 23, 2001
Cooper Urges State to Keep DWI Ignition Interlock Device
A device that prevents people convicted of driving while intoxicated from starting their cars after drinking should continue to be used by police, according to Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington). Cooper this week will introduce legislation asking the state to extend a law authorizing Suffolk judges to require DWI offenders to install the device. (more)

April 20, 2001
Cooper Proposal to Reduce Greenhouse Gases
Would Not Cost Suffolk Taxpayers a Penny
Internship Program Huge Success In Other Northeastern Cities
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has authored legislation seeking to include Suffolk in a popular nationwide program that recruits graduate school interns to conduct analyses of the greenhouse gas emissions that cause global warming. (more)

April 9, 2001
Legislator Cooper Funds Huntington Station 
Downtown Revitalization
 Will Fund Study of Ways to Revitalize Huntington Station
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) announced today that he has obtained a $25,000 County grant to study economic opportunities and ways to revitalize Huntington Station. (more)

April 5, 2001
Legislature Approves Cooper’s 
"E-Government" Initiative
At its meeting on April 3rd, the Suffolk County Legislature overwhelmingly approved legislation introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that will help make Suffolk County government more efficient and accessible to the public through the creation of an "E-Government Task Force." The task force will make recommendations about how government can operate more efficiently by utilizing the latest electronic technologies.  (more)

April 4, 2001
County to Move Forward on Potential 
Preservation of "Hilaire Woods" Property
 Two Cooper Resolutions Unanimously Approved by Legislature
Yesterday, April 3rd, the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously approved two planning steps resolutions, under the Land Preservation Partnership Program and the ¼% Taxpayer Protection Program, to initiate the acquisition process for "Hilaire Woods," an 8 acre parcel of land located in Huntington. The resolutions were introduced by Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) in an effort to preserve this property as parkland.  (more)

April 3, 2001
Cooper Seeks to Create "No Spray List"
for Pesticide Applications
 Bill Would Balance Public Health Needs and Rights of Individual Citizens
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) will introduce today a bill that would allow Suffolk residents to enter their names on a "No Spray List" to prevent their property from being sprayed by county health officials seeking to control mosquitoes and the spread of the West Nile virus.  (more)

March 30, 2001
Legislator Cooper Asks Pataki 
to Keep Kids at Sagamore
 Says Closing Children's Psychiatric Facility Would Be a Mistake
Governor George Pataki's cost-cutting initiative to move troubled children out of the Sagamore Children's Psychiatric Center and into adult facilities is ill-conceived and should be abandoned, according to Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington), who this week filed legislation asking the State Legislature to reject Pataki's plan.  (more)

March 28, 2001
Legislative Committee Approves Resolutions for the 
Potential Purchase of "Hilaire Woods" Property
On Monday, March 26, the Suffolk County Legislature's Environment, Land Acquisition and Planning Committee approved two planning steps resolutions, under the Land Preservation Partnership Program and the ¼% Drinking Water Protection Program, to initiate the acquisition process for "Hilaire Woods," an 8 acre parcel of land located in Huntington. The resolutions were introduced by Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington).  (more)

March 19, 2001
Legislator Cooper Expands Preservation 
Opportunities for "Fuchs Property" in Northport
 New Funding Sources Identified for Potential Parkland Acquisition
Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) introduced three planning steps resolutions today in the Suffolk County Legislature that will expand the opportunities for preservation of the Fuchs property in Northport. This pristine parcel is approximately 19.3 acres and contains a freshwater pond, wetlands, an upland slope forest and a high plateau area. It borders the Crab Meadow Watershed and the Town of Huntington’s Jerome Ambro Memorial Wetlands Preserve.  (more)

March 16, 2001
Legislature Asks State to Help Underinsured 
Deal with Medical Emergencies
 Cooper’s Bill Calls for Pilot Program in Suffolk
A sense resolution introduced by Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper 
(D-Huntington), and approved by the Suffolk County Legislature this week, calls on New York State to include Suffolk County in an existing program that helps underinsured people pay their medical bills in times of catastrophic illness. (more)

