Kerry S. Spooner
Council member, 6th Town District, Town of Brookhaven
Party: Democratic, Working Families
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 a public servant for Brookhaven Town, my priority is to create an environment where every resident thrives socially and economically, irrespective of their background. Therefore, we must address the systemic challenges faced by the Black community. I'll advocate for policies that combat housing discrimination, work to improve healthcare access with a focus on mental health and addiction services, and strive to eliminate food insecurity through accessible, quality options. Partnering with county and state agencies, I will work to secure resources to bolster education in predominantly Black communities and endorse vocational training programs that pave the way for full-time employment with a living wage. Empowering Black entrepreneurs is key; I'll support tailored programs that offer access to financial support, mentorship, and other resources. Equity in government hiring is critical, I’ll promote diversity and inclusion policies and practices. Also, I’ll advocate for ending the criminalization of minor offenses and exploring alternatives to incarceration for non-violent crimes. Additionally, I'll engage in ongoing dialogue with Black community leaders and organize forums to address concerns to ensure policies reflect unique needs.
Is there anything else you'd like us to know about your campaign?
Thank you for the opportunity to provide additional insights into my campaign. I want to emphasize a few key points that I believe set my candidacy apart: At a juncture when trust in public institutions has reached an unprecedented low in Brookhaven, I prioritize open communication and accessibility. If elected, I’ll ensure that the workings of the government are transparent, with clear channels for public access to information, decision-making processes, and policy implementation. Diversity is not just a slogan for my campaign; it's a core value. My wife and I decided to stay in Suffolk County and raise our young son because of its people and its beauty. I also know that the people in Brookhaven have been radically shortchanged. Our community deserves leadership that thinks about the long-term. I’m dedicated to sustainable development, environmental stewardship, and planning for the future. This includes initiatives to address climate change, invest in green infrastructure, and create a resilient community for generations to come. I’m passionate about supporting local businesses. This requires a different approach to governance. My approach is one that seeks input from various stakeholders, including community members, experts, and advocates. We need to work collaboratively to find innovative solutions to the serious challenges facing our town.