Candidate Name: Dave Kerpen
Office Running For: North Hempstead Town Supervisor
Party: Democrat, Moderate
Candidate Questionnaire Responses
When in office, what will you do to reduce harm and ensure there is social and economic equity for Black Long Islanders? If you are an incumbent, what policies/initiatives/laws have you supported that do this?
As Town Supervisor, my job is to make sure every resident — no matter their race, neighborhood, or income — has equal access to opportunity and respect from their local government. For far too long, Black Long Islanders have faced systemic barriers in housing, business, and community development. That must change — and it starts locally and now.
First, I’ll make equity a core principle of town policy — from how we hire and contract vendors to how we invest in parks, infrastructure, and small businesses. I’ll work to create a Black Business Empowerment Initiative to ensure fair access to town contracts, mentorship, and startup support.
Second, I’ll prioritize affordable housing and fair lending practices by working with local banks and developers to expand pathways to home ownership and keep Black (and all) families in their communities.
Third, I’ll strengthen trust and transparency between residents and town services by ensuring equitable code enforcement, accessible permits, and inclusive community engagement. No one should feel unheard or unseen by their government.
And finally, I’ll promote education, job training, and youth engagement through partnerships with local nonprofits, schools, and unions — so that every young person in our town can see a clear path to success here on Long Island.
Equity isn’t a slogan — it’s a daily practice of listening, responding, and acting with fairness and empathy. That’s what “Likeable Leadership” looks like — and that’s how we’ll build a North Hempstead where everyone truly belongs and thrives.
Is there anything else you'd like us to know about your campaign?
I'm not a politician. I want to be a public servant - and serve the Black community and the entire community of North Hempstead.