March 15, 2001
Cooper Asks Congress to Expand Health 
Benefits for Spouses of Veterans
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has introduced legislation asking the U.S. Congress to provide expanded health care benefits for the spouses of veterans through the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Veterans Administration, or CHAMPVA. Under current law, such benefits are limited. (more)

March 13, 2001
Legislator Cooper Introduces Resolution to Preserve 
"Hilaire Woods" as Parkland
Huntington, NY - Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) introduced a planning steps resolution today in the Suffolk County Legislature to initiate the acquisition process for "Hilaire Woods," an 8 acre parcel of land located in Huntington. Cooper envisions a purchase in partnership with the Town of Huntington and has met with Councilman Mark Cuthbertson to begin a cooperative effort, similar to the recent successful acquisition of the Knolls property in East Northport. Hilaire Woods, one of the last remaining parcels of undeveloped woodland left in Huntington Village, extends from Hilaire Drive (off Woodhull Road) to Park Avenue. Walter Morris, a local developer, currently has an application before the Huntington Planning Board to build 13 new homes on the site. (more)

March 8, 2001
Cooper Looks to the Future with New "E-Government" Initiative
With an eye toward making Suffolk County government more efficient and accessible to the public, Suffolk Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has proposed the creation of an  "E-Government Task Force." The task force would make recommendations about how government can operate more efficiently through the use of the latest electronic technologies. (more)

February 28, 2001
Cooper Proposes Ban on Sale of Mercury Thermometers
Law Would Be First in State at County Level
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has introduced legislation designed to ban the sale of thermometers that use mercury, one of the most poisonous substances on earth. The bill was introduced before the Legislature on Tuesday. (more)

February 22, 2001
Cooper Offers Proposal to Fund Public Campaign Financing
Huntington Legislator Appeals to State
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has filed legislation requesting authorization from the New York State Legislature to impose a one-cent tax per tobacco product sold in Suffolk County to fund public financing of county elections. Cooper estimated that the tax could raise as much as $1 million annually. (more)

February 8, 2001
Cooper Requests Felony Punishment for Torture of Animals
Seeks Amendment  of State Law
On January 30, the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously approved a sense resolution introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) asking the State of New York to amend its legal code to make the torture of animals a felony in all instances. (more)

January 29, 2001
Legislator Cooper Restores Funding to Family Service League
Restoration of Funds Allows Vital Programs to Continue
After large cuts in the County Executive's recommended 2001 budget, Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) took the lead in the Suffolk County Legislature and restored $75,000 to the Family Service League. Some of the programs that were in danger of being dropped included mental health services, family-focused alcohol treatment and family case management. With the restored funding, the Family Service League will now be able to continue programs that help seniors, families and children throughout Suffolk. (more)

January 23, 2001
Legislator Cooper Funds Long Island Cares
Funding Will Provide Walk-In Refrigerators and Freezers for Food Storage
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) announced today that he has obtained a $25,000 county grant for Long Island Cares, Long Island's only federally and state contracted agency for food distribution to the needy. The funding will be used to purchase walk-in refrigerators and freezers, which will help store large quantities of food. (more)

January 22, 2001
Cooper Maintains Chairmanship
of Economic Development Committee
Huntington Legislator Appointed to Five Committees for 2001
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) will again serve as the chairman of the Legislature's primary economic committee in 2001, although the focus of the committee will change slightly. Formerly known as the Economic Development and Education Committee, the new committee will now be called the Economic Development and Energy Committee. (more)

January 16, 2001
Benjamin Property Purchased by County and Town
Cooper's Effort Leads to Preservation of 82-Acre East Northport Parcel
At a press conference held this morning at the H. Lee Dennison Building in Hauppauge, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) joined County Executive Robert Gaffney to announce the acquisition of a large tract of undeveloped land in East Northport that will be preserved as open space and used for recreational fields. The purchase had been championed by Cooper, who introduced a resolution to purchase the property last year. (more)

January 10, 2001
Legislator Cooper Funds Program to
Help Patients Diagnosed with Breast Cancer
Patients to Be Given the "Gift of Health and Inspiration"
Huntington, NY -- On Tuesday, January 9, 2001, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper announced that he has obtained a $10,000 grant for the Huntington Breast Cancer Action Coalition (HBCAC). The funding will be used for their "Gift of Health and Inspiration" program, which will provide breast cancer patients at Huntington Hospital with gifts such as lotions, books, and relaxation tapes. (more)

December 21, 2000
Legislature Approves Cooper's "Pet Safe" Bill
Program Will Protect Victims of Domestic Violence and Their Pets
On Tuesday, December 19, the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously passed the "Pet Safe" bill that was introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington). The Pet Safe program is designed to protect the pets of domestic violence victims, as well as the victims themselves. It is the first program of its kind in the state at the county level. (more)

December 14, 2000
Legislature Approves Cooper's Bill Requesting
Federal Funds for Lobster Die-Off Study
Research Would Focus on Effects of Pesticides on Lobster Population
On Tuesday, December 5th, the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously passed a resolution that was introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) on behalf of local lobstermen and environmentalists. The bill asks the federal government to earmark research funding to study whether chemical pesticides used for mosquito control are killing lobsters in the Long Island Sound. (more)

December 13, 2000
Legislator Cooper Proposes "Pet Safe" Program to
Protect Victims of Domestic Violence and Their Pets
East Northport, NY -- "It is very common for domestic violence to escalate during the holidays," says VIBS (Victims Information Bureau Services) CEO, Pamela Johnston. That is why Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) held a press conference on Wednesday, December 13, to announce the introduction of legislation to protect the pets of domestic violence victims and, in essence, the victims themselves. The press conference was held at the Huntington Animal Shelter in East Northport. (more)

November 22, 2000
Legislator Cooper Seeks Answers to Lobster Die-Off
On Tuesday, November 21, 2000, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) introduced legislation asking the federal government to fund research to determine whether chemical pesticides used for mosquito control are killing Long Island lobsters. (more)

November 21, 2000
Legislator Cooper and His Family Give Thanks
Northport, NY -- On Thanksgiving Day, November 23rd, County Legislator Jon Cooper and his family helped serve the 26th annual Thanksgiving Day Dinner sponsored by the Northport-East Northport Ecumenical Lay Council. The dinner was held at the First Presbyterian Church on Main Street in Northport. (more)

November 20, 2000
Cooper Wants Board of Elections to Study Feasibility of Internet Voting
Increased Turnout in Arizona Primary Cited
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has filed legislation requesting that the Suffolk Board of Elections conduct a study to determine the feasibility of implementing a program that would allow county residents to vote in primary and general elections via the Internet. (more)

November 16, 2000
Cooper Seeks to Make Animal Torture a Felony
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has introduced legislation asking the State of New York to amend its legal code to make the torture of animals a felony in all instances. (more)

November 9, 2000
Suffolk Legislature Approves Cooper's Bill
Funding Post-Adoption Counseling Services
At its October 3 meeting, the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously approved a resolution, introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) and co-sponsored by Presiding Officer Paul Tonna (R-West Hills), funding a Request for Proposal process to provide Suffolk residents with post-adoption counseling services for adopted children and their new families. Cooper and Tonna have deep personal commitments to this issue as both legislators have five adopted children. (more)

October 19, 2000
Pet and Animal Safety Focus of
New Disaster Preparedness Plan
Cooper Bill Creates Task Force that Will Draft Disaster Plan for Rescue of Animals
On October 19, 2000, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) held a press conference to announce the Legislature's unanimous approval of a resolution he sponsored that will create a task force to develop a "Disaster Animal Rescue Plan" for Suffolk County. The plan will be implemented during emergencies such as hurricanes, fires or other natural disasters and will muster resources to shelter and care for pets and other domesticated animals. (more)

October 11, 2000
Legislator Cooper Funds Northport
Downtown Revitalization Project
Charming Turn-of-the-Century Lighting on Main Street
Huntington, NY -- Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper recently announced that he has secured $12,000 in County funding for a downtown revitalization project in Northport Village. The Northport Chamber of Commerce submitted a grant proposal for turn-of-the-century street lighting along Northport's Main Street. The grant was initially reviewed by the Office of Economic Development's Downtown Revitalization Task Force and was subsequently approved by the Suffolk County Legislature. (more)

October 3, 2000
Suffolk Enacts Ban on Hand-Held Cell Phones While Driving
Landmark Legislation Is First in Nation at County Level
The Suffolk County Legislature, at its meeting today, approved a landmark bill introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that prohibits motorists from using hand-held cell phones while driving. Mobile phone use will be permitted if the phones are equipped with a hands-free device. The law will go into effect on January 1, 2001, and violators will be subject to a $150 fine for each offense. (more)

September 26, 2000
Pet and Animal Safety Focus of New Cooper Bill
Task Force Would Draft Disaster Plan for Rescue of Animals
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has introduced legislation that would create a task force to develop an "Disaster Animal Rescue Plan" for Suffolk County. The plan would be implemented during emergencies such as hurricanes, fires or other natural disasters. (more)

September 20, 2000
Legislature Approves Request for Tobacco Tax to Preserve Open Space
Cooper's Bill Passes Unanimously
A sense resolution authored by Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington), which would allow Suffolk County to impose a ten-cent tax on tobacco products to fund open space preservation efforts in Suffolk, was passed unanimously by the Legislature last week. (more)

September 20, 2000
Legislature Approves Cooper's Request
for Full Account of LIPA's Nassau Bailout
The Suffolk County Legislature last week approved a sense resolution asking the Long Island Power Authority to immediately make public all agreements, letters, communications and verbal understandings between Nassau officials and the LIPA Board of Trustees regarding the utility's $25 million payment to Nassau for budget deficit reduction. The Legislature overwhelmingly approved the resolution, introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington), at its meeting in Riverhead on September 12. (more)

September 19, 2000
Legislature Passes Resolution Calling for Tobacco Tax
to Fund Enhanced Salaries for Child Care Workers
Cooper's Bill Would Meet Critical Need
At its meeting on September 12, the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously passed a resolution introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) requesting authorization from New York State for Suffolk County to impose a five-cent tax per tobacco product (e.g. pack of cigarettes, pouch of chewing tobacco or individual cigar). The tax revenues generated would be used exclusively to improve child care services offered within the county by increasing salaries to attract and retain qualified child care professionals. (more)

September 19, 2000
Legislature Approves Cooper's Resolution Strengthening Megan's Law
Resolution Requests State to Amend Notification Procedure
The Suffolk County Legislature, at its meeting on September 12, unanimously approved a memorializing resolution authored by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) requesting that New York State strengthen the Sex Offender Registration Act, commonly known as "Megan's Law." The resolution requests the state to modify its policy by requiring that law enforcement agencies immediately notify local school districts whenever a Level II or Level III paroled sex offender – the most dangerous classifications -- is living within the district. (more)

September 5, 2000
Cooper's Plan to Test Non-Chemical Alternatives to
Pesticides for Mosquito Control Approved by Legislature
A proposal by Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) to have the county investigate non-chemical alternatives to pesticides to control the mosquito population was approved by the Legislature at its meeting on August 31. Cooper's bill passed by a 15-3 vote. (more)

September 5, 2000
Legislature Approves Cooper's Proposal
to Fund Marine Research Program
Decline in Local Lobster Population Will Be Studied
The Suffolk County Legislature last Thursday unanimously approved a bill introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) to fund a marine research program which will focus on the severe decline in the Long Island Sound's lobster population. (more)

September 1, 2000
Legislator Jon Cooper to Serve on
Newly Created Judiciary Committee
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has been selected to serve on the Legislature's newly created Judiciary Committee, to be chaired by fellow freshman Legislator Andrew Crecca (R-Hauppauge). (more)

August 28, 2000
Legislator Cooper to Host Forum on West Nile Virus
Focus Will Be on Whether or Not to Spray Pesticides for
Mosquito Control
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) will host an educational community forum at the  Huntington Public Library, 338 Main Street, Huntington, on Thursday, September 7 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., to discuss the West Nile Virus and the spraying of pesticides for mosquito control. All are welcome to attend. (more)

August 25, 2000
Legislator Cooper Provides $2,500 County Grant
to Northport American Legion
Huntington -- County Legislator Jon Cooper recently announced that he has obtained a $2,500 county grant for Northport American Legion Post #694. The funds will be used to send local students to participate in the much-acclaimed Boys/Girls State program. This one-week seminar teaches young leaders about our government's two party system and our election process. (more)

August 21, 2000
Cooper Sponsors SCCC Budget Amendment
Providing More Teachers
County Legislator's Initiative Approved in $105 Million Spending Plan
Suffolk County Community College will have an additional 21 assistant professors as well as 14 more support personnel for the college's new multi-purpose building thanks to a budget amendment sponsored by Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington), who is Chairman of the Legislature's Economic Development and Education Committee. (more)

August 17, 2000
Huntington Historical Society Receives Grant
from Legislator Jon Cooper
Huntington -- Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper recently announced that he has secured a $3,500 County grant for the Huntington Historical Society. The Society works to protect, preserve and promote the heritage of our wonderful town. The grant money from the County will be used to expand services at the David Conklin Farm House on High Street in Huntington. (more)

August 7, 2000
Cooper Announces Proposed Legislation
Requiring Safe Storage of Firearms to Protect Children
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) held a press conference on Monday, August 7, at Suffolk County Police Headquarters in Yaphank to announce a legislative proposal designed to make the county a safer place to live. Cooper's proposed law would require gun owners to store their firearms in a locked box or secure them with a safety lock whenever it could be reasonably expected that a child could gain access to the weapon. (more)

August 1, 2000
Additional Tobacco Tax Sought to Preserve Open Space
Cooper Seeks to Establish Land Acquisition Fund for Suffolk
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has filed legislation asking New York State to authorize Suffolk County to impose a ten-cent tax on tobacco products to fund a bold new initiative designed to preserve as much remaining open space in Suffolk as possible. (more)

July 24, 2000
Legislator Cooper Funds East Northport
Downtown Revitalization Project
Charming Turn-of-the-Century Lighting and Brick Pavers Planned
Huntington -- Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper met recently with Michael Karp, Director of the East Northport Chamber of Commerce, to present him with an $11,000 county grant. The funds will help pay for the installation of turn-of-the-century street lighting and brick pavers along the sidewalks of downtown East Northport. Cooper is the Chairman of the Legislature's Economic Development and Education Committee and was the prime sponsor of legislation that allocated $1 million in funding countywide for downtown revitalization programs. (more)

July 24, 2000
Cooper Looks to Strengthen "Megan's Law" in New York
Legislator Wants Communities to Be Notified About Sex Offenders
In an effort to strengthen the New York State Sex Offender Registration Act, commonly known as "Megan's Law," Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has introduced a sense resolution that asks the state to modify its policy by requiring that law enforcement agencies immediately notify local school districts and community residents when a Level II or Level III paroled sex offender is living in a given area. (more)

July 20, 2000
Cooper Calls for Full Account of LIPA's
Nassau County Bailout Debacle
County Legislator Asks U.S. Attorney, Others, to Investigate
Saying he believes the Chairman of the Long Island Power Authority misled Suffolk County officials and residents, County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) today authored legislation requesting the utility to immediately make public all agreements, letters, communications and verbal understandings between the LIPA Board of Trustees and Nassau County officials regarding LIPA's reported $25 million payment to Nassau for budget deficit reduction. (more)

July 19, 2000
Cooper Seeks "Common Sense" Cell Phone Restrictions in Autos
Landmark Legislation Would Be First in Nation at County Level
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) this week introduced legislation designed to regulate the use of cellular phones in automobiles. (more)

July 17, 2000
Legislator Cooper Keynote Speaker at "Leadership Huntington" Graduation
Huntington, NY -- On June 21, 2000 Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper addressed the Huntington Township Chamber Foundation's Leadership Huntington Class of 2000 at a celebration hosted by the Cinema Arts Centre. The event was held in the Cinema's newly renovated "Sky Room." Cooper congratulated the 26 graduates on their achievements and thanked the Chamber Foundation for its dedication to the Huntington community. In an inspirational, personal speech, Cooper detailed his journey of leadership from his days as a student environmental advocate at Duke University to becoming the president of his family business in Westbury and his election to the Suffolk County Legislature. (more)

July 11, 2000
Legislator Cooper Funds Huntington Downtown Revitalization Project
Route 110 Corridor Trolley Service Planned
Huntington -- Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper presented a check in the amount of $13,000 to Dennis Sneden, Chief Executive Officer of the Huntington Township Chamber of Commerce, to help fund the purchase of trolley cars to transport people from the Route 110 Business Corridor in Melville to Huntington Village. Cooper is the Chairman of the Legislature's Economic Development and Education Committee and was the prime sponsor of legislation that allocated $1 million in funding countywide for downtown revitalization programs. (more)

June 28, 2000
County Legislature Approves Website Suggestion Box
Cooper Initiative Approved Unanimously
The Suffolk County Legislature in a unanimous vote on Tuesday approved a measure proposed by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) to create a suggestion box on the home page of the county's website. (more)

June 26, 2000
Cooper Seeks to Make Cell Phone Use in Cars Safer
County Legislator Asks State to Prohibit the Use of Hand-Held Phones While Driving
Citing data that indicates the use of hand-held cell phones while driving can be hazardous, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) announced that he will introduce a sense resolution tomorrow calling upon New York State to prohibit the practice. (more)

June 26, 2000
Cooper Initiative Would Place Tax on Tobacco
to Fund Enhanced Child Care Services
County Legislator Asks State to Help Improve Child Care in Suffolk
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) will introduce a bill tomorrow asking New York State to authorize Suffolk County to impose a five-cent tax per tobacco product (e.g. pack of cigarettes, pouch of chewing tobacco or individual cigar). The tax revenues generated would be used exclusively to improve child care services offered within the county. (more)

June 8, 2000
Cooper Preserves Knolls Property as Parkland
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) held a press conference on June 7 at Veterans Park in East Northport to announce the passage of legislation he sponsored paving the way for the purchase of the "Knolls of Northport" property from owner Alvin Benjamin to preserve it as parkland. This will save the parcel from becoming the site of yet another housing development. Local residents had expressed overwhelming support for Cooper's preservation efforts over the past five months. (more)

May 30, 2000
Parks Committee Approves Cooper Resolutions
for Purchase of Benjamin Property
Full Legislature to Vote on Measures Next Week
A bid by Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) to preserve the 82-acre Northport property formerly owned by the U.S. Veterans Administration Hospital took a major leap forward last week when the Legislature's Parks, Land Acquisitions and Cultural Affairs Committee unanimously approved the three resolutions pertaining to the purchase. All three of Cooper's resolutions will now be before the full County Legislature to be voted on at their next meeting on Tuesday, June 6. (more)

May 30, 2000
Cooper Authors Legislation to Create County Suggestion Box
Suffolk County residents who would like to give county officials an earful would be afforded the opportunity under legislation proposed by County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that would create a suggestion box on the county's web page. (more)

May 22, 2000
Legislator Cooper and Presiding Officer Tonna
Seek to Provide Post-Adoption Counseling Services
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) was surrounded by his five adopted children when he and Presiding Officer Paul Tonna (R-West Hills) held a press conference to announce proposed legislation to provide post-adoption counseling services for adopted children and their new families. Presiding Officer Tonna and his wife also have five adopted children. The Presiding Officer has worked closely with Legislator Cooper on this issue and is co-sponsoring this legislation. (more)

May 15, 2000
Legislator Cooper Attends Congressional
Business Summit in Washington, D.C.
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) attended the "2000 Congressional Business Summit" held in Washington, D.C. last week. On Monday, May 8th, at the exclusive invitation of Democratic Leader Richard Gephardt and Democratic Caucus Chair Martin Frost, Cooper joined 200 other business leaders from across the country to discuss problems and opportunities faced today by the American business community. (more)

May 10, 2000
Legislature Bans Herbal Cigarettes
Cooper's Bill Passed Unanimously
The Suffolk County Legislature at a meeting on Tuesday in Riverhead approved a ban on the sale of herbal cigarettes to minors. The tobacco-free but still dangerous product targets a younger clientele through the use of clever advertising ploys. (more)

May 10, 2000
Veterans Will No Longer Pay Park Fees On Memorial Day Weekend
Legislator Jon Cooper's Bill Is Passed by County Legislature
The Suffolk County Legislature on Tuesday unanimously approved a resolution sponsored by Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) which will permanently exempt veterans from paying county park fees on Memorial Day weekends. (more)

May 9, 2000
Cooper Legislation Would Allow Families To Bring Their Own Food To Ducks Games
"Unfair to Force Fans to Buy High Priced Concessions," Legislator Says.
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) this week filed legislation seeking to require the county to withold its approval of the menu and price list of food and beverages sold at Long Island Ducks baseball games until the club's ownership allows ticket holders to hold tailgate parties and bring their own food and drinks into the ballpark. (more)

May 9, 2000
Cooper's College Tuition Tax Deduction Bill Approved by Legislature
Huntington, NY -- The Suffolk County Legislature recently approved a memorializing resolution, introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper, which supports legislation before the U.S. Congress that would make college tuition and related expenses tax deductible.. The Federal bill provides a tax deduction of up to $10,000 per full-time or part-time post-secondary student (whether child or spouse) with a maximum of $20,000 per taxpayer for expenses such as tuition and fees, room and board, books and supplies, and other related expenses. Legislator Cooper's bill passed handily. (more)

May 8, 2000
Cooper: Veterans Should Not Pay Park Fees On Memorial Day Weekend
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) this week introduced legislation seeking to permanently exempt veterans from paying entrance fees for county parks on Memorial Day weekends. Cooper's bill will be presented to the full Legislature on Tuesday, May 9. (more)

May 2, 2000
Legislator Cooper Attends Opening of New Soundstage
Cooper Hails Opening as Economic Development Initiative
Huntington, NY -- On May 1, 2000, Legislator Jon Cooper attended the opening of Pinewood West Ltd., a new 2 million dollar, 28,000 square foot soundstage in East Hampton where television shows, films, and videos will be made. Legislator Cooper was joined by Alec Baldwin, keynote speaker at the event, Frazer Dougherty, owner of Pinewood West, and Ernie Schimizzi, Vice President of Pinewood West and the President of WVVH-TV. (more)

April 25, 2000
Legislator Cooper Hosts Environmental Forum in Huntington
U.S. Senate Candidate Hillary Clinton Addresses Participants
Huntington, NY -- On April 19, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper hosted an environmental forum that was held at Coindre Hall in Huntington. U.S. Senate candidate Hillary Clinton was in attendance and addressed 60 participants representing two dozen local environmental groups. Mrs. Clinton detailed her positions on several key environmental issues and then fielded questions from audience members and the press. (more)

April 19, 2000
Legislator Cooper Introduces Bill to Set Up Pilot Programs to Test Alternatives to Pesticides for Mosquito Control
Huntington, NY -- Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper has introduced legislation that modifies Suffolk County's Vector Control Plan and requires the Department of Public Works to set up pilot programs to test the effectiveness of non-chemical alternatives to pesticides to control the mosquito population in Suffolk County. (more)

April 10, 2000
Legislation Seeks to Address Suffolk County's Vending Machine Scandal
Huntington, NY -- Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper has co-sponsored legislation with Deputy Presiding Officer Steve Levy calling for the reform of the county's current policy regarding vending machines located on County property. The existing policy has allowed vending machines to be placed in County buildings with no contracts, no bids and, in some cases, no records of who owns or placed the machines. The lack of supervision has cost County taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars in lost revenue over the past ten years. (more)

April 5, 2000
Cooper Seeks Partial Ban On "Herbal Cigarettes"
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) held a press conference at the American Cancer Society's Hauppauge office on Wednesday, April 5, to announce his new legislation seeking to ban the sale of "herbal cigarettes" to minors in Suffolk County.. (more)

April 4, 2000
Legislator Cooper Introduces Bill to Establish a Marine Research Facility for Suffolk County
Huntington, NY -- Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper has introduced legislation that would provide $150,000 to help fund a marine research and educational facility to be located at the boat house of the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum in Centerport.. (more)

March 15, 2000
Legislature Passes Bill Seeking Background Checks for School Personnel
The Suffolk County Legislature on Tuesday unanimously approved a bill sponsored by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington), Chairman of the Economic Development and Education Committee, asking the state to amend the New York Education Law to mandate background checks of all school personnel. (more)

March 14, 2000
Legislator Cooper Addresses Huntington Sierra Club Meeting
Huntington, NY -- Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper met with members of the Huntington Chapter of the Sierra Club for a dinner and discussion on Wednesday, March 8th at the Dolan Family Health Center. About 50 Huntington residents came to meet Cooper, a fellow Sierra Club member. A hearty discussion followed the hearty pasta dinner. The intimate setting allowed for a productive and energetic question-and-answer period that lasted for over 2 1/2 hours. Legislator Cooper and organizers of the event declared the meeting a resounding success. (more)

February 29, 2000
Legislator Cooper Responds to Concerns of Residents and Introduces Amended Park Resolution
Huntington, NY -- Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper introduced two resolutions to amend the funding sources for the potential purchase of the 82 acre parcel in East Northport, known as "The Knolls," for use as parkland. (more)

February 29, 2000
Legislator Cooper Introduces Resolution Mandating Background Checks for All School Personnel
Huntington, NY -- Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper has introduced a memorializing resolution requesting that the State of New York mandate background checks for all school personnel. Currently, 31 states require school districts to investigate their new employees before they begin work. 35 states allow school district employees to begin work while the background checks are being run. (more)

February 29, 2000
Legislator Cooper Supports Federal Bill for College Tuition Tax Reduction
Huntington, NY -- Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper introduced a memorializing resolution requesting bipartisan support from the Suffolk County Legislature for federal legislation introduced in Congress by Congressman Gary Ackerman, which would make college tuition and related expenses tax deductible. The bill provides a tax deduction of up to $10,000 per full-time or part-time post-secondary student (whether child or spouse) with a maximum of $20,000 per taxpayer for expenses such as tuition and fees, room and board, books and supplies, and other related expenses. (more)

February 18, 2000
Legislator Cooper Declines County Car and Cell Phone
Huntington, NY -- Fulfilling one of his campaign promises, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper has declined assignment of a County car and cellular phone. (more)

February 18, 2000
Legislator Cooper Announces His Agenda for Economic Development
Huntington, NY -- Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper has announced his economic agenda for the 2000 Legislature. At a press conference held at the County Legislative Offices in Hauppauge last Thursday, February 10, Cooper joined the other members of the governing bipartisan coalition in outlining policy initiatives and legislative issues they would be prioritizing this year. As Chairman of the Economic Development and Education Committee, and drawing upon his background as President of a successful manufacturing company, Cooper outlined four primary areas he will concentrate on. (more)

February 15, 2000
Legislator Cooper Unveils Park Plans To the Approval of Residents
Huntington, NY -- Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper hosted a community meeting at the Bellerose Avenue Elementary School last Thursday night, February 10, attended by a standing-room-only crowd of over 200 people. It provided residents of East Northport and Northport with a forum to express their questions and concerns regarding the possible purchase by the County of the 82 acre parcel known as "The Knolls." (more)

January 27, 2000
Legislator Cooper Proposes County Purchase of Former VA Hospital Property in Northport
Huntington, NY -- County Legislator Jon Cooper has introduced a resolution proposing that Suffolk County purchase the 82 acre property in Northport formerly owned by the U. S. Veterans Administration Hospital. The parcel, currently called the Knolls at Northport, is now owned by Alvin Benjamin of Benjamin Development Company. Legislator Cooper's proposition, which recommends the purchase utilizing funding from the Suffolk County Greenways Program, requires a commitment from the Town of Huntington to improve and maintain the site. (more)

January 18, 2000
Legislator Cooper Appointed to Four Key Committees
 Huntington, NY -- Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper's committee schedule proves to be very active. He is pleased to announce that he has been appointed to four significant legislative committees. He has been named Chairman of the Economic Development and Education Committee and Vice-Chairman of the Energy and Environment Committee. He will also serve on the Public Safety Committee and the Social Services Committee. (more)



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Office of Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper
50 Gerard Street, Suite 100
Huntington, NY 11743
Phone: (631) 854-4500
Fax: (631) 854-4